Summary
- Release Year: 1986
- Genres: Adventure, Platform, Shooter
- Platforms: Arcade, Family Computer Disk System, Nintendo Entertainment System, Wii, Wii U
- Developers: Nintendo R&D1
- Publishers: Nintendo
Kid Icarus: A Timeless Adventure in Greek Mythology
Released in 1986 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Kid Icarus is an action-platformer that has captivated gamers for decades. With its charming characters, challenging levels, and innovative gameplay, Kid Icarus remains a beloved classic.
Story
Kid Icarus tells the tale of Pit, a young angel who is tasked with rescuing the goddess Palutena and the three sacred treasures from the clutches of Medusa. The game is set in Angel Land, a Grecian fantasy world inspired by Greek mythology.
Pit’s quest takes him through a variety of treacherous levels, including forests, caves, and mountains. Along the way, he must battle a host of enemies, including monsters, demons, and even the gods themselves.
Gameplay
Kid Icarus is a side-scrolling action-platformer. Players control Pit as he jumps, shoots arrows, and uses his magical powers to defeat enemies and navigate the levels.
The game’s levels are varied and challenging, each with its own unique obstacles and enemies. Pit must use his wits and skills to overcome these challenges and reach the end of each level.
In addition to the main story mode, Kid Icarus also features a variety of bonus levels and minigames. These bonus levels offer a different challenge from the main game, and they can be a lot of fun to play.
Characters
Pit is the protagonist of Kid Icarus. He is a young angel who is brave, determined, and loyal. He is also a skilled archer and fighter.
Palutena is the goddess of Angel Land. She is a wise and benevolent ruler who is kidnapped by Medusa at the beginning of the game.
Medusa is the main antagonist of Kid Icarus. She is a powerful demon who is determined to conquer Angel Land.
Graphics and Sound
For an NES game, Kid Icarus has impressive graphics and sound. The game’s characters and backgrounds are colorful and detailed, and the music is catchy and memorable.
Legacy
Kid Icarus was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game has been praised for its challenging gameplay, charming characters, and innovative use of Greek mythology.
Kid Icarus has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Kid Icarus: Of Myths and Monsters (1991), Kid Icarus: Uprising (2012), and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2018).
Conclusion
Kid Icarus is a timeless classic that continues to entertain and challenge gamers today. With its charming characters, challenging levels, and innovative gameplay, Kid Icarus is a must-play for any fan of action-platformers.
Tips for Playing Kid Icarus
- Use your bow and arrow to attack enemies from a distance.
- Use your magical powers to defeat stronger enemies and overcome obstacles.
- Be careful not to fall off the edge of the screen.
- Collect as many hearts as you can to restore your health.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different weapons and power-ups.
Trivia
- Kid Icarus was originally supposed to be a Zelda spin-off.
- The game’s protagonist, Pit, is named after the Greek word for “arrow.”
- Kid Icarus was one of the first NES games to feature a female protagonist.
- The game’s music was composed by Hirokazu Tanaka, who also composed the music for Metroid and EarthBound.
Review Score
8/10