Play Sengoku / Sengoku Denshou (Set 1) Online

Sengoku, released by SNK for the Neo Geo in 1991, is a side-scrolling action game set in a modern world overrun by supernatural forces. It arrived during the early years of the Neo Geo, a system known for its powerful hardware and arcade-perfect ports. The game doesn't try to reinvent the genre, but it offers a distinct take on the familiar beat-'em-up format with a supernatural Japanese folklore theme.

You control a warrior who battles through screen after screen of enemy soldiers and demons using a sword and a limited supply of shurikens. The main goal is straightforward: fight from the left side of the screen to the right, defeat the boss, and move on to the next stage. A key mechanic involves collecting spirit orbs that let you temporarily transform into one of three animal-themed warriors, each with unique attacks and mobility; the hawk spirit, for instance, allows you to fly freely for a short time. The pacing is relentless, and the difficulty is significant, especially when dealing with enemies attacking from all directions. It feels chaotic and demanding, but landing a powerful transformation attack on a boss provides a genuine rush of satisfaction.