NES in 2019 - clone console or original?

[racketboy]

That's actually one of the cooler looking cheap clones I've seen -- nice score all-around!

[Note]

Awesome story about your aunt finding that copy of Contra! The controller for that clone console looks comfortable as well. Enjoy it!

Keep us posted if you end up checking out any other games on the clone system too.

[opa]

Thank you for the responses.

I ordered Friday the 13th so I'll give feedback when it arrives. Not a game I'm too familiar with outside of playing a few minutes on an emulator so looking forward to a new experience.

I will say, NES games seem to have jumped significantly. I remember getting "buy 2 get 1 free" on NES games a long time ago. Quite shocking to see Zelda going for over $20.

[opa]

Friday the 13th arrived. I cleaned the contacts like I always do with a used cart but it didn't boot. I then reseated the cart and then I got a garbled mess on the screen. I then took out the cart and really put some elbow grease into scrubbing those contacts. I went through five more q-tips and, lo and behold, the game works!

I still have issues with the sound levels. Everything is pretty muted while the "JASON ATTACKING" alarm is really loud.

Additionally, I think this game is kind of cool. I know it's an LJN game (which are pretty infamous) but I think this title has some depth to it. Now, it is freakin' difficult but I'm having a good time with it.

[opa]

I picked up a copy of Blades of Steel for $7. Not sure if that's a good price but the label is in great shape for being as old as it is.

The game plays just fine. However, this clone still has the sound issues. At this point I'm assuming it will do it for all titles. Sound effects (passing the puck/taking a shot/whistles) are all fine. The music (especially the victory music) is super muted. I have to turn the volume up quite a bit to get it to a somewhat audible level.

I'm guessing whatever cheap sound chip this system uses (if it's even a separate chip) probably is only good for like half the sound channels. But hey, it's all relative. When you pay for ramen don't go expecting steak.

[opa]

I didn't have "NES collector" on the 2025 bingo card but here I am.

Currently have:
-Jackal
-Blades of Steel
-Contra
-Friday the 13th

On the way:
-Gradius
-Metal Gear
-Snake's Revenge
-Rush'n Attack

Not really sure what else I want. I'm not a huge Mario/Zelda fan and I previously owned most of the heavy hitters. I may just focus on oddball titles. I do have a penchant for shitty titles like Heroes of the Lance or Conan. I may consider getting those eventually.