*Tokoro-san no Mamoru mo Semeru mo* is a fascinating relic of late-80s Japanese celebrity culture, featuring the likeness of the multi-talented comedian and musician George Tokoro. Originally released in 1987 for the Famicom, this platformer task players with navigating George through a series of increasingly bizarre levels using a multi-purpose umbrella for both offense and defense. The fan translation breathes new life into the experience, finally allowing Western players to appreciate the surreal humor and self-referential dialogue that defines the game's identity. However, beneath the charming 8-bit caricatures lies a "kusoge" (crap-game) reputation that is well-earned through its punishing design and cryptic progression.
The gameplay is defined by a floaty, often frustrating physics engine that makes precision platforming feel like a game of chance. George’s umbrella mechanic, while innovative for the time, suffers from inconsistent hit detection that can lead to many unfair deaths. The level design often relies on "gotcha" traps and hidden requirements that necessitate heavy trial and error or the use of a walkthrough. While the music, composed by Tokoro himself, is undeniably catchy, the sheer repetition of the loops combined with the high difficulty floor makes this a title that tests the patience of even the most dedicated retro enthusiasts.
For those interested in the history of Japanese mascot games, this title serves as a perfect example of the experimental nature of the Famicom era. It stands in stark contrast to the more polished puzzle and action titles that would define the console's twilight years in the mid-90s. Today, it remains a cult item for collectors who value the strange and the difficult, representing a period where star power was often prioritized over balanced game mechanics.
