Guardian Heroes
↘ 4.4