Sakata Gorou Kudan no Renju Kyoushitsu (Japan) (GBC)

Sakata Gorou Kudan no Renju Kyoushitsu is a Renju (also known as Gomoku) game developed for the Game Boy Color, focusing on teaching and training advanced board game skills. Named after Sakata Gorou, a renowned Renju player, the game offers an educational and challenging experience for players of all levels.

The core gameplay revolves around placing black or white stones on a 15x15 board with the objective of forming an unbroken line of five stones horizontally, vertically, or diagonally before your opponent. A key distinction of Renju from standard Gomoku lies in its "forbidden moves" for the black player (the first player). These include forbidden "three-and-three" (two open three-in-a-rows), "four-and-four" (two open four-in-a-rows), and "overlines" (more than five stones in a row). Players must master these rules to achieve victory.

The "Kyoushitsu" (Classroom) mode is the heart of the game, where players are guided by Sakata Gorou through various lessons and board situations. Lessons range from basic rules and opening strategies to more complex tactics such as creating attack formations, defending effectively, and identifying crucial moves. The game provides a wide array of puzzle challenges (tsume-renju) that require players to find the optimal move to win or defend a position.

Beyond the learning mode, players can practice their skills by competing against the computer AI at various difficulty levels, or challenge themselves with pre-set board scenarios. The graphics are simple yet clear, well-suited for the GBC screen, making it easy for players to follow the game. Sound design is minimalistic but effective, fostering a focused atmosphere. This is an excellent title for anyone who enjoys Gomoku/Renju and wishes to enhance their proficiency.