The Little Mermaid -NES- 6

November 25, 2024

The Little Mermaid released in July 1991 for the NES. This is a spin-off of the outstanding Disney movie that released in 1989, and I decided to run through it this morning. I have always been a big fan of the animated film, as well as underwater adventures in general, so I have been curious to play this one for a little while now. After reaching the end screen, I can say that The Little Mermaid is a good little title that is best suited for very young gamers. Adults will also have some fun with it, but may find it a bit too short and easy.

I was pleasantly surprised by The Little Mermaid game’s treatment of the source material. Capcom and Disney made some quality collaborations in the early 1990’s, and the level of polish here is up to their usual standard. The soundtrack has really cheerful tunes, including a nice 8bit rendition of “Under the Sea.” The oceanic depths are beautifully drawn with great graphics from NES hardware towards the end of its lifecycle. Ariel controls well, with the ability to whip her fin and trap enemies in a bubble that she can grab and throw. You also find power-ups to increase her strength, and you lose them if you die.

Other than losing Ariel’s power-ups upon death, The Little Mermaid is a very easy, short, and linear game. There is a tiny bit of exploration within the five levels, but you can’t go back once you pass to the next screen. The stages themselves are pretty small, and the bosses do not offer much challenge. And since the game takes place in the ocean, there are no bottomless pits that so many other NES games are infamous for. I was able to knock this out within just a couple attempts this morning, having never played the game before. All in all, it should take you no more than an hour to beat.

It is obvious that Capcom was tailoring The Little Mermaid videogame to an audience of early childhood, and that is fine. It’s still an enjoyable game at any age. I just wish it had been longer, and more challenging. I liked swimming through the sub-aquatic levels that looked just like they were from classic film, as well as defeating the cartoon villains I remember fondly. The Little Mermaid for NES is still an okay game, and I rate it a 6 out of ten.