Bokosuka Wars

Description

Bokosuka Wars, released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), is a fascinating and unique piece of gaming history. This game from successful developer ASCII Corporation proudly celebrates the era of experimentation and innovation that defined the Japanese game industry in the 1980s.
At first glance, Bokosuka Wars may seem somewhat inaccessible. The graphics are typical of their time - simply animated characters and a rather austere colour palette that can look drab today. However, underneath this retro aesthetic lies a surprisingly deep and complex gameplay that is the lynchpin of the entire game.
Players take on the role of King Suren, who must lead his army across a vast battlefield filled with enemies, traps and other obstacles to overthrow the malevolent King Ogereth. Bokosuka Wars is essentially a strategy RPG, then, where you must carefully plan every move, ensure your troops survive and thrive, and use the terrain to your advantage. This strategic element is really impressive considering the time the game was made. Unlike many other games of the time, Bokosuka Wars encourages creativity with its open-ended design. The game world is open, allowing you to choose your own tactics and path to victory. Also, the mechanic of unit reinforcement, where defeated enemies become additional members of your army, adds a layer of depth that is still commendable today. Of course, Bokosuka Wars has its flaws as well. The biggest problem is undoubtedly its high difficulty and occasional lack of clarity, which can put newcomers off. The lack of significant visual and sound effects combined with the difficult gameplay can be frustrating. 
Despite its technical limitations and some frustrations, Bokosuka Wars remains proof that even within the confines of the humble eight-bit system, games could be created with the ambition to offer something more than mindless action. If you're willing to step up to its challenges and unravel its mysteries, Bokosuka Wars will provide a deep and fulfilling experience.