Crystalis

One of my favorite classic games on the NES was Crystalis. Crystalis was one of the first games on the NES that combined action/adventure with the feel of an RPG. I like to refer to this game as a "Where the hell am I and what the f@#k is going on" title, due to the hero's status and quest. The premise of this game is quite simple and delivered in a movie sequence at the beginning of the game. Basically, your ass gets thawed out and it is up to you to fulfill a prophecy restoring balance to the world. Not terribly original huh? Well, back in the day it was and it was good (still is).

Anyway, the game offers players hours of entertainment and an engrossing story involving cave exploration, learning new skills and powers as well as interacting with a number of cool characters and obstacles. Honestly, the first time I played this game I was hooked. In fact, I am seriously considering saving this article as a draft and playing the game through again. I do plan on recording a playthrough in the future of Crystalis for the YouTube channel once I get a functioning DVR. 

Having said that, lets take a quick look at Crystalis. The game offers a compelling story backed up with cool graphics and "hum-along" good music. I don't find myself creating lyrics, but the tunes are catchy and capture the mood of the game. I don't have too many complaints, but I have to say that the control can be sluggish at times. One of my biggest peaves is when the character is knocked back from taking damage. This is really only annoying when you wind up in a pit due to the effect, and there are a lot of instances where this will force you to deplete items in some of the more difficult dungeons later in the game.

In regards to the gameplay, I don't have any real complaints. I wish the game was a bit longer. I feel like there could have been a few more of the typical RPG cliches thrown in for effect. I did like the all woman village cliche, for some reason that never gets old. With that said, you really need to play this game to appreciate its subtleties. I did find the ending to be somewhat anti-climactic and way too easy. I thought that some of the area bosses were more difficult than the end boss.

Anyway, Crystalis is a really solid title that any fan of the aforementioned genre's will appreciate. You can find this game online at the usual websites as well as at most classic gaming stores. I believe I picked up my copy at a yard sale some years back. Seriously though, check this one out I think you'll dig it.