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Valis II
Valis II
Valis II
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Valis II
PC Engine CD-ROM² cover art
DeveloperLaser Soft[a]
Publishers
List
  • PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD
    PC-88, MSX2, PC-98, X68000
    Mega Drive/Genesis
DirectorMasami Hanari
ProducerFumiyuki Moriyama
DesignersHiroshi Akahori
Yukito Ohayashi
ProgrammerMasami Hanari
ArtistsOsamu Nabeshima
Tomokazu Tokoro
WritersBunzō Matsui
Hiroshi Akahori
ComposersKenichi Kamio
Shinobu Ogawa
SeriesValis
PlatformsPC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD, PC-8801, MSX2, PC-9801, X68000, Mega Drive/Genesis
Release
1989
  • PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD
    • JP: June 23, 1989
    • NA: May 23, 1990
    PC-8801
    • JP: July 8, 1989
    MSX2, PC-9801
    • JP: August 5, 1989
    X68000
    • JP: November 18, 1989
    Mega Drive/Genesis (remake)
    • JP: February 14, 1992
    • NA: April 1992
GenresAction, platform
ModeSingle-player

Valis II[b] is a 1989 action-platform video game originally developed by Laser Soft, published by Telenet Japan and NEC for the PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD. A home computer version was released for PC-8801, MSX2, PC-9801 and X68000. A super deformed-style remake was also released in 1992 for the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis. It is the second entry in the eponymous series. It stars Yuko Asou, a Japanese schoolgirl teenager chosen to become the Valis warrior by wielding the titular mystical sword, after defeating the demon lord Rogles. The dream world Vecanti fell under the rule of emperor Megas, whose hatred towards his brother Rogles and bloodthirsty tendencies seeks to wipe out traces of the former tyrant, including his supporters. Gameplay varies between each version but all share similar elements, as the player explores and search for items and power-ups, while fighting enemies and defeat bosses.

Work on Valis II did not start for a period of two and a half years, as the team became understaffed when several members had left after Valis: The Fantasm Soldier. Telenet began shifting their focus in order to establish themselves in the LaserDisc market when the development moved toward. It was the first title created by Laser Soft, an internal gaming division of Telenet formed specifically to explore games for the CD-ROM format, and they also cooperated with Renovation Game (Reno), which handled the home computer version. The staff hired animators for the project, as people within the anime industry were becoming interested in the video game industry. Both the TurboGrafx-CD and computer versions were made simultaneously, but each under different development lines. The Genesis remake was slated for a European release by UbiSoft, as part of a multi-game licensing deal with Telenet's North American subsidiary Renovation Products, but it was never officially released in the region. Each version of the game have since been re-released through download services for other platforms and compilations.

Valis II on the TurboGrafx-CD garnered generally favorable reception from critics since its initial launch, some of which reviewed it as an import title; praise was given to the audiovisual presentation for showcasing the potential of the CD-ROM format, but others felt mixed regarding various aspects. The home computer version carried sentiments similar to the original release, with some reviewers noting the overall dark tone of its plot. The Mega Drive/Genesis remake, however, received negative response from the gaming press. It was followed by Valis III (1990).

Gameplay and premise

[edit]
Gameplay screenshot of the original PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD version

As with its predecessor, Valis II is an action-platform game starring Yuko Asou,[c] a Japanese schoolgirl teenager chosen to become the Valis warrior by wielding the titular mystical sword. It takes place after the defeat of demon lord Rogles[d] at the hand of Yuko. Time passes, however, the dream world Vecanti fell under the rule of emperor Megas,[e] whose hatred towards his brother Rogles seeks to wipe out any trace of the former tyrant, to the point of murdering any supporters Rogles might have had. Furthermore, his bloodthirsty tendencies recognize Yuko and the Valis sword as viable threats to his claim of the throne, and he orders his minions to eliminate her first before she has the chance to thwart him.[1] Despite details of the gameplay varying between each platform, all versions do share several similar features with Castlevania II: Simon's Quest, and Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse as well.[2]

