Rory’s 3DS Game of August

My 3DS Game of the Month for August is a Virtual Console title. It was originally released for the Famicom Disk System in Japan in 1986, and finally received European and American releases this year. Despite that, elements from this game have appeared in Nintendo Land, specifically Takamaru’s Ninja Challenge.

The Mysterious Murasame Castle takes place in Edo period Japan. Murasame and four neighbouring castles become possessed by a demonic force. Takamaru, a young swordsman, sets out to defeat Murasame.
This game has a strong resemblance to The Legend of Zelda; it is played in a top-down perspective and uses flip screen scrolling. Unlike The Legend of Zelda, The Mysterious Murasame Castle is a fast-paced linear action game with time limits.
Each level is split into two parts. The first is the path to the castle, whilst the second is the castle itself. It is in the castle where Takamaru will find the boss for the level.
Takamaru comes under attack from lots of enemies, and can only defend himself with his katana and shurikens. Shurikens can be upgraded, though any powerups are lost upon death. Considering the sheer number of enemies, death is something a new player will experience quite a lot. The katana can be used to deflect projectiles, as well.
Generally, Takamaru has three lives. He can increase the count by rescuing princess in the castles. In addition, tanooki can be found that will often provide Takamaru with a power-up after he kindly smacks them with his katana. Power-ups include fireballs, lightning-themed explosions and an invisibility cloak that grants limited invincibility as well.
It’s probably safe to say that the music from this game is well-known, as the theme appeared as a track in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Takamaru was a sticker in that game, but he has graduated to being an Assist Trophy in Super Smash Bros. for 3DS and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U.