Ganbare Goemon - Tengutou no Gyakushuu (Japan)

Jump right into the action by pressing Start at the title screen. The menus are entirely in Japanese, so expect to experiment: the first option is usually "New Game," and the second may be "Continue" (if a save exists). Once the stage starts, move with the D-Pad, press X to jump, and press S to swing your weapon (a pipe or similar). Defeat enemies, collect coins and items, and reach the end of each stage.

The core loop involves side-scrolling levels with platforming and combat, plus occasional mini-games or bonus areas. Watch your health - hearts or food items restore it. Boss fights appear at key points. If you lose all lives, you'll see a game over screen; you can restart from the last checkpoint or the beginning of the stage. Save progress is managed through a password or battery save (likely password for this era). Since the text is in Japanese, memorizing menu icon positions helps.