The player controls Yuko through two-dimensional levels, battling enemies, jumping from ledge to ledge, and running until the player faces a boss at the end of each level. At certain points in the game, gameplay pauses, and cinematic cutscenes play regarding the game's storyline.[2] The home computer versions feature two shoot 'em up-like stages where Yuko flies over a constantly scrolling background.[2] This version also introduces a separate menu inventory where the player can choose power-ups found during levels, as well as costumes that alters Yuko's overall offensive and defensive attributes.[2] The Mega Drive/Genesis remake is an amalgamation of both the PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD original and the home computer versions, featuring the ability to select power-ups and costumes.[3] Yuko can also shoot projectiles upward against enemies.[3] However, the game's physics are different, while characters interact via in-game text boxes.[3]

Development

[edit]

Valis II on the PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD was the first title developed by Laser Soft, an internal gaming division of Telenet formed specifically to explore games for the CD-ROM format.[2][4] It was directed by Masami Hanari, who acted as programmer, and produced by Fumiyuki Moriyama.[5] Hiroshi Akahori, who co-wrote the game's scenario alongside Bunzō Matsui, and Yukito Ohayashi served as co-designers.[5] Animator Osamu Nabeshima served as art director with Tomokazu Tokoro, best known for directing the anime series Haibane Renmei and Hellsing Ultimate, providing support as character designer.[4][5] The soundtrack was co-composed by Kenichi Kamio and Shinobu Ogawa.[5] Laser Soft also cooperated with Renovation Game (Reno), which handled the home computer version.[2][6] Tadashi Tadami, Hiroyuki Kai, Hiroshi Yoshida, as well as Masayasu Yamamoto collaborated as main programmers of the PC-8801, MSX2, PC-9801, and X68000 versions respectively.[6] Ogawa and Tenpei Sato co-arranged the mayority of music for the home computer version, with Sato focusing on tracks featured during animated cutscenes, while Masahiro Kajihara and an uncredited member under the pseudonym "Jizou Kurabo" each scored two pieces.[6][7][8]

Yamamoto recounted the creation process and history of Valis II in a 2007 interview, explaining that work on the sequel did not start immediately and several members had left after Valis: The Fantasm Soldier, leaving the team were understaffed for a period of two and a half years.[9] He stated that Telenet started shifting their focus to establish themselves in the LaserDisc market when development of the project went forward.[9] Yamamoto claimed that the team made both the PC Engine CD-ROM² and home computer versions simultaneously, but remarked that each were created under different development lines.[9] He also stated that the staff hired animators for the project, as people within the anime industry were becoming interested in the video game industry, and wanted them to employ similar production standards and methods they would use in anime series for the game.[9]

Release

[edit]
Top: Valis: The Fantasm Soldier II (PC-8801 version showcased).
Bottom: SD Valis/Syd of Valis.

Valis II was first released for the PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD in Japan by Telenet on June 23, 1989, and later in North America by NEC on May 23, 1990.[10][citation needed] The home computer version was first released in Japan for the PC-8801 on July 8, 1989, then for the MSX2 and PC-9801 on August 5, and later for the X68000 on November 18 under the name Valis: The Fantasm Soldier II.[f][2][11][12][13] These versions contained more graphic cutscenes, while the X68000 version featured improved visuals.[2][14] The release of the computer versions were also supplemented with a soundtrack album, distributed in Japan by Toshiba EMI on August 27.[7]

A remake for the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, developed by Imaginative System Create (I.S.C.), was first released in Japan by Laser Soft as SD Valis[g] on February 14, 1992.[15][16] Telenet also released the game through its subsidiary Renovation Products in North America as Syd of Valis in April 1992.[3][4][17] A European release was planned by UbiSoft, as part of a multi-game licensing deal with Renovation, but it was never officially released in the region for unknown reasons.[18][19] It features the same gameplay and plot as the TurboGrafx-CD original, but the character design was changed to a super deformed (SD) style, while the North American version incorrectly identifies Yuko as "Syd" and reuses artwork of another Telenet release called The Sugoroku '92: Nariagari Trendy[h] for its front cover.[3][citation needed]

