Based on the Toei Animation feature film, this Famicom exclusive offers a charming albeit frantic interpretation of the Jules Verne classic. Playing as the swashbuckling feline Pero, players are tasked with winning a wager by traveling the globe within a strict time limit while dodging the constant pursuit of wolf assassins sent by the villainous Count Gruemon. The game blends traditional side-scrolling platforming with several vehicle-based segments—ranging from balloon rides to submarine excursions—all rendered with vibrant, early-era 8-bit sprites that successfully capture the whimsical spirit of the 1969 anime film.
Mechanically, the experience is defined by momentum and urgency rather than precision combat. The "80 days" mechanic acts as a persistent countdown that punishes dallying, forcing players to prioritize speed over thorough exploration, which was a relatively unique approach for a mid-80s platformer. While the jumping physics can feel somewhat floaty and the hitboxes are occasionally unforgiving during the boss encounters, the sheer variety of locales keeps the experience engaging. The English fan translation is a vital addition, finally allowing Western players to navigate the menus and narrative beats of Pero’s journey from London through the American West and across the frozen tundras of Russia.
While it lacks the legendary polish of a first-party Nintendo title, the game avoids the "shovelware" trap of many licensed tie-ins by offering a cohesive and genuinely challenging adventure. The soundtrack is particularly notable for its upbeat tempo, which complements the race against the clock. *Nagagutsu o Haita Neko* remains a standout Famicom import that offers a distinct flavor of 8-bit action that never officially made it to Western shores.
