Willow

Released for the NES in 1989, Capcom’s Willow is an action RPG inspired by the fantasy film of the same name. It follows Willow Ufgood, a reluctant hero who sets out to protect the infant Elora Danan from the forces of the evil Queen Bavmorda. While the story shares the film’s setting and characters, the game gives Willow a much more game-focused journey through a broad fantasy world.

Viewed from above, the adventure combines real-time combat with exploration, light puzzle-solving, and RPG progression. Willow begins with a basic sword but can find stronger weapons, armor, magical items, and other equipment as he travels. Battles require more than simply charging forward: enemies can be approached carefully, attacks need to be timed, and stronger foes demand attention to positioning. Magic adds another layer to combat, giving Willow useful options beyond his sword.

The world includes villages, outdoor routes, castles, caves, and other locations to investigate. Conversations with townspeople help point Willow toward his next destination, while exploration often reveals equipment or supplies that make later areas more manageable. The game’s password system also makes its lengthy quest easier to continue across multiple sessions.

Willow is a single-player NES adventure with a slower, more deliberate pace than a straightforward action game. Its appeal comes from the steady sense of growth, the recognizable fantasy setting, and the satisfaction of gradually becoming better equipped for tougher encounters. Fans of early console action RPGs will find a substantial journey here, with colorful presentation and a strong emphasis on exploration. RetroCloud lets players play online on your browser and revisit this Capcom classic without needing the original NES hardware.