Description

"Mermaids of Atlantis: The Riddle of the Magic Bubble" is an undersea adventure puzzle game released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1991. Developed by Aicom and published by American Video Entertainment, this game diverges from the typical NES library as it was exclusively distributed under a budget label, known for bypassing Nintendo's official licensing system. In the game, players dive into the mystical underwater kingdom of Atlantis, where they guide a mermaid to solve puzzles and advance through various levels. The primary objective is to match colored bubbles to clear the game area and prevent the screen from filling up, reminiscent of gameplay in popular puzzle titles like "Tetris" and "Dr. Mario."

The game stands out not only for its enchanting oceanic graphics and thematic music but also for incorporating both arcade and strategy elements. As players progress, they encounter increasingly challenging puzzles that require careful planning and quick reactions. Unique for its time, "Mermaids of Atlantis" offered a distinct storyline that unfolded as players advanced, adding a depth of narrative typically not found in puzzle games of this era. Despite its limited release and relatively obscure status, "Mermaids of Atlantis" remains a cherished title among retro gaming enthusiasts, celebrated for its charming presentation and engaging gameplay mechanics.