Parasol Henbee

Parasol Henbee

Overview & History

Released exclusively in Japan in 1990 by Epoch, *Parasol Henbee* is a colorful platforming gem based on the beloved manga and anime series by Fujiko Fujio A. The storyline follows Henbee, a cheerful celestial boy equipped with a magical parasol, who is sent to Earth to experience human life and spread joy. However, things take a bizarre turn when mischievous dream-sprites and dark entities begin corrupting the peaceful suburban environment, kidnapping Henbee’s friends. Epoch adapted this whimsical source material into a vertically and horizontally scrolling platformer that stands out on the Famicom due to its vibrant pastel color palette, bouncy soundtrack, and surprisingly deep traversal mechanics centered entirely around the titular umbrella.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike standard NES action titles where players rely on direct punches or sword swings, Henbee’s parasol dictates every single gameplay mechanic. Players navigate surreal stages filled with floating platforms, bouncing toadstools, and hostile creatures by utilizing the umbrella in multifaceted ways. Henbee can open the parasol mid-air to slowly glide across wide chasms, protect himself from falling debris or projectiles, and use it as a pogo stick to bounce higher off enemy heads. Furthermore, the parasol acts as a melee weapon to swat enemies and a suction tool to inhale specific objects or collectibles scattered throughout the stages. As Henbee progresses through distinct themed worlds—ranging from sunny suburban rooftops to whimsical dreamscapes—he encounters power-ups that temporarily alter the umbrella's properties, granting elemental attacks or hyper-gliding capabilities. Boss encounters require precise timing, demanding that players open and close the parasol defensively to deflect boss projectiles right back at them before closing in for a counter-attack.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Move Henbee left and right, duck, or look up
• Action Keys: Attack / Swing Parasol (A), Jump / Open Parasol to Glide (B)
• Enter: Start / Pause