The Nintendo SNES is a legendary console that has captured the hearts of gamers around the world. Released in 1991, it went on to become one of the best-selling consoles of all time, with over 49 million units sold worldwide during its lifespan. One of the most iconic games for this console is Gokinjo Boukentai, also known as "Neighborhood Bully" or "Schoolyard Bully," which was released in Japan exclusively for the SNES. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Gokinjo Boukentai and explore its history, gameplay, and age rating.

History of Gokinjo Boukentai

Gokinjo Boukentai is a sports game developed by Hudson Soft, a renowned Japanese video game developer, and published by Nintendo for the SNES. The game was released in 1991 in Japan and became a moderate success, particularly among Japanese gamers. The game's storyline revolves around the protagonist, who plays the role of a high school student trying to become the best athlete in his neighborhood.

The gameplay is divided into various sports disciplines, including football (soccer), basketball, baseball, and track and field events. Players can compete against opponents from other schools, with the ultimate goal of becoming the champion. The game features colorful 2D graphics, with vibrant animations and realistic sound effects, which were typical for SNES games at that time.

Gameplay

Gokinjo Boukentai is a sports game that combines elements of various disciplines to create a unique gaming experience. Players can choose from five different sports events:

1. Football (Soccer): Players must kick the ball into the opponent's goal, while trying to avoid being tackled by the opposing team.
2. Basketball: Players must score points by shooting the ball into the hoop, while defending against opponents' shots.
3. Baseball: Players must hit the ball with a bat and run around bases to score runs.
4. Track and Field Events: Players participate in various track events, such as sprinting, long jump, and shot put.

Each sport has its own unique rules and objectives, which add variety to the gameplay. The game also features special moves, such as football's "tackle" move or basketball's "dribble" move, which can be used to gain an advantage over opponents.

Reception

Gokinjo Boukentai received positive reviews from Japanese gamers upon its release in 1991. Reviewers praised the game's colorful graphics, smooth gameplay, and variety of sports disciplines. However, some reviewers noted that the game's difficulty level was relatively high, which may have deterred casual players.

In terms of sales, Gokinjo Boukentai was a moderate success in Japan, selling around 100,000 copies during its lifespan. While it didn't achieve blockbuster status, the game remains a beloved classic among SNES enthusiasts and fans of sports games.

Age Rating

As with any video game, Gokinjo Boukentai is subject to age rating guidelines set by various organizations around the world. In Japan, the game was rated "All Ages" (A) by the Entertainment Software Rating Organization (ESRB), indicating that it is suitable for players of all ages.

In North America and Europe, Gokinjo Boukentai was not officially released due to the lack of a regional license from Nintendo. However, some importers have made it possible for fans to purchase the game in these regions, although it may require additional efforts and costs.

Legacy

Gokinjo Boukentai may not be as well-known as other SNES games, but its impact on the gaming industry is still significant. The game's unique blend of sports disciplines and competitive gameplay helped pave the way for future sports games, such as Mario Tennis and Mario Golf.

In Japan, Gokinjo Boukentai has become a cult classic, with many fans still fondly reminiscing about playing the game during their childhood or teenage years. While its commercial success may have been limited, the game's legacy lives on through its dedicated fan base and nostalgic value.

Conclusion

Gokinjo Boukentai is an iconic SNES game that offers a unique gaming experience, blending various sports disciplines into one exciting package. Its colorful graphics, smooth gameplay, and competitive nature made it a hit among Japanese gamers upon its release in 1991. While its age rating guidelines vary by region, the game remains suitable for players of all ages.

For fans of retro gaming or those looking to try out a unique SNES experience, Gokinjo Boukentai is definitely worth checking out. With its moderate difficulty level and addictive gameplay, it's sure to provide hours of entertainment and nostalgic value.

Additional Information

• Region Availability: Japan only (importers may make the game available in other regions)
• Age Rating:
• Japan: All Ages (A)
• North America: Not officially released
• Europe: Not officially released
• Sales: Approximately 100,000 copies sold in Japan during its lifespan