Compared to the original, the Special Edition's system design leans more towards the logic of modern action games. The most significant change is the overhaul of the "Energy System." Players no longer need to charge up while standing still; energy is now automatically accumulated by attacking enemies, which greatly improves the flow of combat. Character movements are more agile, with new air throws and downward kicks added, making combo possibilities incredibly diverse. Additionally, the "Transformation Card" system has been enhanced, allowing players to transform into the various monsters and demons found in the levels and use their unique abilities. More hidden paths and special treasures have been placed throughout the maps, and the difficulty ceiling of later stages has also been raised, especially when dealing with multiple bosses on-screen at once, which demands better positioning and resource management from the player.
In the Special Edition, the inputs for most special moves have been simplified. The key is to manage your energy gauge. Since charging up is no longer required, players should maintain an offensive rhythm. When the energy gauge is full, not only does your attack power increase, but you can also unleash your "Astral Projection" ability. It's recommended to use it the moment a boss gets up after being knocked down to take advantage of the invincibility frames and avoid their wake-up attack.
This version introduces a juggling mechanic. A basic combo recommendation is to start with "AA + Down-Forward+A" to launch the enemy, then follow up with a jump attack (C+A) or a specific magic treasure. Agile characters like Sun Wukong can use the corner for repeated looping attacks, which is a core technique for achieving high scores and quickly depleting a boss's HP.
After collecting monster cards dropped in a stage, you can transform by using a specific button combination. Transformed characters usually have massive attack hitboxes or screen-wide crowd control abilities. When surrounded by mobs of enemies, transforming is an excellent way to resolve the crisis and conserve your character's health.
The Special Edition is packed with hidden elements. In certain stages (like the Tongtian River), pay attention to background anomalies or specific impact points. Entering hidden rooms can reward you with items like the "Burrow Card" or powerful Five-Element treasures. Before facing the final boss, the Bull Demon King, be sure to stock up on enough magic treasures (especially the Heaven and Earth Fan and the Fire Fan). Using a rapid succession of treasures combined with a team-up attack can effectively suppress the boss's high-damage skills.
Arcade
SNES
MS-DOS
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
NES / Famicom
MS-DOS
Game Boy Advance
Nintendo DS
MS-DOS
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
Nintendo DS
NES / Famicom
Arcade
Game Boy Advance
Arcade
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Gameboy | Color
Game Boy Advance
Game Boy Advance
Gameboy | Color
Sega Mega Drive
Game Boy Advance
Nintendo DS
Game Boy Advance
Arcade
Nintendo DS
SNES
NES / Famicom
Arcade
Playstation
Nintendo DS
NES / Famicom
Game Boy Advance
Nintendo DS
Arcade
Sega 32X
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
Arcade
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
NES / Famicom
Nintendo DS
NES / Famicom
Arcade