Games published by NEC Avenue, Ltd.
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We provide a complete list of games published by this publisher.
Asuka 120% Maxima: BURNING Fest.
Asuka 120% Maxima: BURNING Fest., released in 1995, was a fighting video game developed by Fill-in-Cafe and published by Hudson Soft for the TurboGrafx CD. The game was the fourth in the series of Asuka 120% fighting games and the first to be released on the CD format. It was also the only game in the series to be released in North America.
Asuka 120% Maxima: BURNING Fest. featured a cast of 17 characters, including 13 returning from the previous games and 4 new characters. Players could choose from various fighting styles and choose to use either the CD's own soundtracks or the original arcade soundtracks. In addition, the game featured a Story Mode, a Battle Mode, and a Practice Mode.
The game featured a unique combo system, allowing players to chain together multiple moves in a single combo. The game also featured a special attack system, which allowed players to execute special attacks depending on their character's fighting style. Additionally, the game featured a unique "Maxima Mode" which allowed players to power up their characters temporarily.
Asuka 120% Maxima: BURNING Fest. was praised for its visuals and gameplay. The game was also commended for its unique combo and special attack systems, as well as its variety of characters and soundtracks. Despite its praise, the game was not a commercial success and never received a sequel. Nevertheless, the game still has a dedicated following today and is considered by many to be one of the best fighting games of the 16-bit era.
Basted
Released in 1994, "Basted" is a lesser-known gem in the world of TurboGrafx CD games. Developed by NAXAT Soft, this action-platformer may not have gained the same level of popularity as other titles on the system, but it is definitely worth a closer look for fans of the genre.
The gameplay of "Basted" centers around the adventurous and mischievous protagonist, Basted. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humans are struggling to survive among mutated creatures and machines. Basted, equipped with his trusty laser gun, sets out on a mission to save humanity and restore peace to the world.
One of the standout features of "Basted" is its unique level design. The game takes place across various environments, from factories to underground caves, each with its own distinct challenges and enemies. The levels are cleverly designed, requiring players to use their platforming skills and strategic thinking to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.
Speaking of enemies, "Basted" boasts a wide variety of foes, each with its own set of attack patterns and weaknesses. Players must carefully study their enemies' behavior and come up with the most effective way to defeat them. This adds an extra layer of depth to the already engaging gameplay and keeps players on their toes throughout the game.
But what truly sets "Basted" apart from other action-platformers on the TurboGrafx CD is its weapon upgrade system. As players progress through the game, they can collect power-ups that enhance Basted's laser gun, increasing its range and firepower. This not only makes the game more exciting but also allows players to customize their playstyle according to their preferences.
In terms of graphics and sound, "Basted" may not have the same level of polish as other games on the system, but it still holds its own. The pixel art style gives the game a retro feel, while the soundtrack is catchy and memorable. Despite its age, the graphics and sound of "Basted" still hold up well and add to the overall charm of the game.
Demon's World
Demon's World, released in 1993, is a captivating arcade game that blends action and strategy within a fantasy setting. Developed by the innovative team at Givro, this title stands out with its unique gameplay mechanics and engaging storyline. Players find themselves navigating a mystical realm filled with sinister creatures and various obstacles, all while striving to rescue the enchanted princess and defeat formidable bosses.
The game mechanics of Demon's World are intriguing, incorporating both platforming elements and combat dynamics. As players traverse beautifully crafted levels, they encounter a plethora of enemies, each with distinct attack patterns and behaviors. To prevail, players must master timing and precision, dodging incoming threats while unleashing powerful attacks on adversaries. The creative design of the levels, with intricate layouts and hidden pathways, encourages exploration and rewards players for their ingenuity and resourcefulness.
One of the standout features of Demon's World is its visually striking aesthetics. The graphics, while reflective of the era, manage to evoke a vivid atmosphere that immerses players in its fantastical environment. Each level is adorned with vibrant colors and intricate details, from the gnarled trees of the haunted forests to the ominous castles that serve as the backdrop for epic confrontations. The imaginative character designs contribute to the game's allure, making each confrontation memorable and thrilling.
