The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), also known as the Famicom outside of North America, is a legendary console that brought countless hours of entertainment to gamers worldwide. Released in 1985, it was followed by its successor, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The SNES is arguably one of the greatest consoles of all time, with an impressive library of games that still hold up today. One such game that stands out among the rest is Mr. Do!, a unique puzzle-platformer that has garnered rave reviews from critics and players alike.

Mr. Do! is a platformer developed by Taito Corporation and released in 1988 for the NES. It was created by Masaya Matsuura, who would later become famous for his work on the Contra series. The game's story follows Mr. Do., a Japanese businessman-turned-adventurer, as he attempts to rescue his girlfriend from an ancient temple filled with treacherous traps and puzzles.

Gameplay in Mr. Do! revolves around exploration and puzzle-solving. Players control Mr. Do. as he navigates through increasingly difficult levels, avoiding obstacles such as spiked walls, bottomless pits, and deadly creatures like piranhas and giant spiders. The twist is that players can transform Mr. Do. into various animal shapes using a power-up item called the "Power Suit," which allows him to traverse different terrain types.

The transformation feature is where Mr. Do! truly shines. Each animal shape grants unique abilities, such as the ability to float in mid-air like an eagle or glide over large distances like a dolphin. The Power Suit also provides a way for players to access previously inaccessible areas by allowing them to climb walls and ceilings. This mechanic adds a fresh layer of strategy to the gameplay, encouraging players to experiment with different shapes to overcome obstacles.

Graphics and sound are where Mr. Do! truly stands out from other platformers of its time. The game's colorful and vibrant graphics evoke a sense of nostalgia for many who played it as children. The character designs are iconic, particularly Mr. Do.'s recognizable appearance in his various animal forms. Musicwise, the soundtrack is catchy and memorable, complementing the fast-paced action on-screen.

Mr. Do! has garnered critical acclaim over the years, with praise from publications such as Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM) and GameSpot. On the EGM Top 100 list of 2003, Mr. Do! was ranked #42, indicating its enduring influence in the gaming industry. Modern reviews have continued this trend, with many praising the game's unique gameplay mechanics and timeless charm.

One aspect of Mr. Do!'s appeal that sets it apart from other platformers is its accessibility. While challenging, the game does not require an intense level of difficulty; instead, it rewards players for their patience and persistence. This makes it an excellent introduction to platforming games for new players or a revisit for seasoned veterans.

As for how to play Mr. Do!, there are several options available depending on your region. The original NES release is readily available for purchase at thrift stores, garage sales, or online retailers. More recent releases include the Virtual Console and Nintendo eShop platforms, which allow users to download or purchase the game digitally. Players can also find emulators and fan-made ports of Mr. Do! online.

In terms of age rating, Mr. Do! is considered a suitable game for players of all ages due to its relatively tame violence and mild humor. According to the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board), the game has been rated "E" for Everyone, indicating that it is free from excessive blood, gore, or suggestive content.

ESRB Rating Breakdown:

• Violence: Mild cartoon violence

• Blood and Gore: None

• Language: Mild mild language

In addition to its age rating, Mr. Do! also adheres to a range of other standards set by gaming organizations such as the ESRB and the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC).

Overall, Mr. Do! is an iconic game that continues to stand the test of time. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, timeless charm, and nostalgic value make it an excellent addition to any retro gaming collection.

For those who are new to platformers or are looking for a challenging yet rewarding experience, Mr. Do! is undoubtedly worth checking out. With its perfect balance of exploration, puzzle-solving, and transformation mechanics, this game offers something unique that sets it apart from other titles in the genre.

Rating Breakdown:

• Gameplay: 9/10

• Graphics: 8.5/10

• Soundtrack: 9/10

• Replay Value: 7/10

In conclusion, Mr. Do! is a true classic that deserves its place alongside some of the greatest games in history. Its unique gameplay mechanics and timeless charm have captivated gamers for decades, making it an essential title for any retro gaming enthusiast.