The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a revolutionary home video game console that was released in North America in 1985. It was a massive hit, with a wide range of games available for its iconic controller and cartridge-based design. One of the most unique and popular genres within the NES library is Rolly-Poly World, also known as Rollergames. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Rollergames, exploring its history, gameplay, and more.
What is Rollergames?
Rollergames is a sports game developed by T&E Soft and published by Nintendo for the NES in 1988. The game was designed to resemble a roller skating competition, where players can control their avatars as they navigate through various obstacles and compete against each other. The gameplay revolves around rolling, jumping, and dodging, making it an exciting and challenging experience.
Gameplay Mechanics
In Rollergames, players control one of four different characters: Moe, Liz, Jumper, or Digger. Each character has unique abilities, such as increased speed or enhanced jumping capabilities. The objective is to reach the finish line while avoiding obstacles like rocks, potholes, and other opponents.
The game features a variety of tracks, each with its own set of challenges and rewards. Players can earn power-ups, like extra lives or temporary invincibility, by collecting them throughout the course. However, opponents will try to knock players off balance, making it essential to time jumps and dodges perfectly.
Track Variety
Rollergames boasts an impressive variety of tracks, each with its own unique theme, obstacles, and challenges. Some notable tracks include:
- Ice Rink: A fast-paced track set on a frozen ice rink, where players must navigate through slippery surfaces while avoiding opponents.
- Desert: A sandy track that requires players to time their jumps carefully to avoid sinking into the sand.
- Jungle: A dense jungle track filled with obstacles like rocks and spikes.
Characters and Customization
Each character has its own strengths and weaknesses, making it essential to choose the right one for your playing style. Moe is a well-rounded character, while Liz excels at speed. Jumper can clear higher jumps, but struggles with stability. Digger is a defensive specialist, but slower than the others.
Players can also customize their characters by collecting coins throughout the game. The more coins earned, the higher level achieved, and the more items purchased.
History and Legacy
Rollergames was released in 1988 to moderate success, but its unique gameplay mechanics and colorful graphics made it a fan favorite among NES enthusiasts. Despite not being as well-known as other NES games like Super Mario Bros. or The Legend of Zelda, Rollergames has maintained a loyal following over the years.
In recent years, Rollergames has gained recognition as one of the most underrated NES titles. Its innovative gameplay mechanics and charming visuals have inspired modern game developers to create similar sports games.
Age Rating
Rollergames is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The game's content is suitable for all ages, with no explicit violence or suggestive themes present in the game.
Rating Breakdown:
- Violence: None
- Suggestive Themes: None
- Language: None
- Online Interactions: None
Conclusion
Rollergames is a unique and entertaining NES game that has stood the test of time. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, colorful graphics, and charming characters have made it a beloved title among retro gaming enthusiasts.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun and challenging sports game to play on your NES, Rollergames is an excellent choice. With its variety of tracks, customizable characters, and addictive gameplay, this game is sure to provide hours of entertainment.
System Requirements
To play Rollergames on the NES, you'll need:
- Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) console
- NES controller
- 3-4 AA batteries (depending on your region)
Availability
Rollergames was released in 1988 as a limited edition title. Today, it's available for purchase on various online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon.
A complete copy of Rollergames can be found for around $20-$50 USD, depending on the condition and rarity of the cartridge.
In addition to the standard NES version, there have been several re-releases of Rollergames over the years, including:
- Virtual Console (Wii, Wii U)
- Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
- Re-release as part of the NES Classic Edition
Trivia
- Rollergames was originally developed for the Nintendo Game Boy Color.
- The game's creator, Tatsuyuki Tanaka, is also responsible for creating other popular NES games like Choplifter II and Splatterhouse.
Overall, Rollergames is a hidden gem in the NES library that deserves more recognition. Its unique gameplay mechanics, charming characters, and addictive gameplay make it an excellent choice for retro gaming enthusiasts looking to try something new.