NES RYGAR

When all the other platforms attempted to convert arcade Rygar, the NES took a different approach. This one isn't like the arcade at all so it deserves a section of its own. It keeps the same Rygar character, the weapon and a few of the monsters but the rest has been redone with a kind of RPG element. At first I didn't like it but then I realised that it was better this than another mess. The gameplay is more like Black Tiger in that it's a platformer but the levels are up/down scrolling too as well as left/right and you can also find hermits who are willing to help you out (similar to the shopkeepers). The various areas of the land are linked up by a stage with a top down view (pictured above right). The game is energy based and it also hides various special objects which help you such as a crossbow and grappling hook. Some of the graphics could have done with a bit more use of colour and detail but this isn't really important. Once you get into this game you'll know it's by far the best Rygar conversion. I personally still prefer the arcade version but the NES one is a top game in its own right and was the only real continuation from the first arcade game. To be fair it really needs a whole page devoted to it to do it justice...

And there's just that! You can read a great text FAQ here wrote by Jay McGavern. An updated HTML Version and a Level Editor can be found on his page at Rage Games. Make sure you check out these too 'cos they rock! Thanks for that Jay! There's also another good site here http://s2.rpgclassics.com/rygar/ .

The japanese version of this is called Algos no Senshi. Apart from the text being in japanese (obviously) I haven't found any in game differences yet except that the first two levels have different music to the US one.

I got hold of a second hand copy of this game and there's always a few going at Ebay for a couple of dollars. From what I've found on the web it's also supported by various NES emu's such as NESTicle and Kiwi. If you buy a second hand copy with no manual and need a copy click here to download one.