The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a legendary gaming console that brought joy and excitement to millions of gamers around the world. Released in North America in 1985, the NES was known for its iconic games, such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Contra. However, one aspect of the NES that often flew under the radar is its Parallel World (JP:, Puranaru Wārudo), a series of unique and innovative games developed specifically for the Japanese market.

In this article, we will delve into the world of Nintendo NES Parallel World games in Japan, exploring their history, gameplay, and age ratings. We'll also examine why these games are worth revisiting today, even if they were only available to gamers in Japan back in the day.

History of Parallel World Games

The Parallel World series was created by Nintendo in the late 1980s, with the first game, "Kid Icarus," released in 1986 for the Famicom Disk System (FDS). The FDS was a peripheral specifically designed for the NES in Japan, allowing for higher storage capacity and more complex games. However, due to its limited availability, the Parallel World series remained relatively unknown outside of Japan.

The series consisted of several titles, including "Kid Icarus" (1986), "Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters" (1991), and "Kid Icarus: Uprising" (2012). While not as well-known as other NES games, the Parallel World series showcased Nintendo's innovative approach to game design, often incorporating unique gameplay mechanics and themes.

Gameplay Overview

The Parallel World series was characterized by its emphasis on storytelling, exploration, and puzzle-solving. Games in the series typically featured a mix of action, adventure, and strategy elements, with an emphasis on puzzle-solving and exploration.

In "Kid Icarus," players controlled Pit, a young angel tasked with retrieving a magical artifact from the clutches of Medusa. The game featured a unique art style, with a focus on dark fantasy themes and atmospheric sound effects.

"Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters," released in 1991, built upon the success of its predecessor, introducing new gameplay mechanics and a more complex storyline. Players took on the role of Pit once again, but this time faced an even greater challenge as he battled against Medusa's army to save the world.

The third game in the series, "Kid Icarus: Uprising," released in 2012 for the Nintendo 3DS, marked a departure from the traditional NES games. While maintaining the same core gameplay mechanics, the game featured improved graphics, new characters, and a more modern storyline.

Age Rating

The Parallel World series was rated by the Japanese rating board, CERO (Computer Entertainment Rating Organization), which assigns ratings to video games based on their content. The ratings for each game in the series are as follows:

• "Kid Icarus" (1986): A (suitable for all ages)
• "Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters" (1991): B (suitable for players aged 12 and above due to some violence and mild language)
• "Kid Icarus: Uprising" (2012): C+ (suitable for players aged 12 and above due to some violence, mild language, and suggestive themes)

It's worth noting that the age ratings in Japan are generally more strict than those found in North America or Europe.

Why Revisit Parallel World Games Today?

While the Parallel World series may not be as well-known as other NES games, it remains a fascinating glimpse into Nintendo's innovative approach to game design and storytelling. By revisiting these games today, fans of retro gaming can experience a unique perspective on classic gameplay mechanics and themes.

Additionally, the Parallel World series has inspired new generations of gamers and developers, with many modern titles drawing inspiration from its unique blend of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving elements.

Conclusion

The Nintendo NES Parallel World series is a hidden gem in the world of retro gaming. By exploring this series, we can gain a deeper understanding of Nintendo's innovative approach to game design and storytelling, as well as appreciate the unique gameplay mechanics and themes that defined these games.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting your retro gaming journey, the Parallel World series is definitely worth checking out. With its blend of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving elements, these games offer a fresh perspective on classic NES gameplay, making them an excellent addition to any retro gaming collection.

Recommendations for Retro Gamers

If you're looking to experience the Nintendo NES Parallel World series, here are some recommendations:

• "Kid Icarus" (1986) - A great starting point for new gamers, offering a unique blend of action and adventure gameplay.
• "Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters" (1991) - Building upon the success of its predecessor, this game offers improved gameplay mechanics and a more complex storyline.
• "Kid Icarus: Uprising" (2012) - A modern take on the classic series, featuring improved graphics and new characters.

Overall, the Parallel World series is a must-try for any retro gamer looking to experience something unique and innovative.