The nostalgia of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) era still lingers in the hearts of many gamers. The NES was a pioneering console that brought iconic characters like Mario, Zelda, and Donkey Kong to life, captivating audiences worldwide. One of the lesser-known gems on the NES is the Booby Trap Kids series, which has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts.
In this article, we'll delve into the world of Booby Trap Kids, explore its history, gameplay, and how you can play the Japan-only version of Booby Kids (NES) for free on Windows before deciding to purchase the original game.
Introduction to Booby Trap Kids
Released in 1990, Booby Trap Kids was a side-scrolling action-adventure platformer developed by Sunsoft, a renowned Japanese video game developer. The series consists of four games: Booby Trap Kids (NES), Captain N (NES and Game Boy), Booby Trapped! (Game Boy), and Super Mario Bros. Special (Famicom).
The first game in the series, Booby Trap Kids, follows the adventures of a young girl named Kanae, who lives in a castle filled with booby traps designed by her father to protect their home from invaders. Players must navigate through various levels, collecting power-ups and avoiding deadly traps to rescue Kanae's baby brother.
History and Release
Booby Trap Kids was initially released in Japan for the NES in 1990. The game received positive reviews for its challenging gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack. Although it did not achieve significant commercial success, the game has since become a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.
In North America, Booby Trap Kids was released as Captain N: The Game Master in 1991, a different version of the game that features Captain N (the leader of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) instead of Kanae. This change added new gameplay mechanics and levels, but it also altered the original storyline.
Gameplay
Booby Trap Kids is a side-scrolling action-adventure platformer that requires players to navigate through various levels set in different environments, such as gardens, forests, and castles. The game features challenging platforming sections, enemies, and obstacles, including traps designed by Kanae's father.
Players can collect power-ups, such as the "Trap" item, which allows them to move faster and avoid certain traps. Additionally, there are two types of power-ups: the "Speed Up" item, which increases Kanae's speed, and the "Shield" item, which provides temporary invincibility.
The game also features a unique mechanic where players must navigate through pipes and sewers, avoiding enemies and obstacles along the way.
Free Version on Windows
In 2018, an English patch was released for the Japan-only version of Booby Trap Kids (NES) by a fan developer. This patch allows Western gamers to play the game in English, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
To play the free version of Booby Trap Kids on Windows, you can download the patch from various online sources. Please note that this version is not officially licensed and may have some minor bugs or compatibility issues.
Original Game Purchase
If you're interested in playing the original game with its authentic Japanese soundtrack and graphics, there are a few options available:
- Amazon: You can purchase Booby Trap Kids (NES) on Amazon Japan or other online retailers that ship to your region.
- eBay: eBay often has listings for vintage NES consoles and games, including Booby Trap Kids. Be cautious when purchasing from individual sellers, as authenticity and condition may vary.
- Retro Gaming Stores: Some retro gaming stores specialize in importing and selling classic video games, including rare titles like Booby Trap Kids.
Conclusion
Booby Trap Kids is a charming and challenging NES game that has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. By playing the Japan-only version for free on Windows before deciding to purchase the original game, you can experience the authentic gameplay, graphics, and soundtrack of this classic title.
If you're looking to play Booby Trap Kids with its original Japanese features, purchasing the game from authorized retailers or online marketplaces is the best option. However, if you're interested in exploring a cult classic that's not easily accessible in Western markets, the free version on Windows is an excellent starting point for your retro gaming journey.
Bonus Section: Additional Retro Games
If you're interested in exploring more retro games, here are some additional recommendations:
- Kid Icarus (NES): A challenging action-adventure platformer with a unique art style and addictive gameplay.
- DuckTales (NES): A classic side-scrolling platformer based on the popular cartoon series, featuring tight gameplay and iconic music.
- Contra (NES): A fast-paced run-and-gun action game that has become a staple of retro gaming culture.
- Crystalis (NES): An action-adventure game with an immersive storyline and addictive gameplay.
These games are all available for the NES console, either through emulation, official releases, or other means. Happy gaming!