Natsume Championship Wrestling is a professional wrestling video game developed and published by Natsume. The game was released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1993 and is considered one of the best games of its genre.
The game follows the story of two wrestlers, Billy Blazer and Johnny Hartwell, as they compete in a championship tournament to become the world heavyweight champion. The gameplay involves one-on-one matches against various opponents, each with their unique moves and strengths. Players can choose from different wrestling styles, including submission holds and high-flying moves.
One of the standout features of Natsume Championship Wrestling is its emphasis on storytelling. The game's narrative is presented through a series of cutscenes, which detail the backstories and motivations of the wrestlers. This adds depth to the gameplay experience, making it feel more like a sports simulation than just a straightforward fighting game.
The game's controls are also noteworthy. The use of a special button to execute moves such as body slams and submission holds adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay. Players must carefully consider when to use these moves, taking into account their opponent's health and the momentum of the match.
Natsume Championship Wrestling received positive reviews upon its release, with many praising its engaging gameplay and storyline. The game is still remembered fondly by many retro gaming enthusiasts today, who appreciate its nostalgic charm and challenging gameplay.
The game has been released on various platforms over the years, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance. A remake of the game was also developed for the PlayStation 2 and Xbox, but it received mixed reviews from critics and fans alike.
In terms of age rating, Natsume Championship Wrestling is rated T for Teen by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board). This means that the game contains some violence, language, and suggestive content, but overall it is considered suitable for players aged 13 and above.
The game's developer, Natsume, was founded in 1978 and has since become a prominent player in the video game industry. The company is best known for its sports games, including titles such as Championship Wrestling (1993) and Chibi-Robo! (2005).
Natsume Championship Wrestling is widely regarded as one of the best games in the professional wrestling genre. Its engaging gameplay, memorable storyline, and challenging controls have made it a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.
One of the most interesting aspects of Natsume Championship Wrestling is its historical significance. The game was released during a time when professional wrestling was still relatively unknown in Japan, but it helped to introduce the genre to a wider audience. Today, the game is remembered fondly by many fans who grew up playing it on their SNES consoles.
The game's impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. Natsume Championship Wrestling helped to establish the professional wrestling genre as a viable option for console gamers. Its success paved the way for future games such as WWE 2K (2003) and No Mercy (1999).
In conclusion, Natsume Championship Wrestling is a classic game that continues to entertain and challenge players to this day. Its engaging gameplay, memorable storyline, and challenging controls have made it a beloved title among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Rating:
Age Rating: T for Teen by the ESRB
Gameplay: 8/10
Storyline: 7/10
Graphics: 6/10
Soundtrack: 5/10
Overall Experience: 9/10