Defenders of Oasis

Game Details:

Developed and published by Sega, this title became one of the few native RPGs on the Game Gear platform, first released in Japan on September 18, 1992, and later ported to the 3DS Virtual Store. The game features an overhead perspective, allowing players to explore villages, castles, and other locations, interact with NPCs, and purchase upgraded equipment and recovery items. Battles employ a turn-based command system, with a maximum of three enemies on screen. The characters include the Prince, the Elf, the sailor Salim, and the thief Argma, each with unique skills. The Elf cannot level up and only improves stats and magical abilities through strengthening the Magic Lamp. An auto-save feature saves progress before each battle, preventing save data loss. The game's visuals are outstanding on the Game Gear, with positive reviews for its BGM and sound effects. Although the battle animations are static, the game is still considered a handheld classic.

Editor's Recommendation:

"Defenders of Oasis" stands out in the 1990s RPGs, which were mostly European-themed, with its unique Arabian mythology and gentle art style. Although the Game Gear is an 8-bit handheld, this game showcases impressive performance with its exquisite graphics, rich storyline, and character ability settings, capable of captivating players both in terms of story exploration and team composition. The auto-save feature enhances the convenience of handheld use, allowing for worry-free gaming even on the go. With its compact structure and smooth adventure pace, it is a highly recommended handheld RPG masterpiece, whether you're revisiting a classic or experiencing it for the first time.

Game Guide:

① Elf Magic Lamp Path Enhancement

The Elf cannot improve stats through experience; only by purchasing Magic Lamp enhancement materials (such as silk, gilding, plating, etc.) to increase HP/MP/attack power/defense. It is especially important to prioritize accumulating coins to purchase "silk" (+MP) and "gilding" or "plating" (+HP/defense).

② Reasonable Use of Character Skills

The four characters each have unique features: the Prince can escape (useful in dangerous levels), Salim can use dance skills on all enemies, Argma specializes in single-target high-damage "assault", and the Elf masters healing and buff magic. It is recommended to reasonably use these skills in battle, such as using Salim's AOE to clear weak enemies in the first round, and then having the Elf heal or control the field.

③ Grasp the Rhythm of Random Encounters

Random encounters are frequent, and battles can sometimes be difficult to avoid. Prioritize obtaining escape magic (drops in the mid-to-late game or from shops) to reduce the consumption of ineffective battles. If necessary, repeatedly battle before the save point to accumulate resources and then charge the main storyline.

④ Equipment and Item Priorities

Each time you reach a town, remember to switch equipment: the Prince and Salim prioritize attack power, Argma prioritizes speed and attack. The Elf depends on the magic bottles or scrolls available in the shop to ensure combat sustainability. Key items in treasure chests must be recovered in time—especially the materials for enhancing the Magic Lamp.

⑤ Boss Battles and Terrain Response

Bosses usually combine high-damage magic and physical attacks. Keep the Elf at the end of the team and save enough MP for critical heals or buffs. The Prince in the team also needs to pay attention to the timing of escape to avoid being wiped out by the Boss. The exploration of mazes and the operation of mechanisms related to the terrain also require the cooperation of the entire team to advance; it is not recommended to rush.

⑥ Make Good Use of Pre-Battle Auto-Save

The game will auto-save before entering battle. If you lose a battle, you can return to the state before the battle. It is recommended to frequently take a short break and then try a frontal assault strategy.