The Nintendo Entertainment System's (NES) revival continues with the release of the Super NES Classic Edition, a miniature console preloaded with 21 classic games. However, one game stands out among its peers: Monster Maker Kids - Ousama ni Naritai. A unique blend of monster collecting, puzzle-solving, and social simulation, this title is an essential addition to any retro gaming collection.

Monster Maker Kids - Ousama ni Naritai was originally released in Japan for the Super NES in 1995. The game's unique concept revolves around a young girl named Miki who lives with her friends in a village filled with magical creatures known as monsters. Players take on the role of Miki, tasked with befriending and collecting these monsters while navigating the challenges of adolescence.

The gameplay is divided into two main components: exploration and monster collection. The game takes place in an open-world environment where players can explore and interact with various locations, including schools, parks, and homes. As players progress through the game, they will encounter different types of monsters, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and characteristics.

The goal is to befriend these monsters by completing challenges and puzzles, which are often related to Japanese folklore and mythology. Players must use their wits and problem-solving skills to unlock the secrets of each monster, ultimately earning its friendship. The more monsters a player befriends, the stronger they become, allowing them to tackle more challenging tasks.

One of the game's standout features is its social simulation aspect. As players progress through the game, they will encounter other characters who can aid or hinder their progress. These relationships can be built and nurtured through conversation and gift-giving, adding a layer of depth to the gameplay.

Monster Maker Kids - Ousama ni Naritai also features a unique battle system, where players can use their collected monsters to fight against other creatures in a turn-based battle. The game's graphics are simple yet charming, with colorful characters and environments that evoke a sense of nostalgia for those who grew up playing classic NES games.

The game's story follows Miki as she navigates the challenges of adolescence, including friendships, rivalries, and self-discovery. Along the way, players will encounter various obstacles and setbacks, but ultimately, their goal is to become the "Ousama" (king or queen) of their own personal kingdom.

In terms of age rating, Monster Maker Kids - Ousama ni Naritai has been rated as suitable for children aged 8-12 by the Japanese government. However, this rating may vary depending on individual child's sensitivity and maturity level.

In conclusion, Monster Maker Kids - Ousama ni Naritai is a hidden gem in the world of retro gaming. Its unique blend of monster collecting, puzzle-solving, and social simulation makes it an essential addition to any NES collection. With its colorful graphics, charming characters, and engaging gameplay, this title is sure to delight both nostalgic gamers and new players alike.

Rating: 8/10

Recommendation:

• Recommended for fans of classic NES games
• Suitable for children aged 8-12
• Players with a interest in Japanese culture and folklore will appreciate the game's unique approach to monster collecting and puzzle-solving

Age Rating:

• Japan: Suitable for children aged 8-12
• USA/Europe: Not rated (due to the lack of explicit content)
• UK: Suitable for players aged 7+

System Requirements:

• Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
• Compatible with original SNES hardware

Playtime:

• Estimated playtime: 10-15 hours

Overall, Monster Maker Kids - Ousama ni Naritai is a unique and engaging title that offers something for everyone. Its blend of monster collecting, puzzle-solving, and social simulation makes it an essential addition to any retro gaming collection.