Mr. Gimmick [NES] Review & Longplay [1992]

In the twilight years of the Nintendo Entertainment System, when most developers had already shifted their focus to the next generation of consoles, Sunsoft delivered a surprising masterpiece that pushed the aging hardware to its limits. Mr. Gimmick, released in 1992, is a testament to the untapped potential of the 8-bit era and a shining example of innovation in game design. This charming platformer, featuring a small green star-shaped protagonist named Yumetaro, combines stunning visuals, intricate gameplay mechanics, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack to create an experience that was far ahead of its time. Despite its limited initial release, Mr. Gimmick has since gained a cult following, recognized by retro gaming enthusiasts as one of the NES’s hidden gems. Join us as we delve into the world of Mr. Gimmick and explore why this late-era NES title continues to captivate players nearly three decades after its release.

Developer Background

Sunsoft, the developer behind Mr. Gimmick, was known for creating high-quality games that pushed the technical limitations of the NES. Founded in 1971 as a division of Sun Corporation of Japan, Sunsoft made a name for itself with titles like Blaster Master and Batman. Mr. Gimmick was one of their later NES releases, benefiting from years of experience and technical expertise.

Learn more about Sunsoft’s history

Storyline

The game’s plot, while simple, is charming and sets the stage for the adventure ahead. Players control Yumetaro, a small green star-shaped creature given to a young girl as a birthday present. When the girl’s other toys become jealous of Yumetaro’s popularity, they conspire to banish him to a magical world. Determined to return to his owner, Yumetaro embarks on a journey through six diverse and challenging stages.

Gameplay

Mr. Gimmick’s gameplay is where the title truly shines. The core mechanic revolves around Yumetaro’s ability to create and throw a star. This star can be used as both a weapon and a platform, adding a unique puzzle element to the traditional platforming experience.

Key gameplay features include:

1. Star Mechanics: Players can create and throw a star, which bounces off surfaces and can be used to defeat enemies or reach high places.
2. Physics-Based Puzzles: The game incorporates realistic physics, requiring players to consider momentum and trajectory when using the star.
3. Hidden Secrets: Each level contains secret areas and items that encourage exploration and replay.
4. Boss Battles: Challenging boss fights at the end of each stage test the player’s mastery of the game’s mechanics.

John D, a member of the Retro Replay community, shares his thoughts:

“Mr. Gimmick’s gameplay is a perfect blend of precision platforming and creative problem-solving. The star mechanic adds a layer of depth that keeps you engaged throughout the entire adventure.”

Graphics and Sound

For a late-era NES game, Mr. Gimmick’s visuals are nothing short of spectacular. The game pushes the NES hardware to its limits, featuring:

• Vibrant, colorful environments
• Smooth animations
• Parallax scrolling effects
• Large, detailed sprites

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The game’s soundtrack, composed by Masashi Kageyama, is equally impressive. Utilizing the NES sound chip in ways few other games did, Mr. Gimmick features a rich, melodic score that complements the on-screen action perfectly.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its initial release in Japan (where it was known as “Gimmick!”), Mr. Gimmick received positive reviews for its innovative gameplay and technical achievements. However, its limited release (it was only officially available in Japan and Scandinavia) meant that it didn’t reach a wide audience at the time.

In recent years, Mr. Gimmick has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its unique gameplay, stunning visuals, and memorable soundtrack have earned it recognition as one of the best games on the NES.

Interesting Facts

1. Mr. Gimmick was one of the last games released for the NES in Japan, coming out in 1992 when the Super Nintendo was already on the market.
2. The game uses a special memory mapper chip (MMC5) to achieve its advanced graphics and sound.
3. An unofficial English translation patch was created by fans, allowing English-speaking players to enjoy the game. There was also a limited Euro release.
4. The game’s working title was “Puu-san,” and early promotional materials used this name.

Replay Value

Despite its initial obscurity, Mr. Gimmick offers significant replay value for several reasons:

• Multiple Endings: The game features two endings, with the true ending requiring players to collect a special item in each stage.
• Speed Running: The game’s unique mechanics and level design make it popular among speed runners.
• Hidden Secrets: Each level contains numerous hidden areas and items, encouraging thorough exploration.

Sarah23h, another Retro Replay community member, comments on the game’s lasting appeal:

“I’ve played through Mr. Gimmick countless times, and I’m still discovering new secrets and techniques. It’s a game that rewards skill and creativity in equal measure.”

Conclusion

Mr. Gimmick stands as a testament to the untapped potential of the NES hardware and the creativity of its developers. Its challenging gameplay, stunning visuals, and unforgettable soundtrack make it a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast. While it may have been overlooked upon its initial release, Mr. Gimmick has rightfully earned its place as one of the most impressive and innovative games in the NES library.

For those interested in experiencing this hidden gem, various options are available, from original hardware to emulation. However you choose to play it, Mr. Gimmick promises a unique and rewarding gaming experience that stands the test of time.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the NES or a newcomer to retro gaming, Mr. Gimmick offers an experience that is both nostalgic and refreshingly unique. Its legacy as a technical marvel and a genuinely fun game ensures that it will continue to be discovered and enjoyed by generations of gamers to come.