Gimmick! (or Mr. Gimmick if you're playing the Japanese version) is one of those NES platformers that feels way ahead of its time. The first thing you'll notice is how gorgeous the sprites are—bright colors, smooth animations, and these weirdly charming little enemies that bounce around like they're made of rubber.

But don't let the cute looks fool you. This game is brutal. You play as this tiny green-haired guy who can summon a bouncing star projectile, and figuring out how to angle it just right is half the battle. The levels are packed with secrets, and some jumps feel impossible until you realize there's a hidden path or clever trick. I died so many times in the first stage alone.

It's got that perfect mix of frustration and "just one more try" energy. If you're into tough-but-fair platformers with a ton of personality, this one's a hidden gem. Just maybe keep a walkthrough handy.