8 Eyes

8 Eyes is a cooperative 2D platform action game developed by Thinking Rabbit and published by Taxan in 1988 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).

The game follows Orin, a falconer, and his loyal falcon, Cutrus, on a quest to recover eight powerful rubies, each representing a different kingdom and possessing unique magical properties. These rubies were stolen from their respective realms and now reside within eight castles guarded by formidable bosses.

The primary gameplay involves navigating challenging platforming sections filled with traps and enemies. Orin is armed with a sword and can perform basic attacks and jumps. Cutrus provides crucial support, attacking enemies and triggering certain mechanisms within the environment. A key feature is the cooperative aspect; while the game can be played solo, it's designed with two players in mind, allowing one player to control Orin and the other to control Cutrus simultaneously. This dynamic encourages teamwork and strategic coordination.

Each ruby collected grants Orin access to a new and distinct magical power. These powers can be used to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies, adding a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay.

The game is known for its high difficulty, demanding precise platforming and skillful use of Orin and Cutrus' abilities. Despite its challenging nature, 8 Eyes has garnered a cult following due to its unique cooperative gameplay and distinctive visual style.