The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), released in 1985, is a legendary console that brought countless hours of entertainment to gamers around the world. One of the most popular and critically acclaimed games on the NES is "Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku" (Japanese for "Racing Strategy with Isaki"), also known as "Horse Racing: Isaki's Strategy". In this article, we will delve into the world of this unique game, its mechanics, and features, as well as explore its age rating and availability.
Overview
Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku is a horse racing simulation game developed by Intelligent Systems and released in Japan for the Famicom in 1987. The game was later ported to other regions, including North America and Europe, but it has since become a cult classic.
Gameplay
In Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku, players take on the role of a horse trainer, competing against other trainers to win prestigious racing tournaments. The game is divided into several modes, including a career mode, where players can build their own stable and train horses to compete at different levels.
The gameplay involves managing a stable of horses, feeding them, exercising them, and selecting the best jockey for each race. Players must also make strategic decisions regarding horse breeding, training, and racing tactics.
One of the unique features of the game is its use of a "training meter", which measures the horse's physical condition and stamina. Players must keep this meter full by feeding their horses, exercising them, and giving them rest periods to ensure they are in top condition for racing.
Age Rating
Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku is rated 7+ by the Japanese rating board, CERO (Consumer Electronics Retailers of Japan). This rating indicates that the game is suitable for players aged 7 and above. The game's rating is due to its mild themes, such as horse racing and training, which are not considered mature or violent.
In North America, the game was rated E by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it is suitable for all ages. However, some of the game's content may still be considered too complex or competitive for younger players.
Availability
Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku is available on various platforms, including:
- Nintendo Famicom (1987)
- Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) (1988)
- Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) (1990, as a part of the "Famicom Disk System" compilation)
The game has also been re-released on several occasions, including:
- Nintendo Virtual Console (2006)
- Wii U Virtual Console (2013)
- Nintendo 3DS eShop (2015)
- PlayStation Network (PSN) Store (2017, as a part of the "Famicom Mini" collection)
Legacy
Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku is considered one of the most underrated games in the NES library. Its unique blend of horse racing and strategy gameplay has captivated fans of the genre, who appreciate its depth and complexity.
The game's mechanics have also influenced later horse racing simulations, such as the popular "NBA Jam" series, which incorporated similar elements of training and competition into their gameplay.
Conclusion
Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku is a hidden gem in the NES library, offering a unique blend of horse racing and strategy gameplay that has captivated fans for decades. With its age rating and availability in mind, this game is an excellent choice for retro gaming enthusiasts and fans of simulation games.
While it may not be as well-known as some other NES titles, Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku remains a classic that deserves attention from gamers around the world. Its legacy can be seen in later horse racing simulations, and its unique mechanics continue to inspire new generations of game developers.
For fans of retro gaming and simulation games, Isaki Shuugorou no Keiba Hisshou Gaku is an absolute must-play experience. So if you're looking for a challenge that will test your strategic skills and keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than this underrated NES classic.