Overview
The Diskarmor strikes. Rygar armed its hero with a unique weapon—a shield on a chain that extended and retracted like a deadly yo-yo. The NES version expanded the arcade game into a non-linear adventure with RPG elements, creating an early “Metroidvania” experience before that term existed.
Fast facts
- Developer: Tecmo.
- Weapon: Diskarmor (extending shield).
- NES version: Expanded adventure.
- Setting: Mythological Argool.
Arcade vs NES
| Aspect | Arcade | NES |
|---|
| Structure | Linear levels | Non-linear world |
| Length | Short | Extended |
| Saving | None | None (password) |
| Exploration | Minimal | Extensive |
The Diskarmor
| Property | Function |
|---|
| Extension | Ranged attack |
| Arc | Overhead swing |
| Power-ups | Increased range/damage |
| Unique | Distinctive weapon |
NES exploration
| Area type | Perspective |
|---|
| Side-scrolling | Platform sections |
| Overhead | Top-down areas |
| Transitions | Connected world |
Power-ups (NES)
| Item | Effect |
|---|
| Tone | Health capacity |
| Mind | Attack power |
| Items | Special abilities |
| Pulley | Rope climbing |
World structure
| Location | Character |
|---|
| Garloz | Starting area |
| Gran Mountain | Vertical climbing |
| Sky Castle | Floating fortress |
| Dorago’s Palace | Final area |
Difficulty
| Challenge | Cause |
|---|
| No saving | Must complete in one session |
| Enemy damage | Significant health loss |
| Exploration | Easy to get lost |
| Length | Several hours |
Legacy
| Impact | Area |
|---|
| Non-linear NES | Early exploration action |
| Weapon design | Distinctive armament |
| Remake | PS2/Wii update (2002) |
See also