Summary
The Treasure of Usas: A Journey of Emotion and Discovery
Released in 1987, The Treasure of Usas is a unique and challenging platformer that stands out from its contemporaries with its innovative emotional mechanic. Developed by Compile, the game follows the adventures of Wit and Cles, two young archaeologists who are searching for the four pieces of the shattered Jewel of Usas, a powerful artifact that can grant the possessor great knowledge and power.
The game is divided into five stages, each with its own unique setting and enemies. Wit and Cles must use their wits and agility to overcome obstacles, solve puzzles, and defeat the demons that guard the Jewel pieces. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of strange and wonderful creatures, from talking animals to mischievous fairies.
What sets The Treasure of Usas apart from other platformers is its emotional mechanic. At the top of the screen, players can see which emotion Wit and Cles are currently feeling. This emotion is important because it determines how they will interact with the world around them. For example, if Wit and Cles are feeling happy, they will be able to jump higher and run faster. If they are feeling sad, they will be more likely to slip and fall.
Players must carefully manage Wit and Cles’ emotions in order to progress through the game. They must use the environment to their advantage, finding ways to make Wit and Cles feel the emotions that they need to overcome each obstacle. For example, if Wit and Cles need to jump over a high wall, they can find a nearby flower that makes them feel happy, which will give them the extra boost they need to make the jump.
The emotional mechanic adds a layer of depth and strategy to The Treasure of Usas that is not found in other platformers. Players must think carefully about how to use the environment to their advantage, and how to manage Wit and Cles’ emotions in order to succeed.
In addition to its innovative emotional mechanic, The Treasure of Usas also features beautiful pixel art graphics and a catchy soundtrack. The game’s world is full of vibrant colors and imaginative creatures, and the music perfectly captures the game’s sense of adventure and wonder.
The Treasure of Usas was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it has since become a cult classic among retro gamers. The game’s unique gameplay and charming characters have made it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers today.
Tips for Playing The Treasure of Usas
- Pay attention to Wit and Cles’ emotions. The emotion that they are feeling will determine how they interact with the world around them.
- Use the environment to your advantage. Find ways to make Wit and Cles feel the emotions that they need to overcome each obstacle.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are multiple ways to solve each puzzle in The Treasure of Usas.
- Be patient. The game can be challenging at times, but it is also very rewarding.
Legacy of The Treasure of Usas
The Treasure of Usas has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. Its innovative emotional mechanic has been cited as an inspiration for other games, such as the Wario Land series and the more recent Celeste. The game’s charming characters and beautiful world have also made it a popular choice for fan art and同人誌(doujinshi) (self-published works).
The Treasure of Usas is a true classic of the platformer genre. Its unique gameplay, charming characters, and beautiful world have made it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers today. If you are a fan of platformers, or if you are simply looking for a unique and challenging game to play, then I highly recommend checking out The Treasure of Usas.
Additional Information
- The Treasure of Usas was originally released for the MSX2 computer in Japan. It was later ported to the NES, Game Boy, and Commodore 64.
- The game was developed by Compile, a Japanese video game developer that is best known for the Puyo Puyo series.
- The Treasure of Usas was composed by Yuzo Koshiro, a Japanese video game composer who is best known for his work on the Streets of Rage series.
- The game has been praised for its innovative emotional mechanic, charming characters, and beautiful world.
- The Treasure of Usas is considered to be a cult classic among retro gamers.
Review Score
7.5/10
