This is a unique title for the NES. Beginning with the story, Wall Street Kid is one of those games that threatens to bring you in and consume you. At least for a couple of days. With a story reminiscent of Brewster's Millions, the Wall Street Kid meets Larry the Lofty Lawyer on April Fools' Day. But Larry isn't the joking sort. He gives the Wall Street Kid $500,000 as part of the late Uncle Benedict's $600 billion estate. The whole story is rather comical and what's more, the drawing gives Wall Street Kid the feel of old-time cartoon characters (somewhere between Richy Rich and Archie).

As part of Sofel's "Life Simulation Series," this game attempts to present every day activities on the glorified stage of video gaming. Whether the purpose is educational or sarcastic, the designers of Wall Street Kid succeed in bringing in many significant aspects of stock market trading. First of all, the market reacts appropriately to changes in interest rates and companies are divided into relevant categories. For instance, you can choose from growth, cyclical or blue chip stocks. Also, every day begins with a look at the "Wall Street Times," a newspaper filled with tips and anecdotes. The naming of the corporations is similarly clever.

Simply attempting to expand your portfolio to the optimal level is fun enough, but Sofel adds to this fun by constructing an adventure-like goal around your conspicuous accumulation. Not only can you buy, sell and trade stocks, you must also keep in shape and pamper your sweetheart, Prisela. All of these things take time, and managing your time is almost as important in this game as managing your money. All of these devices make Wall Street Kid realistic, yet smooth and enjoyable. The story drives the action well, and the Wall Street Kid runs into countless friends and scam artists that educate and entertain.

This game is slow-paced and fairly easy. However, something about its unique offerings and its tongue-in-cheek sarcasm is very attractive. Maybe I just like to play with money, even if it isn't real. ~ Jeff Irwin, All Game Guide

Cartoonish and mainly static, but enough to do the job. ~ Jeff Irwin, All Game Guide

Sound and graphics don't sell economic strategy games. ~ Jeff Irwin, All Game Guide

It has plot, it has mechanics, who could ask for anything more? ~ Jeff Irwin, All Game Guide

Playing with money is fun, period. ~ Jeff Irwin, All Game Guide