As a kid I found a complete in box turbografx while cleaning out an house with my dad. It had so many crazy games on it that blew my mind back then! I still think of Devil's Crush pinball was one of the best pinball games ever. :P
I owned most of these back in the early 90's. Legendary Axe, Blazing Lasers, Bonk's Adventure, Ninja Spirits, Splatter House, China Warrior, Vigilante, etc. Legendary Axe, Blazing Lasers, Ninja Spirits and Bonk's adventure are the reasons I bought a TG16. Still remember them, the music, atmosphere and action.
Devil's Crush is a masterpiece. As you mentioned I love the H.R. Giger vibe, how creepy the boards come to life, and of course the soundtrack. One hell of a game. Never heard of Ninja Spirit but it looks incredible! I'm surprised the concept of controlling three of the same character isn't utilized today with all the indie games we get.
There are so many great hits. Blazing Lasers, military madness, Ys Book I and II, Neutopia, Dungeon Explorer and so on. The hits keep coming on that console.
This is random but I'm glad to see another youtuber that has such appreciation for the Dragon Quest series. I wish it was more popular in the west. Japanese people are so lucky they get a new DQ game once a year.
I'm so jealous that you have all these great games with their cases! One of my favorites that you didn't mention was DUNGEON EXPLORER!! Freaking awesome game. I still listen to the soundtrack from time to time.
Awesome list, Johnnny. I'm hoping to do my own list of top 10 TurboChip games in a video soon. You're statement in the beginning is spot on. "There is no official list". It's amazing that needs to be spelled out these days. It's like people don't know how to spot an opinion. Couldn't agree more about Legendary Axe and it being synonymous with the TG. Well said. I hope to own Ninja Spirit and Cadash someday.
Funny. Game Sack just talked about The Legendary Axe in their latest video about games they couldn't beat. So watching this video right after, it's like you're directly telling Joe that he sucks at Legendary Axe. haha.
+CaptainAtomSmasher I had the game in the 90s and I finally beat it at some point. But I had trouble with getting used to the controls at first. But that's how I feel about many TBGX side scrollers now. It's like there is a very slight delay. That's my opinion...maybe because I'm slow. Either way, I'm on Joe or Dave's side. Turbo takes some time getting used to it.
+Ryan AirZonkWorldChamp I've been trying to beat it since I got it in 1989. Still get stuck at the same stage where you get the final Axe powerup for the 1st time. Those 2 guys with spears/shields always seem to do me in.
Retro Game Lounge That's a tough part. Wait till your axe meter is fully charged before going into the fight. When the two appear on screen attack the one on the left with full power to really weaken him. If you time it right you can take out the one on the left in a few hits and the one on right will wait on the other side.
Keith Courage Books Adventure among many others that are classic bloody wolf was okay but damn some real throw backs brought me right back to the early 90s
I just bought a TG-16 on eBay. It came with three sports titles that I likely won't put to much use. I was looking for suggestions :) Bloody Wolf and Legendary Axe look like what I'm trying to find. I enjoy the channel, thank you.
Legendary Axe and R-Type. The funny thing about our favorite games is that we never get tired of playing them. I play Metal Gear 1,2,3 probably once every year. They're just so good. Same goes for Legendary Axe, R-Type and Keith's Courage. I really love the sound chip and the gpu on the PC-Engine. NEC/Hudson beat everyone to market years ahead of the Super Famicom. 512 colors on screen simultaneously. Eat that Genesis!
Excellent list Johnny. Bonk's Adventure was the reason why I wanted to get the TurboGrafx. Great podcast last night. I remember the part about owing a TurboGrafx game back in the days. I was one of those who was riduculed for owing one. I didn't care, because it's was and still is a great system. The Crush pinball games, Neutopia series, Bonk all rock. I loved Dungeon Explorer and I even like Double Dungeons. I once spent a whole summer beating the game, only to get a ending of text and a picture. Great times nonetheless.
I know people will disagree, but I’ve always loved Vigilante. Something about it just made me want to own a TG16 back in the day. Then, of course, Alien Crush. I spent hours and hours playing it. Still love it. Splatter house is still a great game, too. For sports games, I’m a huge fan of Hit The Ice. I’m so happy to see this console finally getting some love and a mini console. Didn’t see that one coming in a million years. Great show, Johnny.
