VALNA

Released in 1989 by System Sacom, Varuna is an ambitious action RPG that utilizes the company's unique "Novelware" system to blend dramatic dialogue with fast-paced action. Players take on the role of Kamil, embarking on a grand adventure to traverse the monster-ridden Uniterion Kingdom while tracing the footsteps of his missing father. The game stands out for its rich sound expression through Sound Board 2 support—a rarity for the time—and a distinct progression system where stats are improved at inns rather than through traditional experience points. Fusing deep narrative storytelling with exciting action, Varuna remains a hidden gem of the PC-8801 era.

The Kingdom of Uniterion has fallen into ruin and become a wasteland infested with monsters following a conspiracy by the High Priest Zaurzarius that cost the King his life. Armed with a sword bequeathed by his father, a young man named Kamil sets out on a journey to find the legendary crystals and uncover his father's mysterious disappearance. As the story unfolds through the narrative-heavy Novelware system, Kamil must confront a cruel destiny and unravel the secrets of the world.