Golden Axe Warrior

Game Details:

Golden Axe Warrior is a spin-off of SEGA's classic arcade action game Golden Axe, but the gameplay is completely different. Unlike the side-scrolling beat 'em up style of the original, this game adopts an overhead perspective and an open-world structure, with the overall gameplay clearly influenced by The Legend of Zelda (especially the original). Players will control an unnamed warrior who, in order to avenge the king and his family slaughtered by Death Adder, embarks on a quest to find nine "Crystals" and eventually enters the castle to battle the Boss.

The game includes multiple towns and NPC dialogue systems, and puzzles need to be solved, keys and special items (such as axes, candles, boats, etc.) need to be found within the maze to pass. The combat system is mainly melee combat, supplemented by magic attacks, and equipment and HP can be enhanced step by step by purchasing with coins or exploring the maze. Although the game is not the main series, it is well-made and is a rare ARPG masterpiece in the later period of Master System.

Editor's Recommendation:

If you like the classic "exploration + puzzle solving + combat" gameplay of The Legend of Zelda, then Golden Axe Warrior will definitely surprise you. Although it bears the IP of Golden Axe, the game style is completely different, leaning more towards adventure puzzle solving and system growth. The game has a huge map, nine exquisitely designed mazes, a gradually growing protagonist, and a rich magic system, injecting a force of RPG into the Master System at the time. More importantly, its attention to detail is no less than that of Nintendo's works. For players who like retro action RPGs, this is a rare masterpiece that is not well-known.

Game Guide:

I. Starting Suggestions

• It is recommended to explore the surrounding villages first to obtain basic weapons and armor, and learn fire magic (Flame Magic) as soon as possible, which can quickly clear enemies in the maze.
• Coin acquisition depends on monster farming in the early stage, it is recommended to repeatedly level up and accumulate money in the grasslands or caves where enemies spawn.

II. Map and Maze Routes

• The game has 9 mazes, it is recommended to challenge them in numerical order. Each maze has corresponding hidden keys and special items (such as boats or prop axes) to enter the next area.
• The map is not linearly designed. Most areas need to be unlocked through special items (such as breaking stone walls). It is recommended to record the terrain and the position of the doors at any time.

III. Item and Magic Management

• Magic is divided into fire, lightning, and wind, etc., and needs to accumulate "Magic Pots" to release. Different magic has different effects on the Boss, and lightning does more damage to enemies in the later stages.
• Some powerful items, such as the "Wisdom Helmet" or "Dragon Sword", need to be obtained from specific NPCs or side events. Missing them easily leads to insufficient combat power in the later stages.

IV. Boss Battles and Difficulties

• Each maze's Boss has a fixed attack rhythm and weaknesses, and maintaining movement to avoid head-on battles is key. For example, the Boss of the 5th maze will teleport, and you need to use magic for remote strikes.
• The final Boss Death Adder is divided into two stages of battle. It is recommended to retain all Magic Pots and prepare the strongest equipment before challenging.

V. Saving and Continuing Techniques

The original game uses a password system, it is recommended to record it after clearing each maze to avoid having to replay due to accidental death.