Summary
- Release Year: 1985
- Genres: Arcade, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Arcade, Commodore C64/128/MAX, MSX, PlayStation 4, SG-1000, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Taito
- Publishers: DahJee, Imagine Software, Taito
The Legend of Kage (1985): A Ninja Classic
Released in arcades in 1985, The Legend of Kage is a side-scrolling action game developed by Taito. Players take control of Kage, a ninja on a quest to rescue his kidnapped princess. The game is known for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics.
Gameplay
The Legend of Kage is a side-scrolling action game in which players control Kage, a ninja armed with a kodachi shortsword and an unlimited supply of shuriken. Kage must fight his way through hordes of enemies, including ninjas, samurai, and demons, in order to rescue the princess.
Kage can attack enemies with his sword or shuriken. He can also use a variety of ninja techniques, such as jumping off walls, climbing ropes, and throwing smoke bombs. Kage can also collect power-ups, such as scrolls that allow him to kill enemies with a single touch, and crystal balls that increase his speed and power.
Levels
The Legend of Kage consists of six levels, each with its own unique theme and enemies. The levels are:
- The Forest
- The Cave
- The Castle
- The Tower
- The Throne Room
- The Final Battle
Each level is filled with traps and hazards, and Kage must use all of his skills to survive. The levels also feature a variety of boss battles, each with its own unique attack patterns.
Graphics and Sound
The Legend of Kage is known for its iconic graphics. The game’s characters and backgrounds are all rendered in a colorful and detailed pixel art style. The game’s soundtrack is also memorable, and features a variety of catchy tunes.
Legacy
The Legend of Kage was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics. The game has been ported to a variety of home consoles, and has been included in several retro game compilations.
The Legend of Kage is considered to be one of the greatest ninja games of all time. The game’s influence can be seen in many later ninja games, including the Ninja Gaiden series and the Tenchu series.
Tips for Playing The Legend of Kage
Here are a few tips for playing The Legend of Kage:
- Use your shuriken wisely. Shuriken are your main weapon, and they can be used to attack enemies from a distance. However, shuriken are not very powerful, so you need to use them carefully.
- Don’t be afraid to use your ninja techniques. Kage can use a variety of ninja techniques, such as jumping off walls, climbing ropes, and throwing smoke bombs. These techniques can be used to avoid enemies, reach new areas, and attack enemies from unexpected angles.
- Collect power-ups. Power-ups can give Kage a variety of advantages, such as increased speed, power, and invincibility. Be sure to collect any power-ups that you find.
- Be patient. The Legend of Kage is a challenging game, and you will need to be patient if you want to beat it. Don’t get discouraged if you die a few times. Just keep practicing and you will eventually succeed.
Conclusion
The Legend of Kage is a classic ninja game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and iconic graphics make it a must-play for fans of retro games.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
