Maru's Mission (1990). Play online

Summary

Maru's Mission, a side‑scrolling action title from Jaleco’s original Game Boy lineup, drops you into six vividly themed stages that echo folklore from around the globe. Each world – ranging from a bug‑riddled North American forest to the sun‑scorched deserts of Egypt – challenges you with unique monsters, miniboss encounters and a memorable boss at the end of the level. The gameplay leans on classic platform mechanics, rewarding players who discover hidden weapons and power‑ups while mastering tight controls. The North American launch featured a distinct soundtrack, revised sprites and trimmed cut‑scenes compared to its Japanese counterpart, and the title resurfaced on the Game Boy Color in 2023 as Ninja JajaMaru: The Great World Adventure.

Storyline

In Maru's Mission, the adventure kicks off when Maru’s girlfriend, Cori, is kidnapped and hidden in a secret location. The player steps into Maru’s shoes, tasked with tracking down clues and battling obstacles.

The quest spans six distinct worlds, each with its own challenges and enemies. As Maru progresses, the mystery of Cori’s whereabouts unravels, leading to a final showdown to rescue her.