A compilation titled Valis Visual Collection was released in 1993 by Telenet for the PC Engine CD-ROM², featuring the visual scenes from Valis II.[20] The original PC Engine version, as well as the home computer versions, were re-released in digital form for Microsoft Windows through D4 Enterprise's Project EGG service.[21][22][23][24][25] The game was included as part of the Valis: The Fantasm Soldier Complete compilation for Windows, published by Sunsoft in 2004 under a limited run of 2000 copies, which came bundled with a bonus CD and a figure.[26][27] In 2011, D4 Enterprise re-released the compilation with SD Valis and an additional title as Valis: The Fantasm Soldier Complete Plus, which came bundled with a CD soundtrack instead.[27] The PC Engine version was also made available by Sunsoft as part of the "PC Engine Archives" line on the PlayStation Network in 2011.[28]

In 2021, the media company Edia announced a reprint of the PC Engine version to commemorate the series' 35th anniversary.[29] The PC Engine version was re-released physically and digitally as part of Valis: The Fantasm Soldier Collection for the Nintendo Switch in Japan by Edia on December 9, 2021.[30] The physical edition of the collection is also planned for an English localization by Limited Run Games.[31] This version was later re-released separately through the Nintendo eShop by Edia first in Japan on February 10, 2022,[32] and later in Europe and North America in March 2022.[33][34] The Genesis remake was included as part of Valis: The Fantasm Soldier Collection II for Switch.[35] In 2023, the MSX2 version was included as part of Valis: The Fantasm Soldier Collection III for Switch.[36]

Reception

[edit]

Valis II on the PC Engine CD-ROM²/TurboGrafx-CD garnered generally favorable reception from critics since its initial launch, some of which reviewed it as an import title.[38] The Games Machine's Warren Lapworth lauded the anime-style cutscenes for showing off the PC Engine CD-ROM's capabilities, while finding the game's action to be simple but enjoyable. However, Lapworth felt that the in-game graphics were uninteresting due to the drab and repetitive backgrounds, and expressed similar thoughts regarding the sprites.[41] Joystick's Jean-Marc Demoly commended the increasing difficulty of each level that contributed to its playability, as well as the game's visuals for the original and well-drawn enemy sprites, controls and sound, but noted that Yoko's animation lacked flexibility.[40] Génération 4's Philippe Querleux gave positive remarks to the soundtrack and save system, finding it to be a very addictive title, but noted its increasing difficulty starting from the third level.[39] An editor for TurboPlay was impressed by the game's visuals and music but disappointed by its perceived low difficulty.[44]

Tilt's Alain Huyghues-Lacour commended the game for its graphics, animation and audio for showcasing the potential of the CD-ROM format.[42] Electronic Gaming Monthly's four reviewers praised the intermission scenes, CD-quality soundtrack and visuals. They also found the story entertaining, but its short length and low difficulty were faulted.[37] Computer+Videogiochi, the Italian edition of British gaming publication Computer and Video Games, compared the game with Rastan but noted its variety and animated sequences.[43] In contrast, Hardcore Gaming 101's Kurt Kalata criticized its linear stages for being dull and boring, English dub and overall audiovisual presentation, regarding Valis II as "just a very mediocre and forgettable action game, only memorable for some nice creepy enemy sprites."[2]

Home computers

[edit]

Valis: The Fantasm Soldier II on home computers carried sentiments similar to the original release. Micom Basic Magazine analyzed the PC-8801 version, praising the amount of visual scenes compared to the original Valis: The Fantasm Soldier, background music and audio but criticized the overall graphical quality due to the limited colors.[47] Technopolis' Gēzō also analyzed the PC-8801 version and commended the music, graphics, and variety of selectable suits. The writer also expressed that the game's story "makes me cry".[11] Japanese publication MSX Magazine reviewed the MSX2 version, giving positive ratings for its playability, visuals, scenario and overall value.[45] Software Gids' Dennis Lardenoye also reviewed the MSX2 version, giving positive remarks to the visuals, sound and overall game quality.[46] Oh!X's Hiroyuki Urakawa reviewed the X68000 version, noting the overall dark tone of its plot.[48] In the same retrospective outlook discussing the original TurboGrafx-CD release, Kurt Kalata of Hardcore Gaming 101 found it to be a better-designed title than the first entry but criticized the 8-bit computer version for the choppy action, finding the X68000 version to be more enjoyable.[2]

Mega Drive/Genesis

[edit]

