Sword Master is a side-scrolling action game released for the NES in 1990, developed by Athena. In this deliberate, combat-focused hack-and-slash, you play as a knight tasked with descending into a demonic stronghold to defeat a dark lord and rescue a princess. Unlike typical run-and-gun platformers of the era, combat here is grounded and methodical, revolving around managing distance and effectively using your shield.
How to Play
Your goal is to battle through a series of linear stages, defeating a boss at the end of each to acquire new magical transformations.
- Arrow Keys: Move left and right. Press Down to duck.
- Z (A Button): Jump.
- X (B Button): Attack with your sword or magic.
- Up: Hold Up while standing still to block high attacks with your shield.
- Enter (Start): Pause the game and open the magic selection menu.
- Shift (Select): Toggle between your sword and your selected magic form.
Tips
- Patience is key: Do not rush into enemies. Walk forward slowly, anticipate their attacks, and block high or low before striking back.
- Master the magic: Defeating bosses grants you new forms, such as a wizard that can shoot projectiles. You will need to use these forms to defeat certain enemies safely, but remember that using magic consumes your MP.
- Watch your timing: Your sword swing has a brief windup. Learn the timing of your attacks to hit enemies just as they step into range.
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