The Neo Geo had some very unique games that not as many are aware of. We all know about Metal Slug, Fatal Fury and King of Fighters, but there was much more to the library than people realize. One such game that deserves more attention is Crossed Swords and its sequel.
Crossed Swords is a truly fascinating game. The best I can describe it is as a cross between an action adventure game, a beat em up, an rpg and the arcade version of Punch Out! which should give an idea of how different it is. You play as a knight who must rescue a land besieged by monsters. This isn’t a beat em up like you might thing when it comes to the Neo Geo. In this game, your character is represented by a wire frame and you must dodge attacks before striking and master the blocking mechanics.
Crossed Swords takes a little while to get used to, and learning how and when to block or dodge can be tricky at first,, but the game becomes much more enjoyable the more you play. There is an addictive quality to the game and I attribute that to the smart game design. It takes a few different and distinct genres, and expertly takes the best parts and mixes them into a truly unique experience.
The rpg elements were much more present in the sequel ( which will be discussing at a later time), but the story and shop system in this game are still well done. It was so different from what else was in the arcades at the time, and I wonder if it being so different is why the game isn’t more widely known, This was some of the most fun I have had with a Neo Geo game and when I spend some more time with the sequel, I will discuss that one more. I miss this experimental phase in gaming but the classics from that era can still be enjoyed. Crossed Swords is now part of the Arcade Archives Neo Geo line up, and I highly recommend it. It is proof of how innovative games can be.