Overview and Gameplay
A young Portuguese navigator sets out across the Age of Exploration, balancing trade, discovery, and naval conflict while seeking fame across global ports. The journey revolves around building wealth through trading goods between regions, completing missions for European powers, and expanding influence through reputation.
Progress is driven by open-ended sailing routes and economic decisions, where each port offers new opportunities and risks. Encounters at sea include piracy and hostile fleets, requiring tactical command during naval engagements. Growth comes from upgrading ships, managing resources, and carefully choosing routes across the world map.
Controls And Mechanics
- Navigation through world map menus and port interfaces using directional input
- Confirmation and selection for trading, dialogue, and mission choices
- Cancellation and back actions for menu navigation
- Turn-based naval encounters with positioning and command decisions
- Single-player progression focused on economy, exploration, and reputation building
Version Notes
The USA release presents the localized Genesis edition of Koei’s original maritime simulation, adapted from the Japanese release known as Daikoukai Jidai. This version focuses on streamlined console play compared to its PC origins while retaining core trading and exploration systems.
Release And Credits
- 1992
- Koei Co., Ltd.
- Sega Genesis
- Also known as Daikoukai Jidai (Japan)