The Nintendo FDS was a home video game console released by Nintendo in Japan in 1984, and it's not as well-known as some of the other consoles in Nintendo's library. However, one of its most notable releases is "Kaettekita Mario Bros." (also known as "Returning Mario Brothers" or "Mario Bros. R"), a side-scrolling platformer that was designed specifically for the FDS.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at "Kaettekita Mario Bros." and what made it special for its time. We'll also discuss its age rating and availability on modern platforms.

Background

The Nintendo FDS was designed to be an affordable home video game console that could compete with the likes of Atari's XEGS and Sega's SG-1000. The system was released in Japan in 1984 and was designed to be a simple, compact device that could play a variety of games using cartridges.

One of the most notable releases for the FDS was "Kaettekita Mario Bros.", which was developed by Nintendo themselves. The game was designed to be a remake of the classic arcade game "Mario Bros.", but with some key differences.

Gameplay

"Kaettekita Mario Bros." is a side-scrolling platformer that features Mario and Luigi as they navigate through underground pipes and try to eliminate all of the creatures that are inhabiting them. The gameplay is similar to the original "Mario Bros." arcade game, but with some key differences.

One of the most notable features of "Kaettekita Mario Bros." is its use of a disk writer cartridge system. This allowed for larger game cartridges than were possible with traditional cassette tape systems, which made it easier for developers to create more complex games.

The gameplay itself is relatively simple, but it's also quite challenging. Players must navigate through the underground pipes and avoid getting hit by enemies while trying to eliminate them all. The game features a variety of power-ups and items that can be used to help Mario and Luigi on their quest.

Age Rating

"Kaettekita Mario Bros." was released in Japan in 1984, when it was rated as suitable for children aged 7 and above by the Japanese government. This rating is based on the game's violence and difficulty level, which were considered too high for younger players.

In modern times, "Kaettekita Mario Bros." would likely receive a more conservative rating due to its content. The game features some mild violence and suggestive humor, but it's not excessively gory or explicit.

Availability

"Kaettekita Mario Bros." is no longer widely available in the original FDS cartridge format. However, there have been several re-releases of the game over the years that allow players to experience it on modern platforms.

In 2015, a fan-made emulator was released for the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, which allowed players to play "Kaettekita Mario Bros." on these consoles without needing an original FDS cartridge. The emulator was created by a team of fans who worked together to recreate the game from scratch using software development kits (SDKs) provided by Nintendo.

In 2020, a re-release of "Kaettekita Mario Bros." was announced for the Nintendo Switch Online service, which is a subscription-based service that offers access to a library of classic NES games. The re-release was developed by Nintendo themselves and features updated graphics and sound effects.

Conclusion

"Kaettekita Mario Bros." is an interesting game that showcases some of the early development capabilities of the Nintendo FDS. While it's not as well-known as some of Nintendo's other releases, it's still a fun and challenging platformer that fans of the Mario series should check out.

The game's age rating and availability on modern platforms make it a great option for players who are looking for a nostalgic gaming experience without having to deal with the hassle of finding an original FDS cartridge. Whether you're a seasoned retro gamer or just looking for something new to play, "Kaettekita Mario Bros." is definitely worth checking out.

Recommendation

"Kaettekita Mario Bros." is a fun and challenging platformer that fans of the Mario series should check out. If you're looking for a nostalgic gaming experience without having to deal with the hassle of finding an original FDS cartridge, this game is a great option.

Rating: 8/10

Age Rating:

• Japan: Suitable for children aged 7 and above
• Europe: Rated as suitable for players aged 7 and above by the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system.
• USA: Not rated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).

Platforms:

• Nintendo FDS (original release)
• Wii U (via fan-made emulator)
• Nintendo 3DS (via fan-made emulator)
• Nintendo Switch Online service (re-release)

Note: The availability of "Kaettekita Mario Bros." on modern platforms may vary depending on your region and the specific platform you're playing on.