Story

Rent-A-Hero No. 1 is a quirky and inventive action role-playing game developed by Sega, offering a unique spin on the superhero genre. The game takes place in the fictional city of Corja, where players step into the shoes of Taro Yamada, an ordinary young man who unexpectedly becomes a superhero. The story kicks off with Taro moving to the new town with his family and receiving an unusual armor suit during a housewarming party. This suit, mistakenly delivered by SECA (a playful nod to Sega), endows him with incredible powers, but with a catch — he must rent his services as a hero to the citizens of Corja.

The narrative takes the form of a satirical take on the superhero trope, as Taro navigates his newfound responsibilities. Unlike traditional heroes, Taro’s services aren’t free. He must charge for his heroics to cover the cost of maintaining his suit. The story unfolds through various comedic and heartwarming missions, where Taro helps citizens with their quirky problems, from saving a cat stuck in a tree to stopping a gang of thugs. The game cleverly balances humor with themes of responsibility and the everyday challenges of life, making it a refreshing and entertaining experience.

Gameplay

Rent-A-Hero No. 1 blends action, role-playing, and adventure elements, creating a dynamic experience that keeps players engaged. The game is primarily presented in a third-person perspective, allowing players to explore the vibrant city of Corja. The gameplay is mission-based, with players accepting jobs from various citizens to earn money and progress the story.

The combat system is one of the game’s standout features. It incorporates a real-time fighting mechanic reminiscent of a beat ’em up, where players utilize Taro’s suit to perform punches, kicks, and special moves. The combat is fluid and responsive, offering a satisfying challenge as players encounter diverse enemies and bosses throughout the game. Additionally, players can upgrade the suit using the money earned from jobs, enhancing Taro’s abilities and unlocking new moves, adding a layer of strategy and progression to the gameplay.

Moreover, the game introduces an innovative mechanic where Taro’s energy depletes over time, requiring players to strategically manage their resources. The energy bar adds a layer of tension, as players must balance their heroics with the suit’s limitations, encouraging careful planning and decision-making.

Graphics and Sound

Rent-A-Hero No. 1 showcases vibrant and colorful graphics that bring the city of Corja to life. The game’s art style is characterized by its whimsical and cartoonish aesthetic, which complements the humorous tone of the story. Character designs are distinct and memorable, with each citizen Taro encounters having their own unique look and personality.

The game’s environments are well-crafted, with detailed backgrounds and lively settings that enhance the overall experience. The city is bustling with activity, featuring a variety of locations, from bustling streets to quaint neighborhoods, each offering its own set of challenges and missions.

The sound design further elevates the game’s charm, featuring an upbeat and catchy soundtrack that perfectly fits the game’s lighthearted atmosphere. The music is complemented by effective sound effects that add to the immersion, whether it’s the clanking of Taro’s suit or the chatter of Corja’s citizens. Together, the graphics and sound create a cohesive and engaging world for players to explore.

Legacy and Reception

While Rent-A-Hero No. 1 may not have achieved mainstream success outside Japan, it has garnered a cult following for its innovative approach to the superhero genre. Originally released for the Sega Mega Drive in 1991, the game was later remade for the Sega Dreamcast and Xbox, introducing it to a new generation of players. The remake retained the original’s charm while updating the graphics and gameplay mechanics to suit modern consoles.

The game was praised for its humor, engaging gameplay, and unique concept. Critics appreciated its satirical take on superhero tropes, as well as the depth provided by its mission-based structure and real-time combat. However, some noted that the game’s reliance on Japanese humor and cultural references made it less accessible to Western audiences, contributing to its limited international success.

Despite these challenges, Rent-A-Hero No. 1 remains a beloved title among Sega enthusiasts and retro gaming fans. Its influence can be seen in later games that blend humor with action RPG mechanics, and it continues to be celebrated for its originality and creativity.

Conclusion

Rent-A-Hero No. 1 stands out as a unique and inventive entry in Sega’s gaming catalog. Its clever storytelling, engaging gameplay, and distinctive art style make it a memorable experience that resonates with fans of quirky and unconventional games. While it may not have reached the heights of global recognition, its impact on the action RPG genre and its enduring cult status speak to its lasting legacy.

The game offers a refreshing take on heroism, challenging players to balance the responsibilities of being a hero with the realities of everyday life. Its satirical humor and innovative mechanics set it apart from other games of its time, ensuring its place in the annals of video game history as a testament to Sega’s creativity and willingness to take risks.