Hell Fighter (NES) Playthrough [4K]
1"Hell Fighter" for the NES is a side-scrolling horror-themed action-platformer from 1992 by Thin Chen Enterprise, also known as Sachen. In this unlicensed title, players take on the role of the martial artist Lee Long, tasked with battling against the forces of Hell. Players navigate various levels filled with hazards, enemies, and platforming challenges. Thin Chen was a Taiwanese developer having released several unlicensed games for the NES.
Players control their character's movements from left to right, avoiding obstacles such as bottomless pits and deadly traps while engaging in combat with demonic adversaries. One of the game's standout features is its power-up system, which allows players to collect orbs that provide different abilities. These abilities include enhancing the player's attacks, or granting defensive abilities. Homing knives quickly become what tips the balance from frustration to ease, with not much middle ground. Another unique gameplay feature is its deformable terrain mechanics, allowing players to destroy surfaces to navigate obstacles or trap enemies. However, reckless destruction may lead to pitfalls and setbacks.
The game has six stages, and boss battles punctuate the end of each stage. They range from comically easy to mildly challenging, with tactics varying from straightforward to slightly more nuanced. The final showdown with Satan offers a decent challenge, requiring a bit more than mindless button-mashing. Visually, the game has colorful sprites and backgrounds that evoke the dark and chaotic atmosphere of its demonic setting.
The game is an interesting experience with its unique premise and gameplay mechanics setting it apart from other titles on the NES platform. The game manages to deliver a relatively polished experience in terms of gameplay mechanics and controls, even if the boss encounters are lacking. Its unconventional blend of horror, action, and inventive gameplay mechanics makes it a standout title among unlicensed NES games.