Before God of War there was The Battle of Olympus.

User Rating: 9 | Olympus no Tatakai: Ai no Densetsu NES
Of all of the games based on Greek mythology The Battle of Olympus serves up one of the toughest challenges. The Graphics and sound are superb for the time but most gamers will be put off by the games seemingly extreme difficulty. The game is by no means impossible but it is certainly a trial worthy of the Gods themselves. Trouncing around the entire country of Greece is a rare treat that has not been reproduced in quite the same way. Even the spectacular God of War hasn't gone into as much depth in the traveling department as this game has. Every manner of mythological beast is implemented and rendered for your killing pleasure. But do not take them lightly, a galloping faun can turn from a cake walk into a nightmare if you fail to time your strikes correctly. One of the great things about this game is how it truly feels like an adventure in how certain areas can not be reached unless you defeat a Medusa that is plaguing a town or by finding a medical herb at the foot of a mountain to heal the sick. This game lends itself to be rather open ended for a game of it's time. Fans of The Legend of Zelda and Crystalis should pick this one up. It's a true NES gem.