Gegege no Kitarou 2 - Youkai Gundan no Chousen (Japan)

Gegege no Kitarou 2 - Youkai Gundan no Chousen is an action-adventure game with light RPG elements for the NES, putting players in the role of Kitaro, a benevolent yokai fighting to protect humanity from evil yokai. The game features a non-linear structure, allowing players to explore a vast world including an overworld map and various specific areas such as villages, forests, caves, and castles.

Core gameplay revolves around exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. Kitaro can move freely on the map, interacting with characters to gather information or receive quests. When encountering enemies, the game transitions to an action combat screen. Kitaro is equipped with signature weapons like the Hair Needle and the Remote Geta. Players need to use them skillfully to defeat different types of yokai, each with their own attack patterns and weaknesses.

A significant element is the day/night cycle, which affects enemy appearances and certain in-game events. Players can also collect supportive items throughout their adventure, including healing items, temporary power-ups, and essential items for puzzle-solving or unlocking new areas. There's a currency system allowing Kitaro to purchase items or upgrades at shops.

The ultimate goal is to gather allies, uncover the secrets of the yokai army, and defeat the final boss to restore peace. The game demands patience and exploration skills, with many secrets and hidden paths waiting to be discovered. The distinctive NES graphics and sound faithfully recreate Kitaro's mystical yokai world.