Great Waldo Search, The (USA)

The Great Waldo Search on the NES is a hidden object puzzle game, based on the popular "Where's Waldo?" book series (also known as "Where's Wally?" in some regions). The primary objective for players is to find Waldo, the main character with his distinctive red and white striped shirt, along with his friends like Wenda, Wizard Whitebeard, Odlaw, and his dog Woof, as well as various other items hidden within crowded and intricate scenes.

The game is divided into multiple levels, each representing a large, detailed picture filled with numerous characters and objects, creating a true visual challenge. Players will be transported to various unique locations such as bustling cities, beaches, caves, or even outer space. Each level presents a list of items or characters to find, displayed at the corner of the screen.

To search, players move a cursor across the screen and click on suspicious locations. If the correct item is found, it disappears from the list. The game imposes a time limit for each level, adding pressure and requiring players to have sharp observation skills. Occasionally, special items or small clues may appear to assist players in their search.

A unique aspect of The Great Waldo Search is its attempt to replicate the distinctive art style of the original books, with their minute details and intentional clutter. While the NES graphics had certain limitations compared to the printed versions, the game still strives to deliver a challenging search experience. It's a lighthearted yet demanding game that requires high concentration and keen observational abilities from the player.