The NES marked the genesis of two enduring RPG franchises, with Square introducing Final Fantasy in 1987 and Enix launching Dragon Quest a year earlier in 1986. While these franchises have grown into industry titans, the early NES entries laid the groundwork for iconic titles such as Final Fantasy 7 and Dragon Quest 11. However, amidst the prominence of these flagship series, lesser-known NES games from Square and Enix have faded into obscurity.
8 The 3-D Battles Of WorldRunner
Pioneering Visuals, Straightforward Gameplay
- Release Date: September, 1987
- Developer: Square
- Platforms: NES, Family Computer Disk System
The 3-D Battles of WorldRunner showcased impressive visual design for its time, featuring a semi-3D environment where players navigated along a forward-scrolling path. The game mechanics allowed running, jumping, and adjusting trajectory speed, presenting a blend of platforming and Shmup elements. This inventive approach set it apart within the NES library.
7 Door Door
A Quirky Puzzle Adventure
- Release Date: July 15, 1985
- Developer: Enix
- Platforms: NES, NEC PC-8801
Door Door, a puzzle platformer by Enix, remained confined to Japan but garnered attention for its unique gameplay. Players assumed the role of a character with the ability to manipulate doors, employing strategic door-closing tactics to outwit adversaries. Despite its limited release, the game's unconventional mechanics set it apart.
6 Hanjuku Hero
An Offbeat RPG Experience
- Release Date: December 2, 1988
- Developer: Square
- Platforms: NES
Hanjuku Hero, an eccentric Square RPG, delved into real-time battles and whimsical world exploration. While limited to Japan without comprehensive translations, its unconventional real-time combat and quirky presentation distinguished it from traditional RPGs of the era.