Ghosts'n Goblins (USA)

In the classic game Ghosts'n Goblins, players step into the shining armor of Sir Arthur, a brave knight on a perilous quest to rescue Princess Prin-Prin from the clutches of the Demon King Astaroth. This side-scrolling action platformer is legendary for its notoriously high difficulty.

The gameplay of Ghosts'n Goblins plunges players into a series of levels teeming with grotesque monsters and treacherous obstacles. Arthur begins his journey equipped with a gleaming suit of armor and a trusty lance. A defining characteristic of the game is Arthur's vulnerability: a single hit from an enemy will cause his armor to shatter, leaving him in nothing but his boxer shorts. Another hit after that results in instant death. This mechanic creates immense pressure, demanding careful movement and quick reflexes from the player.

Arthur can discover and utilize various weapons throughout his quest, including the standard lance, a fast dagger, a powerful axe, a short-range torch, and a holy cross. Each weapon possesses unique properties in terms of speed, trajectory, and damage output, requiring players to strategically choose the best armament for different enemy types and situations. The game's roster of enemies is diverse and relentless, ranging from shambling zombies that emerge from the ground, the infamous and agile Red Arremer (also known as Firebrand) that flies erratically, to one-eyed cyclops and ghostly apparitions.

The levels are intricately designed and incredibly challenging, guiding Arthur through eerie graveyards, cursed villages, icy caverns, and ultimately, the Demon King's castle. The formidable difficulty of Ghosts'n Goblins stems not only from the sheer number and aggression of its enemies but also from its precise platforming demands, requiring pixel-perfect jumps and constant adaptation to unending threats. Players are granted a very limited number of lives and continues, making each playthrough a true test of skill and patience.

A unique element that contributes to Ghosts'n Goblins' legendary status is the requirement to complete the game twice in a row to witness the true ending. The second playthrough is even more challenging than the first, demanding maximum concentration and perseverance. It stands as a truly iconic test for any gamer willing to prove their mettle.