Esper Dream 2 - Aratanaru Tatakai (Japan)

Esper Dream 2 - Aratanaru Tatakai is a Japan-exclusive role-playing game (RPG) for the NES, serving as the sequel to the original Esper Dream. Players assume the role of an Esper, an individual possessing psychic abilities, in a fantastical world where they must confront dark forces threatening peace.

The core gameplay revolves around exploration and combat. Players navigate an overhead world map, exploring various towns, dungeons, and other distinct locations. In towns, you can interact with non-player characters (NPCs) to gather information, purchase items, and acquire essential equipment for your journey.

Upon encountering enemies, the game transitions into a turn-based combat screen. Each character in your party can utilize standard physical attacks or special Esper skills. The Esper skill system is a central highlight of the game, allowing players to cast a variety of psychic spells, ranging from area-of-effect attacks, single-target damage, to supportive spells that boost stats or heal allies. Strategically choosing and employing Esper skills is key to overcoming challenging battles.

After each battle, players earn experience points (EXP) and gold. Experience points help characters level up, which in turn enhances their core stats like strength and defense, and unlocks new, more powerful Esper abilities. Gold is used to purchase weapons, armor, and other accessories from shops, further improving the characters' combat capabilities. Dungeons in the game are often designed with minor puzzles, traps, and a higher density of enemies, requiring players to be well-prepared and employ sound strategies to progress.