Summary
- Release Year: 2017
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Platform
- Platforms: Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One
- Developers: Lizardcube
- Publishers: DotEmu
Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap (2017): A Nostalgic Masterpiece Reborn
Originally released in 1989, Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap is a beloved classic that has captured the hearts of gamers for generations. In 2017, Lizardcube, DotEmu, and series creator Ryuichi Nishizawa joined forces to bring this timeless gem to a new audience with a stunning remake that breathes new life into the original while staying true to its roots.
A Timeless Tale of Transformation
Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap tells the tale of a young adventurer named Wonder Boy who is transformed into a lizard by the evil sorcerer Mecha Dragon. To break the curse, Wonder Boy must traverse a treacherous world and defeat Mecha Dragon’s minions, all while mastering the abilities of the various animal forms he can transform into.
These transformations are a key part of the gameplay, as each animal form grants Wonder Boy unique abilities. As a lizard, he can crawl through tight spaces and climb walls. As a mouse, he can fit through small holes and squeeze past obstacles. As a piranha, he can swim through water and shoot projectiles. As a lion, he can charge through enemies and break down walls. And as a hawk, he can fly over obstacles and swoop down on enemies from above.
Reimagined with Stunning Detail
The 2017 remake of Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap is a visual masterpiece. The hand-drawn graphics are absolutely gorgeous, with vibrant colors and intricate details that bring the world of Wonder Boy to life. The character animations are fluid and expressive, and the backgrounds are lush and atmospheric.
The soundtrack has also been remastered and expanded, with new arrangements of the classic tunes that perfectly capture the whimsical and adventurous spirit of the game. The sound effects are also top-notch, adding to the overall immersion.
Gameplay That Respects the Original
While the remake features updated graphics and sound, the gameplay remains largely faithful to the original. The level design is mostly unchanged, with a few minor tweaks to improve the flow of the game. The controls are tight and responsive, making it easy to navigate the world and execute Wonder Boy’s various abilities.
One of the most significant changes to the gameplay is the addition of a new checkpoint system. In the original game, players had to start the entire level over if they died. In the remake, checkpoints are scattered throughout each level, allowing players to respawn at the last checkpoint if they die. This makes the game more accessible to new players, while still maintaining the challenge of the original.
A Nostalgic Trip for Longtime Fans
For longtime fans of Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap, the 2017 remake is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The game faithfully recreates the look, feel, and gameplay of the original, while adding some modern touches that enhance the experience.
The developers have gone to great lengths to preserve the original’s charm. The voice acting, for example, is intentionally over-the-top and cheesy, just like in the original game. The game also includes a number of hidden secrets and references to the original, which longtime fans will appreciate.
A Must-Play for Fans of Classic Gaming
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Wonder Boy or a newcomer to the series, Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap (2017) is a must-play. It’s a beautifully crafted remake that respects the original while adding some modern touches to enhance the experience. With its challenging gameplay, charming characters, and gorgeous graphics, Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap is a timeless classic that deserves a place in every gamer’s collection.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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