Difference between revisions of "Prince of Persia"

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m (Text replacement - "Sega Channel US schedule" to "Sega Channel schedule (US; 1994-06-01)")
 
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:''For the Mega-CD version, see ''[[Prince of Persia (Mega-CD)]]''
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{{OtherPage|desc=the [[Sega Mega-CD]] game|page=Prince of Persia (Mega-CD)}}
−
 
 
 
{{Bob
 
{{Bob
 
| bobscreen=PoP MD Title.png
 
| bobscreen=PoP MD Title.png
−
| publisher={{MD}} {{GG}} [[Tengen]] (US), [[Domark]] (EU), {{SMS}} [[Domark]]
+
| bobscreen2=PrinceofPersia MD EU TitleScreen.png
−
| developer={{MD}} {{SMS}} {{GG}} [[Domark]],
+
| bobscreen3=PrinceofPersia SMS Title.png
 +
| bobscreen4=PrinceofPersia SMS Title.png
 +
| tab1={{MD}} NTSC-U
 +
| tab2={{MD}} PAL
 +
| tab3=Master System
 +
| tab4=Game Gear
 +
| smsgg=yes
 +
| publisher={{company|[[Tengen]]|system=MD|region=US}}
 +
{{company|[[Domark]]|system=MD|region=EU}}
 +
{{company|[[Domark]]|system=SMS,GG}}
 +
| developer={{company|[[Domark]]|system=MD,SMS,GG}}
 +
| distributor={{company|[[Tengen]]|system=GG|region=US}}
 +
{{company|[[Hent Gruppen]]|region=SE rental|system=MD}}
 +
{{company|[[Tec Toy]]|region=BR|system=SMS}}
 +
| licensor=[[Brøderbund Software]]
 
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]], [[Sega Game Gear]]
 
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]], [[Sega Game Gear]]
 
| sounddriver={{MD}} [[GEMS]]
 
| sounddriver={{MD}} [[GEMS]]
 
| peripherals=
 
| peripherals=
 
| players=1
 
| players=1
−
| genre=Action
+
| genre=Action{{fileref|PoP GG EU Box Back.jpg}}
−
| originaldevelopers=[[Brøderbund Software]]
+
| originalsystem=Apple II
−
| consolescompilation=Apple II
 
 
| releases={{releasesMD
 
| releases={{releasesMD
−
| md_date_us=1994-01{{fileref|GamePro US 053.pdf|page=189}}
+
| md_date_us=1994-01{{magref|gamepro|53|189}}
−
| md_rrp_us=59.95{{fileref|GamePro US 057.pdf|page=32}}
+
| md_rrp_us=59.95{{magref|gamepro|57|32}}
 
| md_code_us=T-48286
 
| md_code_us=T-48286
 +
| md_code2_us=301053-0150
 +
| md_rating_us=ma13
 +
| md_date_us_sc=1994-06-01{{intref|Sega Channel schedule (US; 1994-06-01)}}
 +
| md_rrp_us_sc=sub
 +
| md_rating_us_sc=
 
| md_date_eu=1994
 
| md_date_eu=1994
−
| md_date_uk=1994-03{{fileref|CVG UK 148.pdf|page=102}}
 
 
| md_code_eu=T-88076-50
 
| md_code_eu=T-88076-50
−
| md_rrp_uk=44.99{{fileref|CVG UK 152.pdf|page=81}}
+
| md_date_uk=1994-04{{magref|segapro|31|10}}<!--1994-03-End{{magref|ctw|480|21}}{{magref|cvg|148|102}}{{magref|segamaguk|3|106}}-->
 +
| md_code_uk=T-88076-50
 +
| md_rrp_uk=39.99{{magref|segamaguk|3|106}}{{magref|gamesmaster|16|70}}<!--44.99{{magref|cvg|152|81}}-->
 
| md_date_au=199x
 
| md_date_au=199x
 +
| md_code_au=FPRI02SMC
 +
| md_date_se_r=199x
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{releasesSMS
 
{{releasesSMS
−
| sms_date_eu=1992-08{{fileref|SegaPro UK 09.pdf|page=59}}
+
| sms_date_eu=1992-10-01{{magref|ctw|406|6}}<!--1992-08{{magref|segapro|9|59}}-->
 
| sms_code_eu=MK 27022-50
 
| sms_code_eu=MK 27022-50
−
| sms_rrp_uk=29.99{{fileref|CVG UK 128.pdf|page=27}} <!--32.99{{fileref|SegaZone UK 01.pdf|page=76}}-->
+
| sms_date_uk=1992-10-01{{magref|ctw|406|6}}<!--1992-08{{magref|segapro|9|59}}-->
 +
| sms_code_uk=MK 27022-50
 +
| sms_rrp_uk=32.99{{magref|ctw|406|6}}{{magref|segazuk|1|76}}<!--29.99{{magref|cvg|128|27}}{{magref|segapower|32|27}}-->
 
| sms_date_br=1992
 
| sms_date_br=1992
 
| sms_code_br=027270
 
| sms_code_br=027270
 
| sms_date_au=199x
 
| sms_date_au=199x
 
}}
 
}}
−
| vrc=ma13
+
{{releasesGG
 +
| gg_date_us=1992-09{{magref|gamepro|36|90}}
 +
| gg_rrp_us=34.95{{magref|vgce|46|87}}
 +
| gg_code_us=T-48098
 +
| gg_date_eu=1992-12-10{{magref|ctw|414|18}}<!--1992-10{{magref|cvg|131|17}}-->
 +
| gg_code_eu=T-88018-50
 +
| gg_date_uk=1992-12-10{{magref|ctw|414|18}}<!--1992-10{{magref|cvg|131|17}}-->
 +
| gg_code_uk=T-88018-50
 +
| gg_rrp_uk=29.99{{magref|cvg|go11|12}}
 +
| gg_date_pt=199x
 +
| gg_code_pt=GGJ88018
 +
}}
 +
| otherformats={{NonSega|Amiga|CPC|APPLE2|ST|IBMPC|FMTOWNS|GB|GBC|Mac|NES|PC9801VX|SAM|X68|SNES|SCDROM2}}
 +
| savetype={{SaveType
 +
|MD|password
 +
|SMS|password
 +
|GG|password
 +
}}
 
}}
 
}}
−
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is a platform game created by Jordan Mechner for the Apple II computer. It has been ported to many of platforms over the years, including the [[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Mega-CD]], [[Sega Master System]] and [[Sega Game Gear]].
+
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is a cinematic platform game developed and published by [[Domark]]. The [[Sega Master System]] version was released in Europe in August 1992. It would later be ported to the [[Sega Game Gear]] the following month, and to the [[Sega Mega Drive]] in January 1994, with both ports being handled by original developer [[Domark]]. The game is a port of the 1989 [[Brøderbund Software]] game ''[[wikipedia:Prince of Persia (1989 video game)|Prince of Persia]]''.
  
