Hoshi o Miru Hito (Japan)

Hoshi o Miru Hito is a traditional role-playing game (RPG) for the NES, notable for its blend of open-world exploration and turn-based combat. Players take on the role of Nao, a special boy with the ability to "see the stars" (Hoshi o Miru Hito), which is also the core mechanic for increasing character power and abilities. Instead of traditional experience points gained from monsters, Nao needs to find special locations on the map to "gaze at stars" and level up, unlocking new stats and skills.

The gameplay of Hoshi o Miru Hito unfolds on a vast overworld map where players freely move and explore towns, dungeons, and wilderness areas. Traversing the overworld frequently leads to random encounters with enemies. The combat system is turn-based, where players select commands for Nao and any party members (if present). However, the game is infamous for its extreme difficulty; enemies are powerful, encounter rates are high, and party members are often weak and easily defeated, making progression incredibly challenging.

Another unique feature is the ability to fly across the overworld map, allowing players to access hard-to-reach areas or bypass certain battles. Despite its creative ideas, Hoshi o Miru Hito is often remembered for its lack of balance, unfriendly user interface, and unforgiving difficulty, creating an experience that is both unique and frustrating for players.