TL;DR
Nintendo's Ultimate NES Remix brings 16 classic 8-bit games to the 3DS with bite-sized, challenging remixes designed for quick play. While it perfectly captures the spirit and demanding gameplay of the NES era, its full-price tag is a major sticking point, especially for fans who might already own many of these original titles. It's a charming nostalgia trip with addictive "just one more try" gameplay, but is it worth the cost for more than just retro enthusiasts? Dive into our full review to find out.
Nintendo revisits its 8-bit classics on the 3DS with Ultimate NES Remix. Does it justify its (nearly) full-price tag?
The NES era, and the broader 8-bit generation, holds a special place in gaming history. While nostalgia certainly plays a role for those who experienced it firsthand, the enduring appeal extends to newer generations. The popularity of Super Mario Bros in browser-based flash versions and the success of Flappy Bird, with its graphical simplicity and demanding gameplay, demonstrate that compelling gameplay transcends graphical fidelity. Tight controls and a straightforward premise are paramount, allowing players to hone their skills and achieve mastery through practice.
Similar to how classic songs are often sampled and remixed to reach new audiences (consider Puff Daddy’s “Come with me” from Godzilla; many recognize the sample, but fewer know the original track), Nintendo appears to have adopted a similar approach with Ultimate NES Remix. The game comprises challenges derived from 16 iconic NES titles, including Excitebike, Metroid, Donkey Kong, and Super Mario Bros. These challenges are presented in a series of rounds with progressively increasing difficulty. For instance, players might be tasked with leaping over a specific number of barrels in Donkey Kong or executing a perfect landing with both wheels in Excitebike. The core gameplay revolves around short, intensely challenging rounds that demand precision and flawless execution to progress.
This format is well-suited for portable gaming. While Nintendo does not currently operate a dedicated mobile platform beyond the 3DS/2DS, Ultimate NES Remix would be ideally suited for mobile devices, provided the controls could replicate the precision afforded by physical game controllers. The graphics remain true to their 8-bit origins, which, while not visually cutting-edge, possess a distinct charm, particularly for those who grew up with the NES. Similarly, the simple sound samples evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding players of the iconic melodies, such as the endlessly catchy Super Mario Bros theme. While a cultural achievement, the game’s presentation naturally cannot compete with contemporary titles, a point that is clearly intentional.
The primary concern is the game’s price point. Ultimate NES Remix is priced comparably to a full-fledged 3DS title, which may be excessive. While acquiring all the original NES cartridges would undoubtedly be more expensive, established fans likely already possess many of these titles. Furthermore, consumers who lack nostalgic attachment may find the price of approximately 400 SEK (also available via the eShop) a deterrent for what is essentially a nostalgia trip, which arguably should be priced lower. The Wii U versions, available in two parts, offer a more comprehensive experience for a similar price, but lack the portability of the 3DS version.
Overall, Ultimate NES Remix provides an enjoyable experience that evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when games were simpler in concept, yet often more challenging to master. The short, demanding challenges create a compelling “just one more try” dynamic. If visual fidelity and audio quality are not paramount, this title is worth considering for the 3DS.
