The Enduring Appeal of Snow Bros.
Do you remember the secret code? On the title screen, input Up Up Right Right Right Right Right Right Right Right Down Down Left Left Left Left Left Left Left Left, then press confirm. The game mode transforms! This deeply hidden secret in the FC version of Snow Bros. was discovered after much gameplay, in an era without walkthroughs or internet access.
The Arcade Origins
Snow Bros. was initially released in arcades in 1990 by Toaplan. Two chubby snowmen embarked on a perilous journey to rescue the princesses. Their primary attack involved throwing snowballs to gradually encase enemies. Then, they would push the resulting snowball. Being hit by a rolling snowball granted a few seconds of invincibility.
Power-Ups and Gameplay
Defeated monsters dropped potions. * Red potions increased speed. * Blue potions boosted strength. * Yellow potions extended attack range. * Green potions granted temporary invincibility.
The initial ten levels were straightforward, followed by relatively easy stages up to level 20. However, the game's difficulty increased, particularly with the appearance of two fire-breathing monsters on rooftops, creating an impassable barrier. Emulators allowed players to finally progress beyond this point.
Princess Rescue and Endings
The 50th level revealed two kidnapped princesses and a two-headed boss. Certain bubbles floating down from above were helpful, while others were fire hazards. Defeating the demon resulted in the princess(es)' rescue. In two-player mode, each snowman rescued a princess. A single player character, however, would embrace both princesses. As the sun rose in the background, the snowman would melt. This ending highlights the importance of love, even at the cost of one's life.
The FC/NES Port
The FC/NES version became a nostalgic favorite. Despite inferior graphics compared to the arcade version, it offered the convenience of playing at home. It also had a hidden "Speed Mode" activated by holding Select and pressing Start in the Japanese version. The American version, commonly played back then, required a more complex input (Up x2, Right x8, Down x2, Left x8). The FC version's ending differed. After defeating the demon and rescuing the princesses, the snowmen were transformed into humans, allowing them to live happily ever after.
Speed Mode Challenges
In Speed Mode, the objective was to rescue the princess within a time limit. The final stage presents a significant challenge, requiring players to use enemies as platforms to reach the princess in the upper right corner.
The Mega Drive/Genesis Adaptation
In 1993, Snow Bros. was ported to the Mega Drive/Genesis, featuring an opening animation and graphics closer to the arcade original. For example, the Genesis edition restored the original large frog's bouncing animation, whereas, the FC edition used a flashing effect due to hardware limitations.
A Twist on the Formula
Level 50 on the Genesis sees the snowmen getting captured after saving the princesses. The princesses then become the rescuers, reversing the roles.
Snow Bros. 2: With New Friends
Snow Bros. 2 released in 1994. This time, the princess was captured again, and the snowmen were joined by three elemental brothers: wind, water, and thunder. The game featured five distinct worlds, each guarded by a boss. Throughout the adventure, the player must deal with a variety of enemies and traps. The group rescues the princess after dealing with several baddies and puzzles. In the end, a clear moon appears in the sky.
Snow Bros. 3 (Sort of)
In 2002, a new game appeared in arcades, seemingly titled Snow Bros. 3. However, it was a different game entirely, simply borrowing the Snow Bros. name and mechanics. Instead of snowballs, enemies were turned into footballs.
The Legacy of Snow Bros.
The original Snow Bros. and its sequel were exceptional games, with Snow Bros. 2 considered a peak in the series due to its difficulty, replayability, boss design, and content.
Snow Bros. 2 Special: A Modern Revival
A remake called Snow Bros. 2 Special pays tribute to the original while adding new features. The levels and challenges remain familiar. Some original characters return with updated graphics.
New Features in Special
- Character Selection: A massive roster of playable characters, including enemies from both Snow Bros. games.
- Special Moves: Characters have unique special moves that can clear the screen.
- Evolved Boss Battles: Boss fights now have multiple phases.
- Four-Player Co-op: Up to four players can play together.
- Additional Modes:
- Survival Mode: One life to survive as long as possible.
- Time Attack Mode: A timed challenge to complete levels as quickly as possible.
- Sky Mode: A vertical scrolling stage reminiscent of Contra.
The Snow Bros. series is a testament to the enduring appeal of cooperative gaming. While modern entertainment options abound, the joy of playing with friends remains timeless. If this brought back fond memories, gather some friends and embark on a new adventure to save the princess!
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