Dragon Wars (Japan)

Dragon Wars (Japanese NES version) is a turn-based role-playing game (RPG) where players create a party of up to four characters to embark on an adventure. Each character can be customized with stats such as strength, intelligence, dexterity, and endurance, as well as choosing one of four basic classes: Warrior, Mage, Cleric, or Thief. The initial class selection and stat allocation are crucial as they significantly impact the character's abilities throughout the game.

The world of Dragon Wars is presented from a first-person perspective when moving on the overworld map and within exploration areas like towns or dungeons. Players will navigate through complex labyrinths, solve puzzles, find treasures, and interact with non-player characters (NPCs) to gather information and receive quests. An auto-mapping system helps players avoid getting lost in large areas.

The combat system in Dragon Wars is turn-based. Upon encountering enemies, the screen transitions to a battle mode where your characters and the enemies take turns performing actions. Players can choose commands such as attack, cast spells, use items, or attempt to flee. Spellcasting requires magic points (MP), and there are various types of spells ranging from offensive and healing to supportive. Strategy is key, especially when facing powerful foes. After each victorious battle, the party gains experience points (EXP) and gold. Upon accumulating enough EXP, characters will level up, increasing their stats and learning new abilities.

Beyond combat and exploration, item and equipment management is also a vital part of the game. Players need to equip appropriate weapons and armor for each character to optimize their combat capabilities. Shops in towns are where items can be bought and sold, and health and magic can be restored. The main objective of Dragon Wars is to stop Namtar, an evil force threatening the world, by gathering powerful artifacts and confronting him in a final battle.