In the waning days of the NES era, amidst the influx of new games and technologies, Sunsoft released a game called Gimmick. Unfortunately, it did not receive much attention or acclaim at the time. However, recent retrospectives have revealed it to be a hidden gem, a true classic that has garnered a cult following over the years. In fact, it has become one of the most sought-after titles on the platform, commanding high prices in the collector’s market.
Fast forward to the present day, and a new chapter in the Gimmick saga is about to unfold. Bitwave Games, a developer known for its classic shmup re-releases and the well-received platformer Wunderling, is taking up the mantle to deliver a sequel to Gimmick. Set to release in 2024 across all major platforms, Gimmick 2 promises to build upon the original’s legacy by offering players the chance to “solve puzzles, trick enemies, and explore a physics-based playground.” While details on the sequel are scarce at the moment, anticipation is high among fans of the series.
Originally released in 1992 for the Famicom, Gimmick arrived late in the console’s lifespan, long after the advent of 16-bit successors in the gaming industry. Despite its belated release, Gimmick stood out as a technical marvel, showcasing stunning visuals, a memorable soundtrack powered by a unique sound chip, and challenging platforming gameplay that defied expectations. These qualities not only made Gimmick a prized possession for retro gaming enthusiasts but also showcased the creativity and ingenuity of its developers.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Gimmick is its rarity outside of Japan. The NES version, rebranded as Mr. Gimmick, was only released in Scandinavia, severely limiting its availability to a wider audience. As a result, authentic cartridges of Gimmick can fetch exorbitant prices, with complete copies in original packaging commanding figures well over $1,000 in the collector’s market. Despite its limited distribution, Gimmick has managed to captivate players with its technical brilliance and engaging gameplay, transcending its status as a mere collector’s item.
In recent years, Gimmick has experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks to a remastered version that brought the classic game to modern platforms such as PC, Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox. This reimagining has introduced Gimmick to a new generation of players, allowing them to appreciate its charms and quirks as a platformer. By bridging the gap between the past and the present, Gimmick has cemented its status as a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences across different eras of gaming.
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