Some retro games feel like hidden treasures, plucked from the depths of Japanese imports or niche corners of the gaming world. One such gem for Mega Drive (or Genesis, depending on your region!) fans is Magical Tarurūto-kun. While the character was a massive hit in Japan across manga and anime, his video game appearances, particularly the Sega platformer, remain a delightful discovery for many Western retro enthusiasts.
But what exactly is Magical Tarurūto-kun, and why should you care about this cute, magic-wielding protagonist? Let's take a trip back in time to explore the game and the wider universe it came from.
What is Magical Tarurūto-kun? The Franchise Context
Before diving into the game, it's important to know that Magical Tarurūto-kun wasn't born on a console. He originated in a popular manga series by Tatsuya Egawa, serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 1988 to 1992. This led to a long-running anime series (1990-1992), films, and yes, multiple video games across various platforms like the Famicom, Super Famicom, Game Boy, Game Gear, and the Mega Drive.
The premise revolves around Honmaru Edojo, a shy and unpopular fifth-grader. His life changes when he accidentally summons Taruruto, a small, often mischievous wizard with magical powers. Taruruto uses his (sometimes unreliable) magic to help Honmaru navigate school life, deal with bullies, and face various rivals and magical foes. It's a classic tale of friendship, magic, and overcoming challenges, filled with humor and charm.
The Mega Drive Game: A Closer Look
Among the various Magical Taruruto-kun games, the 1992 Mega Drive title stands out as a well-regarded platformer. Developed by Game Arts and presented by Sega, this is likely the version most retro gaming fans outside of Japan might encounter or hear about.
Story & Premise
The game's story follows the basic setup: you play as Taruruto, helping Honmaru. A disturbance at school, caused by a magical troll named Raivar, sets off the adventure. You'll journey through familiar locations from the series, like Minamino Elementary School, and venture into more fantastical places like the Magic Kingdom and Picture Book Country, culminating in a final showdown.
Gameplay Mechanics
At its core, the Magical Tarurūto-kun Mega Drive game is a side-scrolling platformer. You control Taruruto, navigating levels with standard movement: walking, crouching, and jumping. Taruruto has a few unique abilities:
- Gliding: He can glide for a short distance, which is crucial for clearing gaps and reaching hidden areas.
- Wand Attack: His primary way of dealing with enemies is a simple swing of his wand.
- Object Interaction: Taruruto can grab and throw certain objects he's standing near. Amusingly, these objects often gain little faces when held!
Players have a three-heart life gauge. Taking hits depletes it, and losing all hearts or falling into a pit costs a life. The game offers continues, so you have chances to see it through.
Magical Powers & Items
A key element of the gameplay is Taruruto's magic. As you progress, you acquire new spells, used with a dedicated magic button. These spells have limited uses, indicated by a gauge or counter, but can be replenished by finding specific items. You can switch between the different magic abilities you've learned, adding a strategic layer to the platforming.
Examples of magic spells include:
- Temporary invincibility
- Summoning a witch to clear the screen of enemies
- Firing a projectile in a straight line
You'll also find various items throughout the stages:
- Takoyaki & Power Apple Juice: Replenish your health. A nice nod to Taruruto's favorite food!
- Pentagram Stickers: Grant more uses for your magic spells.
- 1-Ups: Grant extra lives.
Beyond the Mega Drive: Other Games
While the Mega Drive title is perhaps the most well-known platformer, it's worth remembering the franchise had games across many systems. These included puzzle games, RPGs, and other action titles, showcasing the character's versatility and popularity in the early 90s Japanese market. Characters from the series even popped up in crossover titles.
Why It's a Retro Gem
The Magical Tarurūto-kun Mega Drive game is often praised for its appealing graphics, charming character sprites, and solid platforming design. It captures the whimsical spirit of the anime and manga, making it a fun, accessible experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike. It might not reinvent the wheel, but it's a well-crafted example of a licensed platformer from that era, offering a good challenge and a dose of pure retro joy. Its inclusion on the Japanese Mega Drive Mini 2 console in 2022 further cemented its status as a notable title.
Playing Today
Experiencing Magical Tarurūto-kun today typically involves emulation, as the original Japanese Mega Drive cartridge can be somewhat rare and expensive. Emulators allow you to play the game on modern PCs or other devices, bringing this classic import title to a new generation of retro gamers.
FAQ
Q: What is Magical Tarurūto-kun? A: Magical Tarurūto-kun is a popular Japanese manga and anime series from the early 1990s about a magical boy who helps a shy elementary school student. It also spawned several video games.
Q: Which platform is the most famous Magical Tarurūto-kun game on? A: While there were games on many platforms, the Mega Drive (Genesis) version is often considered a notable and well-regarded platformer among retro fans, particularly outside of Japan.
Q: Is the Magical Tarurūto-kun game rare? A: The original Japanese Mega Drive cartridge can be somewhat hard to find and expensive due to it being a Japan-only release and a desired collector's item.
Q: How can I play the Magical Tarurūto-kun game today? A: The most common way to play today is through emulation using a Mega Drive emulator on a modern device.
Conclusion
Whether you're a long-time fan of the manga and anime or simply a retro gamer looking for charming, lesser-known platformers on the Mega Drive, Magical Tarurūto-kun is definitely worth checking out. It's a fantastic example of early 90s licensed games done right, offering solid gameplay and a delightful dose of magical nostalgia. Give it a try – you might just discover your new favorite import!