You know what's ironic? That one of the definitive Sega Master System games has a far superior Turbografx 16 version ;3 I LOVE it! LOVE Dragon's Curse, it's just SO good~ Some other games I love on the Turbografx 16 are Super Star Soldier and Soldier Blade, Soldier Blade blew my mind when I first played it! It's Super-fast, it has AMAZING Graphics and music, and it's SO much fun to play through!! Blazing Lazers is one of those games that if I pick up to play I have problems putting it down... All 3 Bonk games do the same for me, Bonk's Adventure I only put down if I get a game over or beat it~ Legendary Axe 2 is in my opinion even better than the first, it has more weapons, you can upgrade your weapons and lifebar, the music makes better use of the TG16 soundchip, and it's a LOT of fun to play through! Bomberman and Bomberman'93 are a LOT of fun, they're the definitive multiplayer games on the Turbografx! Magical Chase is one of the games that really shows off what the Turbografx 16 can do! 3 layers of Parallax Scrolling at almost all times, incredibly well-drawn backgrounds, very well animated sprites, the game just looks incredible, it's one of the most technically impressive games I've ever seen, not to mention it has some of the best music on the system~ Magical Chase is THE game that made me go like: "That's it, THIS is my new favourite game system! (Next to the SNES and the GBA, but a VERY close 3rd place)" (just in case you're wondering, I've emulated Magical Chase) Ninja Spirit was pretty amazing too, it's also technically impressive, it's a lot of fun to play, the music could be better but it's not bad, the controls are just fantastic, and upgrading all your different weapons and then tearing through the waves and waves of enemies is SO good~ But that one part just before the final boss is BULLS***! If you ever got to 'The fall of a thousand blades' then you know what I'm talking about! New Adventure Island is an awesome game! You basically take Adventure Island on the NES, give it 16 bit graphics and make it a heck of a lot better, there you have it! It gets frustrating sometimes but if you press through it you can totally beat it, it's VERY fun, and it has a surprisingly high amount of variety both in enemies and backgrounds, you'll be surprised at just how the game keeps throwing new stuff at you the farther you go in the game, I mean how could they pack so much within 6 MEGA POWER? Great game! Cratermaze might just be my favourite maze game ever! That's right, Screw you Pacman, Cratermaze is where it's at!! (And I'm not counting Bomberman, I consider bomberman more of a top-down action game than a maze game) Cratermaze has amazing music, fun weapons to use, nice graphics, nice variety in maze types... It does get stale after a while because the game throws everything it has at you in the first area and then just repeat it throughout all of the later areas, but if you have time to kill Cratermaze is a great game to kill time on! Parasol Stars is a highly Colourful arcade game that is a lot of fun to play through, it also has some very nice music, and this is one of THE Games that if ported over to either the Genesis or the SNES it would be botched... That game shows off the colour capabilities of the Turbografx 16 and even pulls off some parallax scrolling in the stage transitions! Very nice game... Side Arms Hyper Dyne is one fine shooter on the Turbografx 16, VERY difficult but VERY fun! I can't get very far in it but I sure do have fun trying! It has lots of weapons that you can cycle through and powerup individually, good-looking graphics too... Air Zonk is one of the definitive Turbografx 16 sidescrolling shoot'em ups, it's a LOT of fun, Very colourful, Very nice graphics with loads of Parallax scrolling, super-catchy music, it's another one of those games that if I pick up I have problems putting it down, I'll only put it down once I either get a game over or beat it! Friggin' Awesome!! Oh my gosh, the Turbografx 16... It's SO much fun! SO many great games!! I could go on forever but I'm gonna stop now... But yeah, the Turbografx 16 is an amazing game system filled to the brim with games that are just a LOT of pure FUN! If you're a fan of 16 bit games on either the SNES or the Genesis (or both if you're intelligent) Here's a 3rd 16 bit system that's very much worth re-discovering!
+Ruko Michiharu plenty of gems on the system...although i think dragon's curse is an awesome game...one thing that i sorta hold against it is that it doesnt feel that much of an upgrade to the SMS version. Sure the music is better..but with the ability to have a save and on better tech, i dunno man..i do love that game but i felt like more should have been added. The funny thing about the tg16 is that it has its rep with shooters and arcade conversions, but to me this is the best system for videogame pinball. While it only has three (that i know of) Devil's crush, Alien's crush, and Time Cruise...i would argue that's the best collection of pinball games on any given system or handheld.
racerxgundam Yeah, I thought of mentioning Devil's Crush, it's my favourite pinball game ever, but well I kinda haven't played that many Pinball games so... And well, I'll agree that they should have added more to Dragon's Curse, but what is there is already great, and I love it! The graphical upgrade is minimal but it didn't need to be that much better since the SMS one does have nice graphics, what it REALLY needed was a music upgrade, and oh boy what an upgrade it was!
i know they aren't exactly the best games, but no one ever mentions Chase H.Q. or its sequel Special Criminal Investigations....them two joints are guilty pleasures for me. Same with vigilante... BTW...no blazing lasers and no r-type on john's list? hmmmm not sure if i am cool with that or not :-P
Turbo Grafx 16 was such a underated system.I felt very special owning one back in the day while everyone owned sega genesis etc when people saw it they were like whats that where did ya get it etc.lol
When I was younger my mom gave me some rolls of quarters to play arcade games in the casino while she gambled (Vegas, Reno or Tahoe... don't remember). I mainly played Kid Niki, Discs of Tron and RoboCop until I saw Pac-Land. Pac-Land was the game that made me get a TG16. To my delight, the TG16 came with the awesome Keith Courage. Both games are worthy mentions if not a part of the top 10.
Thanks Johnny, excellent list. I would say my go to TG 16 is Raiden. It is a good example of a Hue card demolishing both the Sega Genesis and Snes versions. It's a difficult game but lots of fun.
You're list is how i do it as well hcg.Still some of my personal favorites ones for the console. Ninja Spirit Magical Chase Shockman Bonks Adventure Dungeon Explorer Aero Blasters Air Zonk Legendary Axe
I was pleasantly surprised that Dragon's Curse made it so high on your list. It's a favorite of mine as well (and has been since my SMS days). I got it earlier this year and immediately sat down to play it through to completion. I don't have much experience with the TG-16, but I also really enjoy Ninja Spirit, Legendary Axe and Victory Run. Thanks for the video! I've added Soldier Blade to my want list.
I don't know why but I felt compelled to check this out recently! It's biased based on what I played originally but the 3 bonks, JJ and Jeff, Tricky Kick, Parasol Stars, Galaga 88 are on my list.
My favorite game on the system is a game that never made over here in the west. Its a japan only hu card called Metal Stoker! its like a top down army tank shmup game with great controls. One button switches from free movement to strafing and the other fires. The graphics are great for the system and the music rocks!
Legendary Axe is the reason I bought a Turbo Graphix 16 so good. I remember seeing that boss on the commercials and I new I had to have it. I'm a sucker for big bosses.
