Dragon's Curse

~ DRAGON'S CURSE ~

Westone / Hudson Soft / NEC

HuCard

1990

Dragon's Curse would certainly have no place on any sort of "unappreciated gems" list; it's received far too much recognition to pass for a "sleeper." Still, speaking in purely relative terms, I'm a little surprised that the game isn't discussed more often considering that everybody likes it. And really, what kind of bum would go around saying he doesn't like this very charming and extremely well thought out adventure title?

A large, secret-stocked realm to explore and a main character who transforms into various creatures are DC's finest assets. Some shapes come with expected abilities--that Piranha Man swims, Hawk Man flies, and Mouse Man sneaks through small openings should come as no great shock to anyone. But the rodent can also scale walls and walk on ceilings, and then there's Lizard Man's breath of fire and Tiger Man's sweeping sword swipes. Comfortable controls make even the more routine actions enjoyable, and putting all of your available skills to good use can lead to some astounding discoveries.

Many elements considered obligatory for side-scrolling quests are presented with twists here. Some of the hero's available forms prefer certain types of weapons over others, and their respective items of choice may surprise you. Slay enemies to earn gold for acquiring equipment, but be aware that merchants will be unwilling to deal if your character comes off as a hoodlum. Stumble around in the hideous Goblin Mail, and a shopkeeper may be offended by your appearance; but get all dressed up in the Prince's Armor, and the same fellow will be more than willing to assist you.

DC innovates, but at the same time, it remembers to do the most fundamental things well. You'll travel quite a long way, and backtracking will ultimately be required, but placed throughout the sprawling land are portals that allow you to warp right back to town. The similarly structured Shape Shifter got a hell of a lot of things right, but provided no such convenient method of returning to home base.

DC's appealing sounds and visuals contribute to its overall air of lightheartedness. The soundtrack, one of Duomitri's favorites, is generally fast paced and upbeat, while the graphics are quite colorful and cartoonish.

There isn't anything particularly flashy about Dragon's Curse. It doesn't feature much of a plot; and, unlike Shape Shifter, it won't treat you to any moments of high drama. Its limited-range attack mechanics wouldn't be deemed acceptable in a straight-ahead action title. And for idiot collectors, it isn't nearly as desirable an acquisition as its inferior successor, Dynastic Hero. But DC flourishes by giving its players fun shapes to assume and a world that requires mastery of said shapes' capabilities. At the end of the day, without indulging in fanciness or pulling off anything mind blowing, it manages to thrash most other adventures of the era thanks to the wise choices made by its creators in matters of world layout and concept execution.