Wardner (Arcade) Playthrough

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Published on April 10, 2025 2:44:48 PM ● Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhMtApSg-j4

Game:

Wardner (1987)

Duration: 0:00

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Playthrough of Toaplan's 1987 side-scrolling platformer for the Arcades, Wardner.

Wardner is a side-scrolling action-platformer released in arcades by Toaplan in 1987. It blends light RPG elements with classic platforming mechanics, set in a whimsical yet perilous fantasy world. Players take on the role of a young boy named Dover, who embarks on a quest to rescue his kidnapped girlfriend from the clutches of an evil warlock residing in the mysterious Wardner’s Forest. The game draws clear inspiration from medieval fantasy themes and presents its world with a colorful, cartoon-like aesthetic that contrasts with the often challenging and precise gameplay.

The core of Wardner’s gameplay revolves around careful jumping, enemy avoidance, and magic-based attacks. Dover starts with a basic fireball spell that can be powered up or replaced with more effective magical abilities by collecting items or visiting shops found throughout the levels. Gold collected from defeated enemies or hidden in levels serves as currency, allowing players to upgrade their attacks, health, or acquire helpful tools. This light upgrade system adds a layer of strategy, encouraging exploration and smart resource management.

Level design in Wardner is linear but detailed, featuring a mix of environmental hazards, hidden passages, and varied enemy types. From haunted forests and ominous castles to mechanical fortresses, each area has its own personality and gameplay twists. Boss battles cap off most levels and require players to recognize patterns and exploit weaknesses, often demanding quick reflexes and persistence. While the platforming sections can be punishing, the game's tight controls help offset the difficulty.

Visually, Wardner utilizes vibrant sprites and imaginative enemy designs that enhance the fantasy setting. The graphics are detailed for its time, with smooth scrolling and clear animations that bring the world to life. Its soundtrack, while modest in complexity, complements the action with upbeat and adventurous tunes that suit the game’s heroic tone.

Though not as widely known as other arcade platformers of its era, Wardner stands out for its combination of magical combat, shop-based upgrades, and fantasy storytelling. It was later ported to home consoles like the Sega Genesis, where it gained a modest following. Today, Wardner is appreciated as a charming and challenging example of 1980s arcade design, offering a nostalgic and rewarding experience for fans of classic side-scrollers.