An action-platformer clearly inspired by Castlevania. Levels can be tackled in any order and the co-op mode with a falcon is genuinely original. Overlooked but genuinely worth recommending.
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Category
Action1 player12+
Description
Action-adventure in which a warrior explores a castle to free heroes captured by a sorcerer. Published by Taxan, released in Japan in 1988. Side-scrolling movement, collecting spheres to unlock characters with distinct powers. An original action-adventure on Famicom.
8 Eyes frames its action-adventure around a falcon partner and eight Castlevania-inspired bosses, earning it respectable but second-tier follower status. In this Famicom form it appeals through Taxan's Japanese release, a third party with a thin footprint, and a co-op mode uncommon for the genre. Complete Japanese copies hold the value while loose carts stay broadly accessible.
Is 8 Eyes still worth playing in 2026?
An action adventure from Taxan, 8 Eyes sends a warrior and his falcon to explore eight castles to free heroes captured by a sorcerer, in a structure and mood openly inspired by Castlevania. The raptor companion, usable to reach out of reach areas, and the co-op mode add a personal touch. The slightly stiff handling and the harsh difficulty betray the era, but the exploration and the gothic character appeal. For a retro action fan, someone curious about Castlevania imitators or a collector, the title keeps a singular interest and a substantial challenge.