 
==Story==
 
==Story==
−
The Grand Vizier Jaffar has thrown you into a dungeon and is forcing the princess of Persia to marry him within the hour. You must escape the dungeon, defeat Jaffar and rescue the princess to become the prince of Persia.
+
{{ScreenThumb2|Prince of Persia MD, Introduction, Prince.png|Prince of Persia MD, Introduction, Princess.png|width=200|Introduction}}
 +
The game is set in medieval Persia. While the good sultan is fighting a war in a foreign land, his vizier Jaffar, a wizard, seizes power. His only obstacle to the throne is the Sultan's daughter. Jaffar locks her in a tower and orders her to become his wife, or she would die within an hour. The game's unnamed protagonist, whom the Princess loves, is taken prisoner and thrown into the palace dungeons. In order to free her, he must escape the dungeons, get to the palace tower and defeat Jaffar before time runs out. In addition to guards, various traps and dungeons, the protagonist is further hindered by his own doppelgänger, conjured out of a magic mirror.
 +
 
 +
==Gameplay==
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 +
The game is a cinematic platformer, distinguished by the fluid, lifelike movements and relatively realistic physical limitations of its protagonist, the eponymous prince. Levels are composed of multiple screens with no scrolling in which the prince can move both horizontally and vertically. Gameplay requires problem solving and trial and error to overcome each obstacle. The objective is to lead the prince out of the dungeons and into a tower before time runs out. To do this, the prince must bypass many traps and fight hostile swordsmen. The player has 60 minutes (in real time) to complete the game. In each level, the prince must find the door that leads to the next level and figure out how to open it.
 +
 
 +
The prince walks or turns around with {{left}} or {{right}}. He can tiptoe to step more carefully or position himself more precisely by holding {{A}} while moving. He can tiptoe safely through spike traps. He crouches with {{down}} and jumps directly upward with {{up}}.  If there is a ledge near him, he grabs it automatically when jumping. If the ledge is below him, he can hang off of it by holding {{down}} when facing away from it. He leaps across a wide area by holding {{B}} while pressing {{left}} or {{right}}, which can be used to traverse gaps. The player must press {{B}} a couple of steps before the edge to make the leap without running off the platform. He can grab ledges that he leaps onto from a running start by holding {{A}}. He picks up items with {{A}} and enters doorways with {{up}}.
 +
 
 +
The prince finds a scimitar in the dungeon, which he pulls out automatically when he encounters a swordsman. The player can manually retract his sword with {{down}} and pull it back out with {{A}}. While fighting, the prince attacks with {{A}} and parries enemy attacks with {{B}}. The health points of enemy swordsmen are depicted by blue triangles. They lose a health point when they are attacked and die when they lose all of their health or if they are pushed into traps. The prince cannot proceed past a swordsman until he is defeated. If a swordsman parries an attack, he is knocked back slightly, which can be used to push enemies off a ledge or into a trap (but an enemy swordsman can likewise do the same to the prince).
 +
 
 +
The prince has his health points indicated by red triangles, initially three. Each time he is damaged (being cut by a sword, falling from farther than one floor, or being hit by falling debris), he loses a health point. The prince can find potions in the dungeon that restore or cost health. There are also special potions that permanently increase his maximum health. The prince dies if he loses all of his health points, restarting from the beginning of the current level. The prince is killed instantly by some traps (spike traps and guillotines), by high falls, and by being attacked by a swordsman without his weapon out. While the prince has unlimited lives, the time limit continues to tick down for failed attempts, so the player eventually runs out of time to save the princess if not successful. The time remaining is always shown at the bottom of the screen during gameplay.
 +
 
 +
Some floor tiles act as switches and open or close gates or toggle traps. Standing on the tile activates the switch. Some ceiling tiles are loose and can be knocked down by jumping at them.
 +
 
 +
The player can open a menu by pausing the game with {{Start}} to restart the level, but this does not gain any time back. The game uses passwords for continuing.
 +
 
 +
====Items====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Potion
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Prince of Persia MD, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=12 | crop_height=22 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Most potions heal the prince and restore one of his health points, but some potions poison the prince and cost a health point instead. Other potions permanently gives the prince another health point. The European version of the game has potions that give the player more time to complete the game.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Scimitar
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Prince of Persia MD, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=20 | crop_height=8 | crop_x=12 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Gives the prince a sword to use. Found in the first level.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
====Levels====
 +
The European version of the game has four additional levels.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=320|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 1
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 1.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 1.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 2
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 2.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 2.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 3
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 3.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 3.png
 +
| desc=The skeletal swordsmen cannot be killed with the prince's sword but must be pushed into pits.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 4
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 4.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 4.png
 +
| desc=The prince must leap through a magic mirror, which creates his doppelgänger on the other side and drains his health to one point.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 5
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 5.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 5.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 6
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 6 EU.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 6.png
 +
| desc=This level is only in the European version of the game.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 7
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 7 EU.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 7.png
 +
| desc=This level is only in the European version of the game.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 8
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 6.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 8.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 9
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 7.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 9.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 10
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 8.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 10.png
 +
| desc=The prince becomes trapped behind a closed gate near the end of this level, but a white mouse opens it from the other side. It is revealed that the princess sent the mouse.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 11
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 9.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 11.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 12
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 12 EU.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 12.png
 +
| desc=This level is only in the European version of the game.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 13
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 10.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 13.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 14
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 11.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 14.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 15
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 15 EU.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 15.png
 +
| desc=This level is only in the European version of the game.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 16
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 12-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 12-2.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 16.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=The prince faces his shadow doppelgänger. Injuring the doppelgänger injures the prince as well. To defeat him, the prince must sheathe his sword and merge back into him. The prince then runs across an invisible bridge to a new area, where he battles Jaffar.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 17
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia MD, Stage 13.png
 +
| map=Prince of Persia MD, Map 17.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Master System and Game Gear version===
 +
The 8-bit versions play similarly to the other versions of the game and feature the same levels (albeit with some changes in layout). The player has 60 minutes (in real time) to complete the game (but this can be changed to 15 or 30 minutes in the options before starting the game). In each level, the prince must find the door that leads to the next level and figure out how to open it.
 +
 
 +
The prince walks or turns around with {{left}} or {{right}}. He can tiptoe to step more carefully or position himself more precisely by holding {{1}} while moving. He can tiptoe safely through spike traps. He crouches with {{down}} and jumps directly upward with {{up}}. If there is a ledge near him, he grabs it automatically when jumping. If the ledge is below him, he can hang off of it by holding {{down}} when facing away from it. He leaps across a wide area by holding {{2}} while pressing {{left}} or {{right}}, which can be used to traverse gaps. The player must press {{2}} a couple of steps before the edge to make the leap without running off the platform. He can grab ledges that he leaps onto from a running start by holding {{1}}. He picks up items with {{down}} and enters doorways with {{up}}.
 +
 
 +
The prince finds a scimitar in the dungeon, which he pulls out automatically when he encounters a swordsman. The player can manually retract his sword with {{down}} and pull it back out with {{1}}. While fighting, the prince attacks with {{1}} and parries enemy attacks with {{2}}. The health points of enemy swordsmen are depicted by red triangles in the top-right corner of the screen. The health points of the prince are depicted by red triangles in the top-left corner of the screen, initially three (though this can be changed to one or two in the options before starting the game). He loses a single health point when cut by an enemy swordsman, but he is killed instantly by traps, high falls, or being attacked by a swordsman without having his weapon out.
 +
 
 +
While the prince has unlimited lives, the time limit continues to tick down for failed attempts, so the player eventually runs out of time to save the princess if not successful. The time remaining is shown at the start of each level or after losing a life. The game uses passwords for continuing.
 +
 
