Introduce
Hiryuu no Ken III - 5 Nin no Dragon is a unique title on the NES, seamlessly blending adventure role-playing game (RPG) elements with a distinctive fighting game combat system. Unlike previous installments which primarily focused on fighting, this third iteration significantly expands the game world, allowing players to control the main character, Ryuhi, and explore a vast map in an adventure style.
In the RPG segment, players navigate a world map, visit towns, converse with non-player characters (NPCs) to gather information, accept quests, and purchase items. Ryuhi will encounter various types of enemies in areas such as forests, caves, and castles. Upon encountering an enemy, the game transitions to a 1-on-1 fighting screen, which is the signature highlight of the series.
The fighting system in Hiryuu no Ken III - 5 Nin no Dragon is quite unique. It's not just about basic attacks but also features special moves and a "Ki" (energy) system. Players can execute various types of attacks, from basic punches and kicks to more complex martial arts techniques. Interestingly, these techniques can be upgraded or learned through the leveling-up process and interactions within the RPG portion of the game.
Each battle requires strategic thinking, knowing when to attack, when to defend, and when to unleash special moves. Special moves typically consume Ki points, so managing energy is crucial. When Ryuhi wins a battle, he earns experience points (EXP) and money. Experience points help Ryuhi level up, which in turn increases his stats such as strength, defense, and speed. These stat improvements directly impact Ryuhi's effectiveness in the fighting encounters.
The game's storyline revolves around Ryuhi's journey to confront the "Five Dragons" (5 Nin no Dragon), malevolent forces threatening the world. Players will need to overcome numerous challenges, solve minor puzzles, and defeat powerful bosses to progress towards the ultimate goal. The combination of world exploration, character development, and intense fighting battles creates a rich and engaging gameplay experience.