The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is one of the most iconic consoles of all time, and its library of games is still widely regarded as some of the best ever made. One game that stands out among the rest is the "Sailor Moon" series, a beloved franchise based on the popular anime and manga of the same name. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the SNES version of Sailor Moon, available in France, including its age rating and what makes it a must-play for fans of the series.

A Brief History of Sailor Moon

For those who may not be familiar with the franchise, Sailor Moon is a magical girl anime that follows the adventures of Usagi Tsukino, a 14-year-old schoolgirl who becomes the guardian of love and justice. With the help of her friends and allies, known as the Sailor Guardians, she battles against the forces of evil to protect the universe.

The anime was first broadcast in Japan in 1992 and quickly gained popularity worldwide. The success of the anime led to numerous sequels, spin-offs, and merchandise, cementing its place as a beloved franchise.

SNES Version of Sailor Moon

In 1995, Konami released the SNES version of Sailor Moon, which was developed by a team of artists and designers who worked closely with the anime's creators. The game follows the story of the anime, with players controlling Usagi and her friends as they battle against the evil forces of Queen Beryl.

The gameplay is similar to other action-adventure games of the time, with players navigating through levels, fighting enemies, and collecting power-ups. However, the Sailor Moon series has a unique twist: its blend of magical girl action and anime-style storytelling.

Age Rating

As with any video game, there are concerns about its suitability for children. In France, the SNES version of Sailor Moon is rated "7+" by the French Entertainment Software Advisory Board (CESA), which means that it's suitable for players aged 7 and above.

In the United States, the ESRB rating is "M" for Mature, indicating that the game contains some violence and mild suggestive humor. However, it's worth noting that these ratings are subjective and may vary depending on individual preferences and cultural context.

Features and Gameplay

The SNES version of Sailor Moon features a unique blend of gameplay mechanics, including:

• Action-adventure combat: Players control Usagi and her friends as they battle against enemies in real-time.
• Exploration: The game features a variety of levels to explore, each with its own unique challenges and obstacles.
• Power-ups and upgrades: Players can collect power-ups and upgrade their characters' abilities to gain an edge over the enemy.
• Anime-style cutscenes: The game includes animated cutscenes that bring the world of Sailor Moon to life.

Challenges and Criticisms

While the SNES version of Sailor Moon is a beloved game among fans of the series, it's not without its challenges. Some of the criticisms include:

• Lack of difficulty progression: The game's difficulty level remains relatively consistent throughout, which may make it too easy for some players.
• Limited gameplay variety: The gameplay mechanics are similar to other action-adventure games of the time, which may feel repetitive to some players.
• Short length: The game is relatively short compared to other titles on the SNES.

Conclusion

The SNES version of Sailor Moon is a must-play for fans of the series and retro gaming enthusiasts. Its unique blend of gameplay mechanics, anime-style storytelling, and magical girl action make it a standout title in the console's library. While it may have some limitations, its age rating of "7+" by CESA or "M" by ESRB makes it suitable for players of all ages.

For those who are new to the franchise, the SNES version of Sailor Moon is an excellent introduction to the world of magical girl action and anime-style storytelling. Its retro charm and nostalgic value make it a must-play for anyone looking to experience the classic games of the 1990s.

Additional Information

• Developer: Konami
• Publisher: Konami
• Release Date: February 1995 (France)
• Genre: Action-Adventure, Magical Girl
• Age Rating: CESA: 7+, ESRB: M
• System: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)

Final Thoughts

The SNES version of Sailor Moon is a beloved game that has stood the test of time. Its unique blend of gameplay mechanics and anime-style storytelling make it a must-play for fans of the series. While it may have some limitations, its age rating makes it suitable for players of all ages.

For anyone looking to experience the classic games of the 1990s or wanting to explore the world of magical girl action and anime-style storytelling, the SNES version of Sailor Moon is an excellent choice. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of Sailor Moon and experience the magic for yourself!