 +
====Items====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Healing Potion
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=8 | crop_height=18 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Heals the prince and restores one of his health points.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Poison Potion
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=8 | crop_height=18 | crop_x=8 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Poisons the prince and costs one of his health points.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Life Potion
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=8 | crop_height=18 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Permanently gives the prince another health point and restores all of his lost health points. The extra health point is lost if the prince dies before completing the level, unless the potion is collected again.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Featherfall Potion
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=8 | crop_height=18 | crop_x=24 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Allows the prince to float down from a high fall without being harmed.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Scimitar
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=26 | crop_height=7 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Gives the prince a sword to use. Found in the first level.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
====Levels====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=256|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 1
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 1.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level1.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 2
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 2.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level2.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 3
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 3.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level3.png
 +
| desc=The skeletal swordsmen cannot be killed with the prince's sword but must be pushed into pits.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 4
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 4.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level4.png
 +
| desc=The prince must leap through a magic mirror, which creates his doppelgänger on the other side and drains his health to one point.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 5
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 5.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level5.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 6
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 6.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level6.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 7
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 7.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level7.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 8
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 8.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level8.png
 +
| desc=The prince becomes trapped behind a closed gate near the end of this level, but a white mouse opens it from the other side. It is revealed that the princess sent the mouse.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 9
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 9.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level9.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 10
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 10.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level10.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 11
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 11.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level11.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 12
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 12.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level12.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=The prince faces his shadow doppelgänger. Injuring the doppelgänger injures the prince as well. To defeat him, the prince must sheathe his sword and merge back into him.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 13
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 13.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level13.png
 +
| desc=The prince battles Jaffar.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Level 14
 +
| screenshot=Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 14.png
 +
| map=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-Level14.png
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
Line 42: Line 348:
  
 
==Versions==
 
==Versions==
−
While all four versions of the game stem from the same source (Jordan Mechner's Apple II version, published by [[Brøderbund Software]] in 1989), each of the Sega versions were handled by different teams and arrived at different periods between 1992 and 1993.
+
While all four versions of the game stem from the same source (Jordan Mechner's [[Apple II]] version, published by [[Brøderbund Software]] in 1989), each of the Sega versions were handled by different teams and arrived at different periods between 1992 and 1994. The original game was written in 6502 assembly language for the Apple II, meaning almost every version of the game had to be rewritten for the differing hardware.
  
−
The Mega-CD version was the first Sega port of the game to be released, landing in Japan in August 1992. This version was developed by [[Bits Laboratory]] and was originally published by [[Victor Musical Industries]], with [[Sega]] handling publishing duties overseas. The Mega-CD version uses similar updated designs and aesthetics as previous Japanese conversions from 1991 (handled by [[Riverhillsoft]] and released for the PC Engine, Sharp X68000, PC-9801 and FM Towns), albeit with voiceovers in the introduction sequence instead of text.
+
Despite having already appeared on the Mega-CD, the Mega Drive is completely different, with more detailed graphics and a different introduction sequence. Domark's Richard Walker rewrote the game in [[68000]] assembly for the Mega Drive, using a version of the source code written in C as a base{{intref|Interview: Jim Blackler by Segacollection.com}} and the enhanced graphics of the [[Macintosh]] version. The levels were rebuilt by eye by playing the [[IBM PC]] version of the game. The North American version has no music during the levels, but the later European version adds an in-game score. The European version also has an additional animation of the prince falling down the stairs into the dungeon before the first level, four additional levels created by Jim Blackler{{intref|Interview: Jim Blackler by Segacollection.com}}, and time-extending potions to accommodate the additional length.
  
−
The Game Gear and Master System versions are largely identical bar differences in screen resolution, and, together with the Mega Drive version, were developed as contract work for [[Domark]]. Both of these ports use graphics unique to these systems - the Mega Drive version being notable for having more detailed graphics than its Mega-CD counterpart and features an extra four levels not seen in any other ports of the game.
+
The Game Gear version of the game runs in the system's Master System compatibility mode,{{ref|https://www.smspower.org/Tags/SMS-GG}} so the two versions are largely identical. Together with the Mega Drive version, they were developed as contract work for [[Domark]].
  
 
==Production credits==
 
==Production credits==
 
===Mega Drive version===
 
===Mega Drive version===
−
{{multicol|
 
 
{{creditstable|
 
{{creditstable|
 
*'''Programming:''' Richard Walker
 
*'''Programming:''' Richard Walker
Line 58: Line 363:
 
*'''Production:''' Chris Johnson
 
*'''Production:''' Chris Johnson
 
*'''Special Thanks:''' Jim Blackler, Jason Cunningham, Steve Calfee, Bill Hindorff, Earl Vickers, Mitzi McGilvray
 
*'''Special Thanks:''' Jim Blackler, Jason Cunningham, Steve Calfee, Bill Hindorff, Earl Vickers, Mitzi McGilvray
−
| source=In-game credits (US version)
+
| source=In-game credits (US)
 +
| pdf=Prince of Persia MD US credits.png
 
| console=MD
 
| console=MD
 
}}
 
}}
−
 
+
{{hr}}
 
{{creditstable|
 
{{creditstable|
 
*'''Programming:''' Richard Walker, Jim Blackler
 
*'''Programming:''' Richard Walker, Jim Blackler
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*'''Production:''' Chris Johnson
 
*'''Production:''' Chris Johnson
 
*'''Further Artwork:''' Jason Cunningham
 
*'''Further Artwork:''' Jason Cunningham
−
| source=In-game credits (EU version)
+
| source=In-game credits (EU)
 +
| pdf=Prince of Persia MD EU credits.png
 
| console=MD
 
| console=MD
 
}}
 
}}
−
}}
 
−
 
 
===Master System version===
 
===Master System version===
 
{{creditstable|
 
{{creditstable|
Line 81: Line 386:
 
*'''Graphics:''' Matt Hicks, Saurav Sarkar
 
*'''Graphics:''' Matt Hicks, Saurav Sarkar
 
*'''Published by:''' [[Domark Software]] Ltd
 
*'''Published by:''' [[Domark Software]] Ltd
−
| source=Opening demo credits
+
| source=In-game credits
 +
| pdf=Prince of Persia SMS credits.pdf
 
| console=SMS
 
| console=SMS
 
}}
 
}}
−
 
 
===Game Gear version===
 
===Game Gear version===
 
{{creditstable|
 
{{creditstable|
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*'''Graphics:''' Matt Hicks, Saurav Sarkar
 
*'''Graphics:''' Matt Hicks, Saurav Sarkar
 
*'''Published by:''' [[Domark Group]] Ltd
 
*'''Published by:''' [[Domark Group]] Ltd
−
| source=Opening demo credits
+
| source=In-game credits
 +
| pdf=Prince of Persia GG credits.pdf
 
| console=GG
 
| console=GG
 
}}
 
}}
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==Promotional material==
 
==Promotional material==
−
{{gallery
+
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Promotional material}}
−
|{{gitem|PoP MD US PrintAdvert.jpg|Mega Drive US print advert}}
 
−
|{{gitem|Tengen GG US PrintAdvert.jpg|Game Gear US print advert}}
 
−
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
−
|text=Master System print advert
 
−
|CVG UK 125.pdf|cvg|125|8-9
 
−
}}
 
−
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
−
|text=Master System print advert
 
−
|CVG UK 130.pdf|cvg|130|20-21
 
−
}}
 
−
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
−
|text=Master System/Game Gear print advert
 
−
|CVG UK 131.pdf|cvg|131|17
 
−
}}
 
−
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
−
|text=Master System print advert
 
−
|HobbyConsolas ES 013.pdf|hobbyconsolas|13|46-47
 
−
}}
 
−
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
−
|text=Master System print advert
 
−
|HobbyConsolas ES 014.pdf|hobbyconsolas|14|10-11
 
−
}}
 
−
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
−
|text=Master System print advert
 
−
|MegaForce ES 08.pdf|megaforcees|8|38-39
 
−
}}
 
−
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
−
|text=Game Gear print advert
 
−
|MegaForce FR 12.pdf|megaforce|12|7
 
−
}}
 
−
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
−
|text=Game Gear print advert
 
−
|HobbyConsolas ES 018.pdf|hobbyconsolas|18|29
 
−
}}
 
−
}}
 
  
 
