Demon's Crest

"Despite it's horrible sales, this is a really fun game"

This game is sort of a spin-off of Ghosts 'N Ghouls. While I have never played the Ghost 'N Ghouls, from what I heard, the gargoyle in Demon's Crest is a character in Ghosts 'N Ghouls. This game was a big flop to say the least. It sold horribly, and I heard that it even got negative sales at one point. Don't ask me. But sales stats aside, this is truly a cool game that all SNES gamers should at least glance at.

Graphics
For some reason, don't ask me why, the graphics are remind me a lot of the graphics in Super Metroid. That right there says a lot about the graphics. The colors are done perfectly. They are very dark, which sets a nice spooky tone for the game. The characters are very detailed. The first boss, whom you fight at the very beginning of the game, is so incredibly detailed. The backgrounds are very spooky and eerie, which sets the tone for the game. Very good graphics. Graphics: 9/10

Sound
Not much can be said about the sound. I was so amazed by the graphics, the sound was kind of tuned out. But it is very eerie, and has a very Castlevania-esque sound to it. I don't have to tell you that that is a good thing. The sound effects are very good as well. The sounds of the your gargoyle's wings flapping CAN get annoying at times, but you can live with it. Sound: 8/10

Controls
Very simple controls make a good game better. Jump, attack, destroy statues, special. That is essentially it. You will have to hit start to access the menu, but any RPG player will already be used to this. Nontheless, excellent controls. Controls: 10/10

Gameplay
I haven't progressed too terribly far in the game, so as far as I know, you're a gargoyle who is running around shooting things for no apparent reason. Sounds good to me! It is not your typical action platformer, however. It has a lot of RPG elements to it. You can equip and cast spells and the like. Also, at the end of each stage, you get a Crest which allows you to transform your gargoyle, giving him different powers which will help you in the next levels. Hence the name. It's really very innovative, especially for its time. Gameplay: 10/10

The Final Word
The game, while fun, is pretty short and not very difficult. It has its good points, which is why I highly recommend you purchase this game. Don't spend more than $10 on it, though. This is a definite buy for those who like action platformers... with an RPG twist!

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 09/29/01, Updated 09/29/01