Felix the Cat (1992-)

• Developer: Shimada Kikaku

• Publisher: Hudson Soft

• Genre: Platform

Felix the Cat for the NES is a platformer developed by Shimada Kikaku and published by Hudson Soft in 1992. The game was based on the popular animated character Felix the Cat, bringing his adventures from cartoons to the home console. While primarily an NES title, the Felix franchise had other video game appearances on systems such as the Sega Genesis and various handheld devices, though each adaptation offered a different take on platforming and gameplay. The NES version capitalized on the character’s long-standing popularity, combining familiar cartoon imagery with engaging action sequences designed for younger audiences and fans of classic animated adventures.

In the game, players control Felix as he journeys through a series of fantastical worlds to rescue his kidnapped girlfriend, Kitty. The narrative draws inspiration from early Felix cartoons, featuring surreal environments, quirky enemies, and creative obstacles. Each level is themed differently, ranging from forested landscapes to mechanical factories, and players must navigate these areas while avoiding hazards, defeating enemies, and collecting items that aid progress. The design emphasizes a lighthearted adventure in line with the charm of the original animated shorts while offering challenging platforming mechanics typical of NES games of the era.

Gameplay features include standard side-scrolling platforming, jumping and climbing mechanics, and a variety of weapons and abilities unique to Felix, such as his magic bag of tricks which allows him to transform or produce items to defeat enemies. Levels often feature hidden paths and collectibles that encourage exploration and replayability. The soundtrack complements the game with cheerful and energetic compositions that reflect the playful tone of the Felix cartoons, punctuated by sound effects for jumping, attacking, and item usage that add character to the on-screen action.

Felix the Cat has no known prequel on the NES, and the NES release did not lead directly to sequels in the console series, though the character appeared in other video games afterward. Promotion for the NES title highlighted the appeal of playing as a beloved cartoon character, emphasizing colorful graphics, varied levels, and the inventive use of Felix’s magical abilities. Reception was mixed to positive, with praise for its faithful adaptation of the cartoon’s charm and enjoyable level design, though some critics found the controls slightly stiff and certain stages repetitive. Despite these criticisms, the game retains a nostalgic appeal for fans of the character and of classic NES platformers.

Images from MobyGames