The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary console that has stood the test of time, and its impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. Released in 1985, the NES was a massive success, selling over 62 million units worldwide during its lifespan. The console's library of games, which included iconic titles such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Contra, helped establish the NES as one of the most beloved gaming systems of all time.

One of the key factors that contributed to the NES's enduring popularity was its innovative technology. The console's 8-bit processor, paired with a robust cartridge-based design, allowed developers to create games that were both visually stunning and gameplay-intensive. The result was a library of titles that showcased the full range of the NES's capabilities, from platformers and action-adventure games to role-playing games and sports titles.

The NES also played host to some truly iconic franchises, including Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid. These series helped establish Nintendo as a major player in the gaming industry and set the standard for future console generations.

In Japan, the NES was known as the Famicom, which stands for "Family Computer." This name reflected the console's focus on family-friendly gaming, with many titles designed specifically for younger players. The Famicom also spawned several spin-off consoles, including the Famicom Disk System and the Famicom Twin.

Over time, the NES has experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the nostalgia of retro gamers who grew up playing the console's games. This renewed interest has led to a number of re-releases and remasters of classic NES titles, which have introduced the console to a new generation of players.

In this article, we will explore some of the most iconic NES games, including information about their age ratings in Japan.

Super Mario Bros.

One of the most iconic games of all time, Super Mario Bros., is a platformer that has become synonymous with Nintendo. The game follows the adventures of Mario and his brother Luigi as they attempt to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of the evil Bowser.

Released in 1985 for the NES, Super Mario Bros. was an instant hit, thanks to its addictive gameplay and charming graphics. The game's success can be attributed to its innovative use of pipes, which allowed players to navigate through underground tunnels and avoid enemies.

Super Mario Bros. has been released on numerous occasions over the years, including as part of various NES compilation packs and remastered for modern consoles like the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U. In Japan, the game is rated "All Ages" by the Censorship Board, indicating that it is suitable for players of all ages.

The Legend of Zelda

Another iconic franchise that has become synonymous with Nintendo, The Legend of Zelda series follows the adventures of Link as he attempts to save Hyrule from various evils. Released in 1986 for the NES, The Legend of Zelda was a groundbreaking game that showcased the console's capabilities and established the series as one of the most beloved in gaming.

The game's innovative use of puzzles and exploration mechanics helped set it apart from other action-adventure games of its time. Players were tasked with solving puzzles, collecting items, and battling enemies in order to progress through the game's challenging world.

In Japan, The Legend of Zelda is rated "All Ages" by the Censorship Board, indicating that it is suitable for players of all ages.

Metroid

A classic action-adventure game released in 1986 for the NES, Metroid follows the adventures of Samus Aran as she attempts to stop the Space Pirates from using a deadly alien creature known as the Ridley.

The game's non-linear gameplay and challenging difficulty helped establish it as one of the most iconic games of all time. Players were tasked with exploring a series of interconnected worlds, collecting power-ups, and battling enemies in order to progress through the game.

In Japan, Metroid is rated "All Ages" by the Censorship Board, indicating that it is suitable for players of all ages.

Contra

A classic run-and-gun shooter released in 1987 for the NES, Contra follows the adventures of two commandos as they attempt to stop an alien invasion. The game's fast-paced action and challenging difficulty helped establish it as one of the most iconic games of its time.

The game's innovative use of co-op gameplay allowed players to team up with a friend in order to tackle the game's challenging levels. Players were tasked with navigating through increasingly difficult levels, collecting power-ups, and battling enemies in order to progress through the game.

In Japan, Contra is rated "All Ages" by the Censorship Board, indicating that it is suitable for players of all ages.

Other Iconic NES Games

The NES also played host to a number of other iconic games, including:

• Castlevania: A gothic platformer released in 1986, which follows the adventures of Simon Belmont as he attempts to stop Dracula from taking over the world.
• DuckTales: A classic platformer released in 1989, which follows the adventures of Scrooge McDuck and his nephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie as they attempt to find the lost city of gold.
• Kirby's Adventure: A classic platformer released in 1993, which follows the adventures of Kirby as he attempts to rescue his friends from the clutches of King Dedede.

All of these games have been released on various occasions over the years, including as part of various NES compilation packs and remastered for modern consoles like the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U. In Japan, all of these games are rated "All Ages" by the Censorship Board, indicating that they are suitable for players of all ages.

Conclusion

The NES is a legendary console that has stood the test of time, and its impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. From iconic franchises like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid to classic games like Contra and Castlevania, the NES has something for everyone.

In Japan, many NES games are rated "All Ages" by the Censorship Board, indicating that they are suitable for players of all ages. This makes the NES an excellent console for both retro gamers and new players alike, as it offers a wealth of classic games that are sure to delight.

Overall, the NES is a must-have console for any serious gamer or collector, offering a wealth of iconic games that have stood the test of time.