Dragon Buster is a pioneering action-platformer released by Namco in 1984. You play as the sword-wielding hero, Clovis, battling through a series of dungeons to rescue Princess Celia from a fearsome dragon. Notably ahead of its time, it introduced a hub map for level selection, a double-jump mechanic, and a vitality meter instead of traditional lives.
How to play
Navigate the hub map to select your path, then fight your way through the side-scrolling dungeon to defeat the boss waiting at the end. In the browser, use the Arrow keys to move, press X to swing your sword, and Z to jump. You can execute a double jump by pressing Z again while in the air to reach higher platforms or cross wide gaps. Enter starts the game.
Tips
- Your vitality meter carries over between dungeons and only slightly refills after completing one, so prioritize avoiding damage over rushing enemies.
- Mastering the downward sword thrust (pressing down and attack while jumping) is highly effective against many foes.
- Use your magic items when surrounded; saving them only for the boss can lead to an early game over if you lose all your vitality on the way.
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