12/3/2007 Virtual Console Releases – ZANAC, Eternal Champions and The Dynastic Hero

Every Monday, Nintendo releases three games to the Wii’s Virtual Console. The ganes usually have a theme. This week’s theme is that there is no theme. ZANAC (NES), Eternal Champions (Genesis) and The Dynastic Hero (TurboGrafx16) are seemingly unrelated games.

Christmas week is not far away. In 21 days, I expect some significant releases to the virtual console. That’s not to say these games are unworthy, I just don’t remember them. The best I can remember is ZANAC. It’s a blur, but I remember shooting things vertically.

Here’s the official word from Nintendo…

ZANAC (NES®, 1 player, rated E for Everyone – Mild Fantasy Violence, 500 Wii Points): ZANAC is a vertically scrolling shoot-’em-up game that was released in November 1986. Take control of the state-of-the-art fighter, ZANAC, with the objective of destroying the bases of the mechanized enemy forces. Use your full array of regular weapons as well as eight special weapons to clear the 12 intense areas of the game. Be careful, though, as the game changes the degree of difficulty in real time based on how well you play. This ensures that it feels like you’re experiencing a new game every time you play.

Eternal Championsâ„¢ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, rated T for Teen – Animated Blood, Animated Violence, 800 Wii Points): This 2-D fighting game introduces a cast of different characters that met untimely deaths in their lives on Earth. Now they have been given a chance to compete against each other, with the winner taking on the Eternal Champion, the ultimate fighter in the universe. The reward for defeating the Eternal Champion is a return to Earth for the opportunity to avenge death and restore balance to the universe. Choose from nine unique characters with a variety of fighting styles, and bring your best moves to defeat all comers in your quest to topple the Eternal Champion.

The Dynastic Hero (TurboGrafx16 CD-ROM, 1 player, rated E for Everyone – Comic Mischief, 800 Wii Points): The Dynastic Hero is an action RPG featuring a cast of insect characters. The story begins with the invasion of their peaceful homeland of Tarron by the evil Drilkor Empire. Rushing to the insects’ aid is Dyna, the prince of Beetras. Take control of Dyna as he battles through action-filled stages. Equip weapons and items to vanquish the relentless foes, and acquire special items that enable you to brave the journey across the perilous desert or open sea. But it’s not just all action. Correctly answer multiple-choice quizzes, and play the ocarina to find the right melody to open doors. Plus, there are countless traps and other puzzles packed into this fun game to keep you entertained and ensure you continue coming back for more.