In addition to its striking imagery, the soundtrack of Demon's World significantly enhances the gameplay experience. The orchestral score captures the essence of the adventure, shifting from peaceful melodies during exploration to intense compositions that build tension during battles. This auditory backdrop not only heightens the excitement but also keeps players engaged and emotionally connected to their journey through the cursed land.
Demon's World offers a multifaceted gameplay experience that appeals to a wide audience. The combination of intense action, exploratory freedom, and a compelling narrative makes it an enduring title in the realm of arcade games. While its release coincided with a time of immense competition in the gaming industry, Demon's World carved out its own identity, proving to be a memorable experience for those lucky enough to encounter it.
Down Load 2
In this sequel to Down Load, the player once again takes control of Syd, a young 'cyber diver', a highly trained agent who is able to infiltrate the 'cyber world', a virtual reality network that has replaced real life for many humans in this bleak futuristic setting at the end of the 21st century. This time, Syd faces an even greater threat: a terrorist organization that has seized Adolf Hitler's brain, to recreate it in digital form, thus reviving one of the most vile and demented dictators in human history!
Like its predecessor, Down Load 2 is a side-scrolling shooter; it shares many elements with the original game, such as the overall setting, abstractly designed 'virtual reality' levels (along with real-world locations), etc. However, the control scheme is a bit different. Instead of choosing a primary weapon and a secondary weapon at the beginning of a mission, the player has four types of weapons at his disposal and can switch between them at any time. In addition to the Vulcan cannon and laser beam from the first game, the player can also use guided missiles and a powerful short-range beam gun as primary weapons.
All weapons can be upgraded with power-ups, up to three times each. Another type of power-up increases the speed of the ship (yes, this time Syd pilots a spaceship, not his trademark flying motorcycle). Secondary weapons must be collected, and include additional missiles, bombs and protective shields. As before, powerful boss enemies must be defeated before moving on to the next stage. Anime-style cutscenes with voice-overs advance the story.
Dragon Knight & Graffiti
Dragon Knight & Graffiti for the TurboGrafx CD, unleashed in 1995, stands as a curious relic from the twilight years of the console’s lifecycle. This title attempts to blend elements of role-playing storytelling with urban-inspired graffiti artistry, forging an unconventional hybrid that defies traditional genre boundaries. Its aesthetic marries pixelated fantasy landscapes with gritty, animated graffiti scenes, creating a visual contrast that feels both jarring and intriguing. The game is a testament to the experimental spirit that persisted among developers trying to push the limits of what was possible on console hardware of the era.
The narrative weaves a surreal tapestry, where players journey through a fantastical cityscape filled with mythic creatures and rebellious street artists. The story unfurls through dialogue-heavy exchanges and animated cutscenes, capturing a late 20th-century sense of rebellious youth and underground culture. The protagonist, a young graffiti artist with a mysterious past, navigates through a series of quests that involve battling corrupt authorities and unraveling secrets behind the city’s mystical graffiti murals. This unusual storyline combines urban grit with fantasy whimsy, creating a layered experience that challenges players to think beyond traditional game archetypes.
Gameplay mechanics are a curious amalgamation. Players explore levels on foot, engaging in puzzle-solving sequences and combat encounters that are surprisingly strategic for an indie-style RPG. The art of graffiti becomes more than just aesthetic; it transforms into a gameplay element, where players can create or modify murals that unlock new paths or provide special abilities. This integration of artistic expression as a functional mechanic distinguishes Dragon Knight & Graffiti from other JRPGs of the time, emphasizing creativity in both narrative and gameplay. The soundtrack complements the game's rebellious atmosphere, with funky beats and gritty sound effects reinforcing the urban theme.
One of the game’s most distinctive qualities is its visual style—a collision of pixel art, neon-soaked cityscapes, and animated graffiti that animate the urban jungle. Every scene feels alive with raw energy, echoing the vibrant street art of the 1990s. Despite its ambitious design, the game remains obscure, overshadowed by more prominent titles in the RPG genre. However, it has gained a cult following among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique fusion of street culture and adventure, viewing it as a daring, if imperfect, experiment in storytelling and visual design.
