- Release Year: 2004
- Platforms: Macintosh, Windows
- Publisher: Nintendo Official Magazine UK
- Genre: Action, Compilation, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Tactics
- Game Mode: Single-player
Description
The Greatest NES Games Ever! is a compilation released by Nintendo Official Magazine UK, featuring a curated collection of iconic NES titles such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, and Donkey Kong. This freeware release for Windows and Macintosh serves as a nostalgic tribute to the golden era of 8-bit gaming, offering players a chance to experience some of the most influential and beloved games from Nintendo’s classic console.
The Greatest NES Games Ever! Reviews & Reception
nintendolife.com : The Nintendo Entertainment System, or NES, is the archetypal home video game console.
rollingstone.com : A bona fide classic can always be measured by how much you love it, even when it’s a pain in the ass to play.
ign.com : The Big N’s amazing 1980s home console reinvigorated the videogame market with classic, genre-defining games including Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda.
The Greatest NES Games Ever! Cheats & Codes
Mega Man 2 – NES
On the stage select screen, move the cursor to any robot master’s picture. Press and hold the A and B buttons, then press start. Note: DO NOT release A and B until the code takes effect.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| A5, B2, B4, C1, C3, C5, D4, D5, E2 | Unlocks all weapons |
Mega Man 4 – NES
This must be done with a GameGenie.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| SZUGUAVG | Infinite lives |
| AEOAIEPA | Instant megablast |
| GXVEIPSA | Don’t take damage from bad guys |
Metroid – NES
Enter the password at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| JUSTIN BAILEY —— —— | Play without the suit and start with 255 missiles |
| JUSTIN BAILEY —— | Same bonus at the end game |
Mike Tyson’s Punchout – NES
Enter the password at the title screen under the continue option.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| 007 373 5963 | Unlocks Tyson stage |
NBA Hangtime – NES
At the create player screen, enter the following details.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| jordan 9928 6’6 airness michale jordan | Creates Michael Jordan as a player |
Nigel Mansell’s World Championship Challenge – NES
Enter your name, then enter the following as a password.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| QNW4GQVLQWH.TH | Starts on Round 16, the final race |
Nintendo World Cup – NES
When you have control of the ball, press the following buttons.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| B and then A really fast | Super Kick (ball turns purple and knocks down anything in its way) |
Super Mario Bros. – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B | Infinite Lives |
| A + B + Start | World Select |
Super Mario Bros. 2 – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B | Infinite Lives |
| A + B + Start | Continue from Last World |
Super Mario Bros. 3 – NES
Enter the following at the title screen or during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Down, Down, Down (while on a white block in World 4-2) | Creates a warp zone |
| Hold A and press Start | Begin with a raccoon tail |
The Legend of Zelda – NES
Enter the following at the title screen or during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B (pause the game) | Unlimited Health |
| A, B, Up, Down, Left, Right (on the title screen) | Unlock All Items |
| ZELDA (as character name) | Starts the second quest |
Contra – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start | 30 Lives |
Mega Man – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Hold A and press Start | Level Select |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B (pause the game) | Infinite Lives |
Castlevania – NES
Enter the following at the title screen or during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B (pause the game) | Infinite Lives |
| Up, Down, Left, Right and hold A (at the title screen) | Start with Full Health |
Ninja Gaiden – NES
Enter the following at the title screen or during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B (pause the game) | Infinite Lives |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A + Start (at the title screen) | Start from Any Level |
DuckTales – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A + Start | Infinite Lives and All Levels |
Bionic Commando – NES
Enter the following during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, B, A (pause the game) | Infinite Health |
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B | Unlimited Continues |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A + B + Start | Unlock All Levels |
Punch-Out!! – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, L + R | Infinite Time |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A + B | Unlock All Fighters |
Gradius – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start | 30 Lives |
Kid Icarus – NES
Enter the following during gameplay or at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B (pause the game) | Infinite Health |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B, Start | Level Select |
Battletoads – NES
Enter the following at the title screen or during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A + B | Infinite Lives |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, L + R (at the title screen) | Level Select |
Excitebike – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B | Unlimited Time |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A + Start | Unlock All Tracks |
River City Ransom – NES
Enter the following during gameplay or at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B (pause the game) | Infinite Health |
| A + Start (at the title screen) | Unlock All Items |
Super C – NES
Enter the following at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start | 30 Extra Lives |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A + Start | Level Select |
Ghosts ‘n Goblins – NES
Enter the following at the title screen or during gameplay.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A + B (at the title screen) | Infinite Lives |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A (pause the game) | Start from Any Level |
Double Dragon II – NES
Enter the following during gameplay or at the title screen.
| Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B (pause the game) | Infinite Lives |
| Up, Down, Left, Right, A, B (at the title screen) | Unlock All Stages |
The Greatest NES Games Ever!: A Comprehensive Retrospective
Introduction
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is not just a console; it is a cultural landmark that reshaped the video game industry. Released in 1985, the NES emerged from the ashes of the 1983 video game crash, revitalizing the market and setting the stage for modern gaming. Among the myriad compilations and retrospectives celebrating its legacy, The Greatest NES Games Ever! stands out as a curated anthology of the system’s most influential titles. This compilation, released in 2004 by Nintendo Official Magazine UK, encapsulates the essence of the NES era, offering a snapshot of the games that defined a generation.
