Willow

Game Details:

This title is one of Capcom's earlier, excellent licensed arcade adaptations. The game features a tight progression with 6 stages, covering enchanted forests, frozen castles, and the final tower showdown. Unlike the action RPG gameplay of the home console (NES) version, the arcade version leans more towards pure action-shooting and hack-and-slash. Throughout the game, players can collect coins to purchase various powerful magic buffs (like multi-directional shots, homing fireballs, etc.) or health-upgrading items from shops. The character's hit detection is precise, and the boss battles are imaginatively designed, especially the giant two-headed dragon and the queen's transformed state, which showcased a very high visual standard for its time.

Game Guide:

Character Selection & Traits:

The game does not involve controlling both characters simultaneously; instead, you are either forced to switch or given the option to switch depending on the stage. **Willow** attacks with ranged magic projectiles. His long attack range is balanced by a limited firing rate, making him suitable for kiting. **Madmartigan** uses a short sword. His attack range is close, but his power and reach (especially the upward hit-box) are excellent.

Shop Priorities:

Coins are the most important resource in the game. When you enter a shop, prioritize items that increase your health (Hearts), as healing options are very limited in this game. The next priority is upgrading your magic level (Magic Power). Higher-level magic not only covers a larger area of the screen but also significantly shortens the duration of boss fights.

Core Combat Tips:

• Charged Attack: Hold down the attack button from a safe distance to unleash a more powerful single shot. This is very effective against elite enemies with high health.
• Using the Environment: Many stages have verticality. Using the terrain to block enemy projectiles and clearing enemies on upper platforms with upward attacks is key to reducing the difficulty.
• Scavenging for Coins: Certain hidden background objects (like trees or torches) can be attacked to drop large amounts of coins. Be sure to accumulate as much money as possible in the first stage to get a head start at the shops in the second stage and beyond.

Boss Battle Tips:

When facing the final boss, Bavmorda, don't get greedy with your attacks. In the queen's first phase, she primarily tests you with ranged fireballs. Stay in the middle of the screen and use vertical jumps to dodge, then look for openings after her attacks to counter. When she transforms for her second phase, prioritize clearing out the minions she summons to ensure you have enough space to dodge her screen-wide magic attacks.