The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a revolutionary home video game console released in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It brought a new era of gaming to living rooms around the world, with iconic characters like Mario, Donkey Kong, and Zelda leading the charge. One lesser-known but equally fascinating title in the NES library is Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters, also known as Angel Land Story in some regions, including the USA and Europe.

In this article, we will delve into the world of Kid Icarus, exploring its unique gameplay mechanics, charming characters, and rich storyline. We will also examine the age rating available for this game in various regions, providing a better understanding of what players can expect from this classic title.

Background and Development

Kid Icarus was first released in Japan in 1986, developed by Nintendo's research and development division, led by Shigeru Miyamoto. The game was initially conceived as a spiritual successor to the 1982 arcade hit "Balloon Fight," but it eventually evolved into a unique action-adventure game that would become a staple of the NES library.

The game follows the story of Pit, a young angelic warrior tasked with defeating Medusa, an evil goddess who has stolen the three magical Palutena's Bow and Arrows. With these powerful artifacts, Medusa seeks to conquer the world, prompting Pit on a quest to retrieve them and save humanity from her wrath.

Gameplay Mechanics

Kid Icarus is an action-adventure game that combines elements of platforming, puzzle-solving, and exploration. Players control Pit as he navigates through various environments, including lush forests, ancient ruins, and treacherous mountains. The game features a unique mechanic called the "wing" system, which allows Pit to fly using his wings.

The wing is powered by a meter that fills up as Pit collects power-ups and defeats enemies. As the meter fills, Pit's speed and agility increase, allowing him to glide longer distances and perform more complex jumps. However, if the meter depletes, Pit falls from the sky, requiring him to find a safe place to recover.

In addition to the wing mechanic, Kid Icarus features a variety of other abilities, such as fireballs, ice shards, and bombs, which can be used to defeat enemies or solve puzzles. The game also includes boss battles against formidable foes, including Medusa herself.

Charming Characters

One of the standout features of Kid Icarus is its colorful cast of characters. Pit, the protagonist, is a well-designed and likable hero who embodies courage and determination. His angelic design and abilities make him an iconic character in his own right.

Medusa, on the other hand, is a formidable villain who serves as a compelling foil to Pit. Her intelligence, cunning, and magical powers make her a formidable opponent, while her tragic backstory adds depth to her character.

Other characters in the game include Palutena, the goddess who created Pit and serves as his mentor; Dark Pit, a rival angel who is also searching for the Palutena's Bow and Arrows; and Urca, a mysterious sorceress who provides Pit with guidance and support throughout his quest.

Rich Storyline

Kid Icarus features a rich storyline that explores themes of heroism, friendship, and self-discovery. The game's narrative is layered with mythology and symbolism, drawing inspiration from Greek mythology and other cultural influences.

As Pit navigates through various levels, he uncovers clues about Medusa's past and the secrets behind her magical powers. Along the way, he meets a range of characters who aid or hinder his progress, including allies like Dark Pit and enemies like Medusa's minions.

The game's climax features an epic showdown between Pit and Medusa, with the fate of humanity hanging in the balance. The final confrontation is a testament to the game's engaging storyline and memorable characters.

Age Rating

Kid Icarus has received various age ratings across different regions. In the USA, the game was rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it is suitable for all ages.

In Europe, the game was rated 12+ by PEGI, indicating that it is suitable for players aged 12 and above due to its mild violence and thematic elements. In Japan, the game received a rating of C12+, which indicates that it is suitable for children aged 12 and above.

It's worth noting that Kid Icarus has also been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the Virtual Console and the Nintendo Switch Online service. These releases have sometimes featured updated ratings or censorship to conform to regional standards.

Conclusion

Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters is a beloved NES title that deserves more attention than it often receives. Its unique gameplay mechanics, charming characters, and rich storyline make it a standout game in the NES library.

While its age rating may vary across regions, Kid Icarus remains an enjoyable and accessible experience for players of all ages. If you're a fan of action-adventure games or are looking to explore the world of classic Nintendo titles, Kid Icarus is definitely worth checking out.

Whether you're a seasoned retro gamer or a newcomer to the NES library, Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters is an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager for more.