The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a groundbreaking console that revolutionized the gaming industry in the 1980s and 1990s. However, it wasn't until the release of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) that Nintendo truly cemented its position as a leader in the market. One game that stands out from the SNES library is BS The Legend of Zelda: Triforce of the Gods, also known as BS Dynamite Tracer in Japan.

Released in 1990 for the Famicom Disk System (FDS), BS Dynamite Tracer was initially intended to be a commercial success, but it ultimately failed to gain traction due to its confusing gameplay and poor marketing. Despite this, the game has developed a cult following over the years, with many enthusiasts praising its unique blend of action and strategy elements.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of BS Dynamite Tracer, exploring its history, gameplay mechanics, and why it's still worth playing today.

History

BS Dynamite Tracer was released in 1990 for the Famicom Disk System (FDS), which was Japan's first commercial home video game console. The game was developed by Intelligent Systems, a renowned developer known for their work on the Fire Emblem series and Paper Mario. Initially, BS Dynamite Tracer was marketed as an action-adventure game, with players taking control of a character named "Dynamite" as they navigated through increasingly challenging levels.

However, upon its release, the game received overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics and consumers alike. The gameplay was deemed confusing, with many considering it to be too complex for its own good. Additionally, the marketing campaign failed to generate any significant buzz around the game, which contributed to its poor commercial performance.

Despite its initial failure, BS Dynamite Tracer has developed a dedicated following over the years, with enthusiasts praising its unique blend of action and strategy elements. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the game, with many retro gaming enthusiasts seeking out copies to play on their modern consoles.

Gameplay Mechanics

BS Dynamite Tracer is a 2D side-scroller that features a unique blend of action and strategy elements. Players take control of "Dynamite," a character who must navigate through increasingly challenging levels while avoiding enemies and collecting power-ups.

The gameplay revolves around the concept of "exploding" – Dynamite can explode at will, allowing players to blast their way through obstacles and defeat enemies. However, this ability also comes with a twist: if Dynamite explodes too many times in quick succession, it becomes vulnerable to attack from enemies.

To counter this, players must carefully time their explosions, using the environment to their advantage by luring enemies into traps or creating opportunities for themselves. The game features a variety of power-ups, including health boosts, speed increases, and even temporary invincibility.

One of the most innovative aspects of BS Dynamite Tracer is its use of "memory" – players can collect special cards called "memories" that allow them to manipulate Dynamite's behavior. For example, some memories give Dynamite an extra life, while others grant him increased speed or the ability to avoid damage.

Age Rating

BS Dynamite Tracer was originally rated Z by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in Japan, which is equivalent to a "Teen" rating in North America. This means that the game contains some violent content, including enemy deaths and explosions, as well as suggestive themes.

However, it's worth noting that the game's content is relatively tame compared to many other action-adventure games of its era. While there are certainly intense moments, the overall tone of the game is more lighthearted than dark or disturbing.

Availability

BS Dynamite Tracer was initially released in Japan for the Famicom Disk System (FDS), but it has since become a collector's item among retro gaming enthusiasts. Due to its rarity and cult following, copies of the game can be difficult to find – although there are some unofficial bootlegs available online.

In recent years, Nintendo has re-released BS Dynamite Tracer as part of their Virtual Console service in Japan. This allows players to experience the game on their modern consoles without having to hunt down a physical copy.

Conclusion

BS Dynamite Tracer is a unique and challenging action-adventure game that deserves recognition for its innovative gameplay mechanics. Despite its initial failure, the game has developed a dedicated following over the years, with many enthusiasts praising its blend of strategy and action elements.

While it may not be to everyone's taste due to its confusing gameplay and poor marketing, BS Dynamite Tracer is still worth playing today – especially for fans of retro gaming and Japanese culture. With its unique blend of exploration, platforming, and puzzle-solving, the game offers a refreshing change of pace from more modern action-adventure games.

In short, BS Dynamite Tracer may not be the most accessible or polished game in Nintendo's library, but it is definitely worth playing for anyone interested in exploring the world of retro gaming.