Summary
"TENGAI MAKYŌ" is a computer RPG game series for the PC Engine CD-ROM2, released by Hudson. It is commonly known as "TENGAI." It debuted as the first Japanese-style RPG series in gaming history. The unit of experience is not "level" but "dan."
The project and original concept were by Hiroi Oji, who was leading Red Company (now Red Entertainment) at the time. The "TENGAI MAKYŌ" series is set in the fictional country of "Jipang," around the 16th to 18th centuries, based on the concept of "the mistaken view of Japan from the West." It focuses on the exploits of those who inherit the blood of the "Fire Clan," who have appeared and saved the country from crises since ancient times.
"TENGAI MAKYŌ: ZIRIA" is the first work in the Tengai Makyō series. At the time, CD-ROMs were just beginning to be used for encyclopedias and dictionaries, but the game took full advantage of the large capacity of the PC Engine CD-ROM². It featured animated visual presentations and voice acting, delivering groundbreaking performances for games of the era. Additionally, it drew attention from outside the gaming industry by using three pieces, including the main theme, composed by Ryuichi Sakamoto.
The game is set in the land of "Zipang," located at the eastern end of the world. A thousand years ago, it faced a crisis of annihilation due to the "Demon Tribe" leader Masakado, but warriors calling themselves the "Fire Clan" appeared and challenged Masakado. The battle lasted for one hundred days, and many of the Fire Clan perished. However, after a fierce struggle, the Fire Clan succeeded in sealing Masakado deep underground using the power of "three jewels," bringing peace to Zipang. A thousand years later, the Daimon Church emerges, attempting to resurrect Masakado, and the story begins with the young descendant of the Fire Clan, Jiraiya, setting off on a journey to stop them.