Cool World (USA)

Cool World (USA) on the NES is an action-adventure game with puzzle and platforming elements. Players control detective Frank Harris, a real-world character pulled into the animated realm of Cool World. Frank's primary mission is to prevent cartoonist Jack Deebs, the creator of this world, from transforming the cartoon character Holly Would into a real person, an act that could destroy both worlds.

The game is divided into linear levels, each with specific objectives. Frank can walk, jump, and use his toy gun to shoot hostile "Noodle" cartoon characters. Shooting "Noodles" doesn't destroy them but temporarily incapacitates them or turns them into collectible items like coins or other power-ups. Collected coins can be used to purchase support items at hidden shops or from auxiliary characters.

A crucial element is finding and collecting lost "doodles" (sketches). Gathering enough "doodles" is necessary to progress in the game, often to unlock new areas or complete level objectives. The game also features simple puzzles, usually involving finding the right item to use in the correct place or interacting with other characters for information. Occasionally, Frank must avoid environmental hazards or un-defeatable characters. Frank's health bar decreases when attacked, and there are items to restore health. Level design is quite varied, ranging from city areas to other strange lands within Cool World. The ultimate goal is to confront Jack Deebs and Holly Would to thwart their plans, while also finding a way for Frank to return to the real world.