Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling is a classic wrestling video game developed and published by Techno Productions and Nintendo respectively. It was released in North America in 1991 as part of the Nintendo NES's "Pro Series" lineup. This article will delve into the world of Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling, including its gameplay mechanics, features, and age rating availability.
Gameplay Mechanics
Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling is a professional wrestling game where players can control their favorite wrestlers from various promotions, such as the WWF (now WWE), WCW, and AJPW. The game features 16 wrestlers, each with unique fighting styles, strengths, and weaknesses. Players can choose from various match types, including singles, tag team, and battle royal matches.
The gameplay is divided into three parts: before the match, during the match, and after the match. Before the match, players can select their wrestler, view stats, and choose a move set. During the match, players must press buttons to execute moves on their opponent. The goal is to pin your opponent's shoulders to the mat or force them to submit.
Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling also features "Special Moves" that can be executed by pressing specific combinations of buttons during a match. These special moves can turn the tide of battle in favor of the player controlling the wrestler. For example, the "Gorilla Press Slam" from Hulk Hogan is a powerful move that can instantly pin an opponent.
Features
Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling features several notable aspects that make it stand out among other wrestling games:
- Authentic Wrestlers: The game includes 16 wrestlers from various promotions, each with their unique characteristics and movesets.
- Authentic Arenas: The game features four authentic arenas, including the WWF's Madison Square Garden, WCW's Great American Bash, and AJPW's Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium.
- Realistic Movesets: Each wrestler has a realistic set of moves that can be executed during a match.
- Commentary: The game features real-life commentary from Vincent K. McMahon (WWF) and Jim Ross (WCW).
Graphics and Sound
Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling boasts impressive graphics for its time, with detailed wrestler sprites, arenas, and animations. The sound effects are also memorable, including the iconic sounds of body slams and pinfalls.
The game's soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of wrestling-themed music and catchy tunes that complement the gameplay.
Age Rating Availability
Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling is rated "M" for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in North America. This rating is due to the game's depiction of violence, including punches, kicks, and slams.
In Europe, the game was initially released without a region code, but it was later re-released with a barcode that indicated an "M" age rating. In Japan, the game was rated "C" for Children by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).
Legacy
Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling is still widely regarded as one of the best wrestling games of all time, and its influence can be seen in modern wrestling games like WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain and WWE 2K14.
The game's success was largely due to its authentic wrestlers, realistic movesets, and immersive gameplay mechanics. It also paved the way for other wrestling games that would follow in its footsteps.
Conclusion
Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling is a classic video game that has stood the test of time. Its impressive graphics, memorable sound effects, and authentic wrestlers make it a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast or fan of professional wrestling. If you haven't played Nintendo NES Pro Wrestling before, do yourself a favor and track down a copy – it's an experience you won't soon forget.
Technical Specifications
- Release Date: 1991
- Developer: Techno Productions
- Publisher: Nintendo
- Platform: Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
- Genre: Professional Wrestling
- Rating: ESRB M for Mature, CEA (Japan)