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Saiyuuki World

NES

NES

An adaption of Wonder Boy in Monster Land for the Famicom. This version of that game now has its setting influenced by the Journey to the West novel. Players take on the role of Sun Wukong (Goku in Japanese), who has to free captured monks so they can be able to travel from China all the way to I...

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Developer
NMK

Released on
1988

Size
1 Player

Version
NES

Requirements
Nintendo Entertainment System

Downloads
Action

Publisher
Jaleco

ESRB Rating
Not Rated

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Description

An adaption of Wonder Boy in Monster Land for the Famicom. This version of that game now has its setting influenced by the Journey to the West novel. Players take on the role of Sun Wukong (Goku in Japanese), who has to free captured monks so they can be able to travel from China all the way to India in order to receive the word of Buddha and bring it to the Chinese people.

Saiyuuki World features eleven side-scrolling stages, Goku can jump and he can equip a dagger to stab enemies. Defeated enemies leave behind money which can be spent in the various stores found throughout the stages. Purchasable items include things like a shield, body armor, and footwear. At the end of each stage is a boss that must be defeated in order to free a monk.

Saiyuuki World

Overview & History

Released exclusively in Japan in 1988 by Jaleco for the Famicom, Saiyuuki World is a fascinating platformer deeply rooted in the classic Chinese epic Journey to the West. Long before Ninja Theory tackled the mythos or western gamers discovered it via its heavily reskinned international clone, Whomp 'Em, Jaleco crafted this vibrant mythological adventure. Players step into the boots of Son Goku (the Monkey King), tasked with retrieving sacred Buddhist scriptures and defeating demonic forces. Visually distinct for its era, the game stands out for trading the primitive sprites of early NES titles for chunky, expressive character models, colorful mythical landscapes, and an atmospheric chiptune soundtrack that captures ancient folklore. Though it never received an official North American release under its original moniker, it remains a beloved cult classic among retro enthusiasts who appreciate its unforgiving difficulty curve and faithful cultural adaptation.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike standard linear platformers, Saiyuuki World blends traditional side-scrolling action with light RPG elements and vertically scrolling dungeon stages reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda: 2. As Goku, players navigate diverse biomes ranging from mystical forests to cavernous underworlds. Combat relies primarily on Goku's legendary magical staff, the Ruyi Jingu Bang, which can be swung in front of him or used vertically to strike enemies positioned above. Throughout the journey, players collect magical talismans, health upgrades, and currency from defeated foes to purchase powerful equipment and restorative items from merchants. Goku can also utilize special spell items mapped to his inventory, unleashing elemental projectiles and area-of-effect spells to clear the screen of relentless yokai. Precise platforming is mandatory, as mistimed jumps over bottomless pits or moving hazards will quickly drain Goku's lives, demanding memorization and mastery of his momentum.