There's a lot to like about this game if you're willing to give it an $8 chance.
It's a simple story set in modern day Japan--a princess has been kidnapped and it's up to our two heroes Kid Ying (Goemon) and Dr.Yang (Ebisumaru) to save her. What's interesting about this game is that there are two ways to go about playing it. First off, you'll explore traditional Japanese towns--very much like an RPG--where you can visit houses, buy stuff, play mini-games, get your fortune told, even play at an old-school arcade (Gradius!). Along the way, you'll come across enemies that flood the streets and act as if they own the place, so it's your job to whip them with whatever weapon you have in hand. This necessary random act of violence is also one way of making money--for enemies drop coins and power-ups. Besides, the bad guys are working for an evil organization responsible for kidnapping the Princess in the first place. So hit away.
The game then shifts to a traditional platformer where you'll traverse bamboo forests, mountain ranges, crazy ninja castles and an amusement park. You'll reach an end boss and use your super expandable pipe of death (or pan flutewhistle for Dr.Yang/Ebisumaru) to defeat it and move on to the next act.
The graphics are very colorful and charming with hilarious animations for various characters. The fourth boss is perhaps one of the more creepier and funnier boss fights to ever happen in a long time. But, perhaps one of the best aspects of the game is the Japanese-themed music. It sounds fantastic for a 16-bit game with many memorable themes.
Yes, the game is definately different, but at the same time, it is a charming and fun experience for your $8. Definately check it out for yourself.