This game, released by Nihon Falcom in 1991 in Japan, is a side-view action RPG. Players take on the role of the bounty hunter female swordsman Mail, embarking on an adventure to track down the great wizard, Muttonhead, who has become a wanted criminal.

In the game, players will use weapons and projectiles to attack, and make use of jumps to progress. There are also puzzle elements such as pushing blocks to create platforms, offering various challenges to entertain players.

Additionally, as companions join the adventure, players can switch characters at any time and place to fight. Key points in the game feature tense battles with boss characters, adding to the excitement.

Search for the legendary sword “Dragon Slayer” and defeat the dragon! Now with enhanced graphics and BGM compared to the original version.

A remake of the classic action RPG “Xanadu” has arrived—designed for ultra-heavy users, even seasoned Xanadu experts are sure to struggle!

Released by Random House in 1985 in Japan, Riglas is a side-view RPG. Players take on the role of a young Osborne tribe boy named May, as he unravels the secrets of Beljuna.

While the game system involves moving with directional buttons and attacking with the A button, making it seem like a standard action RPG at first glance, the importance of key items related to conversations and the scenario gives the game a strong adventure game flavor.

Noteworthy features for its time include side-view graphics with a sense of depth, beautiful scrolling, a grand world setting, and NPCs who don't repeat the same dialogue—earning the game high praise.

This title is a culmination of the creator's techniques. It's a must-play for retro RPG fans.

Set in a world where the power of the gods, Sail, is waning, you will embark on an adventure as Leen Kashua.

Embark on an epic adventure set in the world of Rune Worth. This game features a unique spell system where casting spells requires time to chant before activation.

Released in 1988 by COMPILE for the MSX2 in Japan, this action RPG is an enhanced version of "Golvellius" which was released for the MSX the previous year. In this game, players take on the role of the knight Kelesis, who embarks on an adventure to rescue Princess Rena in the Valley of Monsters while searching for his sister.

This game is known for its brisk action and features changing stages depending on the game scene. Players can enjoy an adventurous and combative experience in "field screen" mode, which allows free movement in eight directions, progress through "side-scrolling screens" by utilizing attacks and jumps, and advance upward in "vertical scrolling screens" reminiscent of shooting or racing games, providing an exciting gameplay experience.

While the game can be challenging due to tough enemies requiring rapid button pressing, and some dead ends in scrolling screens that might be considered "cheap deaths", it remains a highly recommended title for fans of Compile and those who seek a challenging action RPG experience.

This game, released in 1988 in Japan, is a simulation game. The player takes on the role of Prince Lancelot, who rises to reclaim Camelot Castle.

The game uses a strategy map to move troops, and when engaging enemy forces on the map, it switches to a real-time battle system where soldiers fight in real-time. Although it may initially seem like an RTS, each character has a defined personality, with injured characters choosing to leave the battlefield to rest, and archers trying to maintain distance from the enemy. Some units are stubborn and refuse to retreat, adding a layer of individuality to the battlefield. This personality system leads to diverse and dynamic combat scenarios. Additionally, characters can level up and become stronger through repeated battles, adding an element of character progression.

The game also features a narrative aspect, with scenarios where traveling across various battlefields and regions can increase allies and obtain new equipment. Occasionally, boss battles occur, offering dramatic and engaging adventures. This game successfully combines the best elements of simulation and RPG systems.

As the first title in the Gochakara series, it continues to be supported by retro game fans. It's a highly recommended title for players who enjoy both simulation and narrative-driven RPG elements.

Sorcerian is an action RPG released in Japan by Nihon Falcom in 1987.

As the fifth installment in the company's Dragon Slayer series, players create characters from four races: Fighter, Wizard, Dwarf, and Elf, forming parties of up to four members to embark on adventures across 15 scenarios. With a wide array of weapons and 120 types of magic at their disposal, players explore diverse challenges.

Each player character has a set lifespan, and upon reaching the end of their life, they can pass on their abilities to the next generation through succession. The game features intricate systems such as career choices outside of adventuring, where characters receive annual salaries and undergo changes in their abilities as time passes.

Moreover, the scenarios offer a variety of challenges beyond traditional monster-slaying and dungeon exploration, providing a unique satisfaction in completing individual stories rather than pursuing a single overarching narrative.

