Play Mamono Hunter Youko - Dai 7 no Keishou (Japan) Online

Mamono Hunter Youko came out in 1991 for the Sega Genesis, developed by Masaya. It's a side-scrolling action game that fits right in with the platform's library of fantasy titles from that period, though it never got the same attention as some of the bigger names.

You control Youko, a demon hunter armed with a sword and magic, moving screen by screen through monster-filled stages. Your goal is to defeat bosses and collect pieces of a sacred mirror to restore its power. Combat involves slashing at enemies up close or using magical projectiles, and you can also find temporary power-ups to boost your attacks. The pacing is deliberate, and the difficulty can be unforgiving, especially with limited continues. Playing it feels tense and atmospheric, with each new area presenting a fresh set of dangers to overcome.