Nintendo FDS Bubble Bobble is a classic game that has been re-released on the Wii and Wii U Virtual Console. In this article, we will delve into the world of Bub and Bob, two characters who must navigate through treacherous landscapes to rescue their princess.
Background
Bubble Bobble was first released in 1986 for the Famicom Disk System (FDS), a peripheral released by Nintendo for the Famicom console. The game was created by Toshihiko Nakazawa and developed by Taito, a renowned Japanese video game developer. The game was later ported to the NES in 1990, but it was not as successful as its FDS counterpart.
The gameplay of Bubble Bobble is simple yet addictive. Players control either Bub or Bob, two bubble-dwelling creatures who must navigate through levels filled with enemies and obstacles. The objective is to trap these enemies inside bubbles and then pop them before they can reach the exit. As players progress through the game, new elements are introduced, such as different types of enemies, power-ups, and obstacles.
Bubble Bobble was a huge success in Japan, where it helped establish Nintendo's reputation for innovative and fun games. However, its release on Western consoles was delayed due to technical issues with the Famicom Disk System, which made it difficult to translate and adapt the game for international markets.
Re-release on Wii and Wii U Virtual Console
In 2011, Nintendo re-released Bubble Bobble on the Wii Virtual Console, followed by its release on the Wii U Virtual Console in 2013. This move was a welcome one for fans of the original game, who had been eagerly awaiting news of its availability.
The re-release of Bubble Bobble on the Wii and Wii U Virtual Console comes with some notable enhancements. The game is now presented in its original Famicom Disk System format, complete with its distinctive sound effects and music. Additionally, the game's graphics have been tweaked to provide a more modern visual experience.
Gameplay
Bubble Bobble remains an enjoyable and challenging game, even after all these years. Players can still control Bub or Bob as they navigate through levels filled with enemies and obstacles. The gameplay is simple yet addictive, requiring players to think strategically about which bubbles to use when and how to trap their enemies.
One of the standout features of Bubble Bobble is its variety of power-ups and upgrades. Players can collect items such as eggs, which give them a temporary shield; stars, which increase their score multiplier; and bombs, which allow them to destroy certain types of obstacles. These power-ups add an extra layer of depth to the gameplay, making it even more challenging and rewarding.
Age Rating
Bubble Bobble is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The game contains some mild cartoon violence, mild language, and suggestive humor, which may not be suitable for younger players. However, the game's overall tone is lighthearted and fun, making it accessible to players of all ages.
Parental Guidance
As with any Nintendo game, parents should be aware of their child's gaming habits and ensure that they are playing in a safe and healthy environment. Bubble Bobble is generally suitable for children aged 8 and above, depending on the individual child's sensitivity and maturity level.
Conclusion
Bubble Bobble is a classic game that has stood the test of time. Its re-release on the Wii and Wii U Virtual Console provides a fresh opportunity for players to experience this beloved title. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, power-ups, and upgrades, Bubble Bobble remains an enjoyable challenge for gamers of all ages.
Rating: 8/10
Recommendation: Bubble Bobble is highly recommended for fans of classic platformers and puzzle games. If you're a fan of retro gaming or are looking for a challenging but fun game to play on your Wii or Wii U, Bubble Bobble is definitely worth checking out.
System Requirements:
- Nintendo Wii
- Nintendo Wii U
Genre: Platformer, Puzzle
Number of Players: 1-2 players (cooperative)
Difficulty Level: Medium-Hard
ESRB Rating: T for Teen
Age Recommendation: 8 and above