SD Valis/Syd of Valis received negative response from the gaming press.[50][51] It received scores of 19.5 out of 30 and 3.9718 out of 10 in public polls taken by Mega Drive Fan and the Japanese Sega Saturn Magazine respectively.[59][60] Games-X criticized its gameplay, short length and overall presentation.[52] Consoles +' Navarro and Laurent Defrance commended the audio and manga-style character sprites but faulted their small size. They also criticized the game's imprecise scrolling, playability and length.[49] Joypad's Olivier Prézeau gave positive remarks to its audiovisual presentation and controls,[53] however Joystick's Jean-Marc Demoly found it unpleasant to play, stating that "Syd Of Valis is a game that I strongly advise against, unless somewhere deep inside you, a small dose of masochism is present."[54] MegaTech's Mark Patterson and Paul Glancey lambasted its presentation for the lack of options, simplistic sprites and low sound quality. Both Patterson and Glancey summarized that it was a "pretty poor attempt at producing a cute beat 'em up."[57]

Sega Force's Paul Mellerick bashed its "very dull" gameplay despite "great" levels and enemies, writing that "even platform addicts will only play it for a while".[61] Sega Pro's James Scullion gave SD Valis a mediocre outlook, recommending saving money for some other game.[58] Console XS found it "mildly disturbing" due to the visual style.[56] Video Games' Michael Paul faulted the controls for being slippery and imprecise, while gearing his criticism towards the graphical design, low-detailed sprite animations, audio and repetitive enemy patterns.[55] In contrast to most reviewers, GamePro's Feline Groovy gave high marks to the visuals, sound, controls and fun factor.[62] In a retrospective article from Hardcore Gaming 101 dedicated to the SD remake, Kurt Kalata noted that the game's level design was improved over the original Valis II but equally dull.[3]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Valis II

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Valis II is a side-scrolling action-platform developed by Laser Soft and published by , originally released in 1989 for the PC Engine CD-ROM² console and PC-88 home computer in . As the second main entry in the Mugen Senshi Valis (Fantasm Soldier Valis) series, it continues the story of protagonist Yuko Asou, a Japanese high selected as the warrior of the mystical Valis, who must travel to the fantasy dimension of Vecanti to thwart the tyrannical emperor Megas—brother of the defeated demon lord Rogles from the first game—before he plunges the world into chaos. The game's narrative unfolds through animated cutscenes with , a technological highlight of the PC Engine version that enhanced its anime-inspired aesthetic and storytelling. centers on controlling Yuko across six linear stages, battling enemies and bosses with close-range sword strikes, four types of projectile attacks, and upgradable magic abilities, while collecting power-ups to restore health and vitality. Unlike some ports, the original versions emphasize precise platforming and combat without equipment customization, focusing instead on progression through increasingly challenging environments blending Japanese urban settings with otherworldly realms. Valis II was localized and released in as Valis: The Fantasm Soldier II for the TurboGrafx-CD in May 1990 by NEC Home Electronics, marking one of the early titles for Western audiences and introducing the series' blend of action gameplay and supernatural lore. The title received ports to platforms like and MSX2 later in 1989, and in recent years, it has been re-released digitally for modern systems including and Windows via collections like Valis: The Fantasm Soldier Collection, preserving its legacy in retro gaming.

Plot and Gameplay

Plot

Valis II continues the story of Yuko Asou, a Japanese high who, after defeating the demon lord Rogles in the first game, returns to the fantasy world of Vecanti to confront a new threat. The narrative picks up with Vecanti under siege by the Emperor Megas, Rogles' older brother, who seeks to eradicate Rogles' followers and reclaim the throne as its rightful ruler. Yuko, haunted by visions and initial attacks in the human world, is compelled to wield the mystical Valis sword once more, transforming from an ordinary schoolgirl into an armored warrior destined to protect the balance between dimensions. She learns she is the daughter of Queen Valia, ruler of Vecanti, and gains support from her twin sister Valna. The central conflict revolves around Megas's forces, including his key generals Haizen and Gaias, who lead invasions aimed at weakening Vecanti and threatening the human world. Yuko's quest spans the human world, where the story begins amid everyday life disrupted by supernatural incursions, and Vecanti, the primary fantasy realm under siege. As she traverses these worlds, battling Megas's armies and uncovering ancient lore tied to the Valis sword's origins and her own heritage, Yuko grapples with the weight of her role, forging alliances that highlight themes of duty and the friendships that sustain her resolve. Key plot developments include conflicts with Rogles' surviving loyalists, who attempt to steal the Valis sword, leading to confrontations that test her heroism. The story builds to revelations about Megas's motivations rooted in betrayal and vengeance, forcing Yuko to confront the personal and cosmic burdens of her lineage as a chosen protector. These elements deepen the series' exploration of a young protagonist's internal struggle, emphasizing the isolation and responsibility of wielding otherworldly power in defense of multiple worlds.

