Description

"Adventure Island," also known as "Hudson's Adventure Island," is a captivating side-scrolling platform game originally developed by Hudson Soft for the NES, with its adaptation for the NEC PC-Engine boasting enhanced graphics and sound. In this vibrant title, players assume the role of Master Higgins, a plucky adventurer whose mission is to rescue the kidnapped Princess Leilani from the clutches of the evil witch doctor. Stranded on Adventure Island in the South Pacific, players navigate through perilous landscapes, ranging from dense forests to perilous caves, facing hostile wildlife and treacherous obstacles along the way.

Gameplay in "Adventure Island" for the NEC PC-Engine is famously challenging, consisting of eight unique worlds each divided into four stages, all teeming with dangers that require dexterity and quick reflexes to overcome. Master Higgins' vitality decreases over time, compelling players to constantly snag fruit scattered throughout the levels to keep his energy up while utilizing weapons like axes and skateboards to enhance his chances of survival. The PC-Engine version is notable for its upgrades over the original, including brighter and more colorful sprites, smoother animations, and a richer audio palette, making it a popular choice among fans of the platform genre for its engaging play and technical improvements.