Little Mermaid, The (GB)

The Little Mermaid (GB/GBC) is an action-adventure game based on Disney's beloved animated film. Players control Princess Ariel on her journey through the underwater world, from vibrant coral reefs to mysterious caves.

The core gameplay revolves around free-form swimming in a 2D environment. Ariel can swim in all directions, allowing players to explore hidden areas and uncover secrets. The primary objective is to progress through levels, collect necessary items, and defeat enemies to achieve the ultimate goal of rescuing Prince Eric and defeating the evil sea witch Ursula.

To combat hostile sea creatures such as sharks, jellyfish, or aggressive fish, Ariel can utilize various attacks like her tail whip or by shooting bubbles. Some levels require players to collect a certain number of items like seashells, pearls, or starfish to unlock passages or achieve high scores. Power-ups may appear, temporarily boosting Ariel's abilities, such as increasing her swimming speed or making her attacks more effective.

Each level typically culminates in a challenging boss fight, where Ariel must employ her swimming and attacking skills to defeat powerful foes. The final battle against Ursula is a highlight of the game, demanding patience and strategy. The game's graphics are designed in the familiar animated style, providing a friendly and lively feel, consistent with the spirit of the original film. The music also recreates distinctive melodies from the movie, creating a nostalgic and engaging gaming experience.