Daikoukai Jidai, released in 1991 for the NES (Famicom), is the Japanese original of Koei’s classic sailing simulation and role-playing game later known as Uncharted Waters. Set during the Age of Discovery, you play as a young Portuguese captain working to restore your family’s noble status. The game blends open-world exploration with deep resource management, requiring you to trade goods between ports, uncover new trade routes, and command fleets in naval combat.
How to play
Use the D-pad (mapped to the Arrow Keys) to steer your ship on the world map and navigate menus. Press A (Z) to confirm actions, interact with port characters, and select commands, while B (X) is used to cancel or open the main menu. Manage your fleet’s provisions carefully while sailing to avoid disaster.
Tips
- Build your initial fortune by trading specialty goods between nearby ports, buying low and selling high.
- Always check your food and water supplies before leaving port; running out at sea will quickly lead to crew loss and game over.
- Upgrade your ship’s hull and cannons before venturing into dangerous waters to defend against pirate attacks.
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