Spelunker 2: Yūsha e no Chōsen (Translated)

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*Spelunker 2: Yūsha e no Chōsen* represents a radical departure from the "fragile hero" formula established by Irem’s notorious predecessor. Unlike the original, which focused purely on precision platforming, this sequel incorporates deep Action-RPG elements, allowing players to choose between three distinct character classes: the Fighter, the Cleric, and the Thief. Each class offers unique abilities, such as the Cleric’s healing or the Thief’s trap detection, which are essential for navigating the game’s sprawling, non-linear cave systems. The fan translation is crucial for this title, as it unlocks the narrative depth and menu-driven inventory management that were previously inaccessible to Western players.

While the protagonist is no longer killed by a modest one-foot drop, the difficulty remains punishingly high. The game demands careful resource management, particularly regarding the "Life" and "Food" meters, which tick down relentlessly as you explore. Combat is rudimentary but requires careful positioning, as the dark corridors of the subterranean world are filled with spirits and creatures that can quickly overwhelm an unprepared player. The level design is impressive for 1987, offering a sense of scale and exploration that predates many of the more famous Metroidvania titles, though the lack of an in-game map can make navigation a frustrating exercise in trial and error.

Visually, the game retains the dark, claustrophobic atmosphere of the original but with significantly more variety in tilesets and enemy designs. The audio features a pulse-pounding soundtrack that captures the tension of being lost deep underground, though the limited number of tracks can become repetitive during long sessions. For those who found the original *Spelunker* too limiting, this sequel provides a much more substantial experience that rewards patience and strategic planning. It stands as a fascinating evolutionary step for the series, even if its quirks and steep learning curve ensure it remains a niche interest among 8-bit enthusiasts.

DID YOU KNOW?

Despite being the sequel to the home console version of *Spelunker*, this game is actually based on the arcade title *Spelunker II: 23-No-Me No Issetsu*, although the NES/Famicom version significantly expanded the RPG mechanics and character classes.

72%

JOYPAD'S VERDICT

This is a surprisingly deep evolution of a cult classic that trades instant-death frustration for rewarding, albeit slow-paced, RPG exploration. It is an essential play for those who enjoy non-linear 8-bit adventures but requires a steady hand and plenty of patience.

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Sound Test Mode

On the title screen, hold A + B on Controller 2 and press Start on Controller 1. This allows you to cycle through the game's musical tracks and sound effects.

Easy Leveling via Respawning Bats

In the early caves, find a screen transition near a bat spawn point. Kill the bat, move off-screen, and return immediately. Because Spelunker II functions as an Action-RPG, you can grind experience points (EXP) early to increase your maximum health before tackling the harder depths.

Statue Class Swapping

You are not locked into one class. By returning to the starting village and interacting with the specific statues, you can swap between the Knight (high defense/attack), the Priest (healing magic), and the Thief (agility/faster movement). Progress is saved across classes.

Hidden Oxygen Refills

If you are low on air, look for flickering wall textures in the deeper mines. Attacking these specific wall segments with your primary weapon can sometimes reveal a hidden "Flashlight" icon that refills your energy bar completely.

Infinite Health (Hearts)

SZVULZVG

Prevents enemies and hazards from depleting your life bar.

Infinite Energy/Flashlight

SXOUIXSE

Your oxygen/energy bar will never decrease, allowing you to explore indefinitely without rushing.

Infinite Items (Bombs/Flares)

SZEGTVVK

Your inventory count will not decrease when using secondary items.

Invincibility from Falls

AOVUGYAU

One of the most useful codes for this specific game; it significantly reduces the sensitivity of the "death by falling" mechanic that the series is famous for.

Start with Max Experience

VNNPTZSA

Begin the game with maximum EXP, allowing for immediate access to high-level class abilities.

The "Three-Pixel" Fall Rule

Unlike standard platformers, your character will die if they fall a distance greater than their own height (roughly 14-16 pixels). When navigating vertical shafts, always use the ropes or ladders. Even a small hop from a ledge that looks safe can result in an instant death.

Class Synergy Mechanics

For a perfect "replay" run, use the Thief to navigate the platforming-heavy sections of the Volcano area to minimize fall risks, then switch to the Knight for the boss encounters. The Priest is essential for the late-game "Heaven" stage due to the high density of undead enemies that respond poorly to physical attacks.

Item Management: Bombs vs. Flares

Save your bombs exclusively for destructible rocks blocking progress. Use flares only when the screen darkens significantly; the Priest class has a natural "Light" ability that makes flares redundant, saving inventory space for more bombs.

Save Game Maintenance

Because the translated version often runs on emulators or flashcarts, be aware that the internal battery-backed RAM triggers a save every time you exit a town. To ensure your progress is logged, always enter and exit the town before closing the game session.

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