Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse
System: SMS
Release Date: February 1991
Developer: Sega
Publisher: Sega
Genre: Action
The Mouse with the most is on the Master System in Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse! This is a companion title to the Genesis version. Very similar, but different. It’s really a big thing for this title, because the Genesis version was such a surprise critical hit. It follows the same story of Minnie being kidnapped by Mizrabel and Mickey’s quest to save her.
There are five levels you need to complete in order to find seven rainbow gems. Only by collecting these can you face off against the witch and put her down to save your girl. The levels are similar to what we saw in the Genesis version, but optimized for the Master System. Mickey can jump in the air and drop down with an attack. He can also pick up blocks and throw them, which works to hurt enemies and sometimes to use as a platform.
Enemies must be killed or avoided and you have a health meter made up of stars. I was able to find upgrades to go from three bars of life to five before the adventure was over. Cake refills your life if you’ve been careless and gotten hit. If you die, you lose one of your tries, but they are easily gained with 10,000 points or by finding mickey ears. Coins bump your points up quickly and can be readily found in treasure chests.
The levels aren’t difficult as long as you’re somewhat careful. There are times when you can choose one direction or another. You can find treasure in some directions and the next part of the level in others. Bosses are a cinch once you figure out their pattern. I had a bunch of trouble with the tree boss when I first stared out, but after that it was a snap. Hit them four or five times and they’re dead. Mizrabel was super anti-climactic, but helped me save the day.
Graphics: 3.0
This is a good looking game, probably the best the Master System is capable of.
Sound: 3.0
The Pokemon theme is back and I really want to know if Game Freak composers either worked on this or ripped it off.
Gameplay: 3.0
Overall, this plays really well, outside of forced scrolling levels and other random BS.
Difficulty: 3.5
You get plenty of tries and earn plenty more through the castle.
Fun Factor: 3.5
This is a solid platformer. You should be able to get a massive amount of enjoyment out of it.
Overall Rating: 3.2
Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse earns a B+. This is easily a top 3 game on the Master System. I think I like it more than the Genesis version, despite that being a great game.