The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is one of the most iconic and beloved video game consoles of all time, with a vast library of games that continue to entertain audiences today. One such game that stands out for its unique blend of strategy and action is Robocco Wars, a Japan-exclusive title released in 1989. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Robocco Wars and explore what makes it a must-play experience for fans of the NES.

Introduction

Robocco Wars is a side-scrolling action game that follows the adventures of a young protagonist as he battles against an evil organization known as "The Shadow Syndicate." The game takes place in a futuristic world where robots, known as "Roboccos," have become the dominant force on Earth. Players must control their Roboccos as they navigate through various levels, fighting off enemies and destroying obstacles to reach the final showdown with the enemy leader.

Gameplay

The gameplay of Robocco Wars is reminiscent of other classic NES titles like Contra and Metal Slug, with fast-paced action and challenging platforming sections. However, the addition of robots as playable characters adds a unique twist to the game's mechanics. Players can choose from four different Roboccos, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

• The "Red Rotor" is a fast-moving robot with high speed but low firepower.
• The "Blue Blade" is a swift robot with strong attacks but limited range.
• The "Yellow Tank" is a heavily armored robot with powerful blasts but slow movement.
• The "Green Blaster" is a long-range robot with weak attacks but excellent accuracy.

Players must switch between these different Roboccos on the fly, using their unique abilities to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. The game features a variety of environments, including urban cities, desert landscapes, and even underwater levels.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics of Robocco Wars are typical of early 1990s video games, with bright colors and chunky pixel art. However, the game's visuals hold up surprisingly well today, thanks to its bold design choices and attention-grabbing visuals. The sound effects are equally impressive, with a catchy soundtrack that incorporates electronic beats and chiptune melodies.

Age Rating

Robocco Wars carries an age rating of 7+ from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in North America, indicating that it is suitable for players aged 7 and above. In Japan, the game has been rated "Suitable for Children" by the Japanese government's media watchdog agency, CTO.

The ESRB rating is based on several factors, including:

• Violence: Robocco Wars contains moderate levels of violence, with robots and enemies attacking each other.
• Blood and Gore: There are no explicit scenes of blood or gore in the game, but some enemies may be injured or damaged during combat.
• Language: The game has no profanity or mature language.

Overall, the age rating for Robocco Wars reflects its relatively mild content compared to other NES games. While it's not suitable for very young children due to its fast-paced action and mild violence, older kids and adults will likely find the game to be an enjoyable and challenging experience.

Conclusion

Robocco Wars is a classic NES title that has stood the test of time thanks to its unique blend of strategy and action. With its colorful graphics, catchy soundtrack, and challenging gameplay, it's no wonder why this game remains popular among retro gaming enthusiasts today. If you're looking for a fun and exciting experience on your NES console, look no further than Robocco Wars.

In addition to the original 1990 release, several ports of the game have been released over the years, including versions for PlayStation Network (PSN) and Nintendo eShop.