Nice list and video, HCG. It certainly makes things easier to limit your list to US cards only. Your list is full of the usual suspects as far as the TG16 library goes, but that's no surprise nor is it a bad thing. I got to try Bloody Wolf this past Spring. I found it to have great style and to just be loads of fun within a very short time after starting. I love the sense of humor the game has, like when the one hero asks the other when he learned to fly a helicopter. Soldier Blade is a wonderful shooter. I imported the Star Soldier PSP UMD to have a copy of that game and the others. Soldier Blade is a lot of fun and has impressive graphics and great music. Stage 6 has a really rocking tune that I always enjoy. I get the urge to play through Soldier Blade every few months it seems. As for Splatterhouse, while the TG16 version may be the "worst", it's still a great version.
You pretty much nailed the best games for Turbografx! There was one kid in my neighborhood who owned one but I never got to play one. Still to this day, never have played the system.
I love learning about all these games I know very little about; it's like looking into this whole other unknown world. Dragon's Curse reminds me a bit of the original Shantae for Game Boy Color (also on the 3DS eShop now), which is a Metroidvania of sorts (more like Castlevania II really...except much more compelling), where the titular half-genie character Shantae can transform into different creatures to reach new areas and so on. Shantae has two sequels as well (with another on the way), but the footage you showed of Dragon's Curse and the way you described it brings to mind the first one in particular for me. In any case, Dragon's Curse looks like something I'd enjoy! Always love hearing your passion for games that are very foreign to me and learning about new old games! ^_^
Bonk made a cameo in the funny Mario cartoon "Mario Mind Rhyme." He's in the shopping Market scene, along with:Marina from Mischief Makers, the Gunstar Heroes, Alex Kidd and Alien Soldier. I guess they all had some shopping to do.
Dragon's Curse is a port of Wonderboy 3: The Dragon's Trap for the Sega Master System. Glad you're showing it some love, it's my favourite 8-bit game. Available on Virtual Console, don't deny yourself.
The Turbografx16 is one of my top 3 favorite game consoles right after the Super NES and PlayStation 2. My favorite Turbo games are : Splatterhouse Bonks Revenge and Legendary Axe.
PTSweet no Muramasa Rebirth is on the vita. Muramasa on the wii. but either way the art is the same on both versions although the vita version I think they redrew them in hd.
A lot of great games on this list. I never played a TG16 but I've been collecting PC Engine for several years, I really love some of the exclusives. Genpei Toumaden is great, looks and sounds awesome and the three different level types is cool too, plus it's just a lot of fun. Youkai Douchuuki is another great action platformer and as far as shooters go I really love Aero Blasters and of course all of the games in the Soldier series.
They have Radio Shack in America, the chain is from Texas. The one here in Yuma is one of the rare holdouts that actually still sells hobbyist products. Most of the others are trying to be Apple Stores.
Great list! I played and loved "Dragon's Curse" on my Nintendo Wii Virtual Console. Way fun game! I'm quite hyped for "Wonder Boy & The Cursed Kingdom" (& The Wizard of Booze) mainly because of how much enjoyment I got out that game. X3
I've remembered Dragon's Curse for years, and have been looking through Turbo Grafx16 review videos *just to find this game*. I was so young when I played it, and I HAVE to play it again. Thanks for the video!
Nice video, will you do one on CD games as well? I'm surprised you didn't pick Order of the Griffon since you're into D&D. One of the best TG16 exclusives and overall console RPGs of that era
I got Neutopia from the Wii Virtual Console years ago on a whim and at first I was kinda negative about it because it was a Zelda clone, but then I realized more Zelda isn't a bad thing and the game isn't broken or anything either. Definitely a game Zelda fans (especially those who loved the first Zelda game) should check out!
Order of the Griffon. Once you learn to cypher out the success/fail pattern of picking pockets at the tavern you don't have to worry about equipment. But since its a d&d game and not a jrpg. It still didn't break the game. The difficulty spike at the end catches up with you so still can't breeze through the whole game.
I remember when I first tried the TG16. It was at the C.N.E. in Toronto. they had a couple of trailers with systems hooked up for everyone to try before it's actually launch. I remember not being very impressed but I only got to play briefly as my parents yanked me out of there in mere minutes. that was the only experience I had with it until my 20's when moving a friend I found his his handheld TG16. played it for a bit and couldn't believe I missed out on this console.
I remember my uncle had a Turbografx-16 when I was a kid. I had never heard of it when I saw it and all I ever played there was Bonk's Adventure and Bonk's Revenge. Occasionally I'd pop in another game like Neutopia or Devil's Crush, but I fell in love with Bonk. I've sense played Splatterhouse, New Adventure Island, and The Dynastic Hero on the Wii Virtual Console. They're all great games.
I enjoyed my TG-16 a lot. It never got the respect it deserved. I liked the basketball and football with the 4 player connect. My favorite for the TG 16 was Wanderers from Y's 3., My favorite card game was Shockman. I always wanted Samurai Ghost, but never played it.
OH MAN!!!! I STILL HAVE THE SAME TG-16 FROM 1989!! STILL LOVE TO PLAY IT!!! Blazing Lasers, Super Star Soldier, Psychosis, Space Harrier, R-Type, Ordyne, Cyber Core, Ninja Spirit, Bomberman 93!!! AND I JUST GOT THE TG-16 MINI!!!! IT'S PRETTY SWEET!!! #PCENGINE4EVER :)
I a turbo Graff when I was in junior high school!! My favorite games were the adventures of Keith courage and splatter house!! Classic shit!! Good times man!!
Oh man Devil's Crush. I was actually too scared to play that game as a kid because of all the horror elements. But the music was so great that even now I would look for gameplays so that I can listen to it. Have you ever played Gunhed aka Blazing Lasers? I loved that game because of its awesome music and different power-ups. If you haven't, please give it a try!
