The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and its successor, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), were revolutionary consoles that brought gaming to a whole new level. Among the countless games available for these systems, one game stands out for its unique blend of puzzle-solving, platforming, and exploration: Mr. Do! (known as "Bosconian" in North America).

Developed by Toho and released in 1990, Mr. Do! is a side-scrolling action game that follows the adventures of the titular character, Mr. Do., a brave knight tasked with rescuing his princess from the clutches of an evil sorcerer. With its colorful graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay, Mr. Do! quickly became a fan favorite among gamers in Japan.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of Mr. Do!, exploring its history, gameplay mechanics, and features that made it a standout title for the SNES. We'll also discuss its age rating, which has been subject to change over the years due to various factors.

History of Mr. Do!

Mr. Do! was first released in Japan in 1990 as part of the "Toukon" series, a collection of arcade games that showcased Toho's unique blend of action and puzzle-solving. The game was developed by a team led by Toshiaki Sakamoto, who would later go on to become a renowned game designer and director at Toho.

Initially released as an arcade game, Mr. Do! was later ported to the SNES in 1992, with some minor modifications to accommodate the console's capabilities. The SNES version of the game retained its original charm and gameplay mechanics, while introducing new features such as multiple levels and a variety of power-ups.

Gameplay Mechanics

Mr. Do!'s gameplay is centered around exploration, puzzle-solving, and action-packed platforming. Players control Mr. Do., navigating through increasingly challenging levels set in various fantasy worlds. The game's unique mechanic allows Mr. Do. to slide into enemy formations, which can be used to defeat enemies or avoid obstacles.

As players progress through the game, they'll encounter a variety of power-ups, including mushrooms that increase Mr. Do.'s size and strength, as well as bombs that allow him to destroy certain blocks or enemies. The game also features multiple upgrades for Mr. Do., such as increased health or speed, which can be acquired by collecting specific items.

One of the standout features of Mr. Do! is its level design, which requires players to think strategically and use their wits to overcome challenges. Levels often feature multiple paths, hidden secrets, and cleverly placed obstacles that require careful observation and planning to navigate.

Features

Mr. Do! boasts several features that make it a beloved game among retro gamers:

1. Colorful graphics: The SNES version of Mr. Do! features vibrant, colorful graphics that bring the game's fantasy worlds to life.
2. Catchy music: The game's soundtrack is catchy and memorable, with a mix of upbeat melodies and energetic percussion that complements the gameplay perfectly.
3. Multiple levels: The game features multiple levels, each with its own unique challenges and objectives.
4. Power-ups: Players can collect power-ups to increase Mr. Do.'s abilities, such as size or speed.

Age Rating

When first released in Japan, Mr. Do! received a rating of "All Ages" (, Kodomo e Ii) by the Japanese Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Council (ESRB). However, due to its content, the game was later re-rated as "Teen+ (17 years and above)".

In 2015, the Japanese government passed a new law that tightened regulations on video games, requiring them to carry explicit warnings about mature themes or violent content. As a result, Mr. Do!'s rating in Japan was changed again to "Teen's" (, Tein).

In North America, the game was originally rated T for Teen by the ESRB, indicating that it contained some violence and mild suggestive content. However, due to changes in the ESRB's guidelines over time, the game's rating has undergone several revisions.

Today, Mr. Do! is considered a classic game that is suitable for players of all ages, with a rating of "Everyone" (E) by the ESRB.

Conclusion

Mr. Do! is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time, thanks to its unique blend of puzzle-solving, platforming, and exploration. With its colorful graphics, catchy music, and challenging gameplay, Mr. Do! is a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

In this article, we've explored the history, gameplay mechanics, and features that make Mr. Do! such an iconic game. We've also discussed its age rating, which has undergone changes over the years due to various factors.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting out, Mr. Do! is a game that's sure to delight and challenge you. So, grab your controller and get ready to embark on an epic adventure with Mr. Do.!