Gameplay

Valis II is a side-scrolling action-platformer where players control Yuko Asou, navigating two-dimensional levels by running, jumping, and engaging in combat against enemies and bosses. The game emphasizes precise platforming challenges, such as leaping across gaps and avoiding environmental hazards, while combating foes in a run-and-gun style despite the sword-based weaponry. Levels are structured across six stages blending environments from the human world and the fantasy realm of Vecanti, each concluding with a boss fight that tests and timing. The core combat revolves around the Valis sword, which Yuko wields to perform swings and fire long-range energy projectiles with every attack. The sword can be upgraded to three power levels by collecting upgrade items dropped by enemies, increasing the projectiles' damage and reach; additionally, special items allow switching between four attack types, including normal blasts, homing missiles, wave shots that destroy enemy projectiles, and two-way spreads. Players can also acquire limited-use power-ups like protective barriers or invincibility spells, activated via a dedicated control input, and jewels that increase the score. In certain versions, such as the ports, incorporates occasional segments where Yuko flies over scrolling backgrounds, shifting to vertical shooting mechanics. In ports, players can switch Yuko's costumes, each altering her abilities—such as enhanced speed or defense—adding strategic depth. Player progression is managed through a health bar that depletes upon taking damage, replenished by collecting pickups scattered throughout stages; Yuko starts with a set number of lives, with continues available upon depletion to maintain progress. The game includes minor puzzles, like timing-based platform sequences or item collection for hidden paths, though these are secondary to action elements. Controls are straightforward, using the for movement (including ducking), one button for , and another for attacks, with responsive inputs that support the game's moderate difficulty, though later stages extend in length and intensity. The PC Engine CD version enhances immersion with animated cutscenes between stages, but core mechanics remain consistent across platforms, with port-specific tweaks like the elements and costume switching in non-console releases.

Development

Original Development

Valis II was developed by Shin-Nihon Laser Soft, a of established in 1988 to focus on optical media games, marking it as the studio's inaugural title. The project was directed by Masami Hanari, with Fumiyuki Moriyama serving as producer, under the oversight of and publisher . Development emphasized building on the original Valis as a direct sequel, incorporating a darker tone through the introduction of the warlord Megas and expanded world-building that revealed deeper ties to protagonist Yuko Asou's family and the Dreamworld. The production encountered technical challenges inherent to the emerging format, such as slow loading times and limited RAM capacity. These hurdles necessitated small team sizes and intense workloads, with core development often handled by just a handful of programmers and designers amid broader resource constraints at . Key innovations leveraged the 's storage advantages to integrate anime-style cutscenes and , a departure from the limitations of prior titles, enhancing narrative delivery and immersion. This was achieved through collaborations with animators from the industry, who contributed to the high-quality visuals despite the limited budget that prompted outsourcing of art assets. Published jointly by and , the game represented an ambitious step for Laser Soft in adapting the Valis series to console hardware while pushing multimedia boundaries.

