Ghouls'n Ghosts

From Sega Retro

For the Sega Saturn version, see Capcom Generation: Dai 2 Shuu Makai to Kishi.

n/a

  • Sega Mega Drive
    NTSC-U/PAL
  • Sega Mega Drive
    NTSC-J
  • Master System

GnG Title.png

Daimakaimura MDTitleScreen.png

GhoulsnGhosts SMS Title.png

Ghouls'n Ghosts
System(s): Sega Mega Drive, Sega Master System, Virtual Console, Nintendo Switch Online
Publisher: Sega
Developer:
Distributor:
Sega Mega Drive
Sega Master System
Tec Toy (BR)
Sega Mega Drive
Samsung (KR)
Licensor: Capcom
Original system(s): Capcom CP System
Developer(s) of original games: Capcom
Genre: Action[3][4], Arcade[5]

















Number of players:
Sega Mega Drive
1-2,
Sega Master System
1
Official in-game languages:
Sega Mega Drive
  • English
  • 日本語
  • Sega Master System
  • English
  • Release Date RRP Code
    Sega Mega Drive
    JP
    ¥6,8006,800 G-4013
    Sega Mega Drive
    US
    $44.9544.95[7] 1002
    Sega Mega Drive
    EU
    1002
    Sega Mega Drive
    BX
    Sega Mega Drive
    FR
    449F449[11]
    Sega Mega Drive
    PT
    MDJ1002
    Sega Mega Drive
    UK
    £44.9944.99[9][10] 1002
    Sega Mega Drive
    SE
    (Rental)
    Sega Mega Drive
    CZ
    Sega Mega Drive
    AU
    Sega Mega Drive
    CA
    Sega Mega Drive
    BR
    Sega Mega Drive
    KR
    GM5008JM
    Sega Master System
    US
    7055
    Sega Master System
    EU
    7055
    Sega Master System
    UK
    £29.9929.99[14][15] 7055
    Sega Master System
    AU
    Sega Master System
    BR
    Sega Master System
    BR
    (Blue)
    025170
    Tectoy: Todas as Idades
    Sega Master System
    KR
    GB-2006
    Arcade (Mega-Tech System)
    UK
    £? ?

























    Wii Virtual Console
    JP
    600pts600[21] MBJJ
    CERO: A
    Wii Virtual Console
    US
    800pts800[19] MBJE
    ESRB: Everyone
    Wii Virtual Console
    EU
    800pts800[17] MBJP
    PEGI: 7+
    Wii Virtual Console
    AU
    800pts800[22] MBJP
    OFLC: Parental Guidance (PG)
    Nintendo Switch Online
    JP
    SUBsub M-0865
    Nintendo Switch Online
    US
    SUBsub M-0865
    Nintendo Switch Online
    EU
    SUBsub M-0865
    Nintendo Switch Online
    UK
    SUBsub M-0865
    Nintendo Switch Online
    AU
    SUBsub M-0865
    Non-Sega versions

    Ghouls'n Ghosts, known in Japan as Daimakaimura (大魔界村), is an action platform game for the Sega Mega Drive and the Sega Master System. The Mega Drive version was developed by Sega R&D 2 and first released in Japan in August 1989. The Master System version was developed by Sega with Arc System Works and released in Western regions in 1991. Both games are ports of the 1988 Capcom arcade game Ghouls'n Ghosts.

    Story

    Loki (called Lucifer in the Japanese version), ruler of the Demon Realm, has taken the souls of everybody in the kingdom, including Princess Prin Prin. It falls upon Sir Arthur to again save his beloved princess and return the souls to the people of the kingdom.

    Gameplay

    Mega Drive version

    Ghouls'n Ghosts is a side-scrolling action platform game played as the hapless knight Arthur, who must advance through a series of eerie stages and defeat a number of undead and demonic creatures. A boss guards a door at the end of each stage and bars the way forward. The game is notoriously difficult due to the constant waves of enemies and traps, with Arthur only having a couple of hit points with which to resist them.

    Arthur moves with Left or Right and kneels with Down. He jumps with A or C. He attacks by throwing a weapon with B. Initially, he throws lances, but he acquires different weapons during the journey (which replace his equipped weapon). Multiple weapons can be thrown consecutively (though the exact number depends on the type of weapon equipped). Arthur can attack while standing, kneeling, or jumping. He can attack directly upwards with Up+B; while in midair, he can attack directly downwards with Down+B. He climbs ladders with Up and descends them with Down.

    Arthur can pick up a variety of weapons and armor throughout the stages to help him in his quest. Finding the gold armor allows him to charge up his weapon by holding B to release a powerful magical attack. Each weapon has its own special attack.

