Summary
- Release Year: 1988
- Genres: Simulator, Sport
- Platforms: Family Computer, Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Another Ltd.
- Publishers: HOT-B
The Black Bass: A Comprehensive Guide to the Classic NES Fishing Game
Introduction
Released in 1988 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, The Black Bass is a fishing game developed by HOT B and published by Kemco. Although not explicitly presented as a sequel, it is the second game in the Black Bass series, with the first being a Japan-exclusive Famicom release.
The game has garnered a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts for its addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and realistic fish AI. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of The Black Bass, providing an in-depth analysis of its gameplay mechanics, level design, and legacy.
Gameplay
The Black Bass is a straightforward fishing game where players cast their line into various bodies of water and attempt to catch fish. The game features six different fishing spots, each with its unique species of fish and varying difficulty levels.
Players can choose from a variety of lures and baits to attract fish, and must carefully manage their line tension to avoid breaking it. The game also simulates real-world fishing techniques, such as jigging and trolling.
Once a fish is hooked, players must reel it in using the NES controller’s A and B buttons. The fish will struggle and attempt to escape, so players must carefully adjust their reeling speed and direction to keep it from breaking free.
Level Design
The six fishing spots in The Black Bass offer a diverse range of environments and challenges. Players can fish in a serene lake, a fast-flowing river, a murky swamp, and even an icy pond. Each spot is home to different species of fish, from common bass and trout to more exotic species like sturgeon and piranha.
The level design is well-crafted, with each spot offering its own unique set of obstacles and rewards. For example, the lake is relatively easy to fish in, but the river is more challenging due to its strong currents. The swamp is home to some of the largest fish in the game, but it is also filled with hazards like logs and lily pads.
Fish AI
One of the most impressive aspects of The Black Bass is its realistic fish AI. The fish behave in a lifelike manner, reacting to lures and baits, and struggling against the line when hooked.
Different species of fish have different behaviors and preferences. For example, bass are more likely to be attracted to topwater lures, while trout prefer live bait. Players must carefully observe the fish’s behavior and adjust their tactics accordingly.
Legacy
The Black Bass was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a popular retro fishing game today. It is known for its addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and realistic fish AI.
The game has been praised for its ability to capture the excitement and challenge of real-world fishing. It has also been credited with helping to popularize the fishing genre on video game consoles.
The Black Bass has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including The Black Bass 2 (1991), Super Black Bass (1992), and Black Bass: Lure Fishing (1995). The series has also been released on other platforms, such as the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, the Game Boy, and mobile devices.
Conclusion
The Black Bass is a classic NES fishing game that deserves its place among the best retro games of all time. Its addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and realistic fish AI make it a must-play for any fan of the fishing genre.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to fishing games, The Black Bass is sure to provide hours of enjoyment. So grab your rod and reel, and let’s go fishing!
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
