Summary
- Release Year: 1988
- Genres: Adventure, Platform
- Platforms: Family Computer, Nintendo Entertainment System, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Thinking Rabbit
- Publishers: Piko Interactive, SETA Corporation, Taxan
8 Eyes (1988): A Challenging and Rewarding Action-Adventure Platformer for the NES
Released in 1988 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, 8 Eyes is an action-adventure platformer that tasks players with retrieving eight powerful jewels to restore peace to a post-apocalyptic world. With its challenging gameplay, memorable bosses, and unique setting, 8 Eyes is a hidden gem that deserves to be rediscovered by modern gamers.
Story
The game is set in a distant future after a nuclear war has devastated the Earth. Mankind has emerged from the ruins under the guidance of the Great King, who has harnessed the power of the 8 Eyes to rebuild the planet. However, the 8 Eyes have been seized by the Great King’s eight Dukes, who seek to use them to control the world.
The player takes on the role of Orin the Falconer, the bravest and mightiest of the King’s Guardsmen. Orin must travel to each of the eight Dukes’ castles, defeat their soldiers and bosses, and retrieve the Jewels of Power. Once all eight Jewels have been collected, Orin must return them to the Altar of Peace to await the return of the Great King.
Gameplay
8 Eyes is a side-scrolling action-adventure platformer. The player controls Orin as he runs, jumps, and shoots his way through eight different castles. Orin can also ride on the back of his falcon, Cutrus, which allows him to fly over obstacles and enemies.
Each castle is filled with a variety of enemies, including soldiers, mutants, and bosses. Orin must use his sword, bow and arrow, and bombs to defeat his enemies. He can also collect power-ups to increase his health, attack power, and defense.
The bosses in 8 Eyes are some of the most memorable and challenging in the NES era. Each boss has its own unique attack patterns and weaknesses, and players must learn how to defeat them in order to progress.
Graphics and Sound
8 Eyes features colorful and detailed graphics for its time. The castles are all unique and visually interesting, and the enemies are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that perfectly complement the action on-screen.
Challenge
8 Eyes is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The player is given plenty of opportunities to learn the game’s mechanics and to practice defeating the enemies. The game’s difficulty curve is well-balanced, and players will feel a sense of accomplishment as they progress through the game.
Conclusion
8 Eyes is a classic NES action-adventure platformer that deserves to be rediscovered by modern gamers. With its challenging gameplay, memorable bosses, and unique setting, 8 Eyes is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips for Playing 8 Eyes
- Learn the attack patterns of the enemies and bosses. Each enemy has its own unique way of attacking, and you must learn how to avoid their attacks in order to defeat them.
- Use your power-ups wisely. Power-ups can give you a significant advantage in battle, so be sure to use them when you need them most.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to defeat the enemies and bosses in 8 Eyes. Experiment with different weapons and strategies to find what works best for you.
- Be patient. 8 Eyes is a challenging game, but it is also fair. If you are patient and persistent, you will eventually be able to defeat the game.
Review Score
7.5/10