    Arthur begins the game wearing a suit of plate armor. When he is injured, his armor falls off, leaving him wearing only his underwear. If he is injured without his armor, he turns into a skeleton and loses a life. Each stage has a checkpoint partway through and before the boss where Arthur is revived if he has passed it; otherwise, he must restart the stage from the beginning. Every stage also has a time limit, and Arthur dies if the time limit expires. Arthur starts with his armor again after losing a life. The game ends if the player runs out of lives. Extra lives are given every 30,000 points.

    The game has two difficulty levels (Practice and Professional). The game has an alternating two-player mode, where two players can share the same control pad or use separate control pads.

    Weapons

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Sword.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Sword Special.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Sword.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Sword Special.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Lance
    The initially equipped weapon. Throws lances straight ahead. Up to two lances can be out at a time.

    The special ability sends lightning bolts directly upward and toward each side.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Big Axe.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Big Axe Special.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Big Axe.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Big Axe Special.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Big Axe
    Throws axes at an upward angle. The axes penetrate through multiple targets, but only one axe can be out at a time.

    The special ability creates a big burst of fire around Arthur.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Super Sword.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Super Sword Special.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Super Sword.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Super Sword Special.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Super Sword
    The only melee weapon. It lacks the range of the other weapons but does twice as much damage.

    The special ability releases Thunder Dragons into the air that fly around the screen.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Fire Water.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Fire Water Special.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Fire Water.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Fire Water Special.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Fire Water
    Drops a concoction that burns blue flames along the ground.

    The special ability shoots four fireballs that whirl around the screen.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Discus.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Discus Special.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Discus.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Discus Special.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Discus
    Throws a discus forwards. When thrown from a kneeling position, it skids along the ground. Up to two discuses can be out at a time.

    The special ability is conjuring a magic mirror that shields Arthur from enemy attacks.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Dagger.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Dagger Special.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Dagger.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Dagger Special.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Dagger
    Throws a dagger forwards. Up to three daggers can be out at a time, and they fly faster than lances.

    The special ability is creating a temporary mirrored version of Arthur who duplicates his movements. This double can damage enemies but cannot be defeated.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons, Psycho Cannon.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Psycho Cannon
    The strongest weapon in the game (but the only that does not have a special ability). Shoots fireballs, though they cannot travel the full length of the screen before dissipating. The fireballs neutralize enemy projectiles and explode after hitting an enemy. These explosions can damage multiple enemies. This item is collected from the goddess in the first stage on the second playthrough if Arthur is wearing the gold armor. If it is lost, it can be found again as long as Arthur is wearing the gold armor. It is needed to fight the final boss.

    Items

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Items.png
    Treasure Chest
    Treasure chests occasionally erupt from the ground. This can sometimes be triggered by jumping in a certain spot. By firing his weapon at the chest, Arthur can uncover a weapon, armor, or an evil magician that changes Arthur into an elderly man (if he is unarmored) or a helpless duck (if he is wearing armor).
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Items.png
    Big Jar
    Big jars are carried by some enemies and contain an item.
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Weapons.png
    Weapons
    Changes Arthur's weapon.
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Items.png
    Red Armor
    Collect for 200 or 500 bonus points.
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Items.png
    Silver Armor
    Restores Arthur's armor.
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Items.png
    Magic Armor
    Upgrades Arthur's armor to a set of gold armor that gives him the ability to perform special charged abilities with his weapons.
    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Items.png
    Key
    Dropped after defeating the boss at the end of each stage. Opens the gate leading to the next stage and restores Arthur's armor (if lost).

    Stages

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Archangel.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Goddess.png

    Goddess

    To defeat the game, Arthur must complete stages 1 through 5 twice.

    When reaching the entrance to Loki's chamber at the end of stage 5 on the first playthrough, the Archangel Gabriel appears and informs Arthur that he cannot defeat Loki without first receiving the magic power from the Goddess of Battle in the village.

    Arthur is then taken back to the first stage. If he has the gold armor, the next treasure chest contains the goddess, who gives him the Psycho Cannon weapon. To enter Loki's chamber, Arthur must have this special weapon equipped. Otherwise, he is sent back to the beginning of stage 5.

    GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage1.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 1-2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 1 Boss.png

    • GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage1.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 1-2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 1 Boss.png

    The Execution Place / The Floating Island on the Lake

    GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 2 Subboss.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 2-2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 2 Boss.png

    • GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 2 Subboss.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 2-2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 2 Boss.png

    The Village of Decay / Town of Fire

    GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage3.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 3-2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 3 Boss.png

    • GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage3.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 3-2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 3 Boss.png

    Baron Rankle's Tower / Horrible Faced Mountain

    GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage4.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 4-2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 4 Boss.png

    • GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage4.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 4-2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 4 Boss.png

    The Crystal Forest

    GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage5.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 1.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 3.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 4.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 5.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 6.png

    • GhoulsnGhosts MD Stage5.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 1.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 3.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 4.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 5.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 5 Boss 6.png

    Castle of Evil Demons

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 6.png

    Loki's Chamber

    Master System version

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Pause Menu.png

    Pause menu

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Store.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Restore.png

    Stores

    The Master System game, like the Mega Drive version, reproduces the gameplay and the stages of the arcade version, but it features a unique power-up system. Players control the knight Arthur and fight hordes of enemies to reach the end of each stage, where a boss guards the gate to the next stage. Arthur moves with Left or Right and kneels with Down. He jumps with 2. He climbs ladders with Up and descends them with Down.

