A Scathing Review of Nintendo SNES Rokudenashi Blues - Taiketsu! Tokyo Shitennou

Rokudenashi Blues is a classic action-adventure game developed by T&E Soft and published by Hudson Soft. The game was released in Japan for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1994 and has since become a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. However, the game's reputation as a "shitennou" or "warrior," is not exactly positive.

In Rokudenashi Blues, players take on the role of Shiki, a samurai who must navigate through feudal Japan, fighting against rival clans and completing quests to restore his honor. The game's story is largely forgettable, but its gameplay is where it shines. With fast-paced action sequences, challenging platforming sections, and a variety of magical abilities at Shiki's disposal, Rokudenashi Blues offers a thrilling experience for players looking for a good old-fashioned action-adventure game.

However, beneath its charming graphics and engaging gameplay, Rokudenashi Blues has several issues that make it a lesser game than it could have been. One of the biggest problems is the lack of character development in the story mode. Shiki's quest to restore his honor feels like a generic plot device, with little depth or complexity. The supporting characters are also woefully underdeveloped, making it difficult for players to become invested in their stories.

Another issue with Rokudenashi Blues is its difficulty level. While the game's action sequences can be challenging and rewarding, the platforming sections can be frustratingly hard at times. This is particularly true for the game's later stages, where the gameplay becomes increasingly difficult and unforgiving. Some players may find themselves getting stuck on certain levels or losing progress due to poor difficulty progression.

In terms of graphics and sound, Rokudenashi Blues holds up surprisingly well even today. The game's animation and character designs are colorful and charming, with a distinctive art style that sets it apart from other games of its era. The soundtrack is also memorable, with catchy jingles and themes that add to the game's overall atmosphere.

However, some may find the sound effects and voice acting to be somewhat lacking. While Shiki's voice actor does a decent job of conveying his emotions and personality, the supporting cast is woefully underdeveloped, making it difficult for players to become invested in their stories. The sound effects are also somewhat basic, with little variety or depth beyond Shiki's sword sounds and enemy grunts.

In terms of gameplay, Rokudenashi Blues offers a thrilling experience that will appeal to fans of action-adventure games. With fast-paced combat sequences, challenging platforming sections, and magical abilities at your disposal, there is plenty to keep players engaged for hours on end. However, the game's difficulty level can be frustratingly high at times, particularly in its later stages.

Overall, Rokudenashi Blues - Taiketsu! Tokyo Shitennou is a classic action-adventure game that holds up surprisingly well even today. While it has several issues, including a lack of character development and difficult platforming sections, the game's engaging gameplay and charming graphics make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

Age Rating:

Rokudenashi Blues - Taiketsu! Tokyo Shitennou is rated E (Everyone) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), making it suitable for players of all ages. However, due to its challenging difficulty level and violent gameplay sequences, parents are advised to use discretion when allowing children to play this game.

In Japan, the game was released in 1994 and received a rating of A (All Ages) from the Japanese Entertainment Software Rating Organization (ESKO). This rating indicates that the game is suitable for players of all ages, although it does warn against exposure to the game's violent content.

Availability:

Rokudenashi Blues - Taiketsu! Tokyo Shitennou is a classic game that can be found on various retro gaming platforms. The original SNES version is highly sought after by collectors and can fetch high prices online. However, there are also several emulated versions available for download on various websites.

Some popular emulation options include:

• Virtual Console (Wii)
• PlayStation Network (PS3)
• Xbox Live Arcade (Xbox 360)
• Steam (PC)
• SNES Classic Edition (SNES)

Note that some of these versions may not be entirely faithful to the original game, and players should exercise caution when downloading or purchasing emulation options.

Conclusion:

Rokudenashi Blues - Taiketsu! Tokyo Shitennou is a classic action-adventure game that holds up surprisingly well even today. While it has several issues, including a lack of character development and difficult platforming sections, the game's engaging gameplay and charming graphics make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

If you're looking for a challenging action-adventure game with a unique art style and memorable soundtrack, then Rokudenashi Blues is definitely worth checking out. However, be warned: this game can be frustratingly difficult at times, particularly in its later stages.