The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Koushien is a compilation of Japanese games released for the iconic home console. This collection brings together some of the most beloved and challenging titles from Japan's gaming history, offering a unique glimpse into the region's rich gaming culture. In this article, we'll delve into the world of NES Koushien, exploring its contents, age rating, and what makes it a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts.
What is NES Koushien?
NES Koushien, also known as Super Mario Bros. 2's Japan-only counterpart, is a compilation of Japanese games that was originally released in 1989. The collection includes 12 games, which were later re-released on various Nintendo platforms over the years.
The name "Koushien" roughly translates to "public works," referring to Japan's municipal government projects and infrastructure development initiatives. This nomenclature is likely due to the fact that many of the included games were created by Japanese municipalities or local governments as part of their community programs.
Games in NES Koushien
The following games are included in NES Koushien:
- Super Mario Bros. 2 (Japan-only version)
- Metroid
- Kid Icarus
- DuckTales
- Bubble Bobble
- Bonk's Adventure
- Crystalis
- River City Ransom
- Splatoon's predecessor, Water World
- Urban Champion
- 18-in-1 Game Collection (a collection of 18 different games)
- Golf
Super Mario Bros. 2 (Japan-only version)
The Japan-only version of Super Mario Bros. 2 is a unique entity that differs from the Western release, which was later known as Super Mario USA. The original Japanese version features four playable characters: Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad. In contrast, the Western release only includes two playable characters: Mario and Luigi.
Super Mario Bros. 2's gameplay builds upon the platforming formula established in its predecessor, with an emphasis on exploration, item collection, and power-ups. The game features a more gentle learning curve compared to Super Mario Bros., making it accessible to players of all ages.
Age Rating
The age rating for NES Koushien can be found on various online platforms, including Nintendo's official website. According to Nintendo, the compilation is rated "E" (Everyone) in North America and "C" (Children) in Japan.
In terms of content, NES Koushien features a mix of action, adventure, and puzzle games that are generally suitable for players aged 8+. However, some titles may contain mild violence, suggestive humor, or complex themes that could be unsuitable for younger audiences.
Here's a brief overview of each game in NES Koushien, including their age ratings:
- Super Mario Bros. 2 (Japan-only version): E
- Metroid: M ( Mature)
- Kid Icarus: T ( Teen)
- DuckTales: E
- Bubble Bobble: E
- Bonk's Adventure: E
- Crystalis: M
- River City Ransom: E
- Water World: E
- Urban Champion: E
- 18-in-1 Game Collection: E
- Golf: E
Age Rating Breakdown
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the age ratings for each game in NES Koushien:
Mature (M): Games that contain violence, blood, or suggestive themes, such as Metroid and Crystalis.
Teen (T): Games that feature mild violence, suggestive humor, or complex themes, such as Kid Icarus.
Everyone (E): Games that are suitable for players of all ages, with minimal content that may be unsuitable for younger audiences. Examples include DuckTales, Bubble Bobble, and River City Ransom.
Children (C): Games that are rated specifically for Japanese audiences and may contain more mature themes or content than the E rating.
Conclusion
NES Koushien is a unique compilation of games that offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's gaming culture. While some titles may be more challenging or complex than others, the collection as a whole provides an enjoyable experience for retro gaming enthusiasts.
If you're looking to play NES Koushien, be aware of the age ratings and content restrictions in your region. The compilation is suitable for players aged 8+, but parental discretion is advised for younger audiences.
In conclusion, NES Koushien is a must-have for anyone interested in Japanese gaming history or retro console enthusiasts. With its diverse range of games and unique titles, it's an essential addition to any NES collection.