Of the few Turbo games I've beaten, Splatterhouse and Bonk are easily the best. I really should get more into the awesome library of games this system has.
I'm a SHMUPS lover pretty much and I would have to say Soldier Blade is the best out there, not only on TG16 but #1 in my book period. Actually did a let's play with this game and just did Psychic Storm which is a TG16 CD game. TG16 is an awesome console and is so underrated in my opinion.
I miss my old Turbo Grafx. Nobody I know has heard of it apart from my brother, who introduced it to me. I think with more exposure it would have been as big as Sega. Loved the Bonk series, Bloody Wolf, Ninja Spirit, Keith Courage and Splatterhouse.
For me its Parasol Stars, Devil's Crush, Splatterhouse, Bomberman 93, and Galaga 90 as my no real order Top 5 TG cards. Honorable mentions go to Alien Crush, Legendary Axe, Blazing Lasers, Dungeon Explorer, and Bonk's Revenge.
I really liked Tale Spin. Lots of people say this game is terrible because it's really hard but I don"t know what they are talking about. The ice level is a little tricky, but other than that, I can finish the game every time I play it with no problem. The Darkwing Duck game on the other hand, is stupid hard, not very good, but can be finished. My favourite card game is a toss-up between both Neutopia games and Dungeon Explorer. I'd probably give an edge to Dungeon Explorer only because we never got Neutopia III like the ending of Neutopia II promised. Neutopia II was better than the first one, but I still love the first one
not alone. if I had known Wonder BoyIII had a TB16 port back in the day, I would have been stoked. this is a certain testament to the MasterSystem, their port of the game being... hardly criticis-... you know... good.
I liked your list... I would put a lot of shmups, in your place like blazing lazers, gradius 2, parodius, salamander... But your selection is very varied, very cool. I will try some of theese that i don't know.
I've never even seen a Turbografx...I remember seeing ads for them in comics in the 90s, but never seen or played one. A lot of those games look really neat, I'll have to keep an eye out next time I am out looking for retro stuff to play!
Soldier Blade is my personal favourite TG16 game, it just beats Magical Chase. I'm glad you chose it for this list. It's just a shame they're both more expensive than sin. Also, I need to look out for "NOBUNGA's Ambition" for the NES, haven't heard of that one :P
I clearly remember the discount bin at radio shack, full of tg16 games near the end of its run. Not many places sold them up in Canada on the west coast.
Please do a top ten Ps3/Ps4 ..just interested to see what inspires you in next gen graphics and modern gameplay. Thanks for a great show .Support from the UK.
Blazing Lasers hands down. Such a good game, and it was the first TG16 game I was able to find when I got my console.
Compile #1
Totally agree. Blazing Lazers is a really great shooter.
First game that talked to you, right? "Shields"
As a kid I found a complete in box turbografx while cleaning out an house with my dad. It had so many crazy games on it that blew my mind back then! I still think of Devil's Crush pinball was one of the best pinball games ever. :P
10: Military Madness, 9: Legendary Axe, 8: Cyber Core, 7: Bonks Adventure, 6: Blazing Lazers, 5: Devils Crush, 4: Air Zonk, 3: Alien Crush, 2: Splatterhouse, 1: Bonk's Revenge
Military madness is one of my all time favorite games, played that game for HOURS upon HOURS!
I owned most of these back in the early 90's. Legendary Axe, Blazing Lasers, Bonk's Adventure, Ninja Spirits, Splatter House, China Warrior, Vigilante, etc. Legendary Axe, Blazing Lasers, Ninja Spirits and Bonk's adventure are the reasons I bought a TG16. Still remember them, the music, atmosphere and action.
Devil's Crush is a masterpiece. As you mentioned I love the H.R. Giger vibe, how creepy the boards come to life, and of course the soundtrack. One hell of a game.
Never heard of Ninja Spirit but it looks incredible! I'm surprised the concept of controlling three of the same character isn't utilized today with all the indie games we get.
There are so many great hits. Blazing Lasers, military madness, Ys Book I and II, Neutopia, Dungeon Explorer and so on. The hits keep coming on that console.
This is random but I'm glad to see another youtuber that has such appreciation for the Dragon Quest series. I wish it was more popular in the west. Japanese people are so lucky they get a new DQ game once a year.
I'm so jealous that you have all these great games with their cases! One of my favorites that you didn't mention was DUNGEON EXPLORER!! Freaking awesome game. I still listen to the soundtrack from time to time.
Awesome list, Johnnny. I'm hoping to do my own list of top 10 TurboChip games in a video soon. You're statement in the beginning is spot on. "There is no official list". It's amazing that needs to be spelled out these days. It's like people don't know how to spot an opinion. Couldn't agree more about Legendary Axe and it being synonymous with the TG. Well said. I hope to own Ninja Spirit and Cadash someday.
Funny. Game Sack just talked about The Legendary Axe in their latest video about games they couldn't beat. So watching this video right after, it's like you're directly telling Joe that he sucks at Legendary Axe. haha.
+CaptainAtomSmasher There are people that CAN'T beat Legendary Axe?!
+CaptainAtomSmasher I had the game in the 90s and I finally beat it at some point. But I had trouble with getting used to the controls at first. But that's how I feel about many TBGX side scrollers now. It's like there is a very slight delay. That's my opinion...maybe because I'm slow. Either way, I'm on Joe or Dave's side. Turbo takes some time getting used to it.
+Ted Soto Sorry, being a pro TG-16 player is kinda my thing.
+Ryan AirZonkWorldChamp I've been trying to beat it since I got it in 1989. Still get stuck at the same stage where you get the final Axe powerup for the 1st time. Those 2 guys with spears/shields always seem to do me in.
