Revisiting old games to finally finish them: Gargoyle’s Quest

Nintendo Game Boy

Was there ever a game (or franchise) from your childhood which you either wanted to complete or at least play? Mine was the Gargoyle’s Quest spin-off series. Yes, the series was a spin-off to the very popular Ghosts ‘n Goblins. Capcom noticed that fans of the original series liked the game’s antagonist, a gargoyle named Firebrand, enough so to make an entire game about him.

Now, why haven’t I beaten it? You know, this was the 1990’s. Obtaining video games wasn’t as simple as it is today and I didn’t always have the money to buy them. I did however play this particular title when borrowing it from a friend but didn’t get very far.

Gargoyle’s Quest in platforming mode.

Gargoyle’s Quest was an early release for the Nintendo Game Boy console in 1990 and got excellent reviews for its visuals, story, music, controls, etc. It became an instant hit. A prequel was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (Gargoyle's Quest II: The Demon Darkness) in 1992 and a sequel for the Super Nintendo (Demon's Crest) in 1994.

Here is an excerpt of the general plot for the first game in the series taken from Wikipedia:

According to the fictional game lore, Firebrand is a gargoyle predestined to carry on the namesake and identity of the Red Blaze – the powerful force that fought back the Destroyers long before this game takes place. As his destiny foretold, Firebrand saves the Ghoul Realm from brutal conquest by traversing the Ghoul Realm, building his powers, and preparing to fight against the Destroyers' king, Breager, so as to ensure the protection of the Ghoul Realm once more.

Gargoyle’s Quest in adventure overworld mode.

The game plays in two different modes: (1) an adventure top-view overworld mode which allows you to navigate the Ghoulish world and villages and (2) a platforming mode where all of the action happens. It definitely makes for an interesting and fun gameplay.

Anyway, I am planning to venture off on a quest! That is, I plan to play through all three games in the order in which they were released. Wish me luck!

Is there a game which you wish to go back to and finish or at least try for the first time?