The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is a legendary gaming console that brought joy and excitement to millions of gamers around the world. One of the most iconic games released for this console is "Cosmo Gangs: The Video" (also known as "Cosmo Gangs 2" in some regions), developed by Hudson Soft and released in Japan in 1995.

In this article, we will delve into the details of this cult classic game, including its story, gameplay, and age rating. We'll also explore why "Cosmo Gangs: The Video" remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Storyline

"Cosmo Gangs: The Video" takes place in the fictional town of Kandori, where three rival gangs - the Cosmo Kids, the Gekido Z, and the Shura Gang - engage in an ongoing turf war. Players take on the role of a young member of one of these gangs, with the ultimate goal of becoming the leader.

The story is presented through a series of events that unfold as players progress through the game's 16 levels, each set in a different part of Kandori. Along the way, players will encounter various allies and enemies, including rival gang members, police officers, and other civilians who become entangled in the conflict.

Gameplay

"Cosmo Gangs: The Video" is an action-adventure game that combines elements of platforming, shooting, and role-playing games (RPGs). Players control their character as they navigate through levels, fighting enemies and collecting power-ups to increase their strength and agility.

The gameplay revolves around the use of a special item called "Power Ball," which allows players to change their appearance and abilities. For example, using Power Ball can transform players into a ninja, giving them increased speed and stealth capabilities.

Players must also manage their gang's resources, including money and influence, as they progress through the game. These resources are essential for upgrading equipment and recruiting new members to join their gang.

Age Rating

"Cosmo Gangs: The Video" is rated 7+ by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in Japan, indicating that it contains mild violence and suggestive content. However, the age rating can vary depending on the region and country.

In Europe, "Cosmo Gangs: The Video" was released with a PEGI 7 rating, which means that players under the age of 7 are not permitted to play the game due to its violent content.

AUSKAS Rating

The Australian Classification Review Board (ACRB) assigned a classification of M for Mature Audiences Only, indicating that players must be at least 15 years old to purchase and play the game.

In North America, the game was rated T by the ESRB, which means it contains some violence, mild language, and suggestive content. However, the age rating may vary depending on individual console versions.

Why "Cosmo Gangs: The Video" Remains a Classic

"Cosmo Gangs: The Video" has stood the test of time due to its engaging gameplay mechanics, colorful graphics, and an endearing storyline that captivated gamers in the 1990s. Here are some reasons why this game remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts:

1. Charming Characters: Players take on the role of a young member of one of three rival gangs, each with their own distinct personality and style.

2. Innovative Gameplay Mechanics: "Cosmo Gangs: The Video" introduced innovative gameplay mechanics such as the Power Ball system, which allowed players to change their appearance and abilities mid-battle.

3. Colorful Graphics: The game's vibrant colors and detailed pixel art graphics added to its visual charm, making it a standout title on the SNES library.

4. Engaging Storyline: The game's narrative is engaging and immersive, with a rich storyline that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and rivalry.

5. Nostalgia: For many gamers who grew up in the 1990s, "Cosmo Gangs: The Video" holds a special place in their hearts as a nostalgic reminder of their childhood gaming experiences.

Conclusion

"Cosmo Gangs: The Video" is an iconic SNES game that has stood the test of time due to its engaging gameplay mechanics, charming characters, and endearing storyline. While age ratings may vary depending on region, this cult classic remains a beloved title among retro gaming enthusiasts who cherish its nostalgic charm.

If you're looking for a unique gaming experience that combines elements of action-adventure and RPGs, then "Cosmo Gangs: The Video" is definitely worth checking out. Be sure to check your local game store or online retailer for availability, as this classic SNES title may be hard to find.

In the meantime, we'd love to hear from you - have you played "Cosmo Gangs: The Video" before? What are some of your favorite memories associated with this cult classic game? Share them in the comments below!