The Nintendo FDS is a relatively obscure console, but it holds an interesting place in the history of gaming. Released in Japan only, it's a cartridge-based system with a range of games that catered to different tastes and age groups. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Nintendo FDS and focus on one game in particular: Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II.
Zatsugaku is a Japanese term that roughly translates to "scholar's academy." It refers to schools or institutions where students are taught traditional subjects like literature, history, and philosophy. The concept has its roots in Japan's feudal past, where these schools played a significant role in shaping the country's culture and values.
Given this background, it might seem surprising that Nintendo would create a quiz game based on Olympic sports. However, Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II is exactly what it sounds like: a collection of questions about various Olympic events. In this article, we'll explore the details of this game, including its age rating and availability.
Game Overview
Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II was released in Japan for the FDS console in 1986. The game features 12 different sports disciplines, each with its own set of questions ranging from easy to expert level. The games include archery, athletics (track and field), diving, gymnastics, rowing, sailing, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, weightlifting, wrestling, and equestrian.
Players are presented with a series of questions, and if they answer correctly, the score increases. If they answer incorrectly, the score decreases. The goal is to achieve the highest possible score within a limited number of attempts (usually 30). The game includes sound effects and music to enhance the gaming experience.
Gameplay Mechanics
The gameplay mechanics in Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II are relatively simple compared to other games on the FDS console. Players use the controller's button layout to navigate through the questions. Each sport has its own set of buttons, which players must press in sequence to answer correctly.
For example, in archery, players need to press the "A" button to aim at a target and then press the "B" button when the arrow is released. The correct sequence of button presses determines whether the player scores points or not.
The game also features a scoring system that rewards players for answering questions correctly quickly. Players earn bonus points for completing questions within a certain time limit, which adds an element of speed to the gameplay.
Age Rating
Given its content and complexity, Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II is suitable for children aged 8 and above. The game's questions cover various sports disciplines, but they are not excessively difficult or mature in nature.
Parents can expect this game to be a fun and educational experience for their children, teaching them about different sports and their respective rules. However, it's essential to note that the game does contain some mild profanity in Japanese, which might be disturbing for younger players.
Availability
Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II is an uncommon game on the FDS console, making it a challenging find for collectors and enthusiasts. The game was released in limited quantities, and its rarity has contributed to its value among retro gaming communities.
In recent years, some re-releases of classic Nintendo games have appeared on online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon. However, these releases often come with the original packaging and manuals, making them more desirable among collectors.
Conclusion
Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II is an entertaining game that showcases the diversity of sports disciplines in the world of competitive sports. While it might not be as well-known as other games on the FDS console, its unique blend of trivia and Olympic sports makes it a fascinating addition to any retro gaming collection.
For parents looking for educational games suitable for their children, Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II is an excellent option. The game's age rating and gameplay mechanics make it accessible to children aged 8 and above, providing a fun and engaging experience that teaches them about different sports and their respective rules.
In conclusion, if you're interested in exploring the world of Nintendo FDS games or are looking for a unique Olympic-themed quiz game, Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II is definitely worth checking out. Its rarity and age rating make it a valuable addition to any retro gaming collection, and its gameplay mechanics provide an entertaining experience for players of all ages.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Game Overview
- Gameplay Mechanics
- Age Rating
- Availability
- Conclusion
References
- Nintendo FDS User Manual (Japanese)
- Zatsugaku Olympic Quiz Part II Instruction Booklet (Japanese)
- Retro Gaming Forums: FDS Games Section
- eBay and Amazon Online Marketplaces: Classic Nintendo Games