The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary gaming console that has been entertaining gamers for decades. Released in 1985, the NES was a groundbreaking system that brought iconic characters like Mario and Zelda to life. One of the most sought-after and hard-to-find consoles among retro gamers is the "Time Lord" variant of the NES, released exclusively in Europe. In this article, we'll delve into the world of the Nintendo NES Time Lord (Europe) Games, including its age rating and what makes it a must-have for any serious collector.
The Birth of the NES
Before diving into the specifics of the Time Lord variant, let's take a brief look at the history of the NES. The Nintendo Entertainment System was created to compete with the dominant Atari 2600 console of the time. Released in North America in 1985, the NES quickly gained popularity due to its impressive library of games and innovative controller design.
The European version of the NES, known as the "Famicom" outside of Japan, was released in 1987. This variant featured a different set of controllers and some region-exclusive titles. Over time, the Famicom was rebranded as the NES for international markets, leading to a surge in demand for rare and collectible games.
The Nintendo NES Time Lord (Europe)
The "Time Lord" nickname is derived from the console's unique packaging design, which features a time-traveling theme. This design element has become synonymous with the European NES variant, making it highly sought after among collectors.
The NES Time Lord is essentially identical to its North American counterpart, with one notable exception: the region-specific controller layout. While the US/NTSC version features the classic D-pad and A/B buttons, the European PAL version uses a mirrored design with the B button on the right side of the control pad.
Games Available
The NES Time Lord is an incredibly rare console due to its limited production run and subsequent discontinuation. As a result, finding games for this system can be a daunting task. However, we've managed to dig up some information on what's available:
- Contra: A side-scrolling action game that has become a staple of the NES library.
- Ghosts 'n Goblins: A notoriously difficult platformer that tests even the most seasoned gamers.
- The Legend of Zelda: An iconic action-adventure game that launched the beloved Zelda series.
- Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!: A boxing-themed fighting game starring the infamous boxer, Mike Tyson.
Age Rating
As with any gaming console, it's essential to consider the age rating when deciding whether or not to purchase an NES Time Lord. The European NES variant is suitable for children aged 7 and above, according to the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system.
PEGI ratings are designed to provide guidance on the suitability of games for different age groups:
- 3+: Suitable for children aged 3-6 years old.
- 7+: Suitable for children aged 7-12 years old.
- 12+: Suitable for children aged 12 and above.
Keep in mind that individual tolerance to violence, fantasy, or other mature themes may vary greatly among children. As a responsible parent or guardian, it's essential to review the content of games before allowing minors to play them.
Conclusion
The Nintendo NES Time Lord (Europe) Games are a true collector's item for any serious retro gaming enthusiast. With its unique packaging design and limited availability, this console has become a holy grail among gamers. While finding games for the NES Time Lord can be challenging, the reward is well worth the effort.
Before embarking on your hunt, ensure you're aware of the age rating guidelines outlined above. As with any gaming console, it's crucial to consider the suitability of content for children in your care.
In conclusion, if you're a retro gaming enthusiast or simply looking to add a unique piece to your collection, the Nintendo NES Time Lord (Europe) Games are definitely worth exploring.