White Lion Densetsu - Pyramid no Kanata ni [Model KSC-WE]

White Lion Densetsu - Pyramid no Kanata ni © 1989 Kemco.

White Lion Densetsu begins when a ghostly White Lion attacked Maria's village. A hero appeared and drove the lion away, but Maria's parents wanted to find out where the Lion came from and what its purpose was. They set out on a journey, and never returned. The player takes control when, one day, Maria decides to go look for them. As she begins her journey, a bridge gives way beneath her, and she is washed away by a strong river current. She awakens in a strange new world and must find her lost parents and a way home, while looking for the mysterious White Lion.

White Lion Densetsu draws from traditional elements of role-playing games from its era, while innovating with several unique new systems. Similar to other role-playing games released around the same time period, White Lion Densetsu offers an exploratory open-world environment, yet the narrative progression is notably more linear compared to its counterparts.

The standout feature of White Lion Densetsu is its unique combat system. The protagonist, Maria, doesn't engage in direct combat; instead, she summons spirits to battle on her behalf using various items. A departure from the standard RPG trope, combat in White Lion Densetsu awards currency but eschews the common experience point system. Instead, players improve Maria's Level (Hope), Courage (HP), and Dream (MP) statistics by discovering 'Miracles' hidden in treasure chests scattered throughout the world.

The control of Maria is implemented using the D-pad for movement and the A and B buttons for interactions and menu navigation. Combat unfolds in a turn-based and menu-driven style, echoing games from the Dragon Quest series.

White Lion Densetsu has a strong narrative focus. Dialogues with NPCs and interactions within the game world play a pivotal role in progressing the story, despite its linear structure.

Rather than using specific NPCs or inns, saving the game and healing the character are executed at fairy springs located throughout the game world.