The seamless integration of these systems and scenarios allows players to fully immerse themselves in the world of Sorcerian, making it a deeply enjoyable experience for those who seek to delve into every aspect of the game.

Inheriting the gameplay of 'Shin Maou Golvellius' but set in a unique world. Now, time to embark on your culinary quest!?

The brave warrior Tritorn rises to bring peace back to the Isle of Luwanda. A celebrated Action RPG classic from the early era of PC gaming!

The dawn of the Gagharv Trilogy. Join Jurio and Chris to uncover the truth behind the White Witch!

In this masterpiece action RPG, the brave warrior Triton rises to restore peace to Luwanda Island. The MSX version features different strategies!

Released in Japan by SEIN SOFT in 1985, this side-scrolling action RPG follows the adventures of the brave warrior Tritorn. Players take control of Tritorn as he battles numerous monsters to restore peace to the island of Luwanda, which is under the control of the tyrant Pay-Valusa.

Tritorn primarily fights using jumps and sword strikes. By anticipating the enemy's movements, he will swing his sword, and executing a sword strike from a jump inflicts double damage, showcasing an advanced technique. Furthermore, as Tritorn grows, he learns magic, allowing him to halt enemy movements or instantly eliminate them.

While the game is an action RPG, it's not just about defeating enemies. There are puzzle-solving elements incorporated, where defeating specific enemies in consecutively rewards players with items. Some puzzles may be challenging, but they add depth to the gameplay.

With its fast-paced action, skill-based combat, engaging puzzles, and the ability to learn three different magic spells as Tritorn grows, this game offers a rich experience for action RPG enthusiasts. Even those new to the genre are encouraged to give this a try.

The third installment of "Ys" with even more action-packed elements! Two years after the Ys adventure. Save Dogi's hometown, Felghana, from the clutches of evil!

This is an action RPG released in Japan by Nihon Falcom in 1989. The subtitle 'WANDERERS FROM Ys' marks this installment as an ambitious project that incorporates new elements. The perspective has shifted from a 'half-top view' to a 'side view,' and the method of attack has changed from physical collisions to swinging a sword, allowing for a variety of actions.

Furthermore, magic serves merely as a complement to combat and the outcome of battles relies on the player's skill. Adol's growth can be seen as a testament to one's own improvement.

Of course, the concept of the Ys series as "RPGs enjoyable for everyone" remains intact. Alongside its engaging storyline, the game features beautiful background visuals with "multi-scrolling" and lively music, making it a finely crafted masterpiece down to the smallest details.

In 1990, Micro Cabin released the action RPG Xak II in Japan, set three years after the battle with Badu from the previous game. The story begins with Latok Kart, who lives with his mother, setting out on a journey to the town of Banuwa after hearing rumors of someone resembling his missing father.

This installment stands out for its emphasis on higher action gameplay compared to its predecessor. While the previous game's attack method relied on body slams, this time, players can swing swords, shoot force shots, and the introduction of jumping adds a sense of depth to the field.

Another noteworthy feature is the new "Karma" parameter. This parameter increases when you defeat monsters, and if it gets too high, it's considered excessive killing, and you won’t gain any experience points. However, there’s a way to reduce karma by visiting a church, so don’t forget to stop by after your adventures.

The "VR System," which was praised in the previous game for its beautiful, deep visuals, is still present. The multi-directional scrolling and visual effects, like clouds drifting across water surfaces, surpass the previous game's achievements. The game also includes features like displaying characters as semi-transparent when they’re hidden behind buildings and more refined parameter displays. Xak II is a meticulously crafted game, recommended for those who want to enjoy high-action gameplay and the well-developed world of Xak.

"Xak" released in 1989, gained attention as Micro Cabin's first action RPG.

Notably, the game features a "VR system" that enables three-dimensional and immersive visuals. This system allows characters and buildings to be portrayed naturally, bringing the game world to life.

With engaging battles against a diverse range of monsters, catchy background music, and impressive vertical-scrolling areas, the game is filled with exciting elements.

Its fast-paced gameplay and responsive controls contribute to the high praise received from many players.

The world of Xak, realistically depicted through its unique system, offers a dramatic and action-packed RPG experience.
This title is recommended for those who enjoy immersive and dynamic RPGs.

