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Rent a Hero (Japan)

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Inside Rent a Hero

SEGA Genesis
RPG
5· 0 votes

Rent a Hero is a Japanese-exclusive title for the SEGA Genesis that blends role-playing game elements with 2D fighting mechanics. Released only in Japan, it never saw an official Western release. The game was developed by Sega and is a cult classic among collectors, later receiving a remake on the Dreamcast and Xbox under the title Rent-A-Hero No. 1. Players take on the role of a down-on-his-luck character who decides to become a superhero for hire. The game is split between exploring a city, taking on odd jobs and missions from NPCs, and engaging in one-on-one brawls against thugs and other foes. The fighting sections use a simple but responsive 2D engine, with punches, kicks, and special moves, while the RPG side involves managing your reputation, money, and relationships. What makes Rent a Hero worth trying today is its quirky premise and the rarity of its Genesis version. The mix of town exploration with fighting was unusual for the time, and the game's tongue-in-cheek humor and Japanese urban setting give it a distinct personality. If you enjoy experimental hybrids or obscure Sega titles, this is a fascinating piece of the company's history, even if the menus are entirely in Japanese.

GAME INFO

Platform: SEGA Genesis
Genre: RPG
Players: 1
Region: Japan

How to play Rent a Hero online

Getting Started

When you start Rent a Hero, you will be placed in a city where you can walk around and talk to people. Look for characters who need a hero's help - they will give you tasks like delivering items or beating up troublemakers. Accepting jobs advances the story and earns you money and experience. The game is entirely in Japanese, so pay attention to visual cues and stick to known RPG conventions like checking every sign and NPC.

The core loop involves moving between screens, speaking to clients, then heading to designated fight zones. When you enter a fight, you control your hero in a 2D arena. Use punches and kicks to deplete the opponent's health bar. Blocking is crucial. After winning, you return to the city and can spend money on new moves or gear. Save your progress using the password system (note down the code shown when you continue).

If you get stuck, try talking to everyone in every area. Some missions have time limits or require you to visit certain places in sequence. Since the manual is in Japanese too, experiment with menu choices using trial and error - most options are straightforward if you pay attention to context.

CONTROLS

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: A button
S: B button
Z: C button
A: X button (6-button pad)
Q: Y button (6-button pad)
E: Z button (6-button pad)
Enter: Start / Mode

Rent a Hero FAQ

Who developed Rent a Hero?

The developer is not widely documented, but the game was likely created by an internal Sega team, possibly Sega AM7. No official credit is easily found in English sources.

Can players save progress in Rent a Hero?

Rent a Hero uses a password system to save progress. After reaching certain milestones, the game provides a code that can be entered to resume from that point.

Is there anything iconic or memorable about Rent a Hero?

The game's concept of renting yourself out as a superhero is unique, and its blend of RPG exploration with 2D fighting was ahead of its time. The later Dreamcast and Xbox remakes helped cement its cult status among Sega fans.