About this game
Released in 1992, Gimmick! is one of the most technically and musically extraordinary games ever made for the Famicom. Using a custom expansion sound chip, composer Masashi Kageyama crafted a layered, genre-spanning soundtrack of stunning quality. The gameplay — launching a star from Yumetaro's head that arcs realistically and can chain into combos — was physics-based in ways the Famicom had never seen. Its Japan-only release and small print run made it one of the rarest and most collectible Famicom cartridges.
Key Features
Physics-based star projectile that arcs and bounces realistically, a hidden alternate ending for players who collect all items, and a custom expansion sound chip allowing audio quality impossible on standard Famicom hardware. The star mechanic requires precise timing and environmental understanding to master.
The Story Behind
Gimmick! arrived as the Famicom era was ending and the Super Famicom was taking over. As a result, it was largely overlooked at release. Its rediscovery by collectors and retro gaming communities elevated it to legendary status. The game was re-released in 2023 as 'Gimmick! Special Edition' on modern platforms.
Tricks & Tales
Gimmick! was released only in Japan and Scandinavia (as Mr. Gimmick), making it extremely rare outside Japan. The expansion sound chip used in the cartridge — Sunsoft's own 5B chip — provided additional audio channels that made Kageyama's complex compositions possible. The true ending requires collecting all six items hidden throughout the game.
Collector's Guide
Region & Compatibility
Japan-only Famicom release; released in Scandinavia as 'Mr. Gimmick' for NES. Never officially released in North America. A 2023 remaster 'Gimmick! Special Edition' brought it to modern platforms worldwide.
Available in our shop
Hand-cleaned and tested units shipped worldwide from Toyohashi, Japan. HP direct purchase exclusive: we include a printed shop owner's note card with every order.
Direct purchase supports this museum directly. eBay Top Rated Seller · 1,750+ reviews · 100% positive feedback.
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