Will Latok be able to conquer the Tower of Gazel? Make full use of your support members to overcome formidable foes and tricky puzzles!

Obtain the legendary sword "Dragon Slayer" and defeat the King Dragon! The latest MSX version features UI changes and balance adjustments!

This is the sequel to "Xanadu" released in 1985 in Japan. Like its prevous title, it is a side-view action RPG. The player once again sets out to defeat the King Dragon "Galsis," who has been resurrected despite having been defeated before.

The combat system features real-time weapon attacks through physical contact and manually guided magic. The game retains the dual experience points system for warriors and mages, allowing players to develop their characters' unique traits based on which experience points they focus on. Additionally, weapons, armor, and magic have their own experience points, increasing in effectiveness with use. While these systems follow the previous game's mechanics, this installment introduces new elements such as traps with upside-down icicles, poison that doesn't decrease karma when consumed, maps requiring high action skills, new bosses, and monsters. These features elevate the difficulty to a level that many RPG fans will find challenging and satisfying.

Among Japanese PC games, this title boasts a significantly high difficulty level. Despite its challenge, the game's addictive fun can only be described as superb.

A grand story unfolds in the ancient kingdom of Ys. The raging development that unravels the many settings inherited from the previous title is a must-see!

"Ys II," an action RPG released by Nihon Falcom in 1988, with its catchphrase "From kindness to excitement." Known for its well-crafted storyline, user-friendly game system, and refined sound, the game became a major hit. Even today, with new releases, the name "Ys" is familiar to many gaming enthusiasts.

In this game, Adol Christin, the red-haired adventurer who collected the six Books of Ys in the previous game, is guided to the sky world by the magic of the books. Here, he delves into the mysteries of the ancient kingdom of Ys.

Retaining the simple gameplay style of physical attacks from the previous game, Ys II introduces the additional element of magic, making battles more dynamic. The inclusion of movement magic expands the narrative scale without compromising the pace of the adventure, adding excitement to the game.

Among the magical elements, the ability to "converse with monsters" stands out.
This essential magic is integral to advancing in the game, offering glimpses into the daily lives of diverse and interesting monsters.

Notable improvements include faster processing speed compared to the previous game, automatic position correction when entering doors, the use of kanji characters in messages, and minor yet thoughtful changes. The game features a thrilling opening animation, more dramatic event scenes, and unique, intense boss battles. With its evolutionary enhancements, "Ys II" lives up to the expectations set by its predecessor.

Playing both games together amplifies the overall enjoyment. For those seeking a high-quality action RPG experience, "Ys II" is highly recommended.

This is an action RPG released by Nihon Falcom in 1987 in Japan. Players take on the role of Adol Christin, a red-haired adventurer, as he embarks on a journey to seek the six Books of Ys.

At the time of its release, the PC gaming industry was saturated with challenging RPGs. However, Nihon Falcom took a different approach with this game, releasing it with the concept of "Now, it's the era to bring kindness in RPGs," aiming to create an RPG that everyone could enjoy.

The game features clever level-up settings that eliminate the hassle of grinding for experience points, the removal of unreasonable traps, and agile characters that move smoothly. With numerous thoughtful design choices, the game can be enjoyed comfortably, and it is not an exaggeration to say that it is filled with "kindness," as the tagline suggests.

The MSX2 version differs from the original in several ways, including modified graphics for shops and changes to boss attacks (such as the number of scythes wielded by Pictimos). Additionally, the BGM uses PSG sound, with some tracks replaced by PSG-exclusive compositions. By paying attention to these differences, you might discover new aspects of Ys that add to its charm.

This is an action RPG released by Nihon Falcom in 1987.

Players take on the role of Adol Christin, a red-haired adventurer, as he embarks on a journey to seek the six Books of Ys.

At the time of its release, the PC gaming industry was saturated with challenging RPGs. However, Nihon Falcom took a different approach with this game, releasing it with the concept of ""Now, it's the era to bring kindness in RPGs,"" aiming to create an RPG that everyone could enjoy.

The game features clever level-up settings that eliminate the hassle of grinding for experience points, the removal of unreasonable traps, and agile characters that move smoothly. With numerous thoughtful design choices, the game can be enjoyed comfortably, and it is not an exaggeration to say that it is filled with ""kindness,"" as the tagline suggests.

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