Little Samson (1992-)

• Developer: Takeru

• Publisher: Taito

• Genre: Action | Platform

Little Samson is a platforming action game developed by Takeru for the NES and released in 1992. It was published by Taito in North America and Japan, marking one of the last major releases for the NES before the system’s decline. The game remained exclusive to the NES and was never ported to other consoles at the time, which, combined with a limited print run, has made it a rare collector’s title today. Little Samson gained attention for its colorful graphics, varied gameplay mechanics, and the ability to switch between multiple characters with distinct abilities.

The story of Little Samson follows the titular hero and his companions as they fight to save their kingdom from an invasion of monsters. Inspired by classic fantasy tales and platforming adventures, the game combines elements of heroism, magic, and mythical creatures. Players navigate forests, caves, and castles, confronting diverse enemies and bosses while progressing through a series of challenging stages. The narrative emphasizes teamwork and strategy, as each playable character brings unique abilities essential for overcoming obstacles and advancing through levels.

Gameplay in Little Samson centers around controlling four different characters—Samson, Kikira, Gamm, and K.O.—each with distinct abilities, such as flight, strength, or special attacks. Players can switch between characters at any time, allowing them to approach challenges strategically and tackle levels in multiple ways. The game’s design emphasizes precision platforming, combat timing, and exploration. Its NES soundtrack features energetic and memorable compositions that enhance the sense of adventure and highlight the diverse settings, reinforcing both tension during combat and excitement during exploration.

Little Samson does not have a prequel or direct sequel, standing as a singular release on the NES. Promotion focused on its vibrant graphics, multiple playable characters, and challenging platforming action, presenting it as a must-have title for fans of the genre. Reception was generally positive, with critics praising its level design, variety of gameplay, and detailed visuals, though its late release on the NES limited its exposure. Over time, Little Samson has earned recognition as one of the standout NES platformers, notable for its creativity, depth, and enduring appeal among collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.

Images from MobyGames