Developed by Irem, *Perman: Enban wo Torikaese!!* is a vibrant, late-cycle Famicom platformer that captures the whimsical spirit of Fujiko F. Fujio’s classic superhero manga. Players control Mitsuo Suwa as he navigates a series of imaginative stages, utilizing a punch attack and a cape that allows for brief hovering. While the core action feels familiar to fans of *Mega Man* or *Little Samson*, the inclusion of Perman’s teammates as assist characters adds a layer of strategy. The English translation is essential here, as it clarifies the objectives and nuances of the unique board-game-style intermission screens that dictate your path through the story.
Visually, the game is a masterclass in 8-bit aesthetic, boasting large, expressive sprites and detailed backgrounds that avoid the flickering common in earlier NES titles. Irem's pedigree for tight controls is on full display; the jumping feels weightless yet precise, and the hit detection is remarkably fair. The boss encounters are particularly memorable, requiring players to identify patterns while managing their health bar through several creative environments. It isn't an overly difficult game, but its charm lies in its pacing and the variety of its mechanics, which prevent the side-scrolling action from ever feeling repetitive.
For modern collectors and retro enthusiasts, this translated version bridges the gap for a title that was unfairly locked to Japanese shores during the 1990s. *Perman* remains a quintessential "hidden gem" that rewards those looking beyond the standard Western NES library with Irem’s signature polish.