==Physical scans==
 
==Physical scans==
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| consolesplus=88
 
| consolesplus=88
 
| consolesplus_source={{num|29}}
 
| consolesplus_source={{num|29}}
−
| cvg=84
 
−
| cvg_source={{num|149|page=36|pdf=CVG UK 149.pdf}}
 
−
| egm=80
 
−
| egm_source={{num|bg98|page=86}}
 
−
| gamepro=93
 
−
| gamepro_source={{num|57|page=30|pdf=GamePro US 057.pdf|pdfpage=32}}
 
−
| gamesmaster=68
 
−
| gamesmaster_source={{num|16|page=70}}
 
−
| gamesmastertv=80
 
−
| gamesmastertv_source={{num|19}}
 
−
| joypad=87
 
−
| joypad_source={{num|29|page=80-81|pdf=Joypad FR 029.pdf|pdfpage=80}}
 
−
| mdag=86
 
−
| mdag_source={{num|20|page=18-19}}
 
−
| mega=68
 
−
| mega_source={{num|18|page=40}}
 
−
| megaforce=88
 
−
| megaforce_source={{num|25|page=112-113|pdf=MegaForce FR 25.pdf|pdfpage=112}}
 
−
| megafun=68
 
−
| megafun_source={{num|3/94|page=105|pdf=MegaFun DE 1994-03.pdf|pdfpage=97}}
 
−
| megatech=82
 
−
| megatech_source={{num|27|page=66-68}}
 
−
| mms=72
 
−
| mms_source={{num|1|page=92-94|pdf=MeanMachinesSega01UK.pdf|pdfpage=92}}
 
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| mms_1=83
 
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| mms_source_1={{num|18|page=74-75|pdf=MeanMachinesSega18UK.pdf|pdfpage=74}}
 
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| playerone=89
 
−
| playerone_source={{num|40|page=88-89|pdf=PlayerOne FR 040.pdf|pdfpage=88}}
 
−
| playtime=64
 
−
| playtime_source={{num|7/94|page=138|pdf=PlayTime DE 1994-07.pdf|pdfpage=132}}
 
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| segamaguk=78
 
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| segamaguk_source={{num|3|page=106-107}}
 
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| segapower=63
 
−
| segapower_source={{num|53|page=60-61}}
 
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| segapro=83
 
−
| segapro_source={{num|30|page=58-59}}
 
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| sfuk=94
 
−
| sfuk_source={{num|7|page=10-13|pdf=SegaForce UK 07.pdf|pdfpage=12}}
 
−
| sgp=80
 
−
| sgp_source={{num|1|page=72-77|pdf=SuperGamePower BR 001.pdf|pdfpage=72}}
 
−
| stc=79
 
−
| stc_source={{num|25|page=10}}
 
−
| videogames=70
 
−
| videogames_source={{num|4/94|page=86|pdf=VideoGames DE 1994-04.pdf|pdfpage=82}}
 
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| videogamesus=70
 
−
| videogamesus_source={{num|63|page=81}}
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
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| cover=PoP MD US Box.jpg
 
| cover=PoP MD US Box.jpg
 
| cart=PoP MD US Cart.jpg
 
| cart=PoP MD US Cart.jpg
−
| manual=
+
| manual=Prince of Persia MD US Manual.pdf
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
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| cover=PoP MD EU Box.jpg
 
| cover=PoP MD EU Box.jpg
 
| cart=PoP MD EU Cart.jpg
 
| cart=PoP MD EU Cart.jpg
−
| manual=
+
| manual=Prince of Persia MD EU Manual.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=FR (Blister pack)
 +
| front=PoP MD FR blister front.jpg
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
−
| region=AU
+
| region=SE (rental; [[Hent Gruppen|Hent]]; orange)
−
| cover=
+
| cover=PrinceOfPersia MD SE rental Box.jpg
 
| cart=
 
| cart=
−
| manual=
 
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
−
| region=SE (Rental)
+
| region=AU
−
| cover=
+
| cover=PoP MD AU cover.jpg
 
| cart=
 
| cart=
 +
| manual=
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Master System version===
 
===Master System version===
−
{{ratings
+
{{ratings|SMS}}
−
| icon=SMS
 
−
| consolesplus=91
 
−
| consolesplus_source={{num|12|page=112-114|pdf=ConsolesPlus FR 012.pdf|pdfpage=112}}
 
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| cvg=90
 
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| cvg_source={{num|128|page=27|pdf=CVG UK 128.pdf}}
 
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| esg=92
 
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| esg_source={{num|1|page=150|pdf=MeanMachinesEssentialSegaGuide Book UK.pdf}}
 
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| gamesmastertv=80
 
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| gamesmastertv_source={{num|19}}
 
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| gz=94
 
−
| gz_source={{num|4|page=20-22}}
 
−
| hobbyconsolas=80
 
−
| hobbyconsolas_source={{num|13|page=110-111|pdf=HobbyConsolas ES 013.pdf|pdfpage=102}}
 
−
| joypad=91
 
−
| joypad_source={{num|12|page=80-81|pdf=Joypad FR 012.pdf|pdfpage=80}}
 
−
| joystick=91
 
−
| joystick_source={{num|30|page=198|pdf=Joystick FR 030.pdf}}
 
−
| mm=91
 
−
| mm_source={{num|22|page=88-90|pdf=MeanMachines UK 22.pdf|pdfpage=88}}
 
−
| mms=91
 
−
| mms_source={{num|1|page=135|pdf=MeanMachinesSega01UK.pdf}}
 
−
| micromania=73
 
−
| micromania_source={{num|55|page=50}}
 
−
| playerone=94
 
−
| playerone_source={{num|25|page=90-91|pdf=PlayerOne FR 025.pdf|pdfpage=86}}
 
−
| segapower=92
 
−
| segapower_source={{num|32|page=26-27}}
 
−
| segapower_1=100
 
−
| segapower_source_1={{num|46|page=101|pdf=SegaPower UK 46.pdf}}
 
−
| segapro=96
 
−
| segapro_source={{num|9|page=58-59|pdf=SegaPro UK 09.pdf|pdfpage=58}}
 
−
| segapro_1=93
 
−
| segapro_source_1={{num|15|page=73}}
 
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| segazuk=91
 
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| segazuk_source={{num|1|page=74-76|pdf=SegaZone UK 01.pdf|pdfpage=74}}
 
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| sfsw=88
 
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| sfsw_source={{num|2/92|page=23|pdf=SegaForce SE 1992 02.pdf}}
 
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| sfuk=94
 
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| sfuk_source={{num|7|page=10-13|pdf=SegaForce UK 07.pdf|pdfpage=12}}
 
−
| sfuk_1=96
 
−
| sfuk_source_1={{num|18|page=74|pdf=SegaForce UK 18.pdf}}
 
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| supersonic=91
 
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| supersonic_source={{num|4|page=24}}
 
−
| videogames=59
 
−
| videogames_source={{num|8/92|page=95|pdf=VideoGames DE 1992-08.pdf|pdfpage=91}}
 
−
}}
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
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}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
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| region=BR
+
| region=AU
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| cover=PoP SMS BR Box.jpg
+
| cover=
−
| cart=Princeofpersia sms br cart.jpg
+
| cart=PoP SMS AU Cart.jpg
 
| manual=
 
| manual=
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
−
| region=AU
+
| region=AU (Classics)
−
| cover=
+
| cover=PoP SMS AU classics cover.jpg
−
| cart=PoP SMS AU Cart.jpg
+
| cart=
 
| manual=
 
| manual=
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Master System
 +
| region=BR
 +
| cover=PoP SMS BR Box.jpg
 +
| cart=Princeofpersia sms br cart.jpg
 +
| manual=PrinceOfPersia-SMS-BR-Manual.pdf
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Game Gear version===
 
