Play Naomichi Ozaki no Super Masters (Japan) Online

Naomichi Ozaki no Super Masters came out for the Sega Genesis in 1991, published by SEGA. It was one of those niche titles that showed how the system could host more than just action and platformers, offering a dedicated digital take on shogi, the Japanese strategy game similar to chess. You don't see many shogi games localized or even released outside Japan, so stumbling on this one always felt like finding a quiet corner of the Genesis library.

You control a shogi apprentice, moving pieces on a 9x9 board with the goal of capturing your opponent's king. The game teaches you through Ozaki's guidance, and matches play out turn by turn. Signature mechanics include promoting pieces when they cross into enemy territory and dropping captured pieces back onto the board as your own, which adds deep tactical layers. The AI begins forgivingly but soon becomes sharp, demanding real foresight; the pacing is deliberate, almost meditative, unless you rush and blunder. Playing it feels like a patient duel where every move echoes long after you make it.