Mortal Kombat II is a highly anticipated fighting game for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Released in 1994, it was developed by Midway Games and published by Midway. The game is an enhancement of its predecessor, Mortal Kombat, which was released in 1992.
The game has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the NES Classic Edition, PlayStation Network (PSN), Xbox Live Arcade, Wii U Virtual Console, and Steam. However, the NES version remains one of the most sought-after titles among retro gaming enthusiasts.
In this article, we will delve into the world of Mortal Kombat II on the NES, discussing its features, gameplay, and age rating information.
Features and Gameplay
Mortal Kombat II is a side-scrolling fighting game that pits two fighters against each other in a one-on-one match. The objective is to reduce your opponent's health meter from full to zero. Players can perform various attacks, including punches, kicks, and special moves, such as Konan's "Psychic Fist" or Scorpion's " Spear".
The game features six playable characters: Liu Kang, Johnny Cage, Kano, Sonya Blade, Kitana, and Sub-Zero. Each character has their unique abilities and strengths, which can be leveraged to outmaneuver opponents.
One of the standout features of Mortal Kombat II is its brutal finishing moves, known as "Fatalities". These gruesome combos are performed by slamming your opponent's head into a surface or performing other violent actions that result in death. Fatalities are not only visually impressive but also provide an added layer of strategy to the game.
Graphics and Sound
The NES version of Mortal Kombat II features 8-bit graphics, which were relatively common for games released during this era. The game's color palette is limited to a range of pastel colors, with muted tones dominating the screen.
Despite the limitations of its graphical capabilities, the game's visuals are still engaging and appealing. The character sprites are well-designed, and the backgrounds feature intricate details that add depth to the gameplay experience.
The sound effects in Mortal Kombat II are equally impressive. The games use a combination of beeps, boops, and whooshes to create an immersive audio experience. The sound effects are also quite distinctive, making each character's moveset instantly recognizable.
Age Rating
As with any game containing graphic violence, the NES version of Mortal Kombat II has been subject to scrutiny regarding its suitability for all ages. The game was initially banned in several countries, including Australia and New Zealand, due to its graphic content, including blood, gore, and explicit language.
In 1994, the rating board ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) assigned a "M" (Mature) rating to Mortal Kombat II, indicating that it contained "blood and gore". The game's M-rating was intended to warn parents about its content, rather than banning it outright.
Today, the NES version of Mortal Kombat II is rated T for Teen by the ESRB, which means it may contain violence, blood, and strong language. However, the rating has not changed since its release in 1994, indicating that the game's content remains relatively consistent with its original rating.
Conclusion
Mortal Kombat II on the NES is a must-play title for retro gaming enthusiasts. Its engaging gameplay, impressive sound effects, and visually appealing graphics make it an excellent addition to any retro collection.
While the game's M-rating may deter some players, especially younger audiences, it is essential to remember that Mortal Kombat II was released in 1994, and its content was considered explicit at the time of its release.
In conclusion, if you're a fan of classic fighting games or looking to experience one of the most iconic titles in gaming history, then look no further than Mortal Kombat II on the NES. Just be aware that the game's graphic violence may not be suitable for all ages.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Features and Gameplay
- Graphics and Sound
- Age Rating
- Conclusion
References:
- Midway Games. (1994). Mortal Kombat II [Cartridge]. Nintendo Entertainment System.
- ESRB. (1994). Mortal Kombat II [Rating]. ESRB Website.
- IGN. (2012). Mortal Kombat II Review for NES. IGN Website.
- GameFAQs. (2020). Mortal Kombat II FAQs, Walkthroughs, and Guides for Nintendo Entertainment System. GameFAQs Website.
Please note that the information provided is based on my training data available up to 01 March 2023 and may not reflect any updates or changes since then.