The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary console that has been entertaining gamers for decades. Released in 1985, the NES was one of the most popular consoles of its time, and it still holds a special place in the hearts of many retro gaming enthusiasts today. In Australia, the NES was released under the name "Nintendo Entertainment System" (NES), but it's worth noting that the console was originally marketed as the Famicom in Japan.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Nintendo NES Total Funpak, an Australian bundle of games that was released in the late 1980s. We'll explore what makes this bundle so special and what sets it apart from other NES releases.
What is the Nintendo NES Total Funpak?
The Nintendo NES Total Funpak was a bundle of games that was specifically designed for the Australian market. Released in the late 1980s, this bundle included a selection of popular NES games, as well as a few exclusive titles that were only available in Australia.
The bundle typically consisted of a pre-owned NES console, along with a selection of games and a carrying case. The games included in the bundle varied depending on the retailer and the region, but some of the most common titles found in an Australian Total Funpak included:
- Contra
- Mega Man 2
- Castlevania
- DuckTales
- Super Mario Bros.
These games were all considered to be classics at the time of their release, and they remain popular among retro gaming enthusiasts today. The bundle also often included a few exclusive titles that were only available in Australia, such as:
- Ghosts 'n Goblins (Australia only)
- Battletoads (Australia only)
- Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! (Australia only)
Age Rating: What does it mean for NES games?
In Australia, the age rating system for video games is administered by the Classification Review Board (CRB). The CRB is responsible for assessing the suitability of video games for release in Australia and assigning an age rating to each title.
For NES games, the age ratings are based on the Australian Classification Scheme, which has five categories:
- G: General - suitable for all ages
- PG: Parental Guidance - may contain mild themes or violence that require parental guidance
- R 15+: Restricted - contains more mature themes or violence that should only be seen by people aged 15 and over with adult supervision
- MA 15+: Mature Audiences Only - contains strong themes, language, or violence that should only be seen by people aged 15 and over
- RC: Refused Classification - contains content that is considered too extreme for release
For NES games, the typical age ratings are:
- G: Contra, DuckTales, Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!
- PG: Castlevania, Ghosts 'n Goblins (although some versions of the game may have been rated R 15+)
- R 15+: Mega Man 2, Battletoads
It's worth noting that the age ratings for NES games can vary depending on the individual title and the specific release. Some titles may have undergone changes or edits to make them more suitable for younger audiences.
Why is the Nintendo NES Total Funpak so special?
The Nintendo NES Total Funpak is a unique bundle of games that offers a taste of the classic NES experience. With its mix of popular titles and exclusive Australian releases, this bundle is sure to delight retro gaming enthusiasts of all ages.
One of the things that sets the NES Total Funpak apart from other NES releases is its selection of games. While many NES bundles focus on more recent titles, the Total Funpak includes a range of classic NES games that showcase the console's legendary gameplay and charm.
In addition to the games themselves, the bundle also comes with a carrying case, which makes it easy to transport your NES collection to LAN parties or gaming events.
Conclusion
The Nintendo NES Total Funpak is an Australian bundle of games that offers a unique look at the classic NES experience. With its mix of popular titles and exclusive Australian releases, this bundle is sure to delight retro gaming enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out on your NES journey, the Total Funpak is definitely worth checking out.
If you're looking for more information about NES games or the Nintendo NES Total Funpak, there's plenty of resources available online. From retro gaming forums and websites to blogs and YouTube channels dedicated to classic console gaming, there's no shortage of places to learn about this beloved era of gaming history.
Recommended Games
- Contra
- Mega Man 2
- Castlevania
- DuckTales
- Super Mario Bros.
- Ghosts 'n Goblins (Australia only)
- Battletoads (Australia only)
- Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!
Tips for Collecting NES Games
- Start with the most popular titles - If you're new to collecting NES games, start with some of the most iconic and popular titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, or Contra.
- Check online marketplaces - Websites like eBay, Amazon, and Etsy often have a wide selection of NES games for sale from various sellers.
- Visit retro gaming stores - Many cities have retro gaming stores that specialize in vintage consoles and games.
- Trade with other collectors - Joining online forums or social media groups dedicated to retro gaming can be a great way to connect with other collectors and trade games.
Common NES Games Issues
- Cartridge wear - Over time, cartridges can become worn and scratched, which can affect gameplay.
- Region lockout - Some NES games were released in different regions with different settings or controllers.
- Audio issues - Some NES consoles may have audio issues due to faulty speakers or other components.
NES Repair Services
If you're experiencing issues with your NES console or games, there are several repair services available that can help. Here are a few options:
- iFixit: A popular website that offers repair guides and parts for various electronics, including the NES.
- Nintendo Australia: Officially licensed repair service providers in Australia.
- Retro Gaming Repair Services: Specialized repair services that focus on retro consoles like the NES.
By following these tips and doing your research, you can find the perfect NES games to add to your collection and enjoy some of the best gaming experiences of all time.