Aesthetics. The first impression is pure aesthetics.

Visually the idea of blending pre-rendered super deformed small chibi units on a textured 'realistic' world map would sound preposterous- but instead was pulled off majestically. A truly unique looking strategy RPG, heavy on the tactical battles rather story, complete with a shredding soundtrack.

One of the most straight-forward RPG I've played, but with its simplicity comes managing battle stats, items, weapons, and armor. One item even allows the player to capture the enemy to have them join your party to fight along side you. Another interesting move is the combo attack where you must connect to a fellow party member of the same armor type to dish out a devastation spell that damages multiple enemies or in other cases heal multiple allies. Appreciate save option that is readily available during a stage and when you exit a stage on the world map. Only drawback is the final few stage layouts become disorienting since you must rely on warps to find your way around.

If you're looking for a pick-up and play tactical RPG this is for you.

Addictive gameplay especially in 2-player multiplayer mode. Essentially a capture the flag objective- by running into, tagging your opponent you can regain access to flags. You have have a unlimited gun attack that slows your opponent down, no life bars in this game instead whoever reaches the flag goal wins. Several magic abilities you can use by collecting according colored pellets scattered throughout the stage; speed increase, teleport to nearest re-spawn station, and slow attack to slow down your rival. Average audio, music, cut scenes, with slightly above average gameplay and graphics that get the job done. Plenty of levels, only negative critique is you cannot unlock bosses to play as in 2-player mode, and the stage select is random.

It's easy to scoff at the early use of 3D polygons blending with 2D sprites but this was released in 1995. It utilizes the systems strengths of polygonal textures, multiple camera angle choices, and a unique time-lapse feature. The battle system is to the point with your usual turn-based style although having obstacles like trees and shrubs in the way where you must plan your next move or attack.

Your journey begins right away- you quickly become familiar with the menus, towns, and map. Average story-line that progresses with the allies you meet. At times becomes predicable, and is lacking optional side missions. Majority of the caves are linear with a few routes leading to hidden treasures but nothing additional. The soundtrack is a major stand-out and high point of the game as well.

Overall a quaint role-playing game on your quest to rescue your master and defeat Death Shadow.

Tricky cute'em up! Starts off as your average early horizontal shooter equipped with homing missiles. Unique items such as the bow-tie that increases your missile ability, what appears to be ancient sake cups increases your score, carrots for health, and the rare Tanuki statue that renders you invincible for a short time while flashing and glowing in bright rainbow colors. Fair life bar, and continue options. Now here comes the tricky parts - some items can get stuck on the bottom ground frame that will become unattainable. A few spoilers ahead the final two stages have their share of surprises with an unexpected progression to reveal the final boss.

It's easy to brush this off as an un-finished tech demo compilation complete with previews of upcoming games by WARP- but it is complete if you give it time. Ring-out gameplay by shooting your opponent in order to stun them then rushing towards your opponent to bump them off the stage to win. Each map has random item such as lightning, poison, kisses with unique attributes. Later levels have teleport portals to maneuver on-coming attacks. Average gameplay including 2P multiplayer mode with a solid frame-rate.