    Arthur attacks with 1 by throwing a weapon. He can attack while standing, kneeling, or jumping. He can attack directly upwards with Up+1; while in midair, he can attack directly downwards with Down+1. Arthur can use a magical ability by holding 1 to charge the ability and then releasing 1 when the magic gauge starts flashing to cast it. Using a magical ability costs a segment of the magic gauge (with more advanced spells costing more bars). The player can change the current magical ability by pausing the game with  PAUSE .

    Arthur begins the game wearing a suit of plate armor. When he is injured, he loses a health point (depicted by a heart). When he only has one health point remaining, his armor falls off, leaving him wearing only his underwear. If he is injured without his armor, he turns into a skeleton and loses a life. Arthur starts with his armor again at the beginning of each stage or after losing a life. The game ends if the player runs out of lives.

    Throughout the stages, Arthur uncovers mysterious treasure chests, which contain either an evil magician or a magical door. The magician casts a spell that temporarily transforms Arthur into a helpless duck (if he has armor on) or an old man (if he is in his underwear). The magical door leads to a chamber where Arthur can upgrade his armor or weapon or where Arthur can restore either his health or magic points. At the end of each stage, the door instead leads to a boss fight.

    Arthur begins with a set of silver armor, but he can upgrade it over the course of the game to red, green, and gold armor, with each new color having improved characteristics. He has three armor pieces: the helmet, which gives him access to more magic spells as it is upgraded; the armor, which gives him more health points as it is upgraded; and the shoes, which increase his movement speed and jumping ability as they are upgraded. There are six weapons of increasing power, which are upgraded in sequence. Arthur retains his armor and weapon after losing a life. He cannot fight the final boss, Loki, unless he is wearing the highest-level armor pieces and armed with the most powerful weapon.

    Weapons

    Unlike other versions of the game, the weapons are collected in sequence, with each one representing an upgrade over the last in power. All of the weapons are projectiles, but none of them travel the full length of the screen.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Weapons, Javelin.png

    Javelin
    The initially equipped weapon. Throws javelins in a straight line. Up to two lances can be out at a time.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Weapons, Dagger.png

    Dagger
    Throws a dagger forwards. Up to three daggers can be out at a time.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Weapons, Axe.png

    Axe
    Throws axes, which fly at an upward angle. Up to two axes can be out at a time.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Weapons, Discus.png

    Discus
    Throws a discus forwards. Discuses can roll over obstacles and uneven terrain. Up to two discuses can be out at a time.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Weapons, Fireball.png

    Fireball
    Shoots fireballs. Up to four fireballs can be out at a time.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Weapons, Cannon.png

    Cannon
    Shoots fireballs. Up to two fireballs can be out at a time. This item is collected from the goddess after entering a magic door if Arthur is wearing all gold armor pieces, armed with the Fireball weapon, and on the second playthrough. It is the most powerful weapon, and Arthur can only fight the final boss if he possesses this weapon.

    Magic

    Magic abilities are separate from weapons in this version of the game.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Magic, Fire Magic.png

    Fire Magic
    Four fireballs burst diagonally from Arthur. This ability is initially available and costs 1 magic point to use.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Magic, Thunder Magic.png

    Thunder Magic
    Lightning bolts zap out from Arthur upwards and towards each side. This ability is initially available and costs 1 magic point to use.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Magic, Shield Magic.png

    Shield Magic
    Arthur is temporarily rendered impervious to damage. Arthur must be wearing the red helmet to use this ability. It costs 2 magic points to use.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Magic, Double Magic.png

    Double Magic
    A duplicate of Arthur appears and temporarily fights alongside him. The double can attack enemies but cannot be harmed by them. Arthur must be wearing the green helmet to use this ability. It costs 4 magic points to use.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Magic, Bomb Magic.png

    Bomb Magic
    A magic bomb erupts that damages all enemies on the screen. Arthur must be wearing the gold helmet to use this ability. It costs 6 magic points to use.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Magic, Life Magic.png

    Life Magic
    Restores Arthur's health. Arthur must be wearing the gold helmet and armed with the Cannon to use this ability. It costs 8 magic points to use.

    Items

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Items.png
    Treasure Chest
    Treasure chests occasionally erupt from the ground. This can sometimes be triggered by jumping in a certain spot. By firing his weapon at the chest, Arthur can reveal either an evil magician or a magical door.
    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Items.png
    Key
    Dropped after defeating the boss at the end of each stage. Opens the gate leading to the next stage and restores Arthur's armor (if lost).

