Metal Max (Japan)

Metal Max on the NES is a unique role-playing game set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity survives amidst ruins and dangerous mutant monsters. Players take on the role of a bounty hunter, with the primary objective of tracking down and eliminating "Wanted" creatures to receive rewards.

A distinctive feature of Metal Max is its focus on combat vehicles – tanks. Players not only fight on foot but can also drive tanks, equipping and customizing them with various weapons, armor, and engines. Each tank has specific slots for its main cannon, sub-weapons, and special equipment, allowing for diverse tactical approaches.

The combat system is turn-based, whether fighting on foot or inside a tank. When inside a tank, damage is absorbed by the vehicle's armor first. Players can recruit companions such as a mechanic to repair tanks or a combat dog. The game world is quite open, allowing players to freely explore towns, dungeons, and wilderness areas. Bounty hunting does not follow a fixed order, offering high flexibility. Death is not game over; players will respawn at the nearest town but lose some money.