Volleyball

Volleyball brings six-on-six court action to the NES in a straightforward sports game developed by Pax Softnica and published by Nintendo in 1987. Matches are viewed from the side, with both teams positioned across the net and the court scrolling slightly as play develops. The rules and rhythm are recognizably based on real volleyball: serve the ball, keep it in the air with controlled touches, send it over the net, and look for an opening before the other side can return it.

The game’s appeal comes from making those basic exchanges feel surprisingly active. Players must move into position, judge the ball’s height, and choose the right moment to bump, set, or attack. A well-timed spike can finish a rally, while a block at the net can turn an opponent’s attack back against them. Since every touch matters, careless movement can leave the court exposed. Matches can be played against the computer or with a second player, making it a simple but competitive choice for two people sharing an NES.

Volleyball does not rely on a story or elaborate presentation. Instead, it focuses on quick rallies, readable controls, and the satisfaction of improving your timing. The modest graphics clearly show the court, net, players, and ball, while the compact rules make the game easy to pick up even if you have never played it before. At the same time, consistently winning requires learning how to place shots and cover the court rather than simply pressing buttons.

For anyone looking to play online on your browser, RetroCloud offers a convenient way to revisit this concise slice of 1987 NES sports gaming.