    Stages

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Archangel.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Goddess.png

    Goddess

    To defeat the game, Arthur must complete stages 1 through 5 twice.

    When reaching the entrance to Loki's chamber at the end of stage 5 on the first playthrough, the Archangel Gabriel appears and informs Arthur that he cannot defeat Loki without first receiving the magic power from the Goddess of Battle, and he is sent back to the first stage.

    If Arthur is wearing all gold armor pieces and equipped with the Fireball weapon, the goddess appears at the next door that would otherwise send him to an upgrade chamber and gives him the Cannon weapon. To enter Loki's chamber, Arthur must have this special weapon equipped. Otherwise, he is sent back to the beginning of stage 5.

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 1-1.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 1-2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 1 Boss.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 1-1.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 1-2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 1 Boss.png

    The Hill of Torture
    Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 2-1.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 2 Subboss.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 2-2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 2 Boss.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 2-1.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 2 Subboss.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 2-2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 2 Boss.png

    The Village of Decay and Destruction
    Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 3-1.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 3-2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 3 Boss.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 3-1.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 3-2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 3 Boss.png

    Baron Rankle's Tower
    Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 4-1.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 4-2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 4 Boss.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 4-1.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 4-2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 4 Boss.png

    The Crystal Forest
    Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 1.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 2.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 3.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 4.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 5.png

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 6.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 1.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 2.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 3.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 4.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 5.png

    • Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 5 Boss 6.png

    The Castle
    Maps: 1️⃣ | 2️⃣ 

    Ghouls'n Ghosts SMS, Stage 6.png

    Loki's Chamber
    Map: 1️⃣ 

    History

    Development

    Programming

    The Mega Drive version of Ghouls'n Ghosts was handled by Sega R&D 2,[1] developed over 5 months.[29][30] Main programmer Yuji Naka accepted the offer to port Ghouls'n Ghosts shortly after completing Phantasy Star II in December 1988,[31] which was also programmed in part by this game's sub programmer Com Blue. The two also programmed Super Thunder Blade and the first Phantasy Star before that. Naka picked this project as, being a native of the Kansai region, he would need to travel to Capcom's headquarters in Osaka, Kansai, to collect arcade materials. This single trip could double as a visit to his parent's house nearby, saving him money.[32]

    Yuji Naka has also said he asked to work on the port due to being impressed with the arcade game when it was demonstrated at Amusement Machine Show 1988,[33] with the sloped hills being the most interesting aspect, at a time when diagonal ground movement was rare in side-scrolling platformers.[34] He visited Capcom a month after the AM Show when the arcade game released[35] (also a month after the release of Super Thunder Blade), acquiring the source code and ROM data, being horrified to learn the program alone took up more than the 4 megabits (512 kilobytes) Mega Drive cartridges typically had at the time, and so didn't know how he would then also include the graphics. As a result, it required a great deal of compression and inserting graphics into odd places in the code.[34]

    Ghouls'n Ghosts MD, Stage 4-2.png

    Arthur running down a slope

    While these tricks did work, Ghouls'n Ghosts was still impossible to fit into just 512kB. The team began to overestimate how much they could add and how accurate they could be, and eventually ran out of space. Rather than compromise and remove content, Naka pleaded with executives to add an extra 128kB to the cartridge.[35]


    We got it into a reasonable shape, to the point where we thought, "We're so close, we can make it basically arcade-perfect!" But when we got to the point where we were just about make it arcade-accurate, we ran out of space. I didn't want to make cuts, so I begged the company, "I'm really sorry, please add just one more megabit......" so it could be 5M.

    Because of my persistence, Ghouls'n Ghosts is the only Mega Drive game to have the rudimentary "5MEGA ROM".

    Yuji Naka[34]


    Due to what he learned during its development, Naka has directly credited Ghouls'n Ghosts for paving the way towards Sonic the Hedgehog,[35][36][37] as slopes and 360 degree loops play a big role in Sonic's level design and movement.[38]

    Music and Sound

    One of the most challenging aspects of development, besides the tight deadline, was the audio.[32] The sound driver for the game used the driver from Capcom's CP System,[39] reprogrammed by Izuho Numata with programmer S.[40] Numata had very little experience with assembly, the language it was written in, so the programmers patiently guided her along the way.[41] While there were still problems with her new sound driver, including a major one that she was scolded by the director for,[42] senior sound engineer Kazuhiko Nagai was brought in to do checks on it and make corrections.[41][43]

    As the Mega Drive supported fewer tones than the CP System,[32] Numata had to spend a long time carefully deciding which tones to cut. Kazuhiko Nagai eased her workload by creating the sound effects.[44][43]

    Legacy

    The Mega Drive release, was a notable milestone in the console's first couple of years. At the time, it was considered the most accurate home version of the game. In the West, it was billed as a selling point for the Mega Drive system during its first few months, retailing at a higher price than most games available for the console at the time. It also marks the beginning of Sega's relationship with the then-industry powerhouse Capcom, who, until this point, had avoided releasing games for Sega systems.

