Ghosts 'n Goblins

Game Details:

Ghosts 'n Goblins is one of the most difficult action games ever made. The game is divided into six major stages, each designed with extremely challenging traps and a relentless stream of enemies. Players can use a variety of ranged projectile weapons like the Lance, Dagger, Torch, and Axe, but each has a different trajectory and power. The game's most famous feature is that after completing it once, the player is told it was all an "illusion" and must challenge the game a second time on a much higher difficulty—a second loop—to face the true final boss and achieve the true ending.

Game Guide:

In Ghosts 'n Goblins, the Lance and Dagger are the highest-priority weapons due to their fast projectile speed and long range. Try to avoid picking up the Torch or Axe, as their arcing trajectories make them very difficult to use against flying enemies. On the first stage, watch out for zombies constantly emerging from the ground; maintain a steady pace and don't get greedy with your attacks. In the ice area of the second stage, be mindful of your footing.

Due to the strict time limit, players cannot stay in one place for too long. When fighting large bosses (like the Red Arremer), the best strategy is to bait them into taking flight and then counter-attack the moment they dive. Remember, since the game requires a second loop to be truly beaten, if you don't have the specific "Cross" weapon during your first playthrough, the game will force you to replay stages five and six. Therefore, pay close attention to your weapon choice in the later stages.