In a stunning twist of fate that seems more surprising than a shark appearing at a kiddie pool, the renowned NES masterpiece inspired by the cinematic classic Jaws is making a grand return to the gaming arena on various modern platforms. Yes, that’s right, the game that let players dive into the world of aquatic havoc is doing a somersault back into the limelight.
From 1987 to 2023: The Resurrection
Originally churned out by Atlus and Westone (with the fine folks at LJN playing the role of publisher), the game hit the Nintendo Entertainment System back in 1987, horrifying unsuspecting gamers ever since. Now, in what feels like an elaborate ploy to drain wallets across the globe, a new release is coming to Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and the glorious PC. Yes, the digital realm is also getting its share of this nostalgia-laden adventure, alongside not one but two physical editions.
Options Galore: Choose Your Fate
First up is the Jaws: The Retro Edition, a streamlined experience that asks players to fork over a mere $34.99 for a copy of the game and an instruction booklet. Perfect for anyone who still needs help figuring out how to turn on a console.
If the Retro Edition doesn’t quite scream “I have too much money,” fear not! There’s also the Jaws: The Bigger Boat Edition, which is a jaw-dropping $99.99. This deluxe box of treasures includes an original NES-inspired box, the game’s soundtrack on CD for those blissful windows of nostalgia, and some quirky merchandise — a ‘Beach Closed’ pin badge, a buoy keychain, and a pixel art lamp of Jaws that might just light up the entire room in true sharky fashion. Who said you can’t decorate with teeth?
Content That Will Make You Forget Real Life
But wait, the thrills do not end with nostalgia! The new version also boasts an “Enhanced Version,” promising to amplify the original game’s so-called role-playing elements and inspirations. The “massive expansion” will feature multiple chapters stuffed with references to all four Jaws films, which might just leave fans teetering on the edge of their seats (or couches).
Expect new quests that overshadow early Saturday morning cartoons, along with fresh abilities and weapons for both the boat and you, the brave diver. As if that wasn’t enough, be prepared to meet more challenging enemies lurking in the depths. Because why face a friendly fish when the experience can be fully exasperating?
Fun Features Straight from Game Development Paradise
The ultimate package includes a treasure trove of features commonly found on games from the Carbon Engine for retro titles. Players can revel in save states (for that just-in-case moment), rewind capabilities (because memory loss is real), and achievements/trophies worthy of showing off to friends who probably won’t care. A music player and gallery are also crammed into the mix, because who doesn’t want to relive pixelated nostalgia?
The Diving Adventure Awaits
Players will take the role of a daring deep-sea diver, battling smaller aquatic nuisances such as jellyfish and stingrays. The noble goal? To collect shells left behind like confetti after a birthday party. These shells can then be bartered at a shop for ship upgrades, because nothing says “I love this underwater world” like aggressively ramming your ship into a legendary shark known as Jaws.
Interestingly enough, amid all this aquatic chaos, it seems the game bears a striking resemblance to the fourth film, Jaws: The Revenge. With cover art mimicking the poster of that cinematic gem, players will smile knowingly, thinking of that time a shark got rammed by a boat because apparently, that’s a thing.
Mark Your Calendars
For those eager beavers looking to secure these nostalgic gems, pre-orders are set to launch on a date that will surely make calendars weep with anticipation: Friday, December 19, at 10 am ET / 3 pm GMT. But fret not! This isn’t a ticket to a one-night-only concert; the pre-order window will remain open until Sunday, January 18. Everyone who clicks “add to cart” within that month will be guaranteed a copy. It’s like a safe space for nostalgic gamers everywhere!
