Nintendo's FDS Metroid, a cult classic game that still holds up today, is a must-play for fans of action-adventure games. Released in Japan in 1986, this handheld sequel to the arcade hit "Metroid" was initially met with skepticism by Nintendo of America, who feared it would not appeal to Western audiences due to its limited battery life and lack of color graphics.

However, despite these concerns, FDS Metroid has developed a devoted following over the years, with many considering it one of the best games in the Metroid series. In this article, we will take a closer look at Nintendo's FDS Metroid, including its history, gameplay, features, and age rating information.

History

FDS Metroid was first released in Japan on February 21, 1986, for the Family Computer Disk System (FDS), a disk-based add-on for the Famicom, which is essentially the Japanese version of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The game was developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo.

The game's development began in 1984, when Nintendo approached Intelligent Systems to create a sequel to Metroid. At the time, the Metroid series had gained popularity in Japan, but Nintendo was concerned that a new installment would not appeal to Western audiences due to its limited battery life and lack of color graphics.

Despite these concerns, Intelligent Systems worked tirelessly to create a game that would meet Nintendo's expectations while still staying true to the spirit of the original Metroid. The result was FDS Metroid, which featured improved gameplay mechanics, new power-ups, and a more complex storyline than its predecessor.

Gameplay

FDS Metroid is an action-adventure game that follows the story of Samus Aran, a bounty hunter who must explore the planet Zebes to stop the Space Pirates from using a powerful alien technology known as the "Metroid" to control the galaxy.

The gameplay in FDS Metroid is similar to the original Metroid, with Samus equipped with a power suit that allows her to jump, shoot, and climb. However, the game also features new power-ups, such as the Screw Attack and the Wave Beam, which give Samus new abilities and enhance her existing ones.

One of the most significant improvements over the original Metroid is the addition of a map screen, which allows players to view the layout of the current area and plan their next move. This feature greatly enhances the game's sense of exploration and discovery.

Features

FDS Metroid features several notable elements that set it apart from other games in the series:

• Improved graphics: While FDS Metroid does not have color graphics like its Western counterparts, the game still features detailed and colorful pixel art.
• New power-ups: The Screw Attack and Wave Beam are new additions to the game that give Samus new abilities and enhance her existing ones.
• Map screen: The map screen allows players to view the layout of the current area and plan their next move.
• Improved gameplay mechanics: FDS Metroid features improved gameplay mechanics, including a more intuitive jumping system and enhanced enemy AI.

Age Rating

FDS Metroid was released in Japan in 1986, when it was subject to the country's age rating guidelines. According to Nintendo of America, the game received an all ages rating, which means that it was suitable for players of all ages.

However, in recent years, some critics have argued that FDS Metroid should be rated M for Mature due to its graphic violence and mature themes. While these criticisms are valid, they do not necessarily reflect the intent of the game's designers or the values of modern gaming audiences.

Conclusion

FDS Metroid is a cult classic game that has developed a devoted following over the years. With its improved gameplay mechanics, new power-ups, and map screen feature, it stands as one of the best games in the Metroid series. While it may have been initially met with skepticism by Nintendo of America, FDS Metroid has proven itself to be a timeless classic that continues to delight players around the world.

In terms of age rating, FDS Metroid was initially rated all ages due to its content being deemed suitable for players of all ages. However, some critics have argued that it should be rated M for Mature due to its graphic violence and mature themes. Regardless of this debate, FDS Metroid remains a must-play for fans of action-adventure games.

If you're looking for a challenge that will push your skills to the limit, look no further than FDS Metroid. With its addictive gameplay mechanics, engaging storyline, and nostalgic value, it's an experience you won't want to miss.