The Legend of Kage

The Legend of Kage is a classic ninja action game released for the Nintendo Entertainment System by Taito in 1987 in North America, following its earlier Japanese home release. Originally introduced in arcades in 1985, the game puts players in control of Kage, a young ninja from the Iga village who must rescue Princess Kiri from a group of mystical villains. With its fast-paced combat, enormous jumps, and colorful fantasy setting, it stands out among the early action games of the NES era.

The adventure begins near the end of Japan's Edo period, when evil forces kidnap Princess Kiri and take her to a heavily guarded fortress. After other warriors fail to return from their rescue attempts, Kage sets out alone to battle the enemies and reach the castle. His journey takes him through dense forests, secret passages, fortified walls, and dangerous castle interiors.

Kage has two main weapons: a short sword for close-range combat and an unlimited supply of throwing stars for attacking enemies from a distance. His remarkable jumping ability allows him to leap high above opponents, while trees and poles provide ways to climb through the stages. Enemy ninjas, sword-wielding guards, and fire-breathing monks constantly threaten his progress, making quick movement and accurate attacks essential.

One of the game's distinctive features is its changing seasons. After rescuing the princess, the adventure continues with altered seasonal settings, introducing new challenges and stronger enemies. Special items can also enhance Kage's abilities, while hidden secrets reward players who experiment with different actions.

The NES version supports two players taking turns, offering a chance to compete for high scores. With its straightforward controls, challenging one-hit combat, and classic ninja atmosphere, The Legend of Kage remains a recognizable piece of Taito's action-game history.