Proto:Getsu Fuuma Den

This page details one or more prototype versions of Getsu Fuuma Den.

This prototype is documented on Hidden Palace.

This article is a work in progress.
...Well, all the articles here are, in a way. But this one moreso, and the article may contain incomplete information and editor's notes.

An early Japanese prototype cartridge of Getsu Fuuma Den, labeled "SAMPLE", was originally bought by Ballz in 2003 before it changed hands in 2006 to Blitzwing, who is the current owner as of this writing. On November 18, 2018, this prototype was finally uploaded to Hidden Palace by Ballz, being dumped by Kevtris beforehand.

The game features significant changes compared to the final release, including a different world map, alternate music, and increased difficulty due to the player starting the game at half-life and healing items not being as effective.

Download Getsu Fuuma Den (Prototype)

File: Getsu_Fuuma_Den_(Prototype).zip (150 kB) (info)

Gameplay

Overworld map has numerous changes, allowing for more non-linear exploration
You start the game with half health; damage from enemies also appears to be more significant and healing not as effective
Several enemy graphics have different color schemes compared to final
A skull enemy has a minor graphic change. It's unclear if it's a bug, corruption from the rom dump, or intentional by the programmers
Hit collision in mid-jump causing you to drop straight below, creating a new hazard when jumping over holes
The money bonus minigame in the first dungeon is missing
Enemy/item placement in the dungeons are slightly different
Encountered game crashes in the first dungeon seemingly at random, may be indicative of the game's WIP nature

Music Differences

The SAMPLE prototype has a few differences on some tracks compared to the final version.

Prologue: The prototype has a somewhat different melody and loops, and it additionally plays at a faster tempo and higher key. It does not loop in the final version, and also plays at a slower tempo and lower key.
Bonus Area: The prototype has a different intro from the final version.
Final Boss: The first section of the main melody in the prototype has longer trailing notes, giving the impression of more echo; the final version shortens the trailing notes, making that section sound much drier. Additionally, after the first section finishes, the four notes that lead into the second and final section of the song are different as well.

Song titles are taken from the album KONAMI FAMICOM CHRONICLE Vol.3: ROM Cassette Compilation (EMCA-0022).