The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary console that has been entertaining gamers for decades. Released in 1985, it was one of the first home consoles to bring arcade-style games into people's living rooms. The NES had an incredible library of games, including popular titles such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid.
In Japan, a unique variation of the NES known as the "Metro-Cross" was released in 1986. This console was designed to be more compact than its Western counterpart and featured a distinctive design that set it apart from other consoles of its time. In this article, we will delve into the world of Nintendo NES Metro-Cross (Japan) games, including information about age ratings available for these classic titles.
The NES Metro-Cross: A Unique Variation
The NES Metro-Cross was released in Japan in 1986 and was designed to be a more compact version of the standard NES console. It had a smaller form factor and was intended to be more portable than its Western counterpart. The Metro-Cross also featured a unique design that included a distinctive "cross" shape on its top surface.
The Metro-Cross was not a new console, but rather an updated version of the NES with some notable differences. It retained the same 8-bit processor and RAM as the standard NES, but it had a faster clock speed and improved audio capabilities. The Metro-Cross also supported additional controllers and games that were not compatible with the standard NES.
Games for the NES Metro-Cross
The NES Metro-Cross had an impressive library of games, including many popular titles from Japan. Some of the most notable games available for this console include:
- Super Mario Bros.: This iconic platformer was one of the first NES games to be released in Japan and is still widely considered to be one of the best games of all time.
- The Legend of Zelda: This action-adventure game was another early release for the Metro-Cross and has since become a classic of the genre.
- Metroid: This side-scrolling shooter was released on the Metro-Cross in 1988 and is still remembered fondly by many fans of the series.
- Kid Icarus: This action-adventure game was released on the Metro-Cross in 1990 and features a unique art style and gameplay mechanics.
Age Ratings for NES Games
The age ratings for NES games vary depending on the country and region in which they are being played. In Japan, where the Metro-Cross was first released, many NES games were not subject to the same level of regulation as their Western counterparts.
In general, most NES games were rated "All Ages" or "Kahoku Soshiki" (meaning "general audience"), indicating that they were suitable for players of all ages. However, some games did receive more mature ratings, such as "Cutech" (meaning " children") or "Gumaku" (meaning " adult"). These ratings typically indicated that the game contained more violent or mature content.
Some popular NES games and their corresponding age ratings in Japan are:
- Super Mario Bros.: All Ages
- The Legend of Zelda: All Ages
- Metroid: All Ages
- Kid Icarus: Kahoku Soshiki
Western Age Ratings for NES Games
In the West, many NES games were subject to stricter age ratings and censorship than their Japanese counterparts. In the United States, for example, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) was established in 1994 to provide age ratings for video games.
Using a rating system based on violence, sex, language, and other content, the ESRB assigned the following age ratings to NES games:
- E (Everyone): Suitable for players of all ages
- E10+ (Everyone 10 and older): Suitable for players aged 10 and above
- T (Teen): Suitable for players aged 13 and above
Some popular NES games and their corresponding Western age ratings are:
- Super Mario Bros.: E
- The Legend of Zelda: E
- Metroid: E
- Kid Icarus: E10+
Conclusion
The Nintendo NES Metro-Cross (Japan) was a unique variation of the classic console that offered an impressive library of games to Japanese gamers. While the Metro-Cross is not as well-known as its Western counterpart, it has still earned a dedicated following among retro gaming enthusiasts.
In terms of age ratings, many NES games were rated "All Ages" or similar in Japan, while their Western counterparts received more stringent age ratings. However, both systems allowed for players of all ages to enjoy the classic games that defined an era of gaming.
For those interested in exploring the world of NES Metro-Cross (Japan) games, there are many options available online and through retro console manufacturers. Whether you're a seasoned retro gamer or just starting out, these classic titles are sure to provide hours of entertainment and nostalgic value.
In conclusion, the Nintendo NES Metro-Cross (Japan) is an important part of gaming history that offers a unique perspective on the classic games of the 1980s. With its impressive library of games and diverse age ratings, it's no wonder that this console remains popular among retro gaming enthusiasts today.