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Ultima Exodus

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MSX 2 RPG Pub Pony Canyon 1989 Japan 1 Player 5 (0) 4

Ultima Exodus

Ultima Exodus: MSX2 RPG

Compiled by Alfred J. Hall · Editorial standards · Published June 28, 2026

Ultima Exodus on MSX 2 is a Japanese port of the classic computer role-playing game Ultima III, originally developed by Origin Systems and published by Pony Canyon for the MSX 2 platform in 1989. This version brings the epic quest of Sosaria to a home computer audience, retaining the core turn-based combat and exploration gameplay that defined the series. It is not a hack or mod but an official release tailored for MSX 2 hardware.

Players control a party of up to four characters, choosing classes like fighter, mage, or thief before setting out to explore the world. The game involves navigating an overhead map, entering towns and dungeons, speaking with NPCs to gather clues, and engaging in turn-based battles with monsters. Progression depends on leveling up, acquiring better gear, and solving puzzles to ultimately confront the evil entity Exodus.

This title stands as a faithful adaptation of a landmark RPG on a platform that rarely saw such complex Western-style role-playing games. While the MSX 2 version may have more colorful graphics and improved sound compared to the original computer release, it also carries Japanese-only menus and text, which can be a barrier without knowledge of the language. For fans of classic RPGs seeking a unique slice of gaming history, it offers an engrossing experience that rewards patience and exploration.

How to Play Ultima Exodus Online

To start playing Ultima Exodus, first navigate the character creation screen using the D-pad (Arrow Keys) to select a class and name your party members. The game is entirely in Japanese, so you may need a guide or translation resource to understand menus and commands. Press X (A button) to confirm selections, and press S (B button) to cancel or back out.

Once in the game world, explore towns to gather information and buy equipment, then venture onto the overworld to fight monsters. Battles are turn-based: select commands from a menu (use your reference for Japanese text) to attack, cast spells, or flee. Leveling up happens after gaining enough experience from battles; visit inns to restore HP and MP. The core loop is talk, explore, fight, and slowly uncover clues leading to the final dungeon.

Keep an eye on your party's health and manage resources carefully because save points are limited. Use the in-game save function from the menu (accessed with Enter/Start) to record progress. Without save-state features, you must rely on the game's own save system, so plan accordingly.

Ultima Exodus Keyboard Controls

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: Trigger 1
S: Trigger 2
Enter: Start

Frequently Asked Questions

Roughly how long does it take to finish Ultima Exodus?

A full playthrough typically takes 20 to 40 hours depending on familiarity with the game and whether you seek out every side quest. First-time players exploring thoroughly can expect toward the higher end.

Is there anything iconic or memorable about Ultima Exodus?

The game features a memorable antagonist named Exodus, a three-part entity that serves as the final boss. The party-based system allowing custom characters and the sprawling open world were groundbreaking for its time and remain hallmarks of the series.

What makes Ultima Exodus stand out among MSX 2 titles of its era?

It is one of the few complex Western-style RPGs on the MSX 2, offering depth rarely seen on the platform. The port preserves the original's intricate world and challenging gameplay, making it a unique experience for retro RPG fans exploring Japanese home computer games.