Story

Beyond Oasis, known as The Story of Thor in some regions, is a captivating action RPG developed by Ancient and published by Sega for the Sega Genesis in 1994. The game transports players to a mystical world filled with intrigue and adventure. The story follows Prince Ali, who discovers a mysterious gold armlet that grants him the power to summon elemental spirits. His journey begins when he realizes that an evil silver armlet wearer is threatening the land. Ali must harness the power of his armlet, summon the four elemental spirits—Dytto the Water Spirit, Efreet the Fire Spirit, Bawu the Earth Spirit, and Shade the Shadow Spirit—and embark on a quest to stop the malevolent force and restore peace to his kingdom.

The narrative is deeply rooted in fantasy, drawing players into an epic tale of heroism and magic. As Ali travels across diverse landscapes, from lush forests to fiery volcanoes, he encounters a variety of characters, each contributing to the unfolding story. The plot is unveiled through a series of engaging dialogues and cinematic sequences, which, despite the game’s age, manage to hold the player’s attention with their charm and simplicity.

Gameplay

Beyond Oasis excels in delivering a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. The game combines elements of action, exploration, and puzzle-solving, making each moment both thrilling and challenging. As players control Prince Ali, they navigate through beautifully designed environments, battling enemies and solving puzzles to progress.

Combat

The combat system is intuitive yet satisfying, allowing players to wield a variety of weapons, including swords, crossbows, and bombs. Ali’s ability to summon elemental spirits adds a strategic layer to the battles. Each spirit has unique abilities that can be used to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. For instance, Dytto can heal Ali and extinguish fires, while Efreet provides powerful fire-based attacks. Mastering the use of these spirits is crucial to overcoming the diverse challenges that the game presents.

Exploration and Puzzles

Exploration is a key component of Beyond Oasis, encouraging players to traverse its expansive world in search of secrets and treasures. The game features a non-linear progression system, allowing players to explore at their own pace. Numerous puzzles are scattered throughout the game, often requiring players to utilize the abilities of their summoned spirits to solve them. These puzzles vary in complexity, from simple switch-based mechanisms to intricate multi-step challenges that test the player’s ingenuity.

Graphics and Sound

Beyond Oasis is a visual and auditory treat, boasting some of the most impressive graphics and soundtracks of its time. The game’s graphics are vibrant and detailed, with richly designed environments that bring the fantasy world to life. The character and enemy sprites are well-animated, contributing to the fluidity of the gameplay.

The sound design complements the visual experience perfectly. Yuzo Koshiro, a renowned composer, crafted the game’s soundtrack, infusing it with a mix of orchestral and traditional Middle Eastern musical elements. The result is a captivating auditory experience that enhances the game’s immersive quality. Each track is carefully curated to match the mood of the setting, whether it be the serene melodies of a tranquil forest or the intense beats of a heated battle.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Beyond Oasis received critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay, impressive graphics, and immersive sound. It was praised as one of the standout titles for the Sega Genesis, showcasing the capabilities of the console. Critics highlighted the game’s unique blend of action, exploration, and puzzle-solving as setting it apart from other RPGs of the era.

Beyond Oasis has left a lasting legacy in the world of video games. It is often cited as an inspiration for future action RPGs, influencing the design and mechanics of subsequent games in the genre. The game’s innovative use of elemental spirits and its focus on non-linear exploration have been particularly influential, inspiring developers to push the boundaries of what action RPGs can achieve.

In addition to its critical success, Beyond Oasis has maintained a devoted fanbase over the years. It is frequently included in discussions of classic RPGs and is celebrated for its enduring appeal and timeless gameplay. The game’s influence can be seen in modern titles that aim to capture the magic and wonder that Beyond Oasis delivered so effectively.

Conclusion

Beyond Oasis stands as a testament to the creative vision and technical prowess of its developers. Its compelling story, engaging gameplay, and impressive audiovisual presentation have cemented its place as a classic in the action RPG genre. The game’s impact continues to be felt in the gaming industry, inspiring both developers and players alike. For those who experienced it during its original release or discovered it in subsequent years, Beyond Oasis offers a timeless adventure that showcases the best of what video games can offer.