SNES Snapshots

The Japanese version of this game has a handy level select, just by pressing right or left on the directional pad at the title screen. This would be a good way to avoid the ugly vertical levels. Unfortunately, mine is the domestic version and apparently it does not give a level select. Nuts.

In this game, Lupin's girlfriend Fujiko is kidnapped and it's up to Lupin to save her. This is a cool platform game that requires problem solving skills rather than just jumping and shooting.

Unfortunately, I bought mine used without an instruction manual, and I've had a difficult time finding a guide online. One of these days I'd like to figure out how to play this game.

Gameplay isn't that great. The bouncing, bobbing cat heads don't seem to respond well to the D-pad commands and they don't move as fast as I'd want them to. In all, it's a disappointment when compared to other Sailor Moon puzzle games like Oshiyoki Yo and Fuwa Fuwa Panic 2. I'm glad I played this rom before shelling out the money to buy the cartridge, else I would have wasted my money. I'll give this game another try some day to see if its charm will grow on me somehow. We'll see.

Interesting to note that Sailor Mercury's hair is black in this game and not the usual light blue. That would certainly send her sex appeal up several notches for me if she wasn't in SD form in this game. What can I say? I have a thing for Sailor Mercury because I dig girls with short hair.

The atmosphere is rather dark compared to typical taisen puzzle games, which are usually cute, bright, and cheerful. The music, sound effects, and graphics are rather somber and suitable to the war theme.

The net result is an incredibly complex taisen puzzle game. Don't blow this game off just because it's difficult to get the hang of quickly. The concept of this puzzle is opposite of what you'd expect, which is rather refreshing.