Mitsume Ga Tooru

Mitsume Ga Tooru

Overview & History

Released exclusively in Japan in 1992 by the masters of 8-bit platforming, Natsume, Mitsume Ga Tooru (The Three-Eyed One) is a beloved cult-classic action-platformer based on Osamu Tezuka’s famous manga. Players step into the shoes of Hosuke Sharaku, an unassuming high school boy who appears mild-mannered with a bandage across his forehead. However, when that bandage is removed, he transforms into the cunning, mischievous last survivor of the ancient Three-Eyed clan, seeking to conquer the world. While it never received an official Western localization under its original license, it shared underlying code and gameplay DNA with Western releases like Mega Man and Natsume's own Shatterhand, making it a highly sought-after collector's item for retro enthusiasts.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

The game unfolds across six vibrant, uniquely themed stages filled with hazards, environmental traps, and relentless hordes of mythological and sci-fi enemies. Unlike standard run-and-gun platformers, Sharaku’s primary weapon is his iconic magical red spear, **Red Condor**, which he summons telekinetically. Players can fire standard energy projectiles or charge up the spear for devastating screen-clearing blasts. As you progress, collecting gold coins allows you to visit secret shops run by the quirky character Wato-san to purchase vital power-ups, extra lives, health refills, and unique movement upgrades like the ability to ride a flying mechanical bird or leap higher. The difficulty is notoriously punishing, demanding precise platforming and swift reflexes as Sharaku navigates crumbling ruins, mechanized factories, and floating fortresses, all while accompanied by a phenomenal, high-energy chiptune soundtrack composed by Hiroyuki Iwatsuki.

Keyboard Controls

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