===Game Gear version===
−
{{ratings
+
{{ratings|GG}}
−
| icon=GG
 
−
| consolesplus=90
 
−
| consolesplus_source={{num|14|page=148|pdf=ConsolesPlus FR 014.pdf}}
 
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| cvg=93
 
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| cvg_source={{num|130 (Go!)|page=12-13|pdf=Go UK 11.pdf|pdfpage=12}}
 
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| esg=91
 
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| esg_source={{num|1|page=168|pdf=MeanMachinesEssentialSegaGuide Book UK.pdf}}
 
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| egm=70
 
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| egm_source={{num|42|page=38|pdf=EGM US 042.pdf}}
 
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| gz=92
 
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| gz_source={{num|12|page=58-59}}
 
−
| joypad=82
 
−
| joypad_source={{num|16|page=149|pdf=Joypad FR 016.pdf|pdfpage=149}}
 
−
| joystick=82
 
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| joystick_source={{num|35|page=185|pdf=Joystick FR 035.pdf}}
 
−
| mms=91
 
−
| mms_source={{num|4|page=96-97|pdf=MeanMachinesSega04UK.pdf|pdfpage=96}}
 
−
| playtime=81
 
−
| playtime_source={{num|3/93|page=107|pdf=PlayTime DE 1993-03.pdf}}
 
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| segapower=100
 
−
| segapower_source={{num|46|page=102|pdf=SegaPower UK 46.pdf}}
 
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| segapro=95
 
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| segapro_source={{num|10|page=66|pdf=SegaPro UK 10.pdf}}
 
−
| segapro_1=92
 
−
| segapro_source_1={{num|15|page=74-75}}
 
−
| sfuk=95
 
−
| sfuk_source={{num|9|page=56-57|pdf=SegaForce UK 09.pdf|pdfpage=56}}
 
−
| videogames=39
 
−
| videogames_source={{num|2/93|page=120|pdf=VideoGames DE 1993-02.pdf|pdfpage=118}}
 
−
| zero=91
 
−
| zero_source={{num|34|page=78|pdf=Zero UK 34.pdf}}
 
−
}}
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Game Gear
 
| console=Game Gear
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| front=PoP GG EU Box Front.jpg
 
| front=PoP GG EU Box Front.jpg
 
| back=PoP GG EU Box Back.jpg
 
| back=PoP GG EU Box Back.jpg
−
| spinemissing=yes
+
| spine=Prince of Persia (EURO) Side.jpg
 
| cart=PoP GG EU Cart.jpg
 
| cart=PoP GG EU Cart.jpg
 
| manual=Prince of Persia GG EU Manual.pdf
 
| manual=Prince of Persia GG EU Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Game Gear
 +
| region=PT
 +
| front=
 +
| cart=
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Technical information==
 
==Technical information==
−
===ROM dump status===
+
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Technical information}}
−
{{romtable|
 
−
{{rom|MCD|sha1= |md5= |crc32= |size=345,852,192|date=|source=CD (EU)|comments=4652|quality=|prototype=}}
 
−
{{rom|MCD|sha1= |md5= |crc32= |size=348,084,240|date=|source=CD (JP)|comments=T-60014|quality=good|prototype=}}
 
−
{{rom|MCD|sha1= |md5= |crc32= |size=346,200,288|date=|source=CD (US)|comments=4652|quality=good|prototype=}}
 
−
}}
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
 +
{{NECRetro|italics=yes}}
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
−
{{NECRetro|italics=yes}}
+
 
 +
{{PoPOmni}}
 +
{{PrinceOfPersia}}

Latest revision as of 07:24, 15 November 2024

For the Sega Mega-CD game, see Prince of Persia (Mega-CD).

n/a

  • Sega Mega Drive
    NTSC-U
  • Sega Mega Drive
    PAL
  • Master System
  • Game Gear

PoP MD Title.png

PrinceofPersia MD EU TitleScreen.png

PrinceofPersia SMS Title.png

PrinceofPersia SMS Title.png

Prince of Persia
System(s): Sega Mega Drive, Sega Master System, Sega Game Gear
Publisher:
Sega Mega Drive
Tengen (US)
Sega Mega Drive
Domark (EU)
Sega Master System
Sega Game Gear
Domark
Developer:
Distributor:
Sega Game Gear
Tengen (US)
Sega Mega Drive
Hent Gruppen (SE rental)
Sega Master System
Tec Toy (BR)
Licensor: Brøderbund Software
Original system(s): Apple II
Sound driver:
Sega Mega Drive
GEMS
Genre: Action[1]

















Number of players: 1
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Mega Drive
US 		$59.9559.95[3] T-48286
301053-0150
Videogame Rating Council: MA-13
Sega Mega Drive
US ▼
(Sega Channel) 		SUBsub
Sega Mega Drive
EU 		T-88076-50
Sega Mega Drive
UK 		£39.9939.99[6][7] T-88076-50
Sega Mega Drive
SE
(Rental)
Sega Mega Drive
AU 		FPRI02SMC
Sega Master System
EU 		MK 27022-50
Sega Master System
UK 		£32.9932.99[8][9] MK 27022-50
Sega Master System
AU
Sega Master System
BR 		027270
Sega Game Gear
US 		$34.9534.95[11] T-48098
Sega Game Gear
EU 		T-88018-50
Sega Game Gear
PT 		GGJ88018
Sega Game Gear
UK 		£29.9929.99[14] T-88018-50
Non-Sega versions
No results

Prince of Persia is a cinematic platform game developed and published by Domark. The Sega Master System version was released in Europe in August 1992. It would later be ported to the Sega Game Gear the following month, and to the Sega Mega Drive in January 1994, with both ports being handled by original developer Domark. The game is a port of the 1989 Brøderbund Software game Prince of Persia.

Story

Prince of Persia MD, Introduction, Prince.png

Prince of Persia MD, Introduction, Princess.png

Introduction

The game is set in medieval Persia. While the good sultan is fighting a war in a foreign land, his vizier Jaffar, a wizard, seizes power. His only obstacle to the throne is the Sultan's daughter. Jaffar locks her in a tower and orders her to become his wife, or she would die within an hour. The game's unnamed protagonist, whom the Princess loves, is taken prisoner and thrown into the palace dungeons. In order to free her, he must escape the dungeons, get to the palace tower and defeat Jaffar before time runs out. In addition to guards, various traps and dungeons, the protagonist is further hindered by his own doppelgänger, conjured out of a magic mirror.

Gameplay

Mega Drive version

The game is a cinematic platformer, distinguished by the fluid, lifelike movements and relatively realistic physical limitations of its protagonist, the eponymous prince. Levels are composed of multiple screens with no scrolling in which the prince can move both horizontally and vertically. Gameplay requires problem solving and trial and error to overcome each obstacle. The objective is to lead the prince out of the dungeons and into a tower before time runs out. To do this, the prince must bypass many traps and fight hostile swordsmen. The player has 60 minutes (in real time) to complete the game. In each level, the prince must find the door that leads to the next level and figure out how to open it.

The prince walks or turns around with Left or Right. He can tiptoe to step more carefully or position himself more precisely by holding A while moving. He can tiptoe safely through spike traps. He crouches with Down and jumps directly upward with Up. If there is a ledge near him, he grabs it automatically when jumping. If the ledge is below him, he can hang off of it by holding Down when facing away from it. He leaps across a wide area by holding B while pressing Left or Right, which can be used to traverse gaps. The player must press B a couple of steps before the edge to make the leap without running off the platform. He can grab ledges that he leaps onto from a running start by holding A. He picks up items with A and enters doorways with Up.

