Tatakae! Chou Robot Seimeitai Transformers - Convoy no Nazo (Japan)

Tatakae! Chou Robot Seimeitai Transformers - Convoy no Nazo, known in the West as Transformers: The Mystery of Convoy, is an action-platformer game released for the NES, infamous for its extreme difficulty and mysterious plot. Players control Ultra Magnus, one of the powerful Autobots, on a quest to find the missing leader, Optimus Prime (Convoy).

Each stage typically requires players to navigate from point A to point B, overcoming obstacles and defeating Decepticons. Ultra Magnus can transform between his robot and vehicle modes. The robot form allows for laser gun attacks and jumping, while the vehicle form enables faster movement and better damage resistance when colliding with enemies. Flexibly switching between these two forms is key to overcoming challenges.

Players will face various types of Decepticons, from basic grunts to sub-bosses and main bosses. Enemies often appear unexpectedly and have unpredictable attack patterns. Collecting energy icons can boost firepower or restore health. Some stages feature hidden items or secrets.

Level design is often complex, featuring numerous traps, bottomless pits, and moving platforms. Some sections demand pixel-perfect jumps. A defining characteristic of the game is its incredibly high difficulty. Players typically have only one life per stage with no checkpoint system. A single mistake can lead to restarting the entire stage. Furthermore, the lack of in-game guidance forces players to figure out mechanics and secret locations through trial and error.

Boss battles often require specific strategies and excellent dodging skills. The storyline unfolds gradually through short cutscenes or messages. The ultimate goal is to unravel the mystery behind Convoy's disappearance. The game features several unique elements, such as Optimus Prime "dying" at the beginning of the game (though later revealed not to be entirely true), and players having to search for "Convoy" in unexpected places. Overall, Tatakae! Chou Robot Seimeitai Transformers - Convoy no Nazo is a true challenge for retro game enthusiasts looking to test their skills.