Ports and Adaptations

The home computer ports of Valis II, developed in parallel to the PC Engine version by Renovation Game and released in 1989 for the NEC PC-8801, MSX2, NEC PC-9801, and Sharp X68000, adapted the content to storage, necessitating reductions in visual and audio fidelity to fit hardware constraints. These versions replaced the CD audio with soundtracks, which provided MIDI-like music but lacked the original's orchestral depth, and featured more compact cutscenes that emphasized violence and included semi-nudity, such as explicit depictions of the Megas murdering the character Valia—elements toned down or omitted in the PC Engine release. was enhanced with more dynamic stage designs, including additional flying sections that consumed special item charges, and an improved system allowing players to select weapons and costumes from a dedicated screen prior to levels, diverging from the original's simpler progression. However, the PC-8801, MSX2, and PC-9801 implementations suffered from choppy performance due to limited processing power and memory, resulting in less fluid platforming compared to the baseline PC Engine mechanics of side-scrolling action and sword-based combat. The port addressed some of these issues by running at a smoother , shortening repetitive segments for better pacing, and removing certain unfair enemy placements or obstacles, though its audio remained somewhat muffled relative to the crisp chiptunes of the other computer versions. To accommodate loading times and the absence of save functionality on these systems, the ports incorporated password systems for resuming progress, alongside minor level adjustments like streamlined enemy patterns to mitigate hardware-induced slowdowns during intense sequences. A distinct arrived in 1992 with the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis remake, developed by Imaginative System Create and published by as SD Valis in and localized as Syd of Valis in . This version adopted a super-deformed (chibi) art style with exaggerated proportions and brighter, cartoonish visuals to suit the console's sprite capabilities, while simplifying core from the PC Engine original by emphasizing platforming over complex mechanics and replacing elaborate cinema cutscenes with in-engine text dialogues featuring humorous, abbreviated interactions. It incorporated elements from the ports, such as the weapon and armor selection screen, and allowed upward firing for better versatility, but removed segments present in the original's flying stages to streamline the action-platformer focus. Technical adaptations for the cartridge format involved compressing graphical assets, leading to resized sprites that maintained the chibi aesthetic but reduced detail in backgrounds and animations, alongside audio downgrades to the Genesis's FM synthesis, which produced less nuanced tracks than the PC Engine's CD sound. The title was released exclusive to Japanese and North American markets.

Release

Initial Releases

Valis II was initially released for the PC Engine CD-ROM² in on June 23, 1989, published by in collaboration with . This version leveraged the system's CD capabilities for enhanced audio and cutscenes, marking an early showcase of the platform's potential for anime-influenced storytelling. The game later launched in as Valis II for the TurboGrafx-CD on May 23, 1990, distributed by Home Electronics, with handling aspects of the TurboGrafx ecosystem support.
PlatformRegionRelease DatePublisher
PC-8801July 8, 1989Renovation Game
MSX2August 5, 1989Renovation Game
PC-9801August 5, 1989Renovation Game
X68000November 18, 1989Renovation Game
These home computer ports, all exclusive to Japan and handled by Renovation Game (a Telenet Japan label), adapted the game to text-based interfaces with some graphical variations suited to each system's hardware. A super-deformed remake titled SD Valis appeared on the Sega Mega Drive in on February 14, 1992, developed by Laser Soft and published by . This version simplified gameplay for the console while retaining core elements. The North American counterpart, Syd of Valis, followed on the Sega Genesis in April 1992, published by Renovation Products. In , packaging prominently featured anime-style illustrations of Yuko Asou, highlighting ties to the series' OVA animations to appeal to audiences. Western releases received limited promotion, constrained by the TurboGrafx-CD's niche market penetration in .

Modern Re-releases

In 2007, Valis II became available digitally through Project EGG, a service by DMM Games that emulates classic Japanese PC titles on modern Windows PCs, offering the original 1989 PC-8801 version with faithful hardware simulation but without additional enhancements. Edia Games released Valis: The Fantasm Soldier Collection in for , bundling the PC Engine CD-ROM² version of Valis II alongside the first and third entries in the series, with modern features including save states, rewind functionality, and HD filter options to improve accessibility and visual clarity. The collection launched in on December 9, 2021, for physical copies, followed by a release on February 10, , and expanded to PC via on October 29, 2024, introducing global availability with multilingual support including English subtitles and audio options where applicable. Valis: The Fantasm Soldier Collection II, also published by Edia, arrived on Nintendo Switch in 2023 and includes additional titles from the series such as Valis: The Fantasm Soldier (MSX2 and Mega Drive versions), Syd of Valis, and Valis IV, building on the prior collection with quality-of-life updates such as customizable key remapping, alongside retained features like sound modes for accessing original tracks and visual modes for artwork galleries. The package launched in Japan on September 22, 2022, with a surprise western digital release on February 23, 2023, maintaining a focus on emulated originals enhanced for contemporary play. These re-releases have primarily targeted Japanese audiences initially through regional eShops and physical editions, though the Steam version has broadened access worldwide. In June 2025, the version of Valis II was re-released as part of a double pack with for the Z emulation system by , available digitally and physically in as of November 2025.

