The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), released in 1985, is a beloved console that has stood the test of time. One of its most iconic and sought-after games is Pester Patrol, also known as Pest Control or Pest Control II in some regions. In this article, we will delve into the world of Pester Patrol, explore its history, gameplay, and availability, as well as discuss its age rating.

Introduction

Pester Patrol was first released in 1987 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in Japan under the title "Pest Control." It was later released in North America in 1990 as part of a bundle with DuckTales and Kid Icarus. The game has since become a cult classic among retro gamers, due to its unique blend of action and puzzle elements.

Gameplay

In Pester Patrol, you play the role of a special agent tasked with cleaning up a city infested by rodents. The game is divided into several levels, each representing a different district in the city. Your goal is to navigate through the streets, avoiding obstacles and enemies while collecting food for your furry friends.

The gameplay involves using a variety of items, such as cheese blocks, food pellets, and other treats, to lure the rodents into traps or defeat them with special gadgets like the "Pest Control Unit." You must also avoid getting caught by the police, who are patrolling the streets in their cars.

As you progress through the levels, the difficulty increases, with more aggressive rodents and treacherous terrain. The game features a variety of environments, including parks, alleys, and even a zoo, each with its unique challenges and obstacles.

Graphics and Soundtrack

The graphics in Pester Patrol are simple yet charming, with cute and colorful characters, while the soundtrack is catchy and upbeat, featuring a mix of electronic and pop music. The game's sound effects, such as the satisfying "ding" when you catch a rodent or the "beep-beep" of the police cars, add to the overall charm of the game.

Availability

Pester Patrol was released in several regions, including North America, Japan, and Europe. In North America, it was released as part of a bundle with DuckTales and Kid Icarus, making it harder to find for collectors. The game has since become a rare gem among retro gamers, with prices ranging from $100 to $500, depending on the condition and rarity.

In Japan, Pester Patrol was released in 1987 as Pest Control, while in Europe, it was released under the title Pest Control II in 1990.

Age Rating

Pester Patrol is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which means that it is suitable for players of all ages. The game's content is tame and family-friendly, making it an excellent choice for children and nostalgic adults alike.

However, some parents may want to consider a few factors before allowing their kids to play Pester Patrol:

• Mild violence: While the game does involve catching rodents with traps or defeating them with gadgets, there is no explicit blood or gore.
• Mild cartoon violence: Some of the rodent enemies may be depicted as being injured or killed, but this is not graphic or disturbing.
• No strong language: The game does not contain any strong language or mature themes.

Conclusion

Pester Patrol is a unique and charming game that offers a fun and challenging experience for retro gamers. With its cute characters, catchy soundtrack, and simple yet engaging gameplay, it's an excellent choice for anyone looking to relive the nostalgia of 80s gaming.

If you're interested in playing Pester Patrol, be prepared to search for it in online marketplaces or specialty retro game stores. With prices ranging from $100 to $500, it may not be the most affordable option, but for collectors and enthusiasts, it's a valuable addition to any NES collection.

In conclusion, Pester Patrol is an iconic game that deserves recognition as one of the best NES games ever made. Its unique blend of action and puzzle elements, combined with its charming graphics and catchy soundtrack, make it a must-play experience for retro gamers.