Anticipation (1988-)
Developer: Rare
Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Board Game
Composer: David Wise
Anticipation for the NES was developed by Rare and released in 1988. The game was published by Milton Bradley, a company better known for their board games, which is reflected in Anticipation’s blend of video game and board game elements. It was also released on the Nintendo Entertainment System and later saw limited ports or adaptations for other platforms, though it remained primarily associated with the NES. The game was an attempt to merge the experience of a board game with the interactivity of video gaming, appealing to families and casual players.
The gameplay revolves around players moving around a virtual game board and solving puzzles to earn pieces that complete a picture. Each player must guess the image by solving clues, with the game testing pattern recognition and quick thinking. The design seems inspired by classic board games and puzzle shows, combining the social aspect of multiplayer competition with interactive video challenges. The game could be played solo or with up to four players, making it a popular choice for group play.
The soundtrack of Anticipation was simple and functional, offering light background music and sound effects to complement the puzzle-solving without overwhelming the player. The music reinforced the game’s casual, friendly tone rather than driving intense excitement. This audio approach suited the game’s focus on thoughtful gameplay and social interaction rather than fast-paced action.
Anticipation did not have a direct prequel or sequel, as it was a standalone experiment in merging board game mechanics with video games. It was promoted mainly through its connection to Milton Bradley’s reputation and the novelty of combining video and board game experiences. The reception was mixed, with some appreciating the multiplayer social aspect and unique gameplay, while others found it less engaging compared to more action-oriented NES titles. Despite this, it holds a niche place in NES history as an early hybrid game blending genres.
Images from MobyGames
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