When it comes to football video games, one title stands out from the rest – Retro Bowl College. Originally released in 1987 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), this game not only captured the hearts of football fans but also revolutionized the side-scrolling football genre.
An Iconic Game That Transformed the Industry
Retro Bowl College is credited with being one of the earliest football video games to feature digitized player sprites. With its innovative graphics and gameplay, it quickly became a fan favorite. The game included all 28 NFL teams of the 1987 season, as well as a fictional team called the “Tecmo Bowlers.” Whether players wanted to experience a single game, a season, or a playoff tournament, Retro Bowl College had it all.
Simple Yet Effective Controls
One of the reasons Retro Bowl College remains a beloved classic is its simple yet effective controls. On offense, players use the A button to snap the ball and the B button to pass. The directional pad allows players to move the quarterback and receivers. On defense, tackling and diving are executed using the A and B buttons respectively. With intuitive controls, players can focus on the action-packed gameplay.
A Breakdown of the Game Controls:
Offense:
- A button: Snap the ball
- B button: Pass
- Up/Down directional pad: Move the quarterback
- Left/Right directional pad: Move the receivers
Defense:
- A button: Tackle
- B button: Dive
- Up/Down directional pad: Move the defenders
- Left/Right directional pad: Switch defenders
The Thrill of the Game
To play Retro Bowl College, players choose a team and select a play from the playbook. As the game unfolds, players take control of the quarterback and receivers on offense, as well as the defenders on defense. The objective is simple – score more points than the opposing team. Players can achieve this by running or passing the ball into the end zone or by kicking a field goal. The fast-paced and arcade-style gameplay of Retro Bowl College provides an exhilarating experience that is sure to keep players coming back for more.
Tips to Dominate the Field
Mastering Retro Bowl College requires skill and strategy. Here are a few tips to help you rise to the top:
- Utilize the speed burst to outmaneuver defenders and gain an advantage.
- Identify and pass to the open receiver to exploit gaps in the defense.
- Don’t underestimate the power of running the ball. Mix up your plays to keep the defense guessing.
- Make game-changing tackles behind the line of scrimmage to disrupt the opponent’s offense.
- Utilize the dive tackle to halt the runner’s progress and prevent big gains.
- When in range, go for the field goal to secure crucial points.
With a little practice and these insider tips, you’ll be dominating the field, scoring touchdowns, and winning games in no time!
Retro Bowl College continues to capture the hearts of football and retro gaming enthusiasts alike. Its enduring popularity serves as a testament to its status as a timeless classic. So, grab your controller, set up the console, and get ready to experience the game that revolutionized football video games – Retro Bowl College!
