Overview and Gameplay
A statue awakened by the Dragon Spirit becomes Baljing’s warrior against the warlock Zabbaong. Dragon Fighter mixes sword-based platform action with horizontal shooting across six stages, each guarded by a boss. In human form, you run, jump, crouch, cut through enemies, and charge ranged attacks. Building enough metamorph energy lets you become a flying dragon until the meter drains. The final stage uses an unlimited white-dragon form for a full auto-scrolling shooter sequence.
Controls And Mechanics
- Directions: Move and crouch as the fighter, or fly freely as the dragon.
- A: Jump. Press Up and A during a jump when the metamorph meter is ready to transform; Down and A returns the dragon to human form.
- B: Use the sword or dragon breath. Hold and release B for a charged projectile.
- Green, red, and blue items alter charged shots and dragon breath with speed, spread, ground fire, or homing effects.
- Boss rewards increase and refill the life meter. The game provides three lives and three continues, with continues restarting the current stage.
Version Notes
The North American edition keeps the Japanese game’s title and core design. Its title screen uses different copyright information, while the Japanese screen flashes Push Start. The U.S. software shows a 1991 copyright, although the retail release followed in January 1992.
Release And Credits
- Developer: Natsume
- North American publisher: SOFEL
- North American release: January 1992
- Original platform: Famicom and NES
