The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and its successor, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), are two of the most iconic consoles in the history of gaming. Released in the late 1980s and early 1990s, respectively, these systems brought joy and excitement to gamers around the world with their wide range of games, innovative controllers, and cutting-edge technology.

One of the lesser-known but highly sought-after SNES titles is Frantic Flea, a game that was originally released in Europe as part of a collection called "Hot Review." This article will delve into the details of Frantic Flea, including its gameplay, graphics, sound, and overall experience. We'll also discuss the age rating availability for this title.

What is Frantic Flea?

Frantic Flea is a sports game that was developed by Gremlin Interactive and published by Gremlin Graphics in Europe. The game was released in 1990 as part of the "Hot Review" collection, which featured a mix of popular games from various publishers.

In Frantic Flea, players control a character called Freddy, who is trying to collect as many "flea" symbols on the screen as possible within a time limit. Sounds simple, right? Well, things quickly get complicated when other players start interfering with your flea-collecting efforts.

The game features fast-paced action, colorful graphics, and catchy music. Players can use various items, such as bombs and shields, to fend off their opponents and protect their fleas. The gameplay is challenging, but the thrill of competition makes it an enjoyable experience for gamers of all ages.

Age Rating Availability

Frantic Flea was released in Europe under the "Hot Review" collection, which carried a moderate age rating due to its mild violence and competitive gameplay. However, since the release of the game, various re-releases have been made available, each with different age ratings depending on the region.

In Europe, Frantic Flea is rated PEGI 7+, meaning it's suitable for players aged 7 and above, who are able to distinguish between fantasy violence and real-life harm. The game's ESRB rating in North America is T (Teen), indicating that it contains more intense content than younger audiences may be able to handle.

In the UK, Frantic Flea has been released as part of various SNES collections, including the "Super NES" compilation and the "SNES Mini" console. These releases carry an age rating of PEGI 7+, ensuring that players are protected from excessive violence and mature themes.

Collectibility and Rarity

Frantic Flea is considered a rare and highly sought-after title among collectors, particularly those who specialize in SNES games. The game's rarity can be attributed to its limited release as part of the "Hot Review" collection, which made it harder for gamers to find and purchase.

In recent years, Frantic Flea has become more accessible due to various re-releases and digitization projects. However, original copies of the game remain highly prized among collectors, who are willing to pay top dollar for a chance to own one of these rare games.

Graphics and Sound

Frantic Flea's graphics were impressive for its time, with colorful, vibrant sprites that brought the game's cartoonish characters to life. The backgrounds were equally well-designed, featuring fast-paced animation and clever uses of scrolling and scaling.

The sound design in Frantic Flea is another standout feature. The game's catchy theme music and sound effects are still remembered fondly by gamers today. The music is upbeat and energetic, perfectly capturing the game's frantic pace and competitive spirit.

Conclusion

Frantic Flea may not be as well-known as some of its SNES contemporaries, but it's a hidden gem that offers hours of fast-paced action and addictive gameplay. With its colorful graphics, catchy sound design, and competitive multiplayer mode, Frantic Flea is an excellent addition to any SNES collection.

While the game carries a moderate age rating, its suitability for players aged 7 and above makes it accessible to gamers who are looking for a challenging and engaging experience. Collectors will be pleased to know that rare copies of Frantic Flea can still be found in some corners of the retro gaming community, although re-releases have made the game more widely available.

Overall, Frantic Flea is an excellent example of the innovative gameplay and charming characters that defined the SNES era. Its availability in various regions has made it possible for gamers to experience this delightful title for themselves, ensuring its legacy as one of the most underrated SNES games of all time.