Overview
Genpei ToumaDen is a side-scrolling action-platformer developed by Namco and released in the arcades in 1986. The game takes players on a mystical journey through Japanese folklore, allowing them to experience both myth and action in a unique format. The title translates roughly to “The Genji and the Heike Tale” and players control the legendary samurai, Taira no Kagekiyo, on his quest for vengeance against his foes.
Gameplay
Set in a colorful and imaginative rendition of feudal Japan, the game combines elements of traditional platforming with an almost surreal art design. Players battle through a variety of enemies and obstacles, utilizing swordplay and strategic maneuvering. The game is known for its multi-layered scrolling and offers several types of stage layouts, including side-scrolling, top-down, and platforming segments.
Historical Context and Impact
Upon its release, Genpei ToumaDen stood out for its ambitious narrative and visual style, which drew heavily from Japanese history and myths. The game’s approach was relatively novel for its time, offering an expansive and culturally rich experience. Although not as widely recognized in the West, it gained a cult following in Japan and has been referenced or re-imagined in subsequent Namco titles.
Trivia
- An interesting fact about the game is that it was one of the early titles to feature a branching storyline, which was relatively uncommon in arcade games of the period.
- The character of Taira no Kagekiyo is based on a real historical figure, further grounding the game’s mythical narrative in reality.
- The game was later ported to several home systems and has been included in various Namco game compilations.
