Gimmick, a game released by Sunsoft in the late days of the NES, failed to make a big impact during its initial release. However, as time went on, the game started to gain recognition as a true classic. Decades later, Gimmick is now one of the most sought-after games on the platform, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for an authentic cartridge.
Fast forward to 2024, and a proper sequel to Gimmick is in the works. Bitwave Games, known for their classic shmup re-releases and the platformer Wunderling, is developing Gimmick 2 for all major platforms. While details on the sequel are scarce, the promo text promises players the chance to “solve puzzles, trick enemies, and explore a physics-based playground” similar to the original game.
When Gimmick first hit the Famicom in 1992, it stunned players with its technical prowess. The game served as a showcase for the aging hardware, featuring stunning visuals, exceptional music powered by a special sound chip, and challenging platforming gameplay. Despite its technical excellence, Gimmick’s reach outside of Japan was limited, as the NES version, titled Mr. Gimmick, was only released in Scandinavia.
Over the years, Gimmick has garnered a cult following due to its technical achievements and extreme rarity. Authentic cartridges of the game can fetch hundreds of dollars on the collector’s market, with complete copies in original packaging selling for well over $1,000. While Gimmick was once known primarily for its scarcity, modern players have started to appreciate the game for its platforming brilliance.
In recent years, Gimmick has undergone a revival thanks to a remaster released on PC, Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox. This updated version has introduced the beloved classic to a new audience, allowing players to experience the charm and challenge of the original game. With the impending release of Gimmick 2, fans of the series have much to look forward to as they continue to celebrate the legacy of this once-forgotten gem.
Leave a Reply