The Nintendo Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is a legendary console that brought joy and excitement to gamers around the world during its heyday in the late 1980s and early 1990s. One of the most popular and critically acclaimed games for the SNES is Area 88, a vertical-scrolling shooter that has stood the test of time due to its engaging gameplay, rich storyline, and stunning graphics.

Released in Japan in 1992, Area 88 was developed by Taito and published by Nintendo. The game follows the story of Kazuki "Zeke" Kaji, a Japanese fighter pilot who becomes a mercenary after being kicked out of the Japanese Air Force. Zeke is hired to fly his skills for various clients, taking on missions in different parts of the world.

Gameplay

Area 88 is a classic vertical-scrolling shooter that challenges players to navigate through levels filled with enemy aircraft, missiles, and other obstacles. The game features four unique characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, which can be upgraded as players progress through the game.

Players control Zeke or one of three other pilots - Hanzo, Akira, and Naomi - as they fly their aircraft through the skies, dodging enemy fire and shooting down planes to earn points. The game features a variety of enemies, including jets, bombers, and fighters, each with its own attack patterns and weaknesses.

As players progress through the game, new levels are unlocked, featuring increasingly difficult challenges and bosses. The game also features a variety of power-ups and upgrades, such as bombs, speed boosts, and shields, which can be used to gain an advantage over enemies.

Story

The story of Area 88 is presented in a series of cutscenes and brief text messages between missions. Players are introduced to Zeke Kaji, a former Japanese Air Force pilot who has been kicked out of the service for disobeying orders. Zeke is approached by a mysterious figure who offers him a lucrative contract to fly missions for various clients around the world.

As players complete missions and progress through the game, they learn more about Zeke's past and his motivations for taking on these contracts. The story is presented in a way that feels like a mix of action movie and anime, with plenty of dramatic music and intense cutscenes.

Reception

Area 88 received widespread critical acclaim upon its release in Japan. Reviewers praised the game's engaging gameplay, rich storyline, and stunning graphics. The game was considered one of the best vertical-scrolling shooters of all time, alongside other classics like Contra III: The Alien Wars and Death Rally.

The game has since been re-released on various platforms, including the Virtual Console for the Wii and 3DS, and as part of the SNES Classic Edition. The game has also been included in several retro gaming compilations, cementing its status as a classic of the genre.

Age Rating

Area 88 was rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), due to its mild violence, suggestive content, and brief strong language.

In Japan, the game was rated C (Children) by the Japanese rating board, ElSPA, but this rating has since been rescinded due to concerns about the game's mature themes and content.

Rating Breakdown

• ESRB: M for Mature
• ELSPA: Removed from rating (due to changes in the board's guidelines)
• PEGI: 16+ (Violence, mild suggestive content)

Conclusion

Area 88 is a classic vertical-scrolling shooter that has stood the test of time due to its engaging gameplay, rich storyline, and stunning graphics. The game has received widespread critical acclaim and has been included in several retro gaming compilations.

While the game's age rating may be slightly lower than some modern standards, it remains an enjoyable and challenging experience for gamers of all ages. If you're looking for a classic SNES game to add to your collection, Area 88 is definitely worth checking out.