NES Remix review

Classic Games with a New Spin

Review written by
Ryan Hoshaw

May 1st, 2014

NES Remix puts a new spin on old classics. Released on the Nintendo eShop December 18th, 2013, Remix compiles sixteen games into several unique challenges. For $14.99 Wii U owners can buy Nintendo's attempt to put life back into NES games that may not have aged very gracefully.

Each game within Remix has various trials, such as having Mario run through a darkened level, having the camera zoom way in on the Balloon Pop bird as he navigates a level, and guiding Link through a stage without taking damage. The game is definitely distinctive in its approach, tossing together some of the greatest games of the 80s, with a micro-game flare. Each micro-game offers a 0-3 star rating for a challenge completed, and as stars are obtained, more games are unlocked.

This eShop title offers a variety of play and difficulties. The player can breeze through some micro-games rather easily while others may make them wish to chuck the GamePad in frustration. The challenge may be even greater for those who have not played the original versions of these NES games.

Gameplay is hindered by the fact that NES Remix is only a single player experience. This sort of game begs to be played with other people. Sure, the GamePad can be passed around and people can take turns, but that is a pale remedy for what is a glaring oversight by Nintendo. There are also no online functions outside of Miiverse posts on each micro-game. No online leadership boards, no online challenges, and once again this seems to be a grave oversight.

The pricey GamePad, the staple of the Wii U, is not utilized in any special way with NES Remix. It is really only used for off-TV gameplay. This is a disappointment since Remix is a Nintendo first-party game, but it is not a deal-breaker, and should not be a huge factor when considering whether or not to purchase it.

The graphics have not been enhanced for these titles, despite Remix being released on a high-definition console. The graphics are what one would expect of 8-bit NES games; Nintendo appears to have desired to keep the look and feel of the originals.

NES Remix is simply fun, challenging, and rewarding. It could have been made better with the option of multiplayer, in any form, but there is still the option to pass around the GamePad. Any fan of Nintendo's classic 8-bit games would do well downloading this off the eShop.