The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) has been a beloved console for decades, and its library of games is still widely enjoyed today. One such game that stands out among the rest is "Mirai Senshi - Lios" or "Future Soldier - Lios," a platformer developed by Aeon Genesis and released in Japan as part of the NES's final year of production. In this article, we'll delve into the world of "Mirai Senshi - Lios," exploring its gameplay, features, and availability.

Background

Released in 1991, "Mirai Senshi - Lios" was one of the last games to be produced for the NES before the console's discontinuation. The game was developed by Aeon Genesis, a relatively small studio based in Japan. Despite being one of the final titles released on the NES, "Lios" has maintained a loyal fan base over the years, and its unique blend of action-packed gameplay and sci-fi elements has made it a standout among other platformers.

Gameplay

In "Mirai Senshi - Lios," players take control of Lios, a futuristic warrior tasked with defeating an alien invasion force. The game is presented in a top-down perspective, with Lios able to move left and right across the screen while avoiding enemy fire. The gameplay revolves around platforming, shooting, and fighting elements, as Lios must navigate through increasingly difficult levels filled with enemies, traps, and obstacles.

One of the most distinctive features of "Lios" is its unique combat system. Players can switch between different types of attacks, including a sword and a blaster, which add an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay. The game also includes various power-ups, such as health boosts and shields, which players can collect throughout their journey.

Graphics and Soundtrack

The graphics in "Mirai Senshi - Lios" are typical of 1990s platformers, with colorful, cartoonish characters and environments that add to the game's futuristic atmosphere. The game's sound effects, including Lios's combat cries and enemy sound effects, are equally impressive, adding to the overall sense of immersion.

The soundtrack, composed by Kenji Tamura, is a highlight of the game. The music is upbeat and energetic, perfectly capturing the fast-paced action and excitement of the gameplay. The score has become synonymous with "Lios" and is widely regarded as one of the best video game soundtracks of all time.

Age Rating

As with many classic NES games, "Mirai Senshi - Lios" carries an age rating of T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The game's content is suitable for players aged 13 and above, due to its moderate level of violence, blood, and mild language.

However, it's worth noting that the ESRB's rating system has evolved significantly since the NES era. In modern times, the same game would likely receive a rating of M for Mature, due to its more mature themes, violence, and complex gameplay mechanics.

Availability

"Mirai Senshi - Lios" is no longer widely available in stores, as the original NES cartridges have become rare and valuable collector's items. However, there are several options for fans who want to experience the game:

1. Re-releases: In recent years, Aeon Genesis has re-released "Lios" on various digital platforms, including the Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console and the PlayStation Network. These releases often come with updated graphics and sound, as well as new features like achievements and leaderboards.
2. Emulation: The game is also available through NES emulators, which allow players to run the original cartridge on their computers or mobile devices. However, be aware that emulation can be a gray area in terms of copyright law, and some versions may not be entirely accurate.
3. Sequel: In 2017, Aeon Genesis released "Future Soldier: Lios," an official sequel to "Mirai Senshi - Lios." The new game was developed for the NES Classic Edition console and features updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.

Legacy

Despite being one of the last games produced for the NES, "Mirai Senshi - Lios" has maintained a dedicated fan base over the years. The game's unique blend of action-packed gameplay and sci-fi elements has influenced many other platformers, including the likes of "Castlevania" and "Metroid."

In 2019, Aeon Genesis released a special 30th-anniversary edition of "Lios," featuring updated graphics and sound, as well as new features like a "making-of" documentary. The release marked a significant milestone in the game's history and provided an opportunity for fans to experience the classic platformer in its original form.

Conclusion

"Mirai Senshi - Lios" is a hidden gem of the NES library, offering a unique blend of action-packed gameplay and sci-fi elements that sets it apart from other platformers. With its engaging gameplay, colorful graphics, and memorable soundtrack, "Lios" is a must-play for fans of classic video games.

While availability may be limited due to the game's rarity, there are still several options for fans who want to experience "Mirai Senshi - Lios." The re-releases on digital platforms, emulation, and official sequel have made it easier than ever to play this classic NES title.