Ultimate NES Remix stands out as a unique compilation, distilling the essence of iconic NES series into bite-sized challenges—a concept typically reserved for music and television “best of” collections. This package brings together remixes and challenges from 16 of the most celebrated NES titles (culled from the 28 featured across NES Remix and NES Remix 2 on Wii U), tailored for the Nintendo 3DS audience. While offering some fresh additions, at its core, Ultimate NES Remix operates as a “greatest hits” album of retro gaming. By showcasing these series at their peak, the compilation also inadvertently highlights some inherent flaws within the game design itself.
However, let’s begin with the undeniable positives: the gameplay, explored in greater detail in reviews of NES Remix and NES Remix 2, is remarkably addictive and satisfying, echoing the compelling nature of titles like WarioWare. My personal playtime speaks volumes: 17 hours were invested in the original Wii U NES Remix to achieve three-star completion on every level, followed by 10 hours in NES Remix 2 for the same feat, and another 10 hours dedicated to this compilation. While the remixes themselves exhibit creativity and a playful sense of humor, it is the complete package that solidifies its status as a successful and endearing homage to NES classics. This series resonates deeply, and there’s hope that Indieszero will continue to innovate with future iterations like SNES Remix, Game Boy Remix, and beyond.
Looking ahead, it’s crucial that future Nintendo Remix games address some persistent issues present in this installment. The non-remix challenges frequently fall short of creative brilliance, often resembling simplistic ROM hacks. These tasks can range from the underwhelming (like enduring intro cutscenes, as seen in NES Remix 2) to the redundant (must we truly endure eight challenges of defeating Koopas as invincible Mario?). Furthermore, a noticeable imbalance pervades these challenges. For example, the original Super Mario Bros. is burdened with over 20 challenges centered on actions familiar to millions of Nintendo enthusiasts, while Punch-Out!! receives a mere seven challenges, barely scratching the surface of its gameplay depth.
Even more concerning is how these less inspired, standalone game challenges pale in comparison to the approximately 76 remixes within the game. They often feel like padding, included to artificially inflate the content of a package that might otherwise feel lacking. The remixes are undeniably the stars of the show. Imagine a Super Mario Bros. level encased in ice, Donkey Kong reimagined with Link, or a quirky interpretation of Zero Suit Samus – these are the moments that truly elevate the experience. The game capably delivers creative, enjoyable, and humorous, condensed takes on classic games, yet there simply aren’t enough of them. Moreover, they often stop short of their full potential for eccentricity. Around 20-25% of the remixes are confined to single-game scenarios, involving minor alterations like lighting adjustments or camera perspectives (Excitebike in the dark, Mario in the dark, Mario Bros. with a zoomed-out camera, etc.). The genuinely inventive remixes, such as playing Mario in the style of Samus or Kirby embodying Toad, are scarce—perhaps totaling around 15 challenges. Many of these are limited to basic, single-screen objectives like “defeat three enemies” or “collect these 20 coins.”
Zero Suit Samus Remix Challenge in Ultimate NES Remix
As a devoted fan of the series, it was easier to overlook these shortcomings previously, attributing them to the inclusion of less compelling NES titles. However, in a “best-of” compilation, these problems are brought into sharper focus, revealing core design weaknesses. One realizes that the game’s appeal is perhaps 60% filler and only 40% truly engaging content, and even that fun element is not fully realized.
The central question persists: how can the series evolve for the better? The solution lies in refining its structure and prioritizing creativity within the game’s remix design. Here’s a proposed approach:
- Ten Non-Remix Challenges per Game: These challenges should provide an abridged journey through each game’s core experience. This approach prevents over-saturation of challenges for games like Mario while ensuring adequate representation for titles like Punch-Out!!.
- Five Bonus Challenge Remixes per Game: Each game’s section could also feature five bonus remix challenges that playfully alter the base game mechanics (totaling 60-80 remixes depending on the package size). Examples include an ice-themed Mario world or a zoomed-in perspective in Balloon Fight.
- Fifty Multi-Game Remix Stages: This category would encompass stages that fully blend elements from multiple games, creating truly unique crossover experiences (e.g., Link in Donkey Kong, Super Mario Bros. 3 utilizing Peach’s abilities from Super Mario Bros. 2). These remixes should surpass the creativity of those in NES Remix, drawing inspiration from games potentially not even included in the collection. The practical implementation of this concept warrants further exploration.
- Ten Extremely Difficult Final Challenges: Introduce a set of ten exceptionally challenging final stages. Five could be unlocked by achieving three-star ratings on all levels, and the remaining five for achieving rainbow star ratings.
- eShop Reward System: Upon earning rainbow stars on these final challenge levels, players could be rewarded with a free eShop code for any NES game featured in the compilation. While logistical hurdles exist (preventing code exploitation, potentially requiring Club Nintendo integration), this would serve as an exceptional incentive.
Ultimate NES Remix already incorporates commendable features worth retaining. Famicom Remix mode, unlocked after game completion, allows players to experience the same challenges but with Japanese Famicom versions of the NES games. While differences are often subtle and rarely impact gameplay, it’s a fascinating touch. The online leaderboards, tracking challenge completion times among friends and regionally, complete with video replays of record-breaking runs, are also exceptional. Observing players exploit game mechanics to conquer a 90-second boss rush in just 8.5 seconds is genuinely entertaining.
Despite these criticisms, the NES Remix experience remains highly enjoyable, especially for someone with nearly 40 hours invested across all three games. This affection stems from the addictive nature of NES Remix, driving a desire for it to evolve into an even stronger title that fully embodies its initial promise. It should both honor Nintendo’s legacy and playfully subvert it—imagine playing Donkey Kong as Donkey Kong to rescue Pauline from Mario at the level’s summit. If Indieszero can amplify the imaginative craziness and reduce the less impactful filler content, a truly exceptional game awaits.
Are you currently playing Ultimate NES Remix? What are your thoughts on the series? How would you envision its improvement? Share your opinions below.