    The Mega Drive version was re-released as part of the Wii's Virtual Console service in 2007. It was also included as part of the Mega Drive Mini in 2019.

    The original arcade game was ported to the Sega Saturn in Japan in 1998 as part of Capcom Generation: Dai 2 Shuu Makai to Kishi.

    Versions

    Localised names

    Also known as
    Language Localised Name English Translation
    English Ghouls'n Ghosts Ghouls'n Ghosts
    English (US) Ghouls'n Ghosts Ghouls'n Ghosts
    Japanese 大魔界村 Daimakaimura

    Production credits

    Main article: Ghouls'n Ghosts/Production credits.

    Mega Drive version

    Source:
    Uncredited

    Source:
    JP cover
    GnG MD JP Box.jpg
    [3]


    Master System version

    Source:
    Uncredited


    Digital manuals

    Magazine articles

    Main article: Ghouls'n Ghosts/Magazine articles.

    Promotional material

    NL TV advert (1991)
    Master System Mega Drive advert SE.jpg
    SE advert
    Master System Mega Drive advert SE.jpg
    CG GR 3 Mega Drive advert.jpg
    Print advert in Computer Games (GR) #3: "Ioúnios 1990" (1990-xx-xx)
    CG GR 3 Mega Drive advert.jpg
    Logo-pdf.svg
    Print advert in ACE (UK) #37: "October 1990" (1990-09-xx)
    also published in:
    Logo-pdf.svg
    Notavailable.svg
    Print advert in Atuagagdliutit (GL) #1991-08-28 (1991-08-28)
    Notavailable.svg

    Artwork

    Physical scans

    Mega Drive version

    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Score Source
    {{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
    Based on
    0 review
    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Version Score
    1700 igr dlya Sega (RU)
    70
    [52]
    ACE (UK) PAL
    90
    [53]
    Aktueller Software Markt (DE)
    72
    [54]
    Beep! MegaDrive (JP) NTSC-J
    80
    [55]
    Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
    98
    [56]
    Complete Guide to Consoles (UK)
    93
    [57]
    The Complete Guide to Sega (UK)
    93
    [58]
    Console XS (UK) PAL
    92
    [59]
    Computer & Video Games (UK)
    96
    [60]
    Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
    90
    [61]
    Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 1 (RU)
    70
    [62]
    Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 5 (RU)
    70
    [63]
    Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
    90
    [64]
    Famitsu (JP) NTSC-J
    78
    [65]
    Games Preview (DK)
    95
    [66]
    Hobby Consolas (ES)
    93
    [67]
    Joystick (FR)
    94
    [68]
    Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK)
    86
    [69]
    Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK) PAL
    86
    [70]
    Mega Drive Fan (JP) NTSC-J
    83
    [71]
    Mega Action (UK)
    90
    [72]
    Mega Fun (DE) PAL
    81
    [73]
    MegaTech (UK)
    93
    [74]
    Micromanía (segunda época) (ES)
    80
    [75]
    Mean Machines (UK)
    92
    [76]
    Mean Machines Sega (UK)
    93
    [77]
    Player One (FR)
    90
    [11]
    Power Play (DE)
    72
    [78]
    Raze (UK) PAL
    93
    [79]
    Sega Power (UK) PAL
    92
    [80]
    Sega Power (UK) PAL
    100
    [81]
    Sega Pro (UK)
    93
    [82]
    Sega Pro (UK) PAL
    90
    [83]
    Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
    76
    [84]
    Tricks 16 bit (RU)
    77
    [85]
    VideoGames & Computer Entertainment (US)
    90
    [7]
    Zzap! (IT)
    94
    [86]
    Sega Mega Drive
    87
    Based on
    37 reviews