Reception

PC Engine Version

The PC Engine version of Valis II, released in Japan on June 23, 1989, and localized for the TurboGrafx-CD in on May 23, 1990, received generally positive reception from critics, who praised its innovative use of the format to deliver enhanced cutscenes, full , and high-quality music that contributed to an immersive atmosphere. awarded it a score of 30 out of 40 (75%), noting the game's strong audiovisual presentation as a highlight for the platform. Similarly, the audio enabled a dynamic soundtrack with synth elements that stood out, while animated cutscenes and voiced dialogue added a cinematic flair uncommon for action-platformers at the time. Critics, however, pointed out several shortcomings, including low overall difficulty, a relatively short length of about six levels, and uneven pacing with long, repetitive segments that felt monotonous. Japanese magazine scored it 23 out of 40 (approximately 58%), reflecting mixed feelings on depth and challenge compared to contemporaries. Other outlets like The Games Machine (74%) and Tilt (15/20 or 75%) echoed concerns about unremarkable level design and easy enemies, though they appreciated the anime-inspired visuals. In terms of commercial performance, the game achieved modest success in , benefiting from the PC Engine's strong market position, where the console and its CD-ROM² add-on together sold over 10 million units worldwide. In the United States, its impact was limited by the TurboGrafx-CD's niche install base, estimated at around 40,000 units sold. Player feedback often highlighted appreciation for the story's fantastical narrative and anime-style aesthetics, but many noted the reduced difficulty made it less engaging than the original Valis.

Home Computer Versions

The 1989 ports of Valis II to Japanese home computers, including the PC-88 and MSX2 platforms, were developed by (a subsidiary of ) as adaptations of the original PC Engine CD-ROM² release, targeting hobbyist PC users familiar with detailed action-platformers on limited hardware. These versions retained the core side-scrolling , including sword-based combat and stage progression, but omitted CD-ROM-specific elements to fit cartridge and constraints. Released simultaneously in , they appealed to a niche audience of PC enthusiasts who valued deeper mechanical complexity over audiovisual spectacle. Ports to and were also released, with the X68000 version offering smoother performance and shortened segments compared to the choppier PC-88 and MSX2 adaptations. Strengths of these ports included solid visual adaptations with detailed sprites and backgrounds that captured the game's dark, violent tone, alongside effective soundtracks that enhanced the atmospheric platforming sequences. The PC-88 and MSX2 versions featured more intricate level designs with eventful enemy placements and unique mechanics, such as flying shoot-'em-up segments, providing a sense of progression and challenge. Reviewers praised the faithful recreation of the narrative's grim fantasy elements, noting how the simpler presentation still conveyed the story's intensity through static visuals and text. Additionally, the soundtrack's crisp 8-bit compositions were highlighted for their rock-influenced energy, contributing to memorable boss encounters. However, the ports suffered from the absence of the PC Engine's cutscenes, , and animated sequences, resulting in a simpler, less immersive presentation that relied on static images and text for . Hardware limitations led to choppy , sluggish controls, and unfair , which frustrated players during intense platforming sections and made later stages particularly demanding. While the core action remained accessible for hobbyists, these technical shortcomings reduced overall polish compared to the original. The port mitigated some performance issues but still faced for muffled audio. Overall, reception for the PC-88 and MSX2 versions was positive among retro gaming analysts for their depth, with expanded upgrades (up to four levels), jewel-based systems, and multiple outfits offering strategic variety not fully present in the PC Engine edition. Critics viewed them as faithful adaptations that prioritized substance for PC users, though less visually engaging without CD enhancements; these ports were seen as superior in mechanical intricacy but ultimately less captivating than the console original due to performance issues.

