The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a beloved gaming console of the 1980s and 1990s, known for its iconic characters, addictive games, and nostalgic value. One of the lesser-known titles in the NES library is Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs, a platformer that has garnered a hot review from retro gamers and collectors alike.

Released in 1989, Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs was developed by Westwood Studios and published by Taito Corporation. The game follows the adventures of Kid Kool, a cheerful and agile hero who must navigate through various environments to collect seven magical herbs that will save the world from an evil sorcerer.

Gameplay

Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs is a side-scrolling platformer that challenges players to control Kid Kool as he jumps, dodges, and attacks his way through levels. The game features colorful graphics and catchy music, making it a delight to play. However, the gameplay is not without its flaws.

The controls can be somewhat unresponsive at times, leading to frustrating deaths at the hands of enemies or off-screen hazards. Additionally, the level design can feel repetitive and linear, with some sections feeling like they're designed specifically to frustrate players.

Despite these issues, Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs remains an enjoyable platformer that is sure to bring back memories for those who grew up playing it. The game's lighthearted atmosphere and charming characters make it a great choice for families or casual gamers looking for a fun but easy experience.

Replay Value

One of the strengths of Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs is its replay value. With multiple levels to complete, hidden secrets to find, and leaderboards to beat, there's plenty of incentive to keep playing even after completing the game once.

However, the lack of a high score system or any significant penalties for failure makes it difficult to stay motivated. Players who die in frustration may feel like they've wasted their progress, which can be demotivating.

Verdict

Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs is a fun but flawed platformer that is sure to delight retro gamers and collectors. While its lackluster gameplay mechanics and limited replay value hold it back from being a truly great game, its charming characters and catchy music make it an enjoyable experience.

Rating: 6.5/10

Age Rating

The age rating for Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs depends on the region and the platform it's released on. In general, the game is suitable for children aged 8 and above, due to its mild cartoon violence and some occasional scary or unsettling imagery.

In the United States, the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) has rated the game "E" for Everyone, indicating that it contains no objectionable content or violence.

Conclusion

Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs is a hidden gem in the NES library that is worth checking out. While its flaws are evident, the game's charm and replay value make it an enjoyable experience for retro gamers and collectors. If you're looking for a fun but challenging platformer to add to your collection, Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs is definitely worth considering.

System Requirements

• Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
• 1-2 players

Game Information

• Developer: Westwood Studios
• Publisher: Taito Corporation
• Release Date: 1989
• Genre: Platformer
• Game Length: Approximately 30 minutes to complete
• Difficulty Level: Medium-Hard

Recommendation

If you're looking for a fun and challenging platformer to add to your NES collection, Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs is definitely worth checking out. However, if you're looking for a more polished or well-designed game, you may want to consider other options.

Overall, Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs is a nostalgic gem that is sure to bring back memories for retro gamers and collectors. Its charm and replay value make it an enjoyable experience, even if its flaws hold it back from being a truly great game.

Rating Breakdown

• Graphics: 6/10
• Sound: 7/10
• Gameplay: 5.5/10
• Replay Value: 6.5/10
• Verdict: 6.5/10

Age Range

Kid Kool and the Quest for the Seven Wonder Herbs is suitable for children aged 8 and above, due to its mild cartoon violence and some occasional scary or unsettling imagery.

Parental Guidance

Parents should be aware that the game contains some mild cartoon violence, which may not be suitable for very young children. However, the game's overall tone is lighthearted and family-friendly, making it a great choice for families to play together.