    Ghouls'n Ghosts

    Mega Drive, JP
    GnG MD JP Box.jpg
    Cover
    GhoulsnGhosts MD JP CartTop.jpg
    GnG MD JP Cart Back.jpgGnG MD JP Cart.jpg
    Cart
    GnG MD JP Manual.pdf
    Manual
    GnG MD JP pcb.jpg
    PCB
    Mega Drive, US
    GnG MD US Box.jpg
    Cover
    GnG MD US Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Ghoulsnghosts md us manual.pdf
    Manual
    Mega Drive, EU
    GnG MD EU Box.jpg
    Cover
    GhoulsNGhosts-MD-EU-Carttop.jpg
    GnG MD EU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    GhoulsNGhosts MD EU Manual.jpg
    Manual
    GnG MD EU pcb.jpg
    PCB
    Mega Drive, PT
    GnG MD PT cover.jpg
    Cover
    Mega Drive, SE rental (Kanal10)
    GnG MD SE rental cover.jpg
    Cover
    Mega Drive, BX
    GnG MD BX Box Front.jpg
    Cover
    Mega Drive, CZ/SK (ITO CS)
    GnG MD EU Box.jpg
    Cover
    GnG MD EU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    GhoulsNGhosts MD CZ Manual.png
    Manual
    Mega Drive, AU
    GnG MD AU cover.jpg
    Cover
    Ghouls N Ghosts Megadrive AU Manual.pdf
    Manual
    Mega Drive, AU (alt)
    GnG MD AU alt cover.jpg
    Cover
    Mega Drive, BR (Cardboard Case)
    GnG MD BR Box.jpg
    Cover
    Ghoulsnghosts md br manual.pdf
    Manual
    Mega Drive, BR (Plastic Case)

    Mega Drive, CA
    GhoulsnGhosts MD CA Box.jpg
    Cover
    Mega Drive, KR
    Daimakaimura MD KR Box.jpg
    Cover
    GhoulsnGhosts MD KR cart.jpg
    Cart

    Master System version

    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Score Source
    {{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
    Based on
    0 review
    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Version Score
    Ação Games (BR)
    75
    [16]
    Aktueller Software Markt (DE)
    60
    [87]
    The Complete Guide to Sega (UK) PAL
    79
    [88]
    Console XS (UK) PAL
    90
    [89]
    Computer & Video Games (UK)
    81
    [14]
    Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
    75
    [90]
    Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
    80
    [91]
    FX (UK)
    84
    [92]
    GamePro (US) NTSC-U
    84
    [93]
    Games-X (UK) PAL
    60
    [94]
    Hobby Consolas (ES)
    87
    [95]
    Joystick (FR) PAL
    83
    [96]
    Micromanía (segunda época) (ES)
    70
    [97]
    Mean Machines (UK)
    80
    [98]
    Player One (FR)
    84
    [99]
    Power Play (DE)
    38
    [100]
    Raze (UK) PAL
    54
    [101]
    Sega Power (UK) PAL
    90
    [102]
    Sega Power (UK) PAL
    75
    [103]
    Sega Pro (UK)
    90
    [82]
    Sega Pro (UK) PAL
    90
    [104]
    User (GR) PAL
    92
    [105]
    Video Games (DE)
    38
    [106]
    Sega Master System
    76
    Based on
    23 reviews

    Ghouls'n Ghosts

    Master System, US
    GnG SMS US Box.jpg
    Cover
    Ghoulsnghosts sms us manual.pdf
    Manual
    Master System, EU (6 languages)
    GnG SMS EU Box 6.jpg
    Cover
    GnG SMS EU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Ghouls'n Ghosts (6 Languages) SMS EU Manual.pdf
    Manual
    Master System, EU (8 languages)
    GnG SMS EU Box 8.jpg
    Cover
    GnG SMS EU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Master System, BX
    GhoulsnGhosts SMS BX Box.jpg
    Cover
    Master System, AU (Vertical manual)

    GnG SMS AU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    GhoulsNGhostsSMSAuManual.pdf
    Manual
    Master System, AU (Horizontal manual)

    GnG SMS AU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Master System, AU (Not for rental/hotline stickers)
    GnG SMS AU norental back.jpgNospine.pngGnG SMS AU norental cover.jpg
    Cover
    GnG SMS AU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Master System, AU (Not for rental sticker)
    GnG SMS AU norental2 cover.jpg
    Cover
    GnG SMS AU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    GhoulsNGhostsSMSAuManual.pdf
    Manual
    Master System, AU (Red Hot)
    GnG SMS AU redhot cover.jpg
    Cover
    GnG SMS AU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Master System, BR (cardboard)
    GhoulsnGhosts SMS BR cover.jpg
    Cover
    Master System, BR
    GhoulsnGhosts SMS BR Box.png
    Cover
    GnG SMS BR Cart.jpg
    Cart
    GnG SMS BR Manual.pdf
    Manual
    Master System, BR (re-release)
    GhoulsNGhostsSMSBRBlueCover.jpg
    Cover
    Master System, KR
    GhoulsnGhosts SMS KR cover.jpg
    Cover
    GhoulsNGhosts SMS KR cart.jpg
    Cart

    Mega-Tech version

    Mega-Tech,

    Technical information

    Main article: Ghouls'n Ghosts/Technical information.

