The First Samurai

The First Samurai is a fantasy platform game developed by Vivid Image and published by Image Works in 1991 initially for the Amiga and Atari ST. Later it was ported to several other platforms, including DOS.

In First Samurai, you are a young (but incredibly buff) samurai training under your master. Like any good samurai storyline, your master is killed by an evil king, and you must now seek revenge upon him for this. The evil king isn’t an ordinary enemy: he has magical powers and doesn’t just flee back to his hideout; he dives forward through time to escape you. With his dying breath, your master summons a wizard who can help you go after the evil king and avenge him. Training under this new master, you can travel through time to get your revenge.

The First Samurai plays like a side-scrolling platformer, and you can jump, kick, punch, utilize your sword, and climb trees. On your way to face the king, you fight several different enemies that range from bats and tiny choppers to baby aliens and living statues. You will also be treated to some exciting and varied environments as well. Keep your eyes sharp during each level as there are multiple hidden areas to find and loot to collect.

The First Samurai was incredibly well-received upon release and understandably so. The game holds up as an entertaining platformer with a cute Japanese fantasy backdrop—definitely, one to check out. And don't forget to check its sequel, Second Samurai.