The Nintendo SNES is one of the most iconic consoles of all time, and its library of games is still widely popular among gamers today. Aero Fighters, a vertical shooter game developed by Dimps, is an often-overlooked gem that has gained a cult following over the years. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Aero Fighters for the SNES in North America, including information about its age rating and what makes it a great game.
Background
Aero Fighters was originally released in 1992 as an arcade game, known as "Sonic Wings" in Japan. Developed by Dimps, a renowned Japanese video game developer, the game was later ported to various platforms, including the Nintendo SNES, Sega CD, and PlayStation. The SNSE version of Aero Fighters was released in North America in 1994 and has since become a classic among retro gamers.
Gameplay
Aero Fighters is a vertical shooter that takes place in a futuristic world where humans are under attack by various alien species. Players control one of eight unique characters, each with their own special abilities and strengths. The gameplay involves shooting down enemy aircraft while avoiding incoming fire, dodging obstacles, and utilizing special moves to take down tougher foes.
One of the standout features of Aero Fighters is its tight controls and responsive gameplay. The game's mechanics are designed to be fast-paced and challenging, making it a great fit for fans of classic shooters. The level design is also well-crafted, with each stage offering a unique challenge and rewarding players who master the game's many intricacies.
Characters
Aero Fighters features eight playable characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses:
- Rick "Hawk" Hawkins: Hawk is the main protagonist of the series and is known for his speed and agility.
- Billy Lee "Bill" Reed: Bill is a tough-as-nails fighter who excels at close-range combat.
- Sarah Phoenix: Sarah is a skilled pilot with a range of special abilities, including a powerful energy beam.
- Steve "Bull" Jackson: Bull is a bruiser of a character, using his strength to take down enemies.
- Terry "Raptor" Reynolds: Raptor is a fast and agile fighter who excels at aerial combat.
- Rick "Hawk" Hawkins ( alternate costume ): Same as the main Hawk character
- Billy Lee "Bill" Reed (alternate costume) : Same as the main Bill character
- Sarah Phoenix (Alternate Costume): Same as the main Sarah character
Each character has their own unique abilities and moves, which can be upgraded as players progress through the game.
Graphics and Soundtrack
The graphics in Aero Fighters are colorful and vibrant, with well-animated characters and environments that bring the game's futuristic world to life. The sound effects and music are also catchy and memorable, adding to the overall atmosphere of the game.
The soundtrack, composed by Masato Nakamura and Takahiro Akiyoshi, is a standout feature of Aero Fighters. The score is fast-paced and energetic, with a mix of electronic and rock elements that perfectly capture the game's spirit.
Age Rating
Aero Fighters was initially rated "M" for Mature by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) due to its violent content and mild language. However, in 2007, the ESRB re-rated the game as "E10+" (Everyone 10 and older), indicating that it's suitable for players aged 10 and above.
Rating Breakdown:
- ESRB Rating: E10+
- CERO Rating: A
- PEGI Rating: 7+
Conclusion
Aero Fighters is a classic vertical shooter that has stood the test of time, thanks to its tight controls, well-designed levels, and memorable characters. While it may not be as widely known as some other SNES games, Aero Fighters remains a great option for fans of retro gaming looking for a challenging and rewarding experience.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a great game to play on your SNES or are simply interested in learning more about this classic title, Aero Fighters is definitely worth checking out. With its addictive gameplay, memorable characters, and catchy soundtrack, Aero Fighters is a must-play for anyone who loves retro gaming.