Astyanax (1989-)

• Developer: Aicom

• Publisher: Infogrames

• Genre: Platform

• Composer: Toshiko Tasaki

Astyanax for the NES was developed by Jaleco and released in 1989. It was published by the same company and later saw ports to other platforms, including an arcade version with enhanced graphics and gameplay elements. The game is a fantasy-themed action-adventure title that drew inspiration from classic sword-and-sorcery stories and popular side-scrolling beat ’em ups of the era, combining platforming and combat mechanics to create a challenging experience.

In Astyanax, players control a young hero named Astyanax who is transported to a magical world filled with monsters and dark forces. The game features side-scrolling levels where players fight enemies with a variety of weapons, primarily relying on a magical axe that can be upgraded as the game progresses. The gameplay emphasizes a mix of fast-paced combat and precise platforming, with players encountering various bosses and secret areas throughout the adventure. The game’s design is reminiscent of titles like Ghosts ’n Goblins, blending action with a fantasy narrative.

The soundtrack of Astyanax complements its heroic theme, featuring energetic and dramatic compositions that enhance the intensity of the gameplay. The music is memorable and matches the game’s adventurous spirit, while sound effects punctuate combat and exploration. Though the soundtrack may not have been widely acclaimed on its own, it contributed significantly to the overall atmosphere and player engagement during the game.

Astyanax did not have a prequel but was followed by a sequel, “The Lord of King,” which was released in Japan on the Famicom Disk System and later adapted in other forms. Promotion for Astyanax focused on its challenging gameplay and fantasy setting, appealing to fans of action and adventure games. It received generally positive reviews at the time for its graphics, music, and engaging combat system, although some critics pointed out its difficulty level as a potential barrier for casual players. Overall, Astyanax is remembered as a solid entry in the NES library that combined classic gameplay with a strong fantasy theme.

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