The Nintendo FDS was a home video game console released by Nintendo in Japan in 1984. It was designed to be a successor to the popular Family Computer (Famicom) system and was meant to offer improved graphics and sound capabilities compared to its predecessor. One of the most notable games for the Nintendo FDS was Alien, which would later become known as Metroid in Western markets.

Alien 2, also known as Aliens on the Nintendo FDS, is a side-scrolling action game that takes place in the same universe as the original Alien film. The game follows Samus Aran, a bounty hunter with a power suit, as she attempts to stop an alien threat from taking over the planet SR388.

In this article, we will explore the history and development of Alien 2 for the Nintendo FDS, including its release date, gameplay mechanics, and reception. We will also discuss the game's age rating, which may vary depending on the region in which it is released.

History and Development

Alien 2 was first released in Japan in 1986 as a prototype for the Nintendo FDS. At the time, Nintendo was looking to create a new system that would offer improved graphics and sound capabilities compared to its previous consoles. The company enlisted the help of a team of developers led by Gunpei Yokoi, who would later go on to create the Metroid series.

The original Alien game had been released in 1986 for the Famicom, but it was not well received due to its difficult gameplay and limited graphics capabilities. Nintendo decided to take the concept and improve upon it with a new game that would be more appealing to Western audiences.

Alien 2 was designed to be a more accessible version of the original game, with improved graphics and sound capabilities. The game's storyline followed Samus Aran as she battled against an alien threat on the planet SR388. The gameplay mechanics were similar to those of the original Alien, but with some key improvements.

Gameplay Mechanics

Alien 2 for the Nintendo FDS features side-scrolling action gameplay, where players control Samus Aran as she navigates through increasingly difficult levels filled with alien creatures and obstacles. The game's graphics capabilities had been improved significantly compared to the original Alien, allowing for more detailed backgrounds and enemies.

Players can use a variety of power-ups to enhance their abilities, including the arm cannon, missiles, and energy tanks. These power-ups allow Samus Aran to attack her enemies with increased effectiveness, but also make her more vulnerable to attack herself.

The gameplay mechanics are relatively simple compared to modern action games, but the level design is quite challenging. The player must navigate through a series of increasingly difficult levels, avoiding enemy attacks and using their abilities to overcome obstacles.

Reception

Alien 2 for the Nintendo FDS received positive reviews from critics at the time of its release. Reviewers praised the game's improved graphics and sound capabilities compared to the original Alien, as well as its challenging gameplay mechanics.

However, some reviewers noted that the game's difficulty level was still relatively high, which may have deterred some players from continuing to play. Despite this, the game's reputation as a classic of the NES era has endured over time, with many fans praising its challenging gameplay and atmospheric soundtrack.

Age Rating

The age rating for Alien 2 on the Nintendo FDS varies depending on the region in which it is released. In Japan, the game was rated "C" ( Children) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it was suitable for children aged six and above.

In Western markets, the game was rated "M" ( Mature) by the ESRB, indicating that it was suitable for players aged 17 and above. However, some countries have a more restrictive rating system, which may lead to the game being banned or restricted from sale in certain regions.

Conclusion

Alien 2 on the Nintendo FDS is a classic side-scrolling action game that has endured over time due to its challenging gameplay mechanics and atmospheric soundtrack. While it was not well received by critics at the time of its release, the game's reputation as a cult classic has grown over time.

The game's age rating may vary depending on the region in which it is released, but its challenging gameplay and atmospheric sound design make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming. If you're looking to experience this classic game for yourself, be prepared for a challenging ride that will test your skills and patience.