Shiki Eiyuuden: Ryuu no Densetsu is a turn-based RPG developed and published by Outrigger Koubou, released on July 7, 1995 for the Super Famicom (SFC). Set in ancient Chinese history and adapted from *Records of the Grand Historian*, it incorporates many idioms and allusions from the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, such as "returning the jade intact to Zhao" and "sleeping on brushwood and tasting gall", immersing players in a rich historical and cultural atmosphere.
In the game, players deeply participate in these historical events, influence the plot through their choices, and unlock multiple endings. With diverse gameplay and puzzle elements throughout, players need to use their wits to solve puzzles—such as arranging stones or rearranging characters to form the word "tiger"—to advance the game and explore hidden areas.
Combat uses a turn-based system, with character skills closely tied to the traits of historical figures. For example, the assassin class may have the high-burst, high-cost "Jing Ke Assassins the King of Qin" skill, while the strategist class can cast "Empty City Stratagem" to reduce the entire enemy team's hit rate. Players need to cleverly build their party lineup and use strategies flexibly according to enemy types.
Additionally, the game places great emphasis on items. Ignoring NPCs who offer barter trades may cause players to miss important late-game items. There are also many hidden items to collect.
Overall, with its deep historical setting, rich gameplay content, and unique puzzle elements, *Shiki Eiyuuden: Ryuu no Densetsu* offers players a gaming experience of traveling back to ancient China and witnessing historical events firsthand.
