Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Momotarō Densetsu delivers a classic JRPG experience that feels both nostalgic and inviting. As you guide Momotarō across the world map, you’ll visit a variety of towns, caves, and demon-infested dungeons. Each location presents its own set of challenges, from hidden treasures in temples to side quests given by townsfolk seeking relief from demon attacks.

Random encounters with monsters keep you on your toes. Battles unfold in a first-person perspective, with turn-based combat that rewards strategic planning. You’ll need to decide when to attack, defend, or use special skills drawn from Japanese mythology. The pacing of combat is brisk, ensuring that you never get bogged down in overly repetitive fights.

Progression is straightforward yet satisfying. Defeated monsters yield experience points, steadily raising Momotarō’s level and unlocking new abilities. Early on, you’ll rely on basic sword strikes and healing items, but as you advance, powerful area attacks and elemental techniques turn battles into dynamic spectacles. Recruiting your faithful companions—a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant—adds depth, as each brings unique skills that can turn the tide of tougher boss encounters.

Graphics

For its era, Momotarō Densetsu boasts vibrant and charming pixel art. The world map is rendered in bright colors that evoke traditional Japanese paintings, while individual towns feature distinct architectural styles—from rustic farmhouses to ornate shrines. This variety ensures that exploration remains visually engaging throughout your journey.

In-battle visuals adopt a clean, icon-driven layout. Enemy sprites are detailed enough to recognize each creature’s attributes—whether it’s a mischievous oni or a forest yokai. Menus and HUD elements are intuitively arranged, keeping critical information like HP, MP, and status effects front and center without cluttering the screen.

While the hardware limitations of the time prevent photo-realism, the game’s artistic direction more than makes up for it. Backgrounds in dungeons alternate between mossy caverns and fiery chambers, reinforcing the lore behind each area. Animations—such as Momotarō’s sword slashes or the pheasant’s aerial attack—add just enough flair to make every encounter feel lively and rewarding.

Story

The narrative of Momotarō Densetsu faithfully adapts one of Japan’s most beloved folktales. You begin with the iconic scene: an elderly couple discovering a giant peach floating down the river and finding baby Momotarō inside. Raised with love and respect, he matures into a courageous hero determined to rid the land of marauding demons.

As the plot unfolds, you recruit three loyal companions—a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant—each reflecting traits celebrated in Japanese storytelling. Their individual backstories are woven into side quests, giving emotional weight to the bonds you form. This camaraderie enriches the main quest, turning every victory into a shared triumph.

Beyond the central tale, the game peppers in local legends and smaller character arcs. From rescuing villagers to discovering ancient shrine secrets, these diversions add texture to the straightforward hero’s journey. The result is a storytelling experience that feels both epic and intimate, inviting players to become part of a living, breathing folklore world.

Overall Experience

Momotarō Densetsu strikes a delightful balance between traditional RPG mechanics and cultural storytelling. Its straightforward leveling system and turn-based combat make it accessible to series newcomers, while its rich folklore and charming pixel art will resonate with veteran players seeking a nostalgic trip.

If you’re a fan of Japanese mythology or early console RPGs, this title offers a compelling blend of exploration, tactical battles, and heartwarming narrative. The game’s moderate difficulty curve ensures that newcomers aren’t overwhelmed, yet there’s enough depth in skill management and party composition to keep seasoned gamers engaged.

While some modern players might miss quality-of-life features like fast travel or autosave, Momotarō Densetsu remains a rewarding journey into one of Japan’s most enduring legends. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to fuse folklore with fun gameplay, delivering an experience that still holds up as a classic in the genre.

Retro Replay Score

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