1991’s Xak Tower of Gazzel Now Available on Nintendo Switch

In gaming news, D4 Enterprise recently introduced a modern port on Switch for the classic game, Xak Precious Package: The Tower of Gazzel, originally released on the PC-8801mkIISR back in 1991. This reworked version is currently being sold on Nintendo eShops all around the globe for just $6.49.
The Tower of Gazzel, which is part of the enticing Xak series, is a side story that bridged the gap between the second and the third installments. The game was first launched on the PC-8801. D4 Enterprise, the company working on these ports, had previously worked on switching the initial two Xak entries and the spinoff entry, Fray to the Switch platform. So, with this addition, all that remains to be ported is Xak III, completing the trilogy and the series on Switch.
The exciting part is that this game, despite the storyline and the manual being in Japanese, has a basic gameplay interface in English. Thus, this adventure game is accessible to a broader audience. The compelling story features Latok, who faces various challenges and intricate puzzles in his journey to conquer the formidable Tower of Gazel.
The support member system is another highlight of the game. Players can choose a companion from a range of unique characters each with special abilities—for instance, Pixie for healing and trap disarmament, and Frey for magic. The key is strategic swapping among companions to navigate various challenges.
What sets this particular side story apart is the absence of a leveling-up system. Players progress purely based on the game progression instead of grinding for experience points. Character enhancements are achieved through items, adding a fresh layer to the gameplay experience.
Taking a trip down memory lane, players are reminded of MICROCABIN’s top-view action RPG released in Japan in 1991. Although, as the title does not bear a number, it is considered as a side story. It still, however, features the protagonist, Latok, and familiar characters like Frey and Pixie, providing a sense of continuity. The game story picks up from a year after the second edition, therefore, players having experienced the first game might find this game more enriching. And once again, brave Latok is set to take on the eerie, monster-ridden Tower of Gazzel.

Will Latok be able to conquer the Tower of Gazel? Make full use of your support members to overcome formidable foes and tricky puzzles! A side-story action RPG from the Xak series has arrived.

In the pitch-black darkness, two shadows wavered—one male, one female. One of them, the fiend Gill Berzes, spoke into the void.
“So, he’s finally taken the bait.”
In the hands of the other figure, Al Acrila, a crystal ball began to glow. The light within it gradually intensified, revealing the image of a young man, his face still bearing traces of youth.
“What a sweet little boy. Did this kid really defeat Badu and Gospel?”
Acrilla sneered, but before Berzes could reply, a deep, commanding voice resonated from the darkness.

“Do not underestimate him. He is a descendant of Duel—our natural enemy.”

This title is a top-view action RPG released in Japan by MICROCABIN in 1991. As indicated by the lack of a numbered title, it is officially considered a side story. However, it still features Latok as the protagonist, along with familiar characters like Frey and Pixie, and is set one year after “II.” In that sense, playing the first game beforehand might enhance the experience. Latok now embarks on conquering the mysterious, monster-infested Tower of Gazzel. This side story introduces a slightly unique system within the series: notably, there’s no level-up system. Players don’t need to grind for experience points, focusing purely on game progression. Instead, character power-ups are obtained through items.

Another standout is the support member system. Players choose an adventure companion from five members, each with unique abilities—Pixie for healing/trap disarmament, Frey for magic. Strategically switching members is key; if stuck, try a different companion.