Blades of Steel (NES)

Introducing the Blades of Steel (NES)

Released by Konami in the late 1980s, Blades of Steel (NES) (known as Konamic Ice Hockey in Japan) quickly became a beloved ice hockey game for the NES, blending fast-paced action with strategic depth. Offering both casual fun and competitive gameplay, it has stood the test of time as a favorite among retro sports game enthusiasts.

Game Modes and Features

Blades of Steel provides two exciting modes of play: Exhibition and Tournament. In Exhibition mode, players can enjoy a standalone match against the AI or a second player, ideal for quick sessions or practice. The Tournament mode mimics the intensity of NHL playoffs, where players choose a team and compete in a knockout format, aiming to secure the championship by defeating rivals.

One of the standout features is its unique fighting system. When players collide three times in a row, a fight ensues, where they can throw punches to gain an advantage. Winning a fight penalizes the opponent, allowing the victor to enjoy a power play, with the possibility of multiple penalties leading to thrilling 5-on-1 gameplay.

Intermissions and Mini-Games

During intermissions, Blades of Steel offers a fun break with an interactive mini-game. In the second intermission, players can engage in a space-themed battle between a small spaceship and a larger enemy, offering a lighthearted arcade experience. Additionally, the mini-game serves as an advertisement for other Konami classics like Contra and Gradius, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.

Shootouts and Teams

If the game ends in a tie, Blades of Steel resolves the match with a thrilling shootout, allowing players to face off in a one-on-one battle for victory. The game also features eight teams, representing major cities from Canada and the United States. Teams include iconic cities like Toronto, Montreal, New York, and Chicago, each with distinct colored jerseys for visual variety.

Game Controls for Blades of Steel

• D-Pad: Move your player around the rink. Hold in different directions to skate faster or change direction.
• A Button: Perform a basic shot or check, depending on whether you have the puck or not.
• B Button: Pass the puck to a teammate or initiate a fight (if you’re near an opposing player).
• Start Button: Pause the game.
• Select Button: Change the direction of your player during face-offs.