Retro Game Lounge That's a tough part. Wait till your axe meter is fully charged before going into the fight. When the two appear on screen attack the one on the left with full power to really weaken him. If you time it right you can take out the one on the left in a few hits and the one on right will wait on the other side.
Had to watch this now that they announced the TurboGrafx mini! Never played one and wanted to get some info on the TurboGrafx!
1. Ninja Spirit
2. Bonk’s Revenge 3. Cadash 4. Legendary Axe 5. Dragon’s Curse 6. Neutopia II 7. Air Zonk 8. Jackie Chan’s Action Kung Fu 9. Tiger Road 10. Dungeon Explorer
Keith Courage Books Adventure among many others that are classic bloody wolf was okay but damn some real throw backs brought me right back to the early 90s
I found Neutopia in a pawnshop for 1$. They sold it as a music cd. That made my day!
I just bought a TG-16 on eBay. It came with three sports titles that I likely won't put to much use. I was looking for suggestions :) Bloody Wolf and Legendary Axe look like what I'm trying to find. I enjoy the channel, thank you.
I loved Bonk's Revenge.
Legendary Axe and R-Type. The funny thing about our favorite games is that we never get tired of playing them. I play Metal Gear 1,2,3 probably once every year. They're just so good. Same goes for Legendary Axe, R-Type and Keith's Courage. I really love the sound chip and the gpu on the PC-Engine. NEC/Hudson beat everyone to market years ahead of the Super Famicom. 512 colors on screen simultaneously. Eat that Genesis!
Excellent list Johnny. Bonk's Adventure was the reason why I wanted to get the TurboGrafx. Great podcast last night. I remember the part about owing a TurboGrafx game back in the days. I was one of those who was riduculed for owing one. I didn't care, because it's was and still is a great system. The Crush pinball games, Neutopia series, Bonk all rock. I loved Dungeon Explorer and I even like Double Dungeons. I once spent a whole summer beating the game, only to get a ending of text and a picture. Great times nonetheless.
1. Ninja Spirit 2. Bonk's Revenge 3. Soldier Blade 4. Blazing Lazers 5. Devil's Crush 6. Bomberman '93 7. Legendary Axe 8. Air Zonk 9. Bloody Wolf 10. Military Madness. Honorable mention for Bonk's Adventure, R-Type, Parasol Stars, Splatterhouse, and Neutopia II.
Blazing Lazers was my favorite card game on the system. Y's Books 1&2 for the CD games. Just throwing that out there for when you make that video.
I know people will disagree, but I’ve always loved Vigilante. Something about it just made me want to own a TG16 back in the day. Then, of course, Alien Crush. I spent hours and hours playing it. Still love it. Splatter house is still a great game, too. For sports games, I’m a huge fan of Hit The Ice. I’m so happy to see this console finally getting some love and a mini console. Didn’t see that one coming in a million years.
Great show, Johnny.
Y's Book 1&2 are some of my favorite games off all time on this console.
My top 4 fav TurboGrafx 16 games.
1. Shockman
2. Time Cruise
3. Soldier Blade
4. Air Zonk
These games had epic music IMO. I still remember it.
You know what's ironic? That one of the definitive Sega Master System games has a far superior Turbografx 16 version ;3
I LOVE it! LOVE Dragon's Curse, it's just SO good~
Some other games I love on the Turbografx 16 are Super Star Soldier and Soldier Blade, Soldier Blade blew my mind when I first played it! It's Super-fast, it has AMAZING Graphics and music, and it's SO much fun to play through!!
Blazing Lazers is one of those games that if I pick up to play I have problems putting it down... All 3 Bonk games do the same for me, Bonk's Adventure I only put down if I get a game over or beat it~
Legendary Axe 2 is in my opinion even better than the first, it has more weapons, you can upgrade your weapons and lifebar, the music makes better use of the TG16 soundchip, and it's a LOT of fun to play through!
Bomberman and Bomberman'93 are a LOT of fun, they're the definitive multiplayer games on the Turbografx!
Magical Chase is one of the games that really shows off what the Turbografx 16 can do! 3 layers of Parallax Scrolling at almost all times, incredibly well-drawn backgrounds, very well animated sprites, the game just looks incredible, it's one of the most technically impressive games I've ever seen, not to mention it has some of the best music on the system~
Magical Chase is THE game that made me go like: "That's it, THIS is my new favourite game system! (Next to the SNES and the GBA, but a VERY close 3rd place)" (just in case you're wondering, I've emulated Magical Chase)
Ninja Spirit was pretty amazing too, it's also technically impressive, it's a lot of fun to play, the music could be better but it's not bad, the controls are just fantastic, and upgrading all your different weapons and then tearing through the waves and waves of enemies is SO good~ But that one part just before the final boss is BULLS***! If you ever got to 'The fall of a thousand blades' then you know what I'm talking about!
New Adventure Island is an awesome game! You basically take Adventure Island on the NES, give it 16 bit graphics and make it a heck of a lot better, there you have it! It gets frustrating sometimes but if you press through it you can totally beat it, it's VERY fun, and it has a surprisingly high amount of variety both in enemies and backgrounds, you'll be surprised at just how the game keeps throwing new stuff at you the farther you go in the game, I mean how could they pack so much within 6 MEGA POWER? Great game!
Cratermaze might just be my favourite maze game ever! That's right, Screw you Pacman, Cratermaze is where it's at!! (And I'm not counting Bomberman, I consider bomberman more of a top-down action game than a maze game) Cratermaze has amazing music, fun weapons to use, nice graphics, nice variety in maze types... It does get stale after a while because the game throws everything it has at you in the first area and then just repeat it throughout all of the later areas, but if you have time to kill Cratermaze is a great game to kill time on!
