Wonder Boy III Monster Lair is a unique entry in the “Wonder Boy” series, combining elements of platforming and shoot-’em-up gameplay. Developed by Westone and published by Sega, it was originally released in arcades in 1988 and later ported to various home systems, including the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis and the PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16. Unlike its predecessor, “Wonder Boy in Monster Land,” which introduced RPG elements, “Monster Lair” shifts towards a more action-oriented approach, blending traditional platforming stages with side-scrolling shooter levels.
The game is divided into two main types of levels. The first part of each level follows a traditional platforming format, where the player controls Leo (or Princess Purapril in two-player mode) to run, jump, and attack enemies with a sword. The primary goal in these sections is to reach the end of the level while collecting as many fruit items as possible to keep the life bar filled and picking up various weapon power-ups.
The second part of each level transitions the gameplay into a side-scrolling shoot-’em-up, where the character rides a flying creature. In these sections, players must navigate through swarms of enemies and projectiles, using an upgraded arsenal of weapons to survive and ultimately defeat the level’s boss.
Hybrid Gameplay: “Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair” stands out for its combination of platforming and shoot-’em-up mechanics, offering players a diverse gameplay experience.
Colorful Graphics: The game features vibrant, colorful graphics that bring its fantasy world to life, making it visually appealing to players.
Cooperative Play: It supports two-player cooperative gameplay, allowing friends to team up as Leo and Princess Purapril to take on the game’s challenges together.
Varied Levels and Enemies: With a total of 14 levels, each introduces new environments, enemies, and bosses, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.
While “Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair” might not be as widely recognized as other titles in the “Wonder Boy” series, it is remembered fondly by fans for its unique gameplay and cheerful presentation. The game’s blend of genres was relatively innovative for its time and contributed to the series’ reputation for experimentation and variety.
In recent years, “Monster Lair” has been included in various Sega compilations and digital rereleases, allowing a new generation of gamers to experience this classic title. Its legacy continues to be appreciated by retro gaming enthusiasts and fans of the “Wonder Boy” series for its charm, challenge, and innovative design.