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Game Info --------------------------------------------------- Developer: Athena Publisher: Athena Year of Release: 1989 Game Review & Impressions --------------------------------------------------- Also known as Dragon Unit, it wasn't until I started playing through the game that something in the back of my mind started to realise that there was something oddly familiar about this game, although I couldn't quite place it. When I looked the game up online I discovered that Dragon Unit was also known as Castle of Dragon, and it was at that point the penny dropped: I had played and recorded the NES version of the game several months ago. It turns out there's dipswitch in the arcade game's BIOS controls which flips between the two titles, something which seems slightly odd when you realise it's decoupled from the region settings. Anyway, the coin-op version of Castle of Dragon is a real oddity; I've never played anything quite like it. I guess the closest parallel which comes to mind is Rastan, or even Rastan II/Nastar, although it's much weirder. It's essentially a side-scrolling hack and slash affair with platforming elements and boss fights, but what makes it so odd is the way the game literally shovels weapon upgrades and power ups in your direction at every opportunity. The non-magical weapons, such as axe and chain mace, are permanent, whereas the orbs which infuse your sword with spell-charged ranged attacks only seem to last for a limited period of time. Your knight is also equipped with a shield which can block certain projectiles and enemy attacks, and also wears a suit of armour to absorb damage. The armour visually degrades as it weakens, falling away to reveal our hero's bare chest and furry loin cloth. As to whether Castle of Dragon is actually any good, I can't say I'd be inclined to deposit more coins beyond my first credit. The combat just doesn't feel particularly satisfying, and the electric guitar-infused soundtrack is terribly grating. This is the kind of game you'd play out of curiosity, not because you're looking for a good time. Related Longplays & Videos --------------------------------------------------- Castle of Dragon Longplay (NES): Chapters --------------------------------------------------- 00:00 Attract mode (no sound) 01:00 Stage 1 02:56 Stage 2 03:52 Stage 3 05:02 Stage 4 06:55 Stage 5 07:32 Stage 6 09:20 Final boss 10:01 Ending
