The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is one of the most beloved and iconic gaming consoles of all time. Released in 1991, it went on to become a staple of many gamers' childhoods, providing countless hours of entertainment and joy. Among its impressive library of games, "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" stands out as a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of gamers around the world.
In this article, we'll delve into the world of "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West", exploring its history, gameplay, and what makes it such an enduring favorite among gamers. We'll also take a look at the different versions available in Europe, including the European release, which offers some interesting differences from its North American counterpart.
History of the Game
"An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" is a platformer game developed by Little Audio Orchestra and published by Fox Interactive. The game was released in 1992 for the SNES and later ported to other platforms such as the Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System (Europe), and MS-DOS.
The game's story follows Fievel, a young mouse who lives on the Lower West Side of New York City with his family. After being separated from his father during an immigration process, Fievel sets out on a journey to find him in the wild west of America. Along the way, he must navigate treacherous terrain, avoid predators, and solve puzzles to reach his ultimate goal.
Gameplay
The gameplay in "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" is a classic platformer experience, with Fievel navigating through levels set in various environments, from dense forests to bustling towns. The game features a variety of obstacles and enemies, including predators like coyotes and snakes, which require players to use quick reflexes and clever thinking to overcome.
One of the standout features of the game is its innovative use of sound effects and music. The game's soundtrack, composed by Charles Bernstein, perfectly captures the spirit of the wild west, with a haunting score that complements Fievel's adventures. The sound effects, such as the "mice squeak" and the "cowboy yips", add to the game's charm and personality.
Age Rating
"An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which indicates that the game is suitable for players of all ages. However, some parents may still find certain elements of the game, such as the depiction of predators and the occasional mild violence, to be disturbing or unsuitable for very young children.
European Release
The European release of "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" features several differences from its North American counterpart. One notable difference is the game's box art, which shows Fievel standing in front of a wanted poster with a picture of him on it. The North American version has a more generic illustration of Fievel in a cowboy hat.
In terms of gameplay, the European release is identical to the North American version, but some fans have noted that the European version has slightly different sound effects and music.
Comparison to Other Games
"An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" is often compared to other platformer games of its time, such as "Super Mario World" and "Sonic the Hedgehog". While these games are also considered classics, they offer very different experiences. For example, "Super Mario World" features more emphasis on exploration and power-ups, while "Sonic the Hedgehog" focuses on fast-paced action and speed.
Legacy
Despite being released over two decades ago, "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" remains a beloved game among fans of classic platformers. Its charming story, addictive gameplay, and memorable soundtrack have made it a timeless classic that continues to entertain gamers of all ages.
In recent years, the game has been re-released on various platforms, including the SNES Classics Mini, which offers a nostalgic experience for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Conclusion
"An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" is a true classic that deserves recognition as one of the best games of all time. Its engaging gameplay, memorable soundtrack, and charming story have made it an enduring favorite among gamers around the world.
If you're looking to experience this beloved game for yourself, be sure to check out its various releases on different platforms. With its addictive gameplay and nostalgic charm, "An American Tail: Fievel Goes West" is a must-play for anyone who loves classic platformers.