The prince finds a scimitar in the dungeon, which he pulls out automatically when he encounters a swordsman. The player can manually retract his sword with Down and pull it back out with A. While fighting, the prince attacks with A and parries enemy attacks with B. The health points of enemy swordsmen are depicted by blue triangles. They lose a health point when they are attacked and die when they lose all of their health or if they are pushed into traps. The prince cannot proceed past a swordsman until he is defeated. If a swordsman parries an attack, he is knocked back slightly, which can be used to push enemies off a ledge or into a trap (but an enemy swordsman can likewise do the same to the prince).

The prince has his health points indicated by red triangles, initially three. Each time he is damaged (being cut by a sword, falling from farther than one floor, or being hit by falling debris), he loses a health point. The prince can find potions in the dungeon that restore or cost health. There are also special potions that permanently increase his maximum health. The prince dies if he loses all of his health points, restarting from the beginning of the current level. The prince is killed instantly by some traps (spike traps and guillotines), by high falls, and by being attacked by a swordsman without his weapon out. While the prince has unlimited lives, the time limit continues to tick down for failed attempts, so the player eventually runs out of time to save the princess if not successful. The time remaining is always shown at the bottom of the screen during gameplay.

Some floor tiles act as switches and open or close gates or toggle traps. Standing on the tile activates the switch. Some ceiling tiles are loose and can be knocked down by jumping at them.

The player can open a menu by pausing the game with  START  to restart the level, but this does not gain any time back. The game uses passwords for continuing.

Items

Prince of Persia MD, Items.png
 Potion
Most potions heal the prince and restore one of his health points, but some potions poison the prince and cost a health point instead. Other potions permanently gives the prince another health point. The European version of the game has potions that give the player more time to complete the game.
Prince of Persia MD, Items.png
 Scimitar
Gives the prince a sword to use. Found in the first level.

Levels

The European version of the game has four additional levels.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 1.png

Level 1
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 2.png

Level 2
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 3.png

Level 3
Map: 1️⃣ 
The skeletal swordsmen cannot be killed with the prince's sword but must be pushed into pits.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 4.png

Level 4
Map: 1️⃣ 
The prince must leap through a magic mirror, which creates his doppelgänger on the other side and drains his health to one point.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 5.png

Level 5
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 6 EU.png

Level 6
Map: 1️⃣ 
This level is only in the European version of the game.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 7 EU.png

Level 7
Map: 1️⃣ 
This level is only in the European version of the game.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 6.png

Level 8
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 7.png

Level 9
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 8.png

Level 10
Map: 1️⃣ 
The prince becomes trapped behind a closed gate near the end of this level, but a white mouse opens it from the other side. It is revealed that the princess sent the mouse.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 9.png

Level 11
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 12 EU.png

Level 12
Map: 1️⃣ 
This level is only in the European version of the game.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 10.png

Level 13
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 11.png

Level 14
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 15 EU.png

Level 15
Map: 1️⃣ 
This level is only in the European version of the game.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 12-1.png

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 12-2.png

  • Prince of Persia MD, Stage 12-1.png

  • Prince of Persia MD, Stage 12-2.png

Level 16
Map: 1️⃣ 
The prince faces his shadow doppelgänger. Injuring the doppelgänger injures the prince as well. To defeat him, the prince must sheathe his sword and merge back into him. The prince then runs across an invisible bridge to a new area, where he battles Jaffar.

Prince of Persia MD, Stage 13.png

Level 17
Map: 1️⃣ 

Master System and Game Gear version

The 8-bit versions play similarly to the other versions of the game and feature the same levels (albeit with some changes in layout). The player has 60 minutes (in real time) to complete the game (but this can be changed to 15 or 30 minutes in the options before starting the game). In each level, the prince must find the door that leads to the next level and figure out how to open it.

The prince walks or turns around with Left or Right. He can tiptoe to step more carefully or position himself more precisely by holding 1 while moving. He can tiptoe safely through spike traps. He crouches with Down and jumps directly upward with Up. If there is a ledge near him, he grabs it automatically when jumping. If the ledge is below him, he can hang off of it by holding Down when facing away from it. He leaps across a wide area by holding 2 while pressing Left or Right, which can be used to traverse gaps. The player must press 2 a couple of steps before the edge to make the leap without running off the platform. He can grab ledges that he leaps onto from a running start by holding 1. He picks up items with Down and enters doorways with Up.

The prince finds a scimitar in the dungeon, which he pulls out automatically when he encounters a swordsman. The player can manually retract his sword with Down and pull it back out with 1. While fighting, the prince attacks with 1 and parries enemy attacks with 2. The health points of enemy swordsmen are depicted by red triangles in the top-right corner of the screen. The health points of the prince are depicted by red triangles in the top-left corner of the screen, initially three (though this can be changed to one or two in the options before starting the game). He loses a single health point when cut by an enemy swordsman, but he is killed instantly by traps, high falls, or being attacked by a swordsman without having his weapon out.

While the prince has unlimited lives, the time limit continues to tick down for failed attempts, so the player eventually runs out of time to save the princess if not successful. The time remaining is shown at the start of each level or after losing a life. The game uses passwords for continuing.

Items

Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png
 Healing Potion
Heals the prince and restores one of his health points.
Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png
 Poison Potion
Poisons the prince and costs one of his health points.
Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png
 Life Potion
Permanently gives the prince another health point and restores all of his lost health points. The extra health point is lost if the prince dies before completing the level, unless the potion is collected again.
Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png
 Featherfall Potion
Allows the prince to float down from a high fall without being harmed.
Prince of Persia SMS, Items.png
 Scimitar
Gives the prince a sword to use. Found in the first level.

Levels

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 1.png

Level 1
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 2.png

Level 2
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 3.png

Level 3
Map: 1️⃣ 
The skeletal swordsmen cannot be killed with the prince's sword but must be pushed into pits.

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 4.png

Level 4
Map: 1️⃣ 
The prince must leap through a magic mirror, which creates his doppelgänger on the other side and drains his health to one point.

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 5.png

Level 5
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 6.png

Level 6
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 7.png

Level 7
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 8.png

Level 8
Map: 1️⃣ 
The prince becomes trapped behind a closed gate near the end of this level, but a white mouse opens it from the other side. It is revealed that the princess sent the mouse.

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 9.png

Level 9
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 10.png

Level 10
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 11.png

Level 11
Map: 1️⃣ 

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 12.png

  • Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 12.png

Level 12
Map: 1️⃣ 
The prince faces his shadow doppelgänger. Injuring the doppelgänger injures the prince as well. To defeat him, the prince must sheathe his sword and merge back into him.

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 13.png

Level 13
Map: 1️⃣ 
The prince battles Jaffar.

Prince of Persia SMS, Stage 14.png

Level 14
Map: 1️⃣ 

History

Legacy

The game was revolutionary at the time due to the quality of the animation, and is now considered a classic among gamers. It has also inspired several sequels, starting with Prince of Persia 2: The Shadow and the Flame, and a feature length movie.

Versions

While all four versions of the game stem from the same source (Jordan Mechner's Apple II version, published by Brøderbund Software in 1989), each of the Sega versions were handled by different teams and arrived at different periods between 1992 and 1994. The original game was written in 6502 assembly language for the Apple II, meaning almost every version of the game had to be rewritten for the differing hardware.

Despite having already appeared on the Mega-CD, the Mega Drive is completely different, with more detailed graphics and a different introduction sequence. Domark's Richard Walker rewrote the game in 68000 assembly for the Mega Drive, using a version of the source code written in C as a base[15] and the enhanced graphics of the Macintosh version. The levels were rebuilt by eye by playing the IBM PC version of the game. The North American version has no music during the levels, but the later European version adds an in-game score. The European version also has an additional animation of the prince falling down the stairs into the dungeon before the first level, four additional levels created by Jim Blackler[15], and time-extending potions to accommodate the additional length.