Mega Drive Version

The Mega Drive version of Valis II, released in Japan as SD Valis in February 1992 and in as Syd of Valis in April 1992, represented a significant divergence from the original PC Engine release through its adoption of a super-deformed (chibi) art style and simplified mechanics tailored for the console hardware. This remake aimed to bring the series to a broader audience but was largely criticized for its dated visuals, which appeared simplistic and less dynamic than those in comparable 16-bit platformers of the era. Reviewers frequently pointed to the chibi aesthetic as a stylistic misstep that diminished the game's epic fantasy tone, making stages feel cramped and less immersive. Major criticisms centered on poor controls, with slippery character movement and imprecise leading to frustrating platforming sections, alongside unbalanced difficulty that swung between overly simplistic enemy encounters and punishing boss fights without adequate checkpoints or power-up balance. In the UK, MegaTech scored it 47%, criticizing its unpolished feel. Similarly, GamePro in the rated it 4 out of 5, but noted clunky input responsiveness and lack of refinement as barriers to enjoyment despite some positives in action-platforming. Japanese publication scored it 23 out of 40, noting the remake's failure to capture the original's atmosphere despite faithful level structures. Few positives emerged in contemporary coverage, though some reviewers appreciated the version's accessibility on home consoles, allowing easier play sessions compared to the PC Engine CD's setup, and praised minor additions like selectable armors for slight . Overall, the port received mixed to negative reception as an inferior take on the source material, with the chibi redesign alienating fans expecting the series' signature anime-inspired grandeur. Commercially, the title flopped in both and the , with low sales figures underscoring its lack of appeal amid a crowded market and contributing to the Valis series' diminished presence in Western territories. A planned European release by was ultimately canceled, further limiting its global footprint. In retrospect, retro gaming enthusiasts regard the Mega Drive version as a quirky curiosity within the franchise, valued for its oddball chibi reinterpretation and console portability but dismissed as unrepresentative of the series' stronger entries on other platforms.

References

  1. https://tcrf.net/Valis_II_%28TurboGrafx-CD%29
  2. https://www.mobygames.com/game/55618/valis-ii/
  3. https://necretro.org/Valis_II
  4. https://store.steampowered.com/app/3097610/Valis_II/
  5. http://www.hardcoregaming101.net/valis-ii/
  6. https://valis.fandom.com/wiki/Valis_II
  7. https://valis.fandom.com/wiki/Haizen
  8. https://valis.fandom.com/wiki/Gaias
  9. https://valis.fandom.com/wiki/Megas
  10. https://www.pcengine.co.uk/HTML_Games/Valis_II.htm
  11. https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/turbocd/916152-valis-ii/reviews/155206
  12. https://strategywiki.org/wiki/Valis_II
  13. https://www.mobygames.com/company/5648/shin-nihon-laser-soft-co-ltd/
  14. https://www.mobygames.com/game/55618/valis-ii/credits/turbografx-cd/
  15. https://www.4gamer.net/games/668/G066894/20230606056/
  16. https://www.honestgamers.com/11461/turbografx-cd/valis-ii/game.html
  17. https://tcrf.net/Mugen_Senshi_Valis_II_%28Sharp_X68000%29
  18. https://necretro.org/Renovation_Game
  19. https://segaretro.org/Syd_of_Valis
  20. https://vgmdb.net/product/18624
  21. https://www.mobygames.com/game/28829/syd-of-valis/
  22. https://www.sega-16.com/2012/01/syd-of-valis/
  23. https://www.vg247.com/daily-classic-valis-ii-a-generic-turbografx-game-built-on-generic-anime
  24. https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/valis-the-fantasm-soldier-collection-switch/
  25. https://store.steampowered.com/app/3097550/Valis_The_Fantasm_Soldier_Collection_Launcher/
  26. https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/valis-the-fantasm-soldier-collection-ii-switch/
  27. https://www.timeextension.com/news/2025/06/the-x68000-zs-next-double-pack-combines-two-classics-from-telenet-japan
  28. https://www.uvlist.net/game-38565-Valis+II
  29. https://vgsales.fandom.com/wiki/Fourth_generation_of_video_games
  30. https://blackfalcongames.net/?p=182
  31. https://www.classic-games.net/turbo-grafx-16/valis-ii/
  32. https://www.destructoid.com/syd-of-valis-for-genesis-mega-drive-is-a-perplexing-way-to-port-a-sequel/
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