The Great Battle III marks a significant departure for the Compati Hero series, trading the sci-fi corridors of its predecessors for a vivid medieval fantasy setting. Players take control of iconic heroes—Ultraman Great, Kamen Rider Black RX, Gundam F91, and Fighter Roar—who find themselves transported to a world of swords and sorcery. This shift transforms the gameplay from a platform-action hybrid into a dedicated belt-scrolling beat 'em up, heavily reminiscent of Capcom’s arcade classics. The vibrant 16-bit sprites and thematic shift breathe new life into the franchise, making it one of the most visually unique crossovers on the Super Famicom.
Mechanics in this third entry are surprisingly deep for a licensed brawler, incorporating a shop system where players can spend gold earned from defeated enemies to upgrade weapons and armor. Each character feels distinct: Gundam uses a heavy mace and shield, while Kamen Rider favors a rapier, adding strategic layers to the combat through differing reach and speed. The magic system allows for screen-clearing special attacks, which are visually impressive and essential for managing the increasingly difficult waves of fantasy-themed grunts and bosses. While the movement can feel slightly stiff compared to the fluid combat of Final Fight, the ability to block and use various sub-weapons provides a satisfying tactical edge that rewards careful play.
For years, the language barrier kept many Western fans from fully appreciating the RPG-lite elements and character interactions, but the fan translation finally bridges that gap. The translation allows players to follow the lighthearted narrative and understand the nuances of the equipment upgrades, which are vital for late-game survival. Despite never seeing an official release outside of Japan—unlike the puzzle game Zoop, which reached UK shores in 1995 but bypassed the Japanese SNES market entirely—The Great Battle III stands as a premier import title. It remains a high-water mark for the series, offering a polished, cooperative experience that any fan of 16-bit beat 'em ups or tokusatsu history should explore.
