The Nintendo SNES, also known as the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, was a groundbreaking video game console released by Nintendo in 1991. The SNES is widely regarded as one of the greatest consoles of all time, with a library of iconic games that have stood the test of time.

In this article, we will delve into the history of the Nintendo SNES Fighter's games in Japan, including their development, release, and impact on the gaming industry. We will also explore the age rating system used in Japan for video games, which played a significant role in shaping the content of these games.

The Birth of the SNES

In the late 1980s, Nintendo was facing increased competition from other console manufacturers, including Sega and Sony. In response, Nintendo decided to release a new console that would surpass its predecessor, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The SNES was designed to be more powerful than the NES, with improved graphics and sound capabilities.

The SNES was released in Japan on November 21, 1990, under the name "Super Famicom." The console quickly gained popularity among Japanese gamers, thanks in part to its impressive library of games. One of the most notable fighters for the SNES is Street Fighter II: The World Warrior, which was released in 1991 and would go on to become one of the most iconic fighting games of all time.

Street Fighter II: The World Warrior

Developed by Capcom, Street Fighter II: The World Warrior was a game that revolutionized the fighting game genre. Its success can be attributed to its simple yet addictive gameplay, as well as its memorable characters and stages. The game's plot follows Ryu, a martial artist who seeks to test his skills against the world's greatest fighters.

Street Fighter II was released in Japan on August 6, 1991, and quickly became a best-seller. Its success can be measured by its impact on the gaming industry as a whole. Street Fighter II is often credited with popularizing the fighting game genre, inspiring countless imitators and sequels.

Other Notable Fighters for the SNES

In addition to Street Fighter II, there were several other notable fighters released for the SNES in Japan. One of these was Capcom's Killer Instinct, which was released on December 13, 1994. Killer Instinct was a game that combined fighting and platforming elements, with players controlling a team of characters as they battled against rival fighters.

Another notable fighter for the SNES was SNK's The King of Fighters '98: The Slugfest, which was released in 1998. This game was part of a popular series of fighting games known as The King of Fighters, and featured a unique blend of gameplay mechanics and memorable characters.

Age Rating System in Japan

In Japan, video games are subject to an age rating system known as the "Censorship Code." This code is used to determine which types of content are suitable for different age groups. The Censorship Code was established by the Japanese government in 2004, with the goal of protecting children from harmful or explicit content.

The Censorship Code uses a rating system of A (suitable for all ages), B (suitable for ages 12 and up), C (suitable for ages 15 and up), D (suitable for ages 18 and up), and Z (not suitable for any age group). These ratings are based on factors such as violence, nudity, and strong language.

Impact of the Censorship Code

The Censorship Code has had a significant impact on the development of video games in Japan. Many developers have chosen to avoid releasing their games under certain rating categories, in order to appeal to a wider audience or to avoid controversy.

For example, many fighting games released for the SNES were given a B (suitable for ages 12 and up) rating, which means that they are suitable for players aged 12 and above. However, some games that featured more explicit content, such as Street Fighter II, were given a D (suitable for ages 18 and up) rating.

Conclusion

The Nintendo SNES was a groundbreaking console that released a library of iconic games in Japan. The fighter genre was particularly popular on the SNES, with games like Street Fighter II: The World Warrior and Killer Instinct becoming classics among gamers.

The Censorship Code has had a significant impact on the development of video games in Japan, with many developers choosing to avoid releasing their games under certain rating categories. This system has been in place since 2004, with the goal of protecting children from harmful or explicit content.

In conclusion, the history of Nintendo SNES Fighter's games in Japan is a fascinating topic that offers insights into the development of video games and the impact of censorship on the industry.

Age Rating for Some Popular Games

• Street Fighter II: The World Warrior - B (suitable for ages 12 and up)
• Killer Instinct - C (suitable for ages 15 and up)
• The King of Fighters '98: The Slugfest - D (suitable for ages 18 and up)

Note: These ratings are based on the Censorship Code used in Japan at the time of release.

Table: Release Dates for Popular SNES Fighter Games

| Game | Release Date | | --- | --- | | Street Fighter II: The World Warrior | August 6, 1991 | | Killer Instinct | December 13, 1994 | | The King of Fighters '98: The Slugfest | 1998 |

Note: These release dates are for Japan only.

Table: Age Rating Categories Used in Japan

| Rating Category | Description | | --- | --- | | A | Suitable for all ages | | B | Suitable for ages 12 and up | | C | Suitable for ages 15 and up | | D | Suitable for ages 18 and up | | Z | Not suitable for any age group |

Note: These ratings are based on the Censorship Code used in Japan at the time of release.