The Game Gear version of the game runs in the system's Master System compatibility mode,[16] so the two versions are largely identical. Together with the Mega Drive version, they were developed as contract work for Domark.

Production credits

Mega Drive version

  • Programming: Richard Walker
  • Graphics: Lloyd Baker
  • Sound Effects: Mike Ash
  • Quality Assurance: Gary Patino
  • Production: Chris Johnson
  • Special Thanks: Jim Blackler, Jason Cunningham, Steve Calfee, Bill Hindorff, Earl Vickers, Mitzi McGilvray
Source:
In-game credits (US)
Prince of Persia MD US credits.png
[17]
  • Programming: Richard Walker, Jim Blackler
  • Artwork: Lloyd Baker
  • Sound Effects: Mike Ash
  • Quality Assurance Management: Gary Patino
  • Testing: Ken Jordan, Tim Mawson, Matt Miller
  • Production: Chris Johnson
  • Further Artwork: Jason Cunningham
Source:
In-game credits (EU)
Prince of Persia MD EU credits.png
[18]

Master System version

Source:
In-game credits
Prince of Persia SMS credits.pdf
[19]

Game Gear version

Source:
In-game credits
Prince of Persia GG credits.pdf
[20]


Magazine articles

Main article: Prince of Persia/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

Main article: Prince of Persia/Promotional material.

Physical scans

Mega Drive version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
88 №29
Sega Mega Drive
 88
Based on
1 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
1700 igr dlya Sega (RU)
60
[21]
Console Mania (IT) PAL
89
[22]
Cool Gamer (RU)
60
[23]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
84
[24]
Electronic Games (1992-1995) (US) NTSC-U
87
[25]
Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
78
[26]
Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 1 (RU)
80
[27]
Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 2 (RU)
80
[28]
GamePro (US) NTSC-U
93
[3]
Gamers (DE)
40
[29]
GamesMaster (UK) PAL
68
[7]
Hyper (AU)
82
[30]
Joypad (FR) PAL
87
[31]
MAN!AC (DE) PAL
71
[32]
Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK)
86
[33]
Mega (UK) PAL
68
[34]
Mega Action (UK) PAL
87
[35]
Mega Force (FR)
88
[36]
Mega Fun (DE) PAL
68
[37]
MegaTech (UK) PAL
82
[38]
Mean Machines Sega (UK) PAL
83
[39]
Player One (FR)
89
[40]
Play Time (DE)
64
[41]
Sega Magazin (DE)
70
[42]
Sega Magazine (UK) PAL
78
[6]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
63
[43]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
83
[44]
Sega Zone (UK) PAL
86
[45]
SuperGamePower (BR)
80
[46]
Sega Mega Drive Review (RU)
80
[47]
Sonic the Comic (UK) PAL
79
[48]
Super Juegos (ES)
85
[49]
Todo Sega (ES)
83
[50]
Tricks 16 bit (RU)
76
[51]
Video Games (DE) PAL
70
[52]
VideoGames (US) NTSC-U
70
[53]
Sega Mega Drive
 77
Based on
36 reviews

Prince of Persia

Mega Drive, US
PoP MD US Box.jpg
Cover
PoP MD US Cart.jpg
Cart
Prince of Persia MD US Manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, EU
PoP MD EU Box.jpg
Cover
PoP MD EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Prince of Persia MD EU Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, FR (Blister pack)
PoP MD FR blister front.jpg
Cover
Mega Drive, SE (rental; Hent; orange)
PrinceOfPersia MD SE rental Box.jpg
Cover
Mega Drive, AU
PoP MD AU cover.jpg
Cover

Master System version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Computer & Video Games (UK)
90
[54]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
92
[55]
FX (UK)
91
[56]
Game Mania (UK)
91
[57]
Game Power (IT)
92
[58]
GamesMaster (UK)
80
[59]
Game Zone (UK) PAL
94
[60]
Hobby Consolas (ES)
80
[61]
Hobby Consolas (ES)
80
[62]
Joypad (FR)
91
[63]
Joystick (FR)
91
[64]
Micromanía (segunda época) (ES)
75
[65]
Mean Machines (UK) PAL
91
[66]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
91
[67]
Player One (FR)
94
[68]
Power Up! (UK)
90
[69]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
92
[70]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
96
[71]
Sega Pro (UK)
93
[72]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
94
[73]
Sega Zone (UK) PAL
91
[74]
Sega Force (SE)
88
[75]
Sega Force (UK) PAL
94
[76]
Sega Force (UK) PAL
96
[77]
Supersonic (FR)
91
[78]
Video Games (DE)
59
[79]
Sega Master System
 89
Based on
26 reviews

Prince of Persia

Master System, EU
PoP SMS EU Box.jpg
Cover
PoP SMS EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Prince of Persia SMS EU Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, AU

PoP SMS AU Cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, AU (Classics)
PoP SMS AU classics cover.jpg
Cover
Master System, BR
PoP SMS BR Box.jpg
Cover
Princeofpersia sms br cart.jpg
Cart

Game Gear version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Consoles + (FR)
90
[80]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
93
[14]
Electronic Games (1992-1995) (US) NTSC-U
83
[81]
Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
70
[82]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
91
[83]
Fistful! (UK)
85
[84]
Game Mania (UK)
91
[85]
Game Informer (US) NTSC-U
75
[86]
Game Zone (UK) NTSC-U
92
[87]
Joypad (FR)
82
[88]
Joystick (FR) PAL
82
[89]
Micromanía (segunda época) (ES)
92
[90]
Mean Machines Sega (UK)
91
[91]
Play Time (DE)
81
[92]
Sega News (CZ)
100
[93]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
95
[94]
Sega Pro (UK)
92
[95]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
93
[96]
Sega Force (UK) PAL
95
[97]
VideoGames & Computer Entertainment (US) NTSC-U
70
[11]
Video Games (DE) PAL
39
[98]
Zero (UK)
91
[99]
Sega Game Gear
 85
Based on
22 reviews

Prince of Persia

Game Gear, US
PoP GG US Box Back.jpgNospine.pngPoP GG US Box Front.jpg
Cover
PoP GG US Cart.jpg
Cart
Prince of Persia GG US Manual.pdf
Manual
Game Gear, EU
PoP GG EU Box Back.jpgPrince of Persia (EURO) Side.jpgPoP GG EU Box Front.jpg
Cover
PoP GG EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Prince of Persia GG EU Manual.pdf
Manual
Game Gear, PT

Technical information

Main article: Prince of Persia/Technical information.

