Neutopia II

Neutopia II

Overview & History

Released by Hudson Soft in 1991 for the TurboGrafx-16, Neutopia II is the ambitious sequel to the console's answer to The Legend of Zelda. The storyline once again thrusts players into the tunic of the valiant hero, Jaz. Following the events of the first game, the defeated Dirth has returned alongside his wicked mother, Queen Peach, plunging the world back into despair by shattering the Medallion of Power and hiding its pieces across four perilous continents. This top-down action-adventure blends mythology, labyrinth exploration, and whimsical fantasy. While it arrived late in the TurboGrafx-16's lifespan, it refined the overhead sword-swinging formula with enhanced graphical fidelity, larger interconnected overworlds, and a much heavier emphasis on cryptic puzzle-solving compared to its predecessor.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Neutopia II retains the core action-RPG framework established by classic 16-bit adventures, but introduces distinct mechanics that set it apart. Players navigate Jaz through sprawling outdoor zones filled with hostile monsters, hidden staircases, and bombable walls, all while collecting life-extending heart containers. Combat relies on real-time sword thrusts, complemented by a versatile utility arsenal. Jaz acquires mystical items such as the boomerang for distant strikes, flame rods, magical boots for dashing, and wings for fast travel. Progression hinges on conquering multi-tiered dungeons, each culminating in a boss battle that yields a medallion shard. Uniquely, the game incorporates cryptic hints from NPCs and requires players to manipulate statues, push blocks, and manage finite bomb and magic-arrow reserves to unlock sealed pathways.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Move
• Action Keys: Attack / Jump
• Enter: Start / Pause