Dragon Knight & Graffiti embodies the twilight of TurboGrafx CD's lifespan—an unconventional experiment that sought to merge culture with interactive storytelling. It is a game that defies easy categorization, offering a rare glimpse into a period when developers pushed boundaries with limited technology but boundless creativity. For collectors and fans of offbeat gaming history, it remains a fascinating artifact—an eccentric testament to the audacity of late-era console development and the enduring allure of urban artistry within digital realms.
Dragon Knight III
Dragon Knight III is an exciting role-playing game released in 1994 for the TurboGrafx CD console. Developed by NEC Avenue, this game is the third installment in the popular Dragon Knight series. With its unique blend of action, adventure, and RPG elements, Dragon Knight III has cemented itself as a fan favorite among retro game enthusiasts.
The story of Dragon Knight III follows the journey of Takeru, a young knight who is on a quest to defeat the evil sorcerer Zabba. Along the way, he is joined by a fierce dragon named Zeru who becomes his loyal companion. Together, they embark on an epic adventure filled with battles, puzzles, and unexpected twists.
One of the most impressive aspects of Dragon Knight III is its graphics. Despite being released in 1994, the game features stunning hand-drawn animations and vibrant colors that bring the fantasy world to life. The level design is also carefully crafted, with each area featuring unique environments and challenges.
In terms of gameplay, Dragon Knight III offers a satisfying mix of turn-based combat and exploration. Players can control both Takeru and Zeru in battle, utilizing their unique abilities and spells to defeat enemies. The game also features a deep magic system, allowing players to customize their characters with different spells and upgrades.
Furthermore, Dragon Knight III features multiple endings, adding a layer of replayability to the game. Depending on the player's actions and choices throughout the game, the story can have different outcomes and endings. This encourages players to explore different paths and experience the game in different ways.
The soundtrack of Dragon Knight III is also worth mentioning. Composed by the legendary Yuzo Koshiro, known for his work on other iconic games such as ActRaiser and Streets of Rage, the music in Dragon Knight III is atmospheric and perfectly captures the game's fantasy setting.
F-1 Dream
F-1 Dream places players behind the wheel of a Formula One car, offering a high-speed challenge through a calendar of fast, technical circuits. Released for the TurboGrafx-16 in 1989, the game presents an arcade-leaning racing experience that emphasizes precision and pace over exhaustive fidelity. From the selection screen, drivers choose among several cars, each with distinct acceleration, top speed, and cornering traits. Races unfold on stylized courses that evoke real-world grand prix venues while remaining clearly fictional in layout and flavor.
Gameplay mechanics emphasize straightforward control and competitive pacing. Steering uses the D-pad, with acceleration and braking assigned to two buttons, delivering an accessible yet responsive handling model. Players race in a single Grand Prix season or in individual events, challenging a field of computer-controlled rivals whose aggression and speed adapt with difficulty settings. A two-player option allows simultaneous competition, inviting split-screen showdowns across the same drag strips and sweepers, where overtakes hinge on timing, speed, and line choice.
Visual presentation emphasizes a tactile sense of speed and clarity. Cars are rendered as bright, distinct sprites against a layered track with parallax scenery, creating depth as the road stretches toward the horizon. The perspective shifts subtly to convey acceleration, while road markings and curbs provide visual cues for braking and cornering. Environments mix urban, coastal, and countryside backdrops with bold color palettes that typify the era's arcade aesthetics, producing a crisp, legible scene even at high velocity.
Audio design reinforces the sensation of motion. A compact FM-synth soundtrack underpins the action, alternating between brisk tempo cues and more restrained melodies as the field thins. The engine note rises with speed, while tires sing softly on each turn and crowd noise crescendos when leaders pass. Collision and off-track contact produce brief metallic clicks, heightening risk without becoming punitive. The result is an audio landscape that matches the visual haste, guiding players through braking points and overtakes with rhythmic clarity.
Racing on F-1 Dream rewards consistent technique and quick adaptation. The interface presents a clean readout for position, lap time, and current speed, letting players gauge progression without breaking immersion. Clean lines and predictable handling encourage precision at high velocity, while occasional slide through corners tests reflexes and line discipline. The game's pace is brisk and direct, delivering a satisfying sense of competition that remains accessible to newcomers while offering enough challenge to keep seasoned players engaged lap after lap.