Development History & Context
The NES, known as the Famicom in Japan, was Nintendo’s response to a faltering industry. Its success was not merely technological but also strategic, leveraging a robust library of games that appealed to a broad audience. The Greatest NES Games Ever! compilation is a testament to this strategy, featuring titles that showcase the system’s versatility and innovation.
The compilation includes iconic games such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, and Mega Man 2, each of which pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the NES. These games were developed by a mix of Nintendo’s internal teams and third-party developers like Capcom and Konami, who brought their unique visions to the platform. The technological constraints of the NES, with its 8-bit architecture and limited color palette, challenged developers to be creative, leading to innovative gameplay mechanics and memorable visual styles.
Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive
The games in The Greatest NES Games Ever! compilation are not just technical marvels but also rich in narrative and thematic depth. The Legend of Zelda, for instance, introduced players to a vast, open world filled with secrets and challenges, setting a new standard for adventure games. Its narrative, though minimal by today’s standards, was groundbreaking at the time, offering a sense of exploration and discovery that was unparalleled.
Similarly, Metroid introduced a sci-fi narrative that was both atmospheric and immersive. The game’s isolation and exploration themes were complemented by its non-linear gameplay, encouraging players to uncover the story at their own pace. Super Mario Bros., on the other hand, focused on a more straightforward narrative of rescuing a princess, but its tight gameplay and charming visuals made it an instant classic.
Gameplay Mechanics & Systems
The gameplay mechanics in these titles are a testament to the ingenuity of their developers. Super Mario Bros. introduced precise platforming controls that have influenced countless games since. Its power-ups, such as the Super Mushroom and Fire Flower, added layers of strategy and replayability.
Mega Man 2 refined the run-and-gun gameplay of its predecessor, introducing a weapon system that allowed players to absorb the abilities of defeated bosses. This mechanic not only added depth to the combat but also encouraged strategic planning, as players had to decide which bosses to tackle first based on their weaknesses.
The Legend of Zelda pioneered the action-adventure genre with its mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Its overhead perspective and non-linear progression were revolutionary, offering a level of freedom that was rare in console games at the time.
World-Building, Art & Sound
The visual and auditory design of these games played a crucial role in their success. The NES’s limited hardware forced developers to be creative with their use of color and sprite design. Super Mario Bros. used bright, cheerful colors to create a vibrant world, while Metroid opted for a darker, more atmospheric palette to enhance its sci-fi setting.
The sound design was equally innovative. Mega Man 2 is often praised for its iconic soundtrack, which perfectly complements its fast-paced gameplay. The Legend of Zelda used a mix of ambient sounds and memorable melodies to create an immersive experience. These games demonstrated that even with limited hardware, developers could create rich, engaging worlds that captivated players.
Reception & Legacy
The reception of these games at launch was overwhelmingly positive, with many becoming instant classics. Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda were particularly praised for their innovative gameplay and engaging worlds. Over time, their reputations have only grown, with many considering them among the greatest video games of all time.
The influence of these games extends far beyond the NES era. Super Mario Bros. set the standard for platformers, while The Legend of Zelda inspired a generation of adventure games. Metroid and Mega Man introduced mechanics and themes that have been iterated upon in countless sequels and spiritual successors. The legacy of these games is evident in the continued popularity of their franchises and the enduring appeal of retro gaming.
Conclusion
The Greatest NES Games Ever! compilation is more than just a collection of games; it is a celebration of the NES’s impact on the video game industry. The titles included in this compilation represent the pinnacle of 8-bit gaming, showcasing the creativity, innovation, and sheer fun that defined the era. From the groundbreaking gameplay of Super Mario Bros. to the atmospheric exploration of Metroid, these games have left an indelible mark on gaming history.
In the pantheon of video game compilations, The Greatest NES Games Ever! stands as a definitive tribute to the NES. It is a must-play for anyone interested in the history of video games, offering a glimpse into the past while reminding us of the timeless appeal of great gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gamer or a newcomer to the world of 8-bit gaming, this compilation is a testament to the enduring legacy of the NES and the games that made it great.