Description

"Blades of Steel" is an arcade-style ice hockey video game developed and published by Konami and released in 1988 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The game is known for its fast-paced action and relatively simple, yet engaging, gameplay, making it one of the more memorable sports games of its era. Each match in "Blades of Steel" is showcased through a horizontally-scrolling view, and players can choose from one of eight fictional teams based in North American cities. The teams vary only in their colors; the players are otherwise identical in abilities. A standout feature in the game is the ability to engage in fistfights with opposing players. If a player wins the fight, the opposing player is sent to the penalty box, giving the victorious player's team a power play.

Upon its release, "Blades of Steel" was well-received for its smooth graphics, realistic sound effects—including crowd noises and a voice that announced the start of each period—and its entertaining gameplay. It included several innovative features for the time, such as voice samples and the ability to play against another player or the computer. "Blades of Steel" also emphasized aggression in sports games, a concept that was not as common at the time. While playing, an electronic billboard in the arena displays actual Konami advertisements, adding an extra layer of realism and commercial tie-in. This game is considered a classic among NES titles and is remembered fondly by fans of vintage video games for its fun, competitive gameplay and its role in pioneering features in sports gaming.

Title

Blades of Steel - Title

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Title

Blades of Steel - Title

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Gameplay

Blades of Steel - Gameplay

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Gameplay

Blades of Steel - Gameplay

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