Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle (1989). Play online

Summary

Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle is a quirky 16‑bit platformer that still feels fresh when I pick it up on a Genesis Mini. The core loop lets you jump, punch, kick and even crawl, turning defeated foes into sparkling Baums you can collect. What sets it apart is the odd mix of Janken mini‑games that reward you with quirky gear—a motorbike that lets you speed past hazards, a pedicopter for low‑gravity hovering, and a pogo stick for extra high jumps. There’s also a wand that grants brief floating. Every stage tests timing and quick‑draw rock‑paper‑scissors choices, and a single hit kills you, so you learn to keep the pace. The colourful worlds, off‑beat enemy designs and instant‑die tension make it a hidden gem for anyone who grew up on the Genesis.

Storyline

Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle picks up where Miracle World left off. After the death of his brother King Igul, Alex learns that his father, King Thor, has vanished and is believed to have been kidnapped by Ashra, the cruel ruler of the planet Paperock. Determined to rescue him, Alex blasts off for Paperock, a world filled with strange creatures that try to block his progress toward Sky Castle, Ashra’s hideout.

The game sends Alex through eleven distinct worlds on Paperock, each ending in a rock‑paper‑scissors duel that he must win to continue. Along the way he battles various opponents, gradually closing in on the Sky Castle where his father is said to be held. The ultimate goal is to defeat Ashra and reunite with King Thor.