Parasol Stars is a highly Colourful arcade game that is a lot of fun to play through, it also has some very nice music, and this is one of THE Games that if ported over to either the Genesis or the SNES it would be botched... That game shows off the colour capabilities of the Turbografx 16 and even pulls off some parallax scrolling in the stage transitions! Very nice game...
Side Arms Hyper Dyne is one fine shooter on the Turbografx 16, VERY difficult but VERY fun! I can't get very far in it but I sure do have fun trying! It has lots of weapons that you can cycle through and powerup individually, good-looking graphics too...
Air Zonk is one of the definitive Turbografx 16 sidescrolling shoot'em ups, it's a LOT of fun, Very colourful, Very nice graphics with loads of Parallax scrolling, super-catchy music, it's another one of those games that if I pick up I have problems putting it down, I'll only put it down once I either get a game over or beat it! Friggin' Awesome!!
Oh my gosh, the Turbografx 16... It's SO much fun! SO many great games!!
I could go on forever but I'm gonna stop now... But yeah, the Turbografx 16 is an amazing game system filled to the brim with games that are just a LOT of pure FUN!
If you're a fan of 16 bit games on either the SNES or the Genesis (or both if you're intelligent) Here's a 3rd 16 bit system that's very much worth re-discovering!
+Ruko Michiharu plenty of gems on the system...although i think dragon's curse is an awesome game...one thing that i sorta hold against it is that it doesnt feel that much of an upgrade to the SMS version. Sure the music is better..but with the ability to have a save and on better tech, i dunno man..i do love that game but i felt like more should have been added.
The funny thing about the tg16 is that it has its rep with shooters and arcade conversions, but to me this is the best system for videogame pinball. While it only has three (that i know of) Devil's crush, Alien's crush, and Time Cruise...i would argue that's the best collection of pinball games on any given system or handheld.
racerxgundam Yeah, I thought of mentioning Devil's Crush, it's my favourite pinball game ever, but well I kinda haven't played that many Pinball games so...
And well, I'll agree that they should have added more to Dragon's Curse, but what is there is already great, and I love it!
The graphical upgrade is minimal but it didn't need to be that much better since the SMS one does have nice graphics, what it REALLY needed was a music upgrade, and oh boy what an upgrade it was!
i know they aren't exactly the best games, but no one ever mentions Chase H.Q. or its sequel Special Criminal Investigations....them two joints are guilty pleasures for me. Same with vigilante...
BTW...no blazing lasers and no r-type on john's list? hmmmm not sure if i am cool with that or not :-P
racerxgundam He did mention R-Type so...
+Ruko Michiharu personally I prefer the SMS versions music and sprites........... probably nostalgia though
Turbo Grafx 16 was such a underated system.I felt very special owning one back in the day while everyone owned sega genesis etc when people saw it they were like whats that where did ya get it etc.lol
you missed Dungeon Explorer lol, great review u covered all the other ones I love, splatterhouse, bloody wolf, ninja spirit, legendary axe
Great list man! I think my favorites were Legendary Axe 1 and 2 and Splatterhouse. This list brought back great memories. Thanks!
I love TurboGrafx-16, this is a great Top 10. I gotta play dragons curse, that game looks godlike.
When I was younger my mom gave me some rolls of quarters to play arcade games in the casino while she gambled (Vegas, Reno or Tahoe... don't remember). I mainly played Kid Niki, Discs of Tron and RoboCop until I saw Pac-Land. Pac-Land was the game that made me get a TG16. To my delight, the TG16 came with the awesome Keith Courage. Both games are worthy mentions if not a part of the top 10.
Thanks Johnny, excellent list. I would say my go to TG 16 is Raiden. It is a good example of a Hue card demolishing both the Sega Genesis and Snes versions. It's a difficult game but lots of fun.
We had radio shack here in Florida .my mom bought me my xbox360 there for my bday .r.i.p momma Sue you were and still are the best love you
She was a good lady RIP
You're list is how i do it as well hcg.Still some of my personal favorites ones for the console.
Ninja Spirit
Magical Chase
Shockman
Bonks Adventure
Dungeon Explorer
Aero Blasters
Air Zonk
Legendary Axe
3 years later and I'm still laughing at how he says "Nobunaga" ..."NewBunga"
I was pleasantly surprised that Dragon's Curse made it so high on your list. It's a favorite of mine as well (and has been since my SMS days). I got it earlier this year and immediately sat down to play it through to completion. I don't have much experience with the TG-16, but I also really enjoy Ninja Spirit, Legendary Axe and Victory Run. Thanks for the video! I've added Soldier Blade to my want list.
I don't know why but I felt compelled to check this out recently! It's biased based on what I played originally but the 3 bonks, JJ and Jeff, Tricky Kick, Parasol Stars, Galaga 88 are on my list.
Military Madness hands down one of the best games ever not only on turbo graphics just hands down great game!!!!!!
My favorite game on the system is a game that never made over here in the west. Its a japan only hu card called Metal Stoker! its like a top down army tank shmup game with great controls. One button switches from free movement to strafing and the other fires. The graphics are great for the system and the music rocks!
Legendary Axe is the reason I bought a Turbo Graphix 16 so good. I remember seeing that boss on the commercials and I new I had to have it. I'm a sucker for big bosses.
Keith Courage in Alpha Zones, man. It actually was the first game I played on the TurboGrafx-16, and was by far my favorite of them all.
What a great video. sticking true to the roots of the show. Thanks, Johnny!
My personal Top 10 (hucard)
1. Soldier Blade2. Devil's Crush3. Magical Chase4. Blazing Lazers5. Bomberman 93/946. R-Type7. Street Fighter II: Champion Edition8. Splatterhouse9. Parasol Stars10. Outrun
Nice list and video, HCG. It certainly makes things easier to limit your list to US cards only. Your list is full of the usual suspects as far as the TG16 library goes, but that's no surprise nor is it a bad thing. I got to try Bloody Wolf this past Spring. I found it to have great style and to just be loads of fun within a very short time after starting. I love the sense of humor the game has, like when the one hero asks the other when he learned to fly a helicopter. Soldier Blade is a wonderful shooter. I imported the Star Soldier PSP UMD to have a copy of that game and the others. Soldier Blade is a lot of fun and has impressive graphics and great music. Stage 6 has a really rocking tune that I always enjoy. I get the urge to play through Soldier Blade every few months it seems. As for Splatterhouse, while the TG16 version may be the "worst", it's still a great version.
You pretty much nailed the best games for Turbografx! There was one kid in my neighborhood who owned one but I never got to play one. Still to this day, never have played the system.
I love learning about all these games I know very little about; it's like looking into this whole other unknown world. Dragon's Curse reminds me a bit of the original Shantae for Game Boy Color (also on the 3DS eShop now), which is a Metroidvania of sorts (more like Castlevania II really...except much more compelling), where the titular half-genie character Shantae can transform into different creatures to reach new areas and so on. Shantae has two sequels as well (with another on the way), but the footage you showed of Dragon's Curse and the way you described it brings to mind the first one in particular for me. In any case, Dragon's Curse looks like something I'd enjoy! Always love hearing your passion for games that are very foreign to me and learning about new old games! ^_^
Bonk made a cameo in the funny Mario cartoon "Mario Mind Rhyme." He's in the shopping Market scene, along with:Marina from Mischief Makers, the Gunstar Heroes, Alex Kidd and Alien Soldier. I guess they all had some shopping to do.
Dragon's Curse is a port of Wonderboy 3: The Dragon's Trap for the Sega Master System. Glad you're showing it some love, it's my favourite 8-bit game. Available on Virtual Console, don't deny yourself.
This is an awesome review man ninja spirit yet another classic on the Grafx system you got all the greats man the whole Bonk series again all classics
The Turbografx16 is one of my top 3 favorite game consoles right after the Super NES and PlayStation 2.
My favorite Turbo games are : Splatterhouse Bonks Revenge and Legendary Axe.
9:40 - 9:46 holy shit Ninja Spirit reminds me so much of Muramasa Rebirth on Playstation Vita or Muramasa on Nintendo Gamecube.
PTSweet no Muramasa Rebirth is on the vita. Muramasa on the wii. but either way the art is the same on both versions although the vita version I think they redrew them in hd.
Great list on one of my favorite consoles. So many great memories packed in.
I still cant beat Legendary Axe. That last level is sooooo brutal.
A lot of great games on this list. I never played a TG16 but I've been collecting PC Engine for several years, I really love some of the exclusives. Genpei Toumaden is great, looks and sounds awesome and the three different level types is cool too, plus it's just a lot of fun. Youkai Douchuuki is another great action platformer and as far as shooters go I really love Aero Blasters and of course all of the games in the Soldier series.
They have Radio Shack in America, the chain is from Texas.
The one here in Yuma is one of the rare holdouts that actually still sells hobbyist products. Most of the others are trying to be Apple Stores.
Great list! I played and loved "Dragon's Curse" on my Nintendo Wii Virtual Console. Way fun game! I'm quite hyped for "Wonder Boy & The Cursed Kingdom" (& The Wizard of Booze) mainly because of how much enjoyment I got out that game. X3
Legendary Axe, Blazing Lazers, Aero Blasters, Andre Panza Kickboxing, Dragon's Curse, Time Cruise and so on!
I've remembered Dragon's Curse for years, and have been looking through Turbo Grafx16 review videos *just to find this game*. I was so young when I played it, and I HAVE to play it again. Thanks for the video!
Nice video, will you do one on CD games as well? I'm surprised you didn't pick Order of the Griffon since you're into D&D. One of the best TG16 exclusives and overall console RPGs of that era
Probably the best top 10 list ive seen for this system. I have most of these on my rg351p.
I got Neutopia from the Wii Virtual Console years ago on a whim and at first I was kinda negative about it because it was a Zelda clone, but then I realized more Zelda isn't a bad thing and the game isn't broken or anything either. Definitely a game Zelda fans (especially those who loved the first Zelda game) should check out!
My next door neighbor had Bonks Adventure and Splatter House. Stuff was mind blowing.
FInal LapTwin in RPG Mode was Fantastic a race car rpg so neat.
Never even thought of before..
Wow, what a great list for the Tubbo Grafx? I had no Idea H. R. Geeker was such an influence on those pinball games.
Order of the Griffon. Once you learn to cypher out the success/fail pattern of picking pockets at the tavern you don't have to worry about equipment. But since its a d&d game and not a jrpg. It still didn't break the game. The difficulty spike at the end catches up with you so still can't breeze through the whole game.
Bloody Wolf is such a fun game.
I remember when I first tried the TG16. It was at the C.N.E. in Toronto. they had a couple of trailers with systems hooked up for everyone to try before it's actually launch. I remember not being very impressed but I only got to play briefly as my parents yanked me out of there in mere minutes.
that was the only experience I had with it until my 20's when moving a friend I found his his handheld TG16. played it for a bit and couldn't believe I missed out on this console.
Just got the analogue duo, let’s go 🔥 this will be my first time playing the turbo
I remember my uncle had a Turbografx-16 when I was a kid. I had never heard of it when I saw it and all I ever played there was Bonk's Adventure and Bonk's Revenge. Occasionally I'd pop in another game like Neutopia or Devil's Crush, but I fell in love with Bonk. I've sense played Splatterhouse, New Adventure Island, and The Dynastic Hero on the Wii Virtual Console. They're all great games.
I played cyber core and loved it but my friend suggested a harder shooter in Blazing Lazers and it will always be one of my favorites.
oh man, dragon's curse, I can't believe I absolutely completely forgot about that game. Thanks for the memories!
Couldn't agree more with #1. I've always found it more enjoyable than the Master System version because it's more challenging.
I always liked the Bonks adventure games , Splatter House and Bloody Wolf.
I enjoyed my TG-16 a lot. It never got the respect it deserved. I liked the basketball and football with the 4 player connect. My favorite for the TG 16 was Wanderers from Y's 3., My favorite card game was Shockman. I always wanted Samurai Ghost, but never played it.
My favorite game is Magical Chase, still fun to pop in once and awhile to play.
OH MAN!!!! I STILL HAVE THE SAME TG-16 FROM 1989!! STILL LOVE TO PLAY IT!!! Blazing Lasers, Super Star Soldier, Psychosis, Space Harrier, R-Type, Ordyne, Cyber Core, Ninja Spirit, Bomberman 93!!! AND I JUST GOT THE TG-16 MINI!!!! IT'S PRETTY SWEET!!! #PCENGINE4EVER :)
Really enjoyed this video while playing bloody wolf on my turbo
Bomberman 93! The graphics and gameplay are just amazing. Not to mention multiplayer which is an absolute blast (pun intended)
I a turbo Graff when I was in junior high school!! My favorite games were the adventures of Keith courage and splatter house!! Classic shit!! Good times man!!
Wonder Boy 3 Dragons Trap looks identical to Dragons Curse graphically. That shows how powerful the Sega Master System was for an 8-bit console.
Only missing game here is Blazing Lazers, but I'm not sure which one I'd swap, because all the game you listed are incredible too!
I think you should make a "Best ninja game for every console" video!
Oh man Devil's Crush. I was actually too scared to play that game as a kid because of all the horror elements. But the music was so great that even now I would look for gameplays so that I can listen to it.
Have you ever played Gunhed aka Blazing Lasers? I loved that game because of its awesome music and different power-ups. If you haven't, please give it a try!
I saw you at save on foods today!
+Shane Sharp hah I was there!
+HappyConsoleGamer If I am not waiting in line next time, maybe ill say hi!
+Portable Gaming Hub Well maybe his cat does :)
Of the few Turbo games I've beaten, Splatterhouse and Bonk are easily the best. I really should get more into the awesome library of games this system has.
I'm a SHMUPS lover pretty much and I would have to say Soldier Blade is the best out there, not only on TG16 but #1 in my book period. Actually did a let's play with this game and just did Psychic Storm which is a TG16 CD game. TG16 is an awesome console and is so underrated in my opinion.
I miss my old Turbo Grafx. Nobody I know has heard of it apart from my brother, who introduced it to me. I think with more exposure it would have been as big as Sega. Loved the Bonk series, Bloody Wolf, Ninja Spirit, Keith Courage and Splatterhouse.
"Check out Ninja Spirit and STFU" love that by the way.
@PineKushDude SNES shit all over genesis
For me its Parasol Stars, Devil's Crush, Splatterhouse, Bomberman 93, and Galaga 90 as my no real order Top 5 TG cards. Honorable mentions go to Alien Crush, Legendary Axe, Blazing Lasers, Dungeon Explorer, and Bonk's Revenge.
I really liked Tale Spin. Lots of people say this game is terrible because it's really hard but I don"t know what they are talking about. The ice level is a little tricky, but other than that, I can finish the game every time I play it with no problem. The Darkwing Duck game on the other hand, is stupid hard, not very good, but can be finished.
My favourite card game is a toss-up between both Neutopia games and Dungeon Explorer. I'd probably give an edge to Dungeon Explorer only because we never got Neutopia III like the ending of Neutopia II promised. Neutopia II was better than the first one, but I still love the first one
I remember my friend had one and we would play all these games. Nice trip down memory lane.
not alone. if I had known Wonder BoyIII had a TB16 port back in the day, I would have been stoked. this is a certain testament to the MasterSystem, their port of the game being... hardly criticis-... you know... good.
Blazing Lasers definitely belongs on this list. Military Madness should be up higher as well. Nice list though!
I liked your list... I would put a lot of shmups, in your place like blazing lazers, gradius 2, parodius, salamander... But your selection is very varied, very cool. I will try some of theese that i don't know.
I've never even seen a Turbografx...I remember seeing ads for them in comics in the 90s, but never seen or played one. A lot of those games look really neat, I'll have to keep an eye out next time I am out looking for retro stuff to play!
HappyConsoleGamer BACK with another Episode! Today I'll be telling you what my TOP 10 TURBOGRAFX-16 GAMES ARE!...
Soldier Blade is my personal favourite TG16 game, it just beats Magical Chase. I'm glad you chose it for this list. It's just a shame they're both more expensive than sin.
Also, I need to look out for "NOBUNGA's Ambition" for the NES, haven't heard of that one :P
Been watching your channel for a while now, I still remember how exciting it was when you got 50k subs. Respect.
I clearly remember the discount bin at radio shack, full of tg16 games near the end of its run. Not many places sold them up in Canada on the west coast.
You should check my list of 10 games you do not want to miss on the system. Great job as always.
I only have 3 games for the Turbo Grafx 16, Keith Courage, Bonk's Adventure, and Double Dungeons!!
Please do a top ten Ps3/Ps4 ..just interested to see what inspires you in next gen graphics and modern gameplay. Thanks for a great show .Support from the UK.