Faxanadu

Faxanadu is a side-scrolling action game that incorporates role-playing mechanics. The player controls a warrior who explores various locations such as towns, caves, and fortresses, each with distinct atmosphere and music. Interaction with villagers and the acquisition of gold for weapons and items are central activities.

The narrative involves a hero returning to the town of Eolis, which is suffering from meteor strikes, monster attacks, and a failing water supply. The king tasks this warrior with investigating the cause and confronting hostile Dwarves. Combat involves using swords, daggers, or magic against a variety of enemies including zombies, wyverns, and giant snakes.

Character progression is achieved by defeating foes, which grants experience and raises the player's rank. This rank is part of a password system called a mantra, and a higher rank provides more starting gold upon respawning or loading. Saving the game is only possible at specific locations like shrines or temples, where a guru resides; these are also the points where the character reappears after death or when a saved game is restored.