Xexyz (known as Kame no Ongaeshi: Urashima Densetsu in Japan) is a fascinating mechanical hybrid that showcases Hudson Soft’s ability to blend disparate genres into a cohesive experience. Set in a post-apocalyptic 28th century, players take control of Apollo as he traverses through several distinct islands to defeat the alien warlord Goruza. The game structure alternates between side-scrolling platforming exploration—where players interact with NPCs, upgrade weaponry in shops, and navigate complex environments—and high-octane horizontal shoot-em-up segments. This variety prevents the gameplay from becoming stale, as the transition from ground-based combat to flight-based boss rushes keeps the pacing remarkably brisk for an 8-bit title.
The localization of the title is particularly noteworthy for its drastic thematic shift between regions. The Japanese original is based on the traditional folk tale of Urashima Taro, featuring a turtle-riding protagonist and mythological motifs, whereas the Western release was transformed into a gritty, sci-fi space opera. Despite these aesthetic changes, the core mechanical depth remains intact, offering a robust power-up system that includes various beams, shields, and magic items. The difficulty curve is well-managed, though the late-game shooter sequences require sharp reflexes and a mastery of the "Force Star" mechanics to survive the increasingly dense bullet patterns.
Visually and aurally, Xexyz stands as one of the more polished offerings in the NES library. The sprite work is detailed, with large boss characters and fluid animations that push the hardware without excessive flickering. The soundtrack, composed by the legendary Shinichi Sakamoto, provides an upbeat, adventurous backdrop that complements the shift between the whimsical platforming and the intense shooting galleries. While it never achieved the mainstream recognition of Hudson Soft’s other flagship franchises like Adventure Island or Bomberman, it remains a quintessential "hidden gem" for the console, offering a high-quality, multifaceted adventure that rewards players who appreciate variety.
