Brain Lord (USA) ROM

An Enix title whose main character is a quiet, red-headed warrior, Brain Lord is an action-adventure game with an overhead perspective.  As in other games of this genre, the player explores the land, investigates its dungeons, slays monsters, gathers items and (hopefully) saves the world.  So far, so good, but there's more. 
Three features distinguish Brain Lord from other similar titles, and elevate it to the status of a good, rather than an ordinary, game.  First (and foremost) are the fairies ('jades') that one can purchase and utilize in the course of the adventure.  These supernatural flying creatures are impervious to damage, and assist the player - usually (but not always) in combat; they also gain levels (which increases their attack power).  A variety of these beings are available, but only two may accompany the main character on the screen at any one time. 
Magic in Brain Lord constitutes its second notable feature.  Spells, like jades, may be purchased; they are used by holding the attack button: this charges up the spell, which is cast upon being fully charged.  Though this can be a time-consuming technique in the midst of combat, it is a refreshing contrast to the magic point systems that characterize most other adventure and RPG titles. 
Finally, a number of the non-player characters in Brain Lord actually venture into the various dungeons.  Thus, the adventure is less solitary (and perhaps more realistic) than the typical single-player game.  Aside from providing assistance where one needs it most, these other characters create a more cheerful atmosphere - not least when they indulge in humorous antics - such as cooking a giant scorpion.  (If the player accepts a plate, he should ensure he has a poison antidote on hand). 
As befits its title, the game contains a plethora of puzzles; only one was perplexing (it involved pressing a button before the exit door, and ignoring the switches in the room) though all were enjoyable.  The same cannot be said for the platform jumping in Brain Lord, which often turns into an ordeal - mitigated, thankfully by the existence of save states, (the game must have been very frustrating on the original SNES).  Combat is facilitated by a variety of weapons, be they short range (axes and swords), medium range (morning stars) or long range (bows).  Defeating enemies automatically boosts one's gold which serves as both money and score in this game - another of its neat little innovations. 
The graphics of Brain Lord are adequate for a Super Nintendo title; however, the menu interface could be improved.  Its sound effects are suitable as is its music - both being neither memorable nor terrible.  In these respects, it is very much a standard game. 
All in all, Brain Lord is a worthwhile title for any gamer seeking an adventure.