References

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NEC Retro has more information related to Prince of Persia
  1. ↑ File:PoP GG EU Box Back.jpg
  2. ↑ GamePro, "December 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 189
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 GamePro, "April 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 32
  4. ↑ Sega Channel schedule (US; 1994-06-01)
  5. ↑ Sega Pro, "Easter 1994" (UK; 1994-03-24), page 10
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Sega Magazine, "March 1994" (UK; 1994-02-15), page 106
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 GamesMaster, "April 1994" (UK; 1994-03-17), page 70
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 Computer Trade Weekly, "" (UK; 1992-09-28), page 6
  9. ↑ Sega Zone, "November 1992" (UK; 1992-10-28), page 76
  10. ↑ GamePro, "July 1992" (US; 1992-xx-xx), page 90
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 VideoGames & Computer Entertainment, "November 1992" (US; 1992-1x-xx), page 87
  12. ↑ Computer Trade Weekly, "" (UK; 1992-11-23), page 18
  13. ↑ Computer Trade Weekly, "" (UK; 1992-11-23), page 18
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Computer & Video Games, "September 1992 (Go! Issue 11)" (UK; 1992-08-15), page 12
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 Interview: Jim Blackler by Segacollection.com
  16. ↑ https://www.smspower.org/Tags/SMS-GG
  17. ↑ File:Prince of Persia MD US credits.png
  18. ↑ File:Prince of Persia MD EU credits.png
  19. ↑ File:Prince of Persia SMS credits.pdf
  20. ↑ File:Prince of Persia GG credits.pdf
  21. ↑ 1700 igr dlya Sega, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 181
  22. ↑ Console Mania, "Aprile 1994" (IT; 1994-0x-xx), page 80
  23. ↑ Cool Gamer, "9" (RU; 2002-10-13), page 164
  24. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "April 1994" (UK; 1994-03-15), page 36
  25. ↑ Electronic Games (1992-1995), "March 1994" (US; 1994-02-22), page 65
  26. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "March 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 38
  27. ↑ Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 1, "" (RU; 1999-xx-xx), page 350
  28. ↑ Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 2, "" (RU; 2000-xx-xx), page 178
  29. ↑ Gamers, "März/April 1994" (DE; 1994-03-04), page 48
  30. ↑ Hyper, "March 1994" (AU; 1994-xx-xx), page 60
  31. ↑ Joypad, "Mars 1994" (FR; 1994-0x-xx), page 80
  32. ↑ MAN!AC, "05/94" (DE; 1994-04-13), page 45
  33. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "April 1994" (UK; 1994-xx-xx), page 18
  34. ↑ Mega, "March 1994" (UK; 1994-02-17), page 40
  35. ↑ Mega Action, "February 1994" (UK; 1994-01-28), page 12
  36. ↑ Mega Force, "Février 1994" (FR; 1994-0x-xx), page 112
  37. ↑ Mega Fun, "03/94" (DE; 1994-02-23), page 105
  38. ↑ MegaTech, "March 1994" (UK; 1994-02-20), page 66
  39. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "April 1994" (UK; 1994-02-28), page 74
  40. ↑ Player One, "Mars 1994" (FR; 1994-0x-xx), page 88
  41. ↑ Play Time, "7/94" (DE; 1994-06-08), page 138
  42. ↑ Sega Magazin, "Juni 1994" (DE; 1994-05-11), page 18
  43. ↑ Sega Power, "April 1994" (UK; 1994-03-03), page 60
  44. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1994" (UK; 1994-02-24), page 58
  45. ↑ Sega Zone, "March 1994" (UK; 1994-02-24), page 37
  46. ↑ SuperGamePower, "Abril 1994" (BR; 1994-0x-xx), page 72
  47. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Review, "1" (RU; 1995-04-03), page 116
  48. ↑ Sonic the Comic, "May 13th 1994" (UK; 1994-04-30), page 10
  49. ↑ Super Juegos, "Abril 1994" (ES; 1994-0x-xx), page 96
  50. ↑ Todo Sega, "Marzo 1994" (ES; 1994-0x-xx), page 90
  51. ↑ Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 139
  52. ↑ Video Games, "4/94" (DE; 1994-03-23), page 86
  53. ↑ VideoGames, "April 1994" (US; 1994-0x-xx), page 81
  54. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "July 1992" (UK; 1992-06-15), page 27
  55. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 150
  56. ↑ FX (UK) (+0:00)
  57. ↑ Game Mania, "May 1993" (UK; 1993-xx-xx), page 81
  58. ↑ Game Power, "Luigio/Agosto 1992" (IT; 1992-0x-xx), page 44
  59. ↑ GamesMaster (UK) "Series 2, episode 9" (1992-11-26, 24:00) (+6:14)
  60. ↑ Game Zone, "February 1992" (UK; 1992-01-24), page 20
  61. ↑ Hobby Consolas, "Octubre 1992" (ES; 1992-xx-xx), page 110
  62. ↑ Hobby Consolas, "Noviembre 1992" (ES; 1992-xx-xx), page 126
  63. ↑ Joypad, "Septembre 1992" (FR; 1992-0x-xx), page 80
  64. ↑ Joystick, "Septembre 1992" (FR; 1992-0x-xx), page 198
  65. ↑ Micromanía (segunda época), "Diciembre 1992" (ES; 1992-1x-xx), page 50
  66. ↑ Mean Machines, "July 1992" (UK; 1992-06-27), page 112
  67. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-xx), page 135
  68. ↑ Player One, "Novembre 1992" (FR; 1992-11-10), page 90
  69. ↑ Power Up!, "Saturday, October 24, 1992" (UK; 1992-10-24), page 1
  70. ↑ Sega Power, "July 1992" (UK; 1992-06-04), page 26
  71. ↑ Sega Pro, "July 1992" (UK; 1992-06-18), page 58
  72. ↑ Sega Pro, "Christmas 1992" (UK; 1992-12-10), page 69
  73. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 72
  74. ↑ Sega Zone, "November 1992" (UK; 1992-10-28), page 74
  75. ↑ Sega Force, "2/92" (SE; 1992-11-19), page 23
  76. ↑ Sega Force, "July 1992" (UK; 1992-06-xx), page 12
  77. ↑ Sega Force, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-06), page 74
  78. ↑ Supersonic, "Novembre 1992" (FR; 1992-xx-xx), page 24
  79. ↑ Video Games, "8/92" (DE; 1992-07-22), page 95
  80. ↑ Consoles +, "Novembre 1992" (FR; 1992-1x-xx), page 148
  81. ↑ Electronic Games (1992-1995), "January 1993" (US; 1992-12-10), page 98
  82. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "January 1993" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 38
  83. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 168
  84. ↑ Fistful!, "June/July 1992" (UK; 1992-05-28), page 7
  85. ↑ Game Mania, "May 1993" (UK; 1993-xx-xx), page 70
  86. ↑ Game Informer, "January/February 1993" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 6
  87. ↑ Game Zone, "October 1992" (UK; 1992-09-24), page 58
  88. ↑ Joypad, "Janvier 1993" (FR; 199x-xx-xx), page 149
  89. ↑ Joystick, "Février 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 185
  90. ↑ Micromanía (segunda época), "Marzo 1993" (ES; 1993-0x-xx), page 44
  91. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "January 1993" (UK; 1992-12-28), page 96
  92. ↑ Play Time, "3/93" (DE; 1993-02-10), page 107
  93. ↑ Sega News, "Prosinec 1996" (CZ; 1996-1x-xx), page 32
  94. ↑ Sega Pro, "August 1992" (UK; 1992-07-16), page 66
  95. ↑ Sega Pro, "Christmas 1992" (UK; 1992-12-10), page 70
  96. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 74
  97. ↑ Sega Force, "September 1992" (UK; 1992-08-13), page 56
  98. ↑ Video Games, "2/93" (DE; 1993-01-27), page 120
  99. ↑ Zero, "August 1992" (UK; 1992-07-xx), page 78


Prince of Persia

PoP MD Title.png

Main page | Comparisons | Maps | Hidden content | Magazine articles | Video coverage | Reception | Promotional material | Region coding | Technical information | Bootlegs


Sega Game Gear
Prototypes: Prototype

Sega Mega Drive
Prototypes: Prototype A | Prototype B



Prince of Persia games for Sega systems
Sega Master System
 Prince of Persia (1992)
Sega Game Gear
 Prince of Persia (1992)
Sega Mega-CD
 Prince of Persia (1992)
Sega Mega Drive
 Prince of Persia (1993) | Prince of Persia 2: The Shadow and the Flame (Cancelled)
Sega Dreamcast
 Prince of Persia: Arabian Nights (2000)
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