Legacy of the Wizard (1987-)

In May 1989, Legacy of the Wizard finally reaches American NES players, having first been released in Japan two years earlier as part of the Dragon Slayer series. Developed by Nihon Falcom and published by Broderbund, it immediately stands out from other NES titles thanks to its unusual focus on family-based exploration rather than a single hero. Players control the Drasle family, each member with unique abilities that must be used strategically to navigate the massive dungeon and defeat the evil dragon Dzak. The game’s non-linear layout encourages careful exploration and experimentation, which is a welcome change for those tired of standard side-scrollers.

The gameplay is centered around the sprawling dungeon, full of secret doors, traps, and items. Each character—the warrior, magician, thief, and dragon—offers different advantages in combat and puzzle-solving, making it necessary to switch between them depending on the challenge at hand. Many areas of the dungeon are only accessible with specific items, so backtracking and careful observation are crucial. The puzzles range from straightforward switches to complex sequences that can easily confound first-time players. Those willing to experiment will find a sense of accomplishment with every hidden room or defeated boss.

Graphically, the game is colorful and detailed, though it may seem modest compared to some of the newer NES releases. Dungeon backgrounds vary, providing distinct visual cues for different sections, and enemy sprites are easily recognizable. The character animations are simple but effective, and the overall design communicates the game’s fantasy adventure theme well. Yuzo Koshiro’s music enhances the mood, lending a mysterious and tense atmosphere to the dungeon, although repeated exploration can make the tracks feel slightly repetitive.

The challenge of the game is one of its defining features. There is no guidance, no maps, and no in-game objectives, so progress relies heavily on player observation and trial and error. While this can be frustrating for gamers used to more linear NES action games, it also adds to the satisfaction of discovering secrets and solving difficult puzzles. Persistence is rewarded, but casual players may find themselves lost or stuck for long periods. It is certainly not a pick-up-and-play experience.

Despite these hurdles, the game shines for its innovative design. Switching between characters and uncovering hidden paths keeps the adventure engaging throughout. Compared to other NES titles available in the United States in 1989, it feels more like an action-RPG hybrid, demanding both strategic thinking and precise platforming skills. Players who embrace the game’s challenges will find themselves deeply invested in the dungeon’s mysteries and the Drasle family’s quest.

Legacy of the Wizard may not appeal to everyone, but it represents a bold departure from standard NES fare. Its mix of action, exploration, and puzzle-solving, combined with its family-centered mechanics, offers a unique experience. Though the learning curve is steep and the game can feel overwhelming at first, the payoff for dedicated players is immense. For American gamers finally experiencing this title two years after its Japanese debut, it provides a fresh and rewarding challenge that stands out in the NES library.