The Nintendo Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is a beloved console that has been entertaining gamers for decades. Among its many iconic games, one stands out as a hidden gem - Secret of Evermore. Released in Europe in 1995, this action role-playing game was developed by Square (now Square Enix) and is still widely regarded as one of the best games on the SNES.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at Secret of Evermore, its gameplay, story, and features, as well as its age rating. We'll also explore why this game remains popular among retro gaming enthusiasts today.

Gameplay

Secret of Evermore is an action role-playing game that follows the adventures of two protagonists: Max and Yora. The game takes place in a fantasy world where magic and technology coexist, and players must explore dungeons, fight monsters, and solve puzzles to progress through the story.

The gameplay is reminiscent of other classic RPGs from the era, with an emphasis on exploration, character development, and turn-based combat. Players can choose between Max and Yora at the start of each day, which affects the story and gameplay. The characters have unique abilities and strengths, adding a layer of depth to the game.

One of the standout features of Secret of Evermore is its innovative magic system. Magic is based on a complex formula that requires players to understand the relationships between different magical elements. This adds a layer of strategy to the combat system, as players must carefully plan their spells and use them at the right moment to succeed.

Story

The story of Secret of Evermore follows Max and Yora as they become embroiled in a conflict between humans and monsters. The game takes place in a world where magic has become a powerful force, and the balance between good and evil is threatened.

Throughout the game, players encounter various characters who aid or hinder their progress. These characters include allies like Max's sister, Tina, and enemies like the dark sorceress, Xande. As players progress through the story, they uncover more about the world's history and the motivations of its inhabitants.

Features

Secret of Evermore is an excellent example of a well-designed game, with many features that have aged remarkably well. Some notable features include:

• A deep and complex magic system that adds strategy to combat
• An engaging storyline with memorable characters
• Challenging dungeons filled with hidden secrets and treasures
• Innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to transform into different creatures

Age Rating

The age rating for Secret of Evermore varies depending on the region. In Europe, the game is rated PEGI 7+, which means it's suitable for players aged seven and above. This rating is due to mild violence, fantasy themes, and some scary moments.

In other regions, such as North America, the game was originally rated E (Everyone) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). However, in recent years, the ESRB has re-rated games released before 2005, including Secret of Evermore, to T for Teen due to its mild violence and fantasy themes.

Why is Secret of Evermore still popular?

Despite being released over two decades ago, Secret of Evermore remains a beloved game among retro gaming enthusiasts. There are several reasons for this:

• Retro charm: The game's graphics, sound effects, and gameplay mechanics all contribute to its nostalgic appeal.
• Replay value: With multiple playthroughs offering different storylines and character developments, Secret of Evermore offers a high replay value.
• Community support: Fans of the game continue to share their experiences and tips online, creating a sense of community among players.

Conclusion

Secret of Evermore is an excellent example of a well-designed game that has stood the test of time. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, engaging storyline, and challenging dungeons make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming. With its age rating of PEGI 7+ in Europe and ESRB T for Teen in North America, Secret of Evermore is suitable for players aged seven and above.

If you're a fan of classic RPGs or are looking to experience one of the best games on the SNES, Secret of Evermore is definitely worth checking out. With its rich story, memorable characters, and challenging gameplay, this game is sure to provide hours of entertainment for retro gaming enthusiasts.