CRIMSON

Released in November 1987 by Crystal Soft for the PC-8801, *Crimson* is a notable Japanese RPG set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity's once-great civilization has fallen to the tyrannical rule of the demon king, Crimson. The game distinguishes itself with a unique traversal system where random encounters are restricted to specific dungeons and facilities rather than the world map, allowing for focused exploration of the blighted landscape. Players guide the protagonist on a quest to avenge their father's death and restore peace, gathering companions to overcome challenges in a journey that reflects the classic tropes of the late 80s RPG genre. Through its strategic use of magic-focused combat and dungeon-based progression, *Crimson* remains a memorable representative of the creative spirit found in the PC-8801 gaming era.

Set in a distant future where human civilization has fallen to ruin, the world is now under the brutal tyranny of the ruthless warlord known as Crimson. Following the passing of his bedridden mother, the young protagonist discovers that his long-missing father was a warrior who vanished while attempting to defy this dark ruler. Driven by his father's unfulfilled legacy, the hero sets out on a perilous journey across the wasteland. By recruiting fellow adventurers and exploring treacherous dungeons and settlements, he vows to overthrow the regime of tyranny and restore peace to the crumbling world.