The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a groundbreaking console released by Nintendo in 1985. It revolutionized the gaming industry with its innovative controllers and iconic games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Contra. One of the lesser-known but still beloved NES games is Shanghai II: Royal Edition, also known as Shanghai 2: Renbun Kan. In this article, we will delve into the world of Shanghai II, explore its unique gameplay mechanics, and discuss its age rating.

Shanghai II: Royal Edition is a puzzle game developed by Taito and released in Japan in 1991 for the NES. The game's story takes place in ancient China during the Tang Dynasty, where players take on the role of a royal advisor tasked with solving various puzzles to restore honor to their emperor. The gameplay involves manipulating tiles to create paths for the emperor's carriages, while also avoiding enemies and obstacles.

One of the distinctive features of Shanghai II is its tile-matching system. Players must rotate and move tiles to create new paths for the carriages, all while managing resources and avoiding enemies that will destroy the carriage if they come into contact with it. The game requires a high degree of spatial reasoning and strategic thinking, making it challenging even for experienced players.

The gameplay is further enhanced by the introduction of various power-ups and bonuses, such as extra lives, increased movement speed, and the ability to freeze time. These power-ups can be earned by completing levels quickly or finding hidden items throughout the game. The power-ups add an extra layer of depth to the gameplay, allowing players to approach challenges in creative ways.

Despite its challenging gameplay, Shanghai II is widely regarded as a classic NES game. Its unique tile-matching system and addictive gameplay mechanics have captivated many gamers over the years. The game's colorful graphics and charming soundtrack only add to its charm, making it an enjoyable experience for both children and adults.

However, like all games, Shanghai II has its share of flaws. Some players may find the gameplay too repetitive or frustratingly difficult at times. Additionally, some levels may be particularly challenging, requiring multiple attempts to complete. Nevertheless, these minor drawbacks do not detract from the game's overall charm and appeal.

Age Rating:

Shanghai II: Royal Edition is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). This rating indicates that the game is suitable for all ages, including children, and does not contain any explicit content or mature themes. The game's difficulty level and lack of violence or suggestive material make it an excellent choice for families or younger gamers.

In Japan, the game was initially rated C by the Japanese government, indicating that it contained some mild content that may be unsuitable for young children. However, this rating has since been updated to E, reflecting the game's more mature themes and gameplay mechanics.

Conclusion:

Shanghai II: Royal Edition is a hidden gem of the NES library, offering a unique and challenging puzzle-solving experience that will captivate gamers of all ages. With its addictive gameplay mechanics, colorful graphics, and charming soundtrack, this game is an absolute must-play for anyone interested in retro gaming or classic puzzle games.

As we conclude our review of Shanghai II, it's clear that this game has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved classic among NES enthusiasts and gamers worldwide. If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding puzzle game to play on your console or emulator, look no further than Shanghai II: Royal Edition.

Rating Breakdown:

• Gameplay: 9/10
• Graphics: 8/10
• Soundtrack: 8/10
• Difficulty Level: 8/10
• Replay Value: 9/10

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

Recommendation:

Shanghai II: Royal Edition is an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience a classic NES game with a unique twist. Its challenging gameplay mechanics, colorful graphics, and charming soundtrack make it an absolute must-play for fans of puzzle games or retro gaming.

If you're new to the NES library or are looking for a game to share with your family or friends, Shanghai II is an excellent choice. With its E rating from the ESRB, this game is suitable for all ages and can be enjoyed by gamers of all skill levels.

In conclusion, Shanghai II: Royal Edition is a hidden gem of the NES library that offers a unique and challenging puzzle-solving experience. Its addictive gameplay mechanics, colorful graphics, and charming soundtrack make it an absolute must-play for anyone interested in retro gaming or classic puzzle games.