    ROM dump status

    System Hash Size Build Date Source Comments
    Sega Mega Drive
    CRC32 4f2561d5
    MD5 c61ff4bcdf10813c74f36ab57e29f646
    SHA-1 aab6d20f01db51576b1d7cafab46e613dddf7f8a
    640kB 1989-06 Cartridge (US/EU) Revision 02
    Sega Mega Drive
    CRC32 d31bd910
    MD5 815aab1193bf534063e8f032ec76852a
    SHA-1 3a3e9eb5caaf6cfb75e99ed2843d58b3dda7284f
    640kB 1989-06 Cartridge (US/EU) Revision 01
    Sega Mega Drive
    CRC32 5659f379
    MD5 203213c107fc17731dc7953343b5ffab
    SHA-1 a08a5764dc8651d31ef72466028cfb87fb6dd166
    640kB 1989-06 Cartridge (JP)
    Sega Master System
     ?
    CRC32 7a92eba6
    MD5 85707b3a74483910699ccc4ba20c64ff
    SHA-1 b193e624795b2beb741249981d621cb650c658db
    256kB Cartridge (EU/US)

    External links

    • Sega of Japan Virtual Console pages: Mega Drive
    • Nintendo catalogue pages: US, UK, AU

    References

    Necretro-round.svg
    NEC Retro has more information related to Daimakaimura
    1. 1.0 1.1 @nakayuji on Twitter (Wayback Machine: 2022-04-28 19:00)
    2. Hidden Palace: News
    3. 3.0 3.1 File:GnG MD JP Box.jpg
    4. 4.0 4.1 https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software.html (Wayback Machine: 2020-07-20 09:51)
    5. File:GnG SMS EU Box 6.jpg
    6. Computer Entertainer, "December 1989" (US; 1989-12-18), page 14
    7. 7.0 7.1 VideoGames & Computer Entertainment, "January 1990" (US; 19xx-xx-xx), page 50
    8. Mean Machines, "October 1990" (UK; 1990-09-xx), page 76
    9. Raze, "January 1991" (UK; 1990-11-29), page 61
    10. ACE, "October 1990" (UK; 1990-09-xx), page 51
    11. 11.0 11.1 Player One, "Octobre 1990" (FR; 1990-xx-xx), page 56
    12. Electronic Gaming Monthly, "January 1991" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 24
    13. 13.0 13.1 Mean Machines, "April 1991" (UK; 1991-04-01), page 82
    14. 14.0 14.1 Computer & Video Games, "May 1991" (UK; 1991-04-14), page 74
    15. Sega Power, "June 1991" (UK; 1991-05-02), page 19
    16. 16.0 16.1 Ação Games, "Junho 1991" (BR; 1991-06-19), page 16
    17. 17.0 17.1 http://www.nintendolife.com:80/games/megadrive/ghouls_n_ghosts (Wayback Machine: 2017-07-22 15:15)
    18. https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Virtual-Console-Wii-/Ghouls-n-Ghosts--277457.html (archive.today)
    19. 19.0 19.1 http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/aI9Z0vELsfnXIv8965H4zUj9rHC01wIm (Wayback Machine: 2010-11-23 02:20)
    20. https://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/vc/software/04.html (Wayback Machine: 2018-03-05 23:40)
    21. http://vc.sega.jp:80/vc_daimakaimura/ (Wayback Machine: 2007-08-13 07:56)
    22. http://www.nintendo.com.au/index.php?action=catalogue&prodcat_id=41&prod_id=19745&pageID=4 (Wayback Machine: 2012-04-03 02:06)
    23. https://topics.nintendo.co.jp/article/c33d8753-7d81-46bd-80cb-1e0a80dbae98 (archive.today)
    24. @NintendoAmerica on Twitter (archive.today)
    25. @NintendoEurope on Twitter (archive.today)
    26. @NintendoUK on Twitter (archive.today)
    27. @NintendoAUNZ on Twitter (archive.today)
    28. http://shmuplations.com/sonicteam/
    29. [[28] [28]]
    30. @nakayuji on Twitter (Wayback Machine: 2022-07-02 05:54)
    31. Phantasy Star II#Technical information
    32. 32.0 32.1 32.2 32.3 32.4 32.5 32.6 Sega Players Enjoy Club, "Vol. 4" (JP; 1989-10-20), page 2
    33. @nakayuji on Twitter (Wayback Machine: 2022-04-28 18:59)
    34. 34.0 34.1 34.2 https://news.denfaminicogamer.jp/megadrivecx/kibe2#i-2 (Wayback Machine: 2023-09-16 18:35)
    35. 35.0 35.1 35.2 Sega Consumer History, Enterbrain, page 38
    36. @nakayuji on Twitter (Wayback Machine: 2022-04-28 18:59)
    37. @nakayuji on Twitter (Wayback Machine: 2022-07-04 04:37)
    38. https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/529521.html (Wayback Machine: 2021-11-28 23:23)
    39. [ ]
    40. @mito_chusui on Twitter
    41. 41.0 41.1 @mito_chusui on Twitter
    42. @mito_chusui on Twitter
    43. 43.0 43.1 43.2 https://sbtransr02.wixsite.com/kazuhiko-nagai/my-works-1 (Wayback Machine: 2021-04-10 08:56)
    44. @mito_chusui on Twitter
    45. Ultra Game Players, "November 1997" (US; 1997-10-14), page 36
    46. @mito_chusui on Twitter (Wayback Machine: 2022-12-08 18:47)
    47. Mega Drive Fan, "October 1992" (JP; 1992-09-xx), page 47
    48. File:SegaAges2500V17_PS2_JP_Leaflet.PDF, page 2
    49. https://sega.jp/fb/album/06_sdi/interview1.html (Wayback Machine: 2021-10-16 21:52)
    50. https://vgmdb.net/forums/showpost.php?p=62712&postcount=14 (Wayback Machine: 2023-09-07 21:17)
    51. Computer & Video Games, "October 1990" (UK; 1990-09-16), page 122
    52. 1700 igr dlya Sega, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 88
    53. ACE, "November 1989" (UK; 1989-10-xx), page 144
    54. Aktueller Software Markt, "Oktober 1989" (DE; 1989-08-28), page 60
    55. Beep! MegaDrive, "February 1990" (JP; 1990-01-08), page 72
    56. Complete Guide to Consoles, "" (UK; 1989-10-16), page 38
    57. Complete Guide to Consoles, "Volume IV" (UK; 1990-11-xx), page 30
    58. The Complete Guide to Sega, "" (UK; 1991-05-xx), page 47
    59. Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 130
    60. Computer & Video Games, "October 1989" (UK; 1989-09-16), page 116
    61. Electronic Gaming Monthly, "December 1989" (US; 1989-xx-xx), page 62
    62. Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 1, "" (RU; 1999-xx-xx), page 318
    63. Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 5, "" (RU; 200x-xx-xx), page 157
    64. Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 51
    65. Famitsu, "" (JP; 1989-xx-xx), page 1
    66. Games Preview, "8/9 1989" (DK; 1989-xx-xx), page 70
    67. Hobby Consolas, "Febrero 1992" (ES; 1992-0x-xx), page 76
    68. Joystick, "Septembre 1990" (FR; 1990-0x-xx), page 90
    69. Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-xx-xx), page 78
    70. Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "January 1993" (UK; 199x-xx-xx), page 92
    71. Mega Drive Fan, "January 1990" (JP; 1989-12-08), page 73
    72. Mega Action, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-20), page 65
    73. Mega Fun, "10/93" (DE; 1993-09-22), page 42
    74. MegaTech, "Xmas 1991" (UK; 1991-12-06), page 78
    75. Micromanía (segunda época), "Enero 1991" (ES; 199x-xx-xx), page 36
    76. Mean Machines, "October 1990" (UK; 1990-09-xx), page 74
    77. Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 139
    78. Power Play, "11/89" (DE; 1989-10-09), page 58
    79. Raze, "January 1991" (UK; 1990-11-29), page 60
    80. Sega Power, "February 1991" (UK; 1991-01-03), page 18
    81. Sega Power, "October 1991" (UK; 1991-09-05), page 53
    82. 82.0 82.1 Sega Pro, "Christmas 1991" (UK; 1991-12-12), page 19
    83. Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 65
    84. Sega Saturn Magazine, "September 1995" (JP; 1995-08-08), page 85
    85. Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 81
    86. Zzap!, "Dicembre 1990" (IT; 1990-xx-xx), page 70
    87. Aktueller Software Markt, "August/September 1991" (DE; 1991-07-26), page 118
    88. The Complete Guide to Sega, "" (UK; 1991-05-xx), page 20
    89. Console XS, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-04-23), page 141
    90. Electronic Gaming Monthly, "January 1991" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 20
    91. Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 137
    92. FX (UK) (+0:00)
    93. GamePro, "April 1991" (US; 1991-xx-xx), page 62
    94. Games-X, "31st May-6th June 1991" (UK; 1991-05-31), page 22
    95. Hobby Consolas, "Diciembre 1991" (ES; 1991-1x-xx), page 78
    96. Joystick, "Mai 1991" (FR; 1991-0x-xx), page 173
    97. Micromanía (segunda época), "Julio 1991" (ES; 1991-0x-xx), page 36
    98. Mean Machines, "April 1991" (UK; 1991-04-01), page 80
    99. Player One, "Juin 1991" (FR; 1991-xx-xx), page 24
    100. Power Play, "5/91" (DE; 1991-04-12), page 138
    101. Raze, "August 1991" (UK; 1991-06-27), page 47
    102. Sega Power, "June 1991" (UK; 1991-05-02), page 18
    103. Sega Power, "October 1991" (UK; 1991-09-05), page 57
    104. Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 71
    105. User, "Mártios 1992" (GR; 1992-0x-xx), page 87
    106. Video Games, "1/91" (DE; 1991-03-27), page 76


    Ghouls'n Ghosts

    GnG Title.png

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