Nintendo Entertainment System · 1990
Parodius! From Myth to Laughter
A playful Konami shooter that recycles familiar Konami characters and mechanics with an intentionally silly twist.
- Publisher
- Konami
- Format
- Cartridge
- Genre
- shoot 'em up
- Released
- 1990
01
Overview
The game presents a horizontal scrolling shooter with bright, cartoonish artwork and a soundtrack that leans into comedy rather than serious sci-fi tone. Players can choose from several selectable characters, each with its own weapon setup, and collect power-ups and bells that alter how they fight through ten stages. It was originally an arcade title before appearing on the NES, and the home version includes some content not found in the arcade cabinet.
02
Why it matters
It is one of the few Parodius games that received a non-Japanese home release, giving collectors a distinct Konami title that sits outside the Gradius and Twin Bee franchises while still referencing them. The NES edition is a practical entry point for players who want to experience the series without needing Japanese-language hardware.
03
The physical edition
A typical complete copy includes the cartridge, a box with the game title and artwork, and an instruction manual; exact packaging can vary by region and print run. Japanese and European versions differ in box art, language, and labeling, so the edition you find will depend on where it was originally sold.
04
Playing it today
The game runs on standard NES hardware or any modern console that supports NES cartridges; emulation is also widely available. Controls are straightforward, and the difficulty curve is moderate, making it accessible for players new to the series.