In *Magic Sword*, players must not only face complex traps and endless monsters on each floor of the tower but also enhance the power of their magic sword by collecting Soul Stones. The game's most distinctive feature is its "Companion System," where players can free eight allies of different classes—such as the Amazon Warrior, Mage, Ninja, and Knight—by opening their cages. These allies will automatically follow the player, attack alongside them, and have their own independent leveling progress. The tower contains numerous hidden paths and bonus rooms, and this non-linear level exploration design was remarkably deep for arcade games of its time, offering players significant replay value.
Different classes are suited for different situations. Beginners are recommended to prioritize rescuing the Amazon Warrior or the Ninja. The former has a wide attack range and is fast, while the latter possesses a ranged attack that can penetrate walls. When facing levels with many flying units, the Mage's wide-area magic attack is the best choice for clearing the screen.
There is an energy bar at the bottom of the screen. When the bar is full, the magic sword can unleash a powerful ranged sword wave. If you continuously mash the attack button, the energy bar will not charge, and your attack range will be significantly reduced. Therefore, when clearing out mobs, pause rhythmically between attacks to ensure each swing produces an energy wave, allowing you to maintain a safe combat distance.
The game drops gems of different colors, such as red, blue, and yellow. They can temporarily boost the attack or defense of the player or their companion. Before entering a boss battle room, try to save these buffs.
Although the tower has many floors, some levels have shortcuts or hidden treasure chests. Attacking specific spots on walls may reveal large health potions or powerful equipment. Especially after the 30th floor, the damage from traps is extremely high, so be sure to use your shield (hold the attack button to defend) to reduce health loss.
Drokmar has multiple attack forms, so avoid getting greedy with your attacks when fighting him. It is recommended to bring a max-level Priest companion, as their defensive shield can block his fatal energy orb attacks for you.
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
SNES
Playstation
Nintendo DS
Arcade
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Nintendo DS
Gameboy | Color
Game Boy Advance
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
Arcade
Playstation
Nintendo DS
NES / Famicom
Arcade
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Gameboy | Color
SNES
Gameboy | Color
Sega Mega Drive
Nintendo DS
Game Boy Advance
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
Arcade
Playstation
Nintendo DS
NES / Famicom