Product Overview
- Product Name: Legendary Axe
- New or Used: Used
- In Case or Loose: Loose
- Overall Condition: Good
- Notes: Includes the TurboChip game card and dust sleeve only.
Photos show actual product for sale — no stock images used.
What's Included
- TurboGrafx-16 Game: Yes
- Manual / Instructions: No
- Jewel Case*: No
- Extras: TurboChip / HuCard dust sleeve included
Game Description
Few games defined the early identity of the TurboGrafx-16 quite like Legendary Axe. Developed by Victor Musical Industries and published by NEC in 1989, this action-packed adventure puts players in the role of Gogan, a warrior who sets out to rescue Princess Flare from the dark sorcerer Jagu. Across forests, caverns, and enemy fortresses, the game balances platforming precision with intense combat, delivering one of the most polished experiences of its time.
The game’s standout mechanic is its power gauge, which charges Gogan’s axe swings the longer players wait between attacks. This added a tactical layer that encouraged both patience and aggression, setting it apart from typical hack-and-slash titles of the era. With imaginative stage design, diverse enemies, and a moody soundtrack, Legendary Axe showcased how NEC’s console could produce arcade-quality visuals and sound while offering deeper, more thoughtful gameplay.
For collectors, Legendary Axe is often placed on a short list of essential TurboGrafx-16 titles. Its critical reception at launch was stellar, with many publications calling it a system seller. Today, it is regarded as a benchmark release that demonstrated the creative risks NEC and its partners were willing to take, making it a cornerstone piece in any retro library.
Gameplay Features
- Side-scrolling action adventure with cinematic variety and challenge
- Innovative power gauge mechanic that enhances combat strategy
- Vivid graphics featuring lush wilderness, caves, and enemy lairs
- Memorable bosses with unique attack patterns and stage designs
- A dynamic soundtrack that amplifies the game’s fantasy atmosphere
- Recognized as a TurboGrafx-16 classic and collector’s must-have
Historical Trivia or Fun Fact
When Legendary Axe launched alongside the TurboGrafx-16 in North America, it immediately became one of the system’s defining titles. Critics praised its depth, graphics, and music, awarding it “Game of the Year” honors and highlighting it as proof that NEC’s console could stand toe-to-toe with Sega and Nintendo’s offerings.
Although a sequel, Legendary Axe II, was released later, it failed to capture the same acclaim. As a result, the original remains the true fan-favorite and is often cited in retro retrospectives as one of the best action games of the late ’80s. For enthusiasts and collectors, it continues to be one of the most sought-after titles in the TurboGrafx-16 library, both for its gameplay quality and historical significance.
Additional Details
- Variant: Standard Release
- Genre: Action Adventure
- Year Released: 1989
- Publisher: NEC
- Developer: Victor Musical Industries
- ESRB Rating: N/A
- UPC: 092218000354
- SKU: 14514
- Format: TurboGrafx-16 / TurboDuo video game (e.g., TurboChip / HuCard / CD-ROM²)
- Platform: TurboGrafx-16 / TurboDuo Console
- Region: NTSC (North America, Canada)
Important Information
- *Used jewel cases may be replaced with a brand new aftermarket one if damaged. Aftermarket cases may differ slightly in build quality from original TurboGrafx or TurboDuo jewel cases.
- Photos show the exact item for sale — we never use stock images for used games.
- All used items are cleaned, tested, and 100% guaranteed to work.
- Backed by Retro Game Fan’s 60-day warranty.
Shop Retro Video Games by Top Publishers
