Cannon Fodder for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is a third-person shooter game developed by Team17 and released in Europe. The game was initially met with lukewarm reception due to its controversial content, but it has since gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Gameplay

In Cannon Fodder, players control the commander of an elite military unit known as the "Fodder." The objective is to complete various missions while avoiding enemy fire and trying to kill your comrades. Yes, you read that right - in this game, you're trying to eliminate your own soldiers. This unusual gameplay mechanic was a major talking point when the game first released.

Gameplay involves navigating through levels set in different countries, each with its unique enemies, obstacles, and power-ups. The Fodder can shoot, grenade, or use other abilities to take down enemy forces. However, be careful not to get too close to your own troops, as they'll try to kill you on sight.

The game features a variety of missions, including clearing out enemy positions, rescuing hostages, and stopping the spread of disease. Some levels are set in urban environments, while others take place in more open areas like beaches or deserts.

Graphics and Sound

Cannon Fodder was released for the SNES, which at the time was considered a powerful console. The game's graphics are still impressive today, with detailed character models, animations, and level designs. The color palette is vibrant, but not overly bright, and the backgrounds feature a mix of realistic and stylized elements.

The sound design in Cannon Fodder is equally impressive, with a catchy and upbeat soundtrack that complements the game's action-packed gameplay. Sound effects are also well-done, adding to the overall immersion of the game.

Age Rating

Cannon Fodder was initially rated 18 by the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system, which is the equivalent of an M-rating in North America. The PEGI rating was due to the game's graphic violence, including dismemberment and death scenes, as well as its mature themes.

In the UK, the game received a BBFC rating of 18, meaning it was suitable for adults only. This rating was due to the game's graphic content, which included scenes of soldiers being shot, blown up, or killed in various gruesome ways.

Legacy

Despite its initial controversy, Cannon Fodder has developed a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. The game is still played today by those who enjoy challenging and unusual gameplay experiences.

In recent years, the game has been re-released on several occasions, including as part of the SNES's 20th-anniversary collection in 2015. This release allowed a new generation of gamers to experience the game for themselves, and it has helped to cement Cannon Fodder's place in gaming history.

Trivia

• Cannon Fodder was developed by Team17, a UK-based developer known for its quirky and offbeat games.
• The game's unique gameplay mechanic - killing your own soldiers - was inspired by the 1985 film "Predator."
• Cannon Fodder has been praised for its challenging difficulty level, with many considering it one of the toughest games on the SNES.
• The game's developer, Team17, went on to develop several other successful titles, including Wipeout and Overblood.

Conclusion

Cannon Fodder is a unique and challenging game that has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its graphic violence, mature themes, and unusual gameplay mechanic have made it a standout title in the world of third-person shooters.

While its initial release may have been met with controversy, Cannon Fodder has since proven itself to be a timeless classic. If you're a fan of challenging games or are looking to experience something new and different, Cannon Fodder is definitely worth checking out.

Recommendation

If you enjoy challenging games with unique gameplay mechanics, Cannon Fodder may be the perfect fit for you. However, be aware that the game's graphic content and mature themes may not be suitable for all audiences.

In terms of age rating, Cannon Fodder is generally considered suitable for gamers aged 18+, although this can vary depending on individual tolerance for graphic violence and mature themes.

Overall, Cannon Fodder is a must-play for retro gaming enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience something new and different. Its challenging gameplay, unique mechanics, and impressive graphics make it a standout title in the world of third-person shooters.