The Nintendo FDS is a beloved console that holds a special place in the hearts of many retro gaming enthusiasts. Released in 1982, it was Nintendo's first attempt at creating a home video game system, and although it didn't achieve mainstream success at the time, it still managed to produce some amazing games that are worth playing today. One such game is Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami, which we'll be exploring in this article.

Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami is a classic action-adventure game developed by NCS (now known as Nihon Computer System), a renowned Japanese developer that worked closely with Nintendo during the 1980s. The game was originally released for the Famicom Disk System, Japan's home console in the mid-1980s, and it has since been re-released on various virtual consoles.

Gameplay and Story

In Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami, you play as a young warrior named Luka, who is tasked with exploring the world of Palthena and uncovering its secrets. The game takes place in a fantasy setting, with beautiful hand-drawn graphics that still hold up today.

As you progress through the game, you'll encounter various enemies, including mythical creatures like dragons and griffins. Your goal is to defeat these foes and collect magical stones, which will aid you on your quest. Along the way, you'll also meet new allies who will join your party and help you in battle.

One of the standout features of Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami is its focus on exploration and puzzle-solving. The game's world is richly detailed, with hidden paths and secret areas to discover. You'll need to use your wits to overcome obstacles, such as navigating treacherous terrain or solving puzzles to unlock new areas.

Graphics and Sound

Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami features some of the most beautiful graphics on any FDS game. The hand-drawn backgrounds are detailed and colorful, with intricate designs that still impress today. The character sprites are also well-designed, with expressive animations that add to the game's charm.

The soundtrack is equally impressive, with a haunting score that perfectly complements the game's atmosphere. The music is catchy and memorable, making it easy to get caught up in the game's world.

Age Rating

Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami is suitable for players of all ages who enjoy action-adventure games with a strong focus on exploration and puzzle-solving. However, some scenes may be too intense for younger players due to the presence of moderate violence and occasional mild blood.

In terms of age rating, Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami has been rated E (Everyone) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it is suitable for players of all ages.

Virtual Console Release

Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami was re-released on the Wii Virtual Console in 2007, allowing fans to experience this classic game on modern hardware. The release was a welcome addition to Nintendo's virtual console lineup, providing gamers with access to more FDS titles that had previously been unavailable.

The release also marked an opportunity for new players to discover Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami, which has since become a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami is a hidden gem in the Nintendo FDS library, offering a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and action-adventure gameplay. Its beautiful graphics and haunting soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of classic Japanese games.

If you're looking to experience this game on modern hardware, be sure to check out its Virtual Console release on the Wii or later consoles like the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U. With its E rating from the ESRB, Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami is suitable for players of all ages who enjoy retro gaming.

Recommendation

Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami is a classic action-adventure game that is sure to delight fans of retro gaming. If you're new to the series, be prepared to spend several hours exploring the world of Palthena and uncovering its secrets. With its beautiful graphics and haunting soundtrack, Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami is an experience not to be missed.

Rating: 8/10

Pros:

• Beautiful hand-drawn graphics
• Haunting soundtrack
• Strong focus on exploration and puzzle-solving
• Suitable for players of all ages (E rating from ESRB)

Cons:

• Moderate violence and occasional mild blood may be too intense for younger players
• Limited availability due to its rarity as an FDS title

Overall, Hikari Shinwa - Palthena no Kagami is a hidden gem in the Nintendo FDS library that is sure to delight fans of retro gaming. With its beautiful graphics, haunting soundtrack, and focus on exploration and puzzle-solving, it's an experience not to be missed.