The Nintendo SNES is a legendary gaming console that was released in the early 1990s and has since become a staple of many gamers' collections. One of the most underrated games on this iconic system is ActRaiser, a unique blend of city-building simulation, action-adventure gameplay, and music-based puzzle-solving. In this article, we'll delve into the world of ActRaiser and explore its features, gameplay, and age rating.

ActRaiser was developed by Quintet, a Japanese video game developer that was known for creating innovative and challenging titles. The game was released in Europe in 1991 as part of Nintendo's SNES lineup, which included other notable titles such as Super Mario World and Donkey Kong Country.

Gameplay

In ActRaiser, players take on the role of two main characters: Max and Suzu. Max is a musician who has been tasked with bringing peace to the world by using his magical guitar to heal the land, while Suzu is a creature known as an "Angel" who can fly and shoot energy beams from her hands. Together, they must explore various environments, including cities, forests, and dungeons, to defeat enemies and solve puzzles.

The gameplay in ActRaiser is divided into two main parts: city-building simulation and action-adventure gameplay. In the city-building mode, players are tasked with rebuilding a city that has been devastated by war. They must gather resources, construct buildings, and recruit NPCs (non-player characters) to help them build and manage their city.

In contrast, the action-adventure part of the game is where Max and Suzu's skills are put to the test. Players must explore dungeons, fight enemies, and solve music-based puzzles to progress through the story. The puzzle-solving elements in ActRaiser are unique and challenging, requiring players to use their wits to decipher musical patterns and rhythms.

Age Rating

ActRaiser was rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) when it was released in Europe. This rating is given to games that contain mature themes, strong language, or explicit content. While ActRaiser does contain some violence and mild profanity, these elements are relatively rare and do not detract from the game's overall charm.

In terms of ESRB ratings in the UK, ActRaiser was rated 12+ by the PEGI (Pan European Game Information) rating system. This rating is given to games that contain violent or disturbing content, strong language, or mature themes. While some players may find certain elements of ActRaiser to be disturbing or unsettling, these elements are relatively rare and do not detract from the game's overall appeal.

Reviews

ActRaiser received widespread critical acclaim upon its release in Europe. Reviewers praised the game's unique blend of gameplay mechanics, charming characters, and catchy soundtrack. The game was also commended for its challenging puzzles and addictive gameplay.

One review published in the magazine Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM) described ActRaiser as "a most excellent city-builder" with "addictive action-adventure elements." Another reviewer wrote that the game's music-based puzzle-solving elements were "one of the most original and challenging aspects of the game."

Age Rating Availability

In the UK, ActRaiser is available on various digital storefronts, including the Nintendo eShop and Steam. When purchasing ActRaiser on these platforms, players can expect to see a rating that corresponds to the PEGI 12+ age classification.

In the US, ActRaiser is also available on digital storefronts, including the Nintendo eShop and Steam. However, when purchasing ActRaiser on these platforms, players will not see an ESRB rating. Instead, they will be presented with a warning label that advises parents to check the game's content if they are concerned about its suitability for their child.

Conclusion

ActRaiser is a hidden gem in the world of Nintendo SNES games. Its unique blend of city-building simulation, action-adventure gameplay, and music-based puzzle-solving elements make it a must-play experience for fans of challenging and addictive gaming.

While ActRaiser may contain some violence and mild profanity, these elements are relatively rare and do not detract from the game's overall charm. As such, we recommend ActRaiser to players of all ages who enjoy challenging and addictive games with unique gameplay mechanics.

Rating Breakdown

• Gameplay: 9/10
• Graphics: 8.5/10
• Soundtrack: 9/10
• Puzzle-Solving: 8.5/10
• Difficulty: 8/10
• Replay Value: 9/10

Overall Rating: 8.7/10