Golden Axe Warrior, released in 1991 for the Sega Master System, could best be described as Sega's answer to The Legend of Zelda. Golden Axe Warrior is a spin-off of the Golden Axe games but is more of an action RPG then a straightforward action game like the series.
The plot involves finding nine crystals and the Golden Axe to defeat Death Adder. The game features a rather large overworld along with hidden underground labyrinths in which the crystals can be found. Each crystal is guarded by monsters that must be defeated and puzzles that must be solved.
Chances are that if you are a fan of Zelda or action RPGs in general then you will like this game. How you feel about it compared to Zelda will probably depend on how much of a Zelda fan you are vs. how much of a Golden Axe fan you are. Opinions are divided but this is a game all action RPG fans should try.
Unfortunately, there really isn't a direct sequel of follow-up to this game. A follow-up on the Genesis would have been really nice (e.g. an equivalent to A Link to the Past on the Super Nintendo).
Also unfortunate is that this game is pretty rare and if you are looking for an original you'll probably have to pay a pretty high price. The good news is there is another option. Golden Axe Warrior was included as an unlockable game in Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection for the PS3 and Xbox 360. Then there is always the emulation route.
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