Play Makai-Mura (Japan) Online

Game Overview

Oh man, Makai-Mura—or Ghosts 'n Goblins if you grew up with the Western release—is one of those NES games that feels like it was designed to make you suffer in the best way possible. You play as Arthur, a knight who apparently forgot his pants but remembered his courage, sprinting through nightmare fuel like haunted castles and zombie-filled graveyards to save his princess. Spoiler: it won’t be easy.

The first time a red demon knocks you into a pit or some random bat steals your armor, you’ll understand why this game has a reputation. The controls are sharp, but everything wants you dead, from the scenery to the soundtrack (which somehow slaps despite your impending doom). And just when you think you’ve beaten it? Surprise! The game basically says, "Nice try, do it again for real this time." It’s brutal, ridiculous, and weirdly satisfying when you finally make progress. A classic for masochists and retro fans alike.