Legendary Axe - TurboGrafx-16 (Very Good, Loose)

Game Description

Legendary Axe is one of the most celebrated early titles on the TurboGrafx-16, developed by Victor Musical Industries and published by NEC in 1989. Set in a hostile prehistoric fantasy world, players take control of Gogan, a warrior armed with a powerful axe, on a mission to rescue his childhood friend Flare from the evil cult leader Jagu. With lush forests, dangerous caves, and towering fortresses, the game’s varied stages set a new standard for action adventure on NEC’s system.

What made Legendary Axe stand out at launch was its smooth controls and innovative attack system. Players wield a “power meter” that charges Gogan’s axe strikes, rewarding patience and timing with devastating blows. Combined with platforming challenges, diverse enemy designs, and an atmospheric soundtrack, the game delivered an experience that felt both arcade-sharp and home-console deep. Its balanced mix of action and strategy gave it critical acclaim in a crowded field of late ’80s side-scrollers.

For collectors, Legendary Axe remains a must-own title and is often cited as one of the best early TurboGrafx-16 games. It served as a showcase of the system’s capabilities during its U.S. launch, helping establish credibility against the Sega Genesis and Nintendo’s NES. Decades later, it continues to rank highly in retro gaming lists, remembered for its polish, variety, and lasting replay value.

Gameplay Features

• Side-scrolling action adventure with platforming and combat
• Unique power meter that rewards timing and strategy in attacks
• Explore forests, caves, mountains, and fortresses across varied levels
• Battle bizarre enemies and brutal bosses with distinct patterns
• Challenging progression that balances action with tactical gameplay
• A flagship TurboGrafx-16 launch title showcasing the system’s strengths

Historical Trivia or Fun Fact

At the time of release, Legendary Axe was hailed by U.S. gaming magazines and even won “Game of the Year” honors in some publications. Reviewers praised its graphics, music, and unique attack meter, calling it one of the most innovative action games on the market. This critical acclaim helped position the TurboGrafx-16 as a serious contender in the 16-bit era.

While Legendary Axe later received a sequel, the original is still widely considered superior thanks to its refined mechanics and balanced design. Collectors prize it as both an iconic launch title and one of the best examples of NEC’s early software lineup, placing it alongside Bonk’s Adventure and Blazing Lazers as a cornerstone of the TurboGrafx-16 library.