Wardner (video game)

Wardner, also known as Wardner no Mori (ワードナーの森) in Japan, is a 1987 platform arcade game developed and published by Taito. It is a fantasy-themed side-scrolling adventure featuring a young mage named Dover, who must rescue his kidnapped girlfriend, Mia, from the evil wizard Wardner.

The gameplay involves navigating linear levels filled with various enemies and environmental hazards. Dover can attack by casting magical projectiles that are initially limited but can be upgraded by collecting power-ups found throughout the levels. These power-ups can increase the range, power, and type of Dover's magic. Dover can also collect keys to unlock doors and progress through the levels.

Wardner is known for its vibrant graphics, challenging gameplay, and memorable music. It features a boss fight at the end of each level, requiring players to utilize their upgraded magic and strategic platforming skills to defeat them. The game's difficulty stems from precise jumps and the need to conserve magic power while dealing with relentless enemies.

Despite not being as widely popular as some other arcade titles of the era, Wardner has gained a cult following for its unique aesthetic and engaging gameplay. It was later ported to the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis in 1991 under the name "Wardner," featuring slightly altered gameplay and graphics compared to the arcade original. The Mega Drive/Genesis version is often considered a desirable addition to the console's library.