The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) has been a beloved gaming console for decades, with numerous iconic titles that have stood the test of time. One such game is "Hokuto no Ken 3 - Shin Seiki Souzou Seiken Restuden" (also known as "Fist of the North Star 3: Saviour of the World"), which was released in Japan in 1994. In this article, we will delve into the world of Hokuto no Ken 3 and explore its gameplay, features, and age rating.

Background

Hokuto no Ken 3 is a side-scrolling beat-em-up game developed by SNK Corporation, a renowned Japanese video game developer and publisher. The game is based on the popular manga and anime series "Fist of the North Star," which was created by Takao Saito in 1983. The series follows the story of Kenshiro, a young martial artist with the ability to heal injuries using his fists.

Gameplay

In Hokuto no Ken 3, players take on the role of Kenshiro as he battles against various enemies and bosses in a quest to save the world from destruction. The game features side-scrolling action, with Kenshiro able to jump, punch, kick, and use special moves such as his "Healing Fist" technique.

The gameplay is fast-paced and challenging, with players needing to time their attacks carefully to take down enemies and avoid taking damage. The game also features a variety of environments, including forests, cities, and deserts, each with their own unique challenges and obstacles.

One of the standout features of Hokuto no Ken 3 is its graphics and sound design. The game's visuals are colorful and detailed, with characters and backgrounds that are reminiscent of classic anime. The soundtrack, composed by Takaya Shimizu, is equally impressive, featuring catchy and energetic tunes that add to the game's excitement.

Features

Hokuto no Ken 3 features several unique elements that set it apart from other games in its genre. One such feature is its "Healing Fist" technique, which allows Kenshiro to heal himself and his allies by punching enemies. This technique can also be used to stun or defeat enemies, making it a valuable asset in battle.

Another notable feature of the game is its boss battles. The game features some of the most iconic bosses from the Fist of the North Star series, including Tokio, Burakku, and Giru. These battles are challenging and require strategy and quick reflexes to defeat.

Age Rating

Hokuto no Ken 3 was released in Japan in 1994, when it received a "B" rating from the Japanese Entertainment Software Rating Organization (ESRB). This rating indicates that the game is suitable for players aged 12 and above.

In terms of content, Hokuto no Ken 3 contains some violence and suggestive themes, including brief nudity and mild gore. However, these elements are not graphic or excessive, and the game's overall tone is more action-oriented than violent or disturbing.

Availability

Hokuto no Ken 3 was released in Japan in 1994 for the NES console, but it has since become a rare and highly sought-after collector's item. The game has been re-released on several occasions, including as part of various SNK Corporation compilation packs and as a digital download through various online stores.

In recent years, there have been efforts to make Hokuto no Ken 3 more widely available to Western audiences. In 2019, SNK Corporation released the game as part of their "Neo GeoX" console, which features a range of classic SNK titles, including Hokuto no Ken 2 and 3.

Conclusion

Hokuto no Ken 3 - Shin Seiki Souzou Seiken Restuden is a classic NES game that has captivated fans of the Fist of the North Star series for decades. With its fast-paced action, colorful graphics, and challenging gameplay, it's a must-play for anyone who loves retro gaming.

While Hokuto no Ken 3 may not be as well-known as some other SNK titles, such as "Metal Slug" or "Garou: Mark of the Wolves," it remains an important part of the company's legacy and a testament to their commitment to creating high-quality games. If you're looking for a challenging and exciting NES experience, look no further than Hokuto no Ken 3.

Rating Breakdown

• Gameplay: 9/10 - Fast-paced action and challenging gameplay make this game a joy to play.
• Graphics: 8.5/10 - Colorful visuals bring the world of Fist of the North Star to life.
• Sound Design: 9/10 - Catchy and energetic soundtrack adds to the game's excitement.
• Features: 8/10 - Unique features like the "Healing Fist" technique make this game stand out from other side-scrollers.
• Age Rating: 12+ (ESRB) - Suitable for players aged 12 and above due to some violence, suggestive themes, and mild gore.

Recommendation

If you're a fan of classic NES games or the Fist of the North Star series, Hokuto no Ken 3 is a must-play. With its challenging gameplay and unique features, it's an experience that will keep you entertained for hours on end. Just be aware of the game's age rating and content warnings before playing.

Overall, Hokuto no Ken 3 - Shin Seiki Souzou Seiken Restuden is a classic NES game that deserves more recognition than it has received in recent years. Its fast-paced action, colorful graphics, and challenging gameplay make it an excellent addition to any retro gaming collection.