Cadash (Japan)
About Cadash (Japan)
Cadash (Japan) on the NEC TurboGrafx-16 is a side-scrolling action RPG that originally hit arcades in 1989 and found its way to this home console in 1990, published by Taito. This Japanese-exclusive port brings the fantasy quest to a 16-bit audience, mixing real-time combat with character progression. If you know the arcade version, this one is a faithful adaptation with some adjustments for the platform.
The player takes control of one of four character classes - warrior, mage, priestess, or ninja - each with unique stats and abilities. You move left and right through sprawling levels, hacking or casting spells at skeletons, slimes, and other classic fantasy foes. Defeated enemies drop money and experience points; leveling up boosts your attack, defense, and magic. There are towns to visit where you buy weapons, armor, and healing items, and hidden rooms to discover. The core loop is straightforward: explore, fight, level, gear up, and push toward the final boss.
Cadash stands out in the TurboGrafx-16 library because it captures the arcade action-RPG feel without the coin-op pressure. The graphics are colorful and detailed for its time, and the multiple character classes give it replay value. It is not a deep or sprawling RPG - think of it as a quick, satisfying dungeon crawl with tight combat. If you enjoy side-scrollers that blend action and leveling, this is a solid pick. Just keep in mind the menus are in Japanese, so some trial and error may be needed.
How to Play Cadash (Japan) Online
This Japanese version uses menus written entirely in Japanese, but navigation is manageable. At the title screen, press Start to access the character select: use the D-Pad to highlight one of four classes (warrior, mage, priestess, ninja) and press X (A button) to confirm. The game starts immediately in a town where you can walk around and buy equipment from shops - approach a counter and press X to interact, then scroll through items with the D-Pad and confirm purchases with X.
Combat is simple: walk into enemies to attack them with your equipped weapon or spell. Pressing S (B button) lets you run faster or cancel out of menus. Watch your health bar at the top of the screen; dropping to zero costs a life and sends you back to town. Collect gold and experience orbs from fallen foes - gaining a level increases your stats and may restore health. There are no save points, so plan your runs carefully. The goal is to fight through multiple stages, each ending with a boss, and ultimately defeat the Cadash threat.
Cadash (Japan) Keyboard Controls
Controls
- Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
- X: I button
- S: II button
- Enter: Run / Start
- V: Select
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