Ghouls 'n Ghosts

Game Details:

A true arcade classic, Ghouls 'n Ghosts not only took a quantum leap in graphics compared to its predecessor but also deeply innovated its gameplay mechanics. The game features five main stages and the final Demon's Hall, with meticulously crafted level design that includes forests, windmills, frozen mountains, and terrifying nests of flesh. Arthur can charge and unleash magic by picking up the Gold Armor, with each weapon corresponding to a different magical effect. The game's most infamous yet challenging design is its "second loop" requirement: after defeating the initial final boss, players must replay all the stages with a specific weapon to face the true final boss, Lucifer, and achieve the perfect ending. Its punishing hit detection and randomized enemy spawns remain a touchstone for hardcore players to prove their skills even today.

Strategy Guide:

Weapon Priority:

In Ghouls 'n Ghosts, your choice of weapon determines your survival rate. The Dagger is widely considered the best weapon; its high rate of fire and straight trajectory allow you to clear enemies ahead in a very short time. The Lance is the next best, offering balanced stats. Try to avoid picking up the Torch or the Sword; the former has an awkward trajectory and causes recovery lag, while the latter has a very short attack range, easily leading to Arthur being overwhelmed.

Gold Armor and Magic Use:

When wearing the Gold Armor, you can charge your attack by holding down the attack button. Different weapons correspond to different magic. For example, the Discus grants a "Mirror Image" spell that creates a clone, while the Dagger's "Fire Dragon" magic can strike the entire screen. When facing large bosses like the Cyclops or Red Arremer, the instantaneous burst damage from magic is often the key to victory.

Key Tips:

The Second Loop and the Psycho Cannon: To beat the game, the most crucial piece of information is that after completing your first playthrough, you must enter the second loop to find the "Psycho Cannon." This is the only weapon in the entire game that can damage the final boss. If you reach the end of the second loop without this weapon, you will be forced back to an earlier stage.

Positioning:

This game allows you to attack upwards. When facing monstrous birds or bats diving from above, reacting quickly and throwing your weapon upwards is a basic maneuver. Additionally, Arthur cannot change direction in mid-air, so before every jump, you must anticipate whether your landing spot has traps or newly spawned ghouls.