Devil World NES Review: A Hidden Gem Among 1987 NES Games

When we talk about classic NES games, many titles come to mind, but only the true aficionados remember the unique and fascinating Devil World game. Released in 1987, this gem has earned a place among the best retro action games of its era. Join me in this detailed review as we explore why Devil World is a must-play for fans of 80s retro games and vintage NES games.

Introduction to Devil World

Nintendo Devil World stands out in the catalog of historical NES games due to its unique blend of action and puzzle gameplay. Created by Shigeru Miyamoto, the mastermind behind Mario and Zelda, this title offers an intriguing premise where players control a protagonist navigating a maze controlled by an evil demon. Though never released in North America, Devil World is revered among fans of classic video games and has become a rarity in many retro gaming collections.

Story and Characters

The narrative in Devil World is simple but effective. Players take on the role of the heroic character Tamagon, a small dragon on a quest to exorcise the titular "Devil" from his infernal maze. This effort involves collecting dots, grabbing Bibles (known as Crosses in some versions), and avoiding the Devil's minions. The story, albeit straightforward, exhibits enough charm to create an engaging experience.

The writing, while minimal, is typical of 80s retro games, focusing on gameplay rather than intricate storytelling. The simplicity of the plot allows players to dive straight into the action, ensuring a captivating experience without unnecessary distractions.

Gameplay Mechanics

Devil World NES gameplay is where this title truly shines. Integrating elements of mazes, puzzles, and action, it creates a perfect amalgamation of NES puzzle games and retro action-adventure games. Players navigate dynamically changing mazes filled with various obstacles and enemies. The Devil himself directs the maze, moving the screen in different directions, thus increasing the game's difficulty.

Collecting dots and Bibles adds layers of strategy as players must anticipate the screen's movement to avoid being crushed while simultaneously dodging enemies. Special items grant temporary invulnerability or the ability to shoot fireballs, adding much-needed variety and depth to its gameplay.

Fans of classic Nintendo adventure games and NES action puzzle games will appreciate the balance between fast-paced action and cerebral challenges that Devil World offers. It remains one of the best 80s NES games for those who thrive on strategic thinking and quick reflexes.

Graphics and Sound Design

For a game released in 1987, Devil World boasts impressively eye-catching visuals. The maze's design vibrantly differentiates each element, helping players easily identify objectives and hazards. Characters and enemies, albeit simple, are detailed enough for the 8-bit era, highlighting the quintessential charm of classic Nintendo games.

The soundtrack and sound effects further enhance the gaming experience. Eerie background music sets the tone, escalating the tension as players progress through each level. The Devil's roars and the sounds of collecting items are particularly memorable and contribute to the game's atmosphere, cementing it as one of the historical video games worth exploring.

Conclusion

Devil World may not be as universally recognized as other original NES games from 1987, but it holds a unique place among classic NES games and Nintendo retro games. Its combination of action, puzzles, and a distinctive visual and audio style make it a standout title. For collectors and fans of old Nintendo games, Devil World is an essential addition to any retro gaming collection.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer looking to revisit classic video games or a newcomer eager to explore the best old NES games, Devil World offers a compelling experience that successfully marries challenging gameplay with classic 8-bit aesthetics.

In summary, Devil World is a must-play for anyone interested in unique retro action-adventure games. Its rarity only adds to its allure, making it a true hidden gem among rare NES games.