Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World, by developers G Choice and Monkey Craft, is a remake of the 1994 game, Monster World IV, and is playable on the Nintendo Switch and Steam. However, this game adds a lot to the original game, and I would consider it an old-fashioned, yet charming game that is accessible to everyone.
At the beginning of the game, you are playing as Asha, an adventurer and warrior, trying to prove yourself in the vast world of Monster World. After Asha clears the first dungeon, the “Tower of Silence” the princess of Rapadanga City begs you for your help. She wants to clear the four elemental dungeons and save the world from darkness!
Combat System:
The combat system is relatively simple, with Asha being able to attack, jump, shield, and be able to use several items in her inventory. However, during the game you get a companion, which allows you to do extra moves such as double jump and even glide. I can see the combat system reminding me of an early Legend of Zelda game, and other games coming out of the late 80’s/90’s. With the extra mobility offered by the companion, it becomes more complicated than an 80’s game, but still relatively traditional compared to modern gaming.
Fun and Exciting 2-D platformer with an extra addition:
Asha can travel some areas with some aspects of 3-D. I felt that it added to the complexity of areas, as I had to consider moving forward/backwards alongside the more traditional 4 directions used in 2-D platformers. There are more ways to hide secret bonuses and hearts with this addition as well, adding a sense of mysteriousness and curiosity that could only be offered with this.
Graphics are nothing special but are improved from the original game. The art style is cartoony and fun to look at, not serious or dark at all. The characters, including the enemy monsters, are comedic and are funny to look at, which will appeal to many, especially younger audiences.
My Experience:
I had a lot of fun playing Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World. As a seasoned platformer gamer, I did not find it too hard to beat the areas at all. Some bosses might take a few tries to learn what their attacks do, but once you find an opening it is relatively easy to beat. However, I think that some of the puzzles are challenging and might cause some confusion. A guide might be necessary to not get stuck on puzzles. Although I was not around in the 80s/90s when the original series came out, I still have some nostalgia for some of the tried-and-true gameplay that defined much of the video games of the 80’s.
I believe that this game is accessible to all ages and experience levels. The straightforward, yet tried and true story, its lovable and cute characters, and the old-fashioned gameplay all add to its nostalgic charm. If you enjoy a platformer who enjoys the Mario or LoZ series and do not mind the dated battle system or graphics, Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World is definitely for you, and I would recommend this game.
9/10.
Check Out the Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World Trailer:
For more information, visit: https://wonderboy.inin.games/
Related: Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World Heading to Steam June 29
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Steam Review
I started gaming on the PS2 playing 2K and various fighting games, then played a lot of Nintendo Wii games. Currently, I like playing JRPGs as well as platformers and MOBAs. In a video game, I enjoy exploring the intricacies of fighting systems as well as viewing various character developments throughout the story of the game.
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