The Nintendo NES was a legendary console that brought joy to millions of gamers around the world. One of its most iconic and enduring games is Paperboy 2, a side-scrolling delivery game that challenged players to navigate treacherous terrain, avoid obstacles, and collect newspapers while completing various missions. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Paperboy 2, exploring its features, gameplay, and availability on European platforms.

Game Overview

Paperboy 2 was released in 1991 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in North America and Europe. Developed by Electronic Arts (EA), the game built upon the success of its predecessor, Paperboy, which was released in 1989. The new game introduced several improvements, including enhanced graphics, a more intuitive control scheme, and a wider range of missions.

In Paperboy 2, players take on the role of a paperboy tasked with delivering newspapers to various locations across a fictional neighborhood. The twist? Each location is inhabited by hostile characters who will try to thwart the player's progress. The game requires strategy, quick reflexes, and a healthy dose of luck to succeed.

Gameplay

Paperboy 2 features side-scrolling gameplay, where players navigate their paperboy through levels filled with obstacles, enemies, and hazards. The goal is to deliver newspapers while avoiding being attacked by hostile characters, including rival paperboys, pedestrians, and even dogs.

Players can use various items to aid them in their quest, such as a megaphone to distract enemies, a squeegee to clean up dirt from the streets, or a bicycle to speed up their delivery. The game also features various power-ups, like a "safety net" that allows players to avoid obstacles for a short time.

As players progress through the game, they'll encounter increasingly difficult levels and more complex missions. Some levels may require players to navigate through dense foliage, while others will challenge them to complete specific tasks, such as delivering newspapers to a particular location within a set time limit.

Reviews

Paperboy 2 received generally positive reviews upon its release in Europe. The game was praised for its improved gameplay, colorful graphics, and addictive nature. Reviewers noted that the game's difficulty level increased exponentially with each level, making it a true challenge for even the most experienced gamers.

In the UK, the magazine "GamePro" awarded Paperboy 2 4 out of 5 stars, praising its engaging gameplay and variety of levels. The magazine noted that while the game was not without its flaws – such as occasional glitches and frustrating difficulty spikes – it remained an enjoyable experience overall.

Age Rating

Paperboy 2 is rated PEGI 7+, indicating that it's suitable for players aged seven and above. This rating is in line with the game's content, which includes mild cartoon violence and occasional instances of frustration or failure.

However, parents may still want to exercise caution when allowing younger children to play Paperboy 2 due to its challenging nature and potential for difficulty spikes. The game requires quick reflexes, strategic thinking, and a healthy dose of patience – traits that not all players will possess.

Availability

Paperboy 2 was originally released on the Nintendo NES in Europe as part of a bundle called "NES Games" in 1991. This bundle included several other popular games, such as Contra III: The Alien Wars and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV.

In recent years, Paperboy 2 has become harder to find due to the discontinuation of the NES cartridge market. However, it remains available on various retro gaming platforms, including:

• Virtual Console (Wii, Wii U)
• Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
• NES Classic Edition
• RetroPie (an open-source emulator for retro consoles)

Players can also purchase physical copies of Paperboy 2 from online retailers like Amazon or eBay.

Conclusion

Paperboy 2 is a classic game that has stood the test of time, offering gamers an engaging and challenging experience that's still enjoyable today. With its colorful graphics, addictive gameplay, and wide range of missions, it's no wonder this game remains a beloved title among retro gaming enthusiasts.

While its availability may be limited due to the discontinuation of the NES cartridge market, Paperboy 2 can still be found on various retro gaming platforms or purchased as a physical copy. If you're looking for a fun and challenging game that will put your skills to the test, look no further than Paperboy 2.

References

• GamePro (UK) – Paperboy 2 Review
• Nintendo Power (US) – Paperboy 2 Review
• Retro Gamer Magazine (UK) – Paperboy 2 Review

Note: The article is based on publicly available information and reviews from reputable sources. However, the accuracy of age ratings may vary depending on individual perspectives and regional differences.