{"id":68480,"date":"2020-05-31T11:59:34","date_gmt":"2020-05-31T15:59:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonprowrestling.com\/?p=68480"},"modified":"2022-02-01T11:31:02","modified_gmt":"2022-02-01T16:31:02","slug":"revisiting-wrestling-video-games-nes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/prowrestling\/2020\/05\/31\/revisiting-wrestling-video-games-nes\/","title":{"rendered":"Revisiting Wrestling Video Games (NES)"},"content":{"rendered":"

One of the longest-standing genres in gaming is wrestling video games. From titles that simulate the action seen on TV to those that take creative liberties with the sport in question, these games have been commonplace over the decades. In fact, one of the most popular discussions among wrestling fans is in regard to their favorite games. These discussions can become heated, but it can’t be denied just how beloved many of these titles are.<\/p>\n

In fact, it’s fair to say that these games are being played now more than ever. During the past few months, the world has been hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. This has forced many people to stay indoors, barring shopping for essentials. Time that might have been spent hanging out with friends or taking vacations has been used to indulge in hobbies. Needless to say, gaming has been common. Perhaps it has even piqued your interest in revisiting your favorite wrestling video games or discovering new experiences.<\/p>\n

The purpose of this series of columns is to highlight some of the most popular and beloved wrestling video games. There’s plenty of ground to cover, though, which is why this series will break down games by systems. Keep in mind that this isn’t meant to be a \u201cdefinitive\u201d list of wrestling games. Rather, these are the experiences of a single wrestling fan and gamer. With that said, let’s begin with the console that helped this genre build early popularity.<\/p>\n

\"Nintendo
Photo \/ Nintendo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Nintendo Entertainment System<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In 1983, the world experienced an event commonly known as the \u201cvideo game crash.\u201d With a saturated market, consumers grew tired of the experiences that video game companies were providing. What was once a strong market became utterly crippled. The video game industry started to recover in 1985, though, and Nintendo played a pivotal role. Enter the Nintendo Entertainment System<\/a>, which was released in Japan and North America in 1985 and Europe the following year.<\/p>\n

Initially marketed as a toy, rather than a video game console due to the aforementioned crash, the NES went on to become arguably the most important system in history. In addition to breathing new life into the industry, the NES served as the birthplace of many beloved series. \u201cSuper Mario\u201d and \u201cThe Legend of Zelda\u201d are only a few examples. It also encompassed various genres, from puzzle to roleplaying to sports. Professional wrestling fans got to play multiple titles that catered to this interest, some better than others.<\/p>\n

\"WWF
Photo \/ World Wrestling Entertainment<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

WWF WrestleMania<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In terms of branded wrestling video games for the NES, this is the most popular. \u201cWWF WrestleMania\u201d was released in 1989, developed by Rare and published by Acclaim. This game released during the era of Hulkamania. Upon starting the game, players would be greeted by a pixelized version of Hulk Hogan<\/strong><\/a> during the title sequence. This served to create a solid first impression, but whether or not the game holds up is a matter of personal taste.<\/p>\n

For the time it was released, \u201cWWF WrestleMania\u201d boasted a modest roster. In addition to Hogan, players could choose Andre the Giant<\/strong>, Randy Savage<\/strong><\/a>, Ted DiBiase<\/strong>, Bam Bam Bigelow<\/strong>, and The Honky Tonk Man<\/strong>. During gameplay, wrestlers inflict damage on one another with a limited series of maneuvers, including punches and kicks. To recover health, players would have to collect symbols unique to each wrestler. For example, if one were to play as DiBiase, they would have to collect dollar signs that traveled across the ring.<\/p>\n

Though limited in gameplay \u2013 only two modes, standard and tournament, exist \u2013 \u201cWWF WrestleMania\u201d stands as a classic title in the NES library. Granted, options were limited for wrestling fans during this time. Simply put, they had to take what they got. This title is worth checking out for historical purposes, but as far as fun experiences are concerned, even the technologically-limited NES had better options for wrestling video games.<\/p>\n