Bomberman, Adventure Island, Bonk: Hudson is a landmark of Japanese gaming and the soul of the PC Engine. RomWize re-ranks the publisher's best games by its re-evaluated scores, each with its current score, its versions, their rarity and their collector value.
"Lords of Thunder is an extraordinary horizontal shoot'em up on MegaCD. Legendary heavy metal CD music, intense gameplay with elemental armours. One of the best shmups on Japanese console. Cult."
"The sequel improves visuals and enriches multiplayer options. The core concept remains identical and impeccable. If the first is unavailable, this is a perfect substitute."
"The start of a timeless saga. Plant bombs, trap enemies, collect power-ups. In multiplayer it's pure social magic. One of the most elegant concepts in gaming."
"Hudson fighter offering refreshing change of scenery in a fantasised feudal Japan, with colourful cast. System less refined than SNK's but the mood is unique. A likeable console curiosity."
"The excellent Mega Drive port of Bomberman, essential in local multiplayer. Frenetic, addictive, playable with friends, a peak of party gaming on the console."
"The direct sequel introducing dinosaurs as mounts. Improved mechanics, more colorful visuals. A solid step above the first entry, recommended to all 8-bit platformer fans."
"The Japanese release of Bomberman 64: The Second Attack. Denser and more story-driven than its predecessor, with eight elemental bombs and the endearing partner Pommy. The pacing is oddly contemplative for a Bomberman, but the singular atmosphere and polished multiplayer reward the patient."
"The puzzle-action classic on NES. Dig holes to trap guards and collect gold. Timeless concept, level editor included. One of the great classics ported with care."
"Bloody Roar 2 improves on its predecessor with more characters, enriched transformations and refined gameplay. The combat system is deeper and animations smoother. One of the best series entries and a strong representative of PS1 versus fighting."
"Western release of Bloody Roar 2. Fighting game with beast transformations, more complete than the first entry with expanded roster and deepened combat system. A solid PS1 3D versus fighting representative for genre fans."
"A hybrid sci-fi and fantasy NES action-platformer. Shoot'em up phases alternating with platform levels. Original and colorful concept. Overlooked but genuinely charming and recommendable."
"An N64 continuation of Hudson's Star Soldier series. Vertical-scrolling Japanese shoot'em up, weapons to power up and spectacular bosses. The genre was losing steam on 3D consoles and the visuals don't dazzle, but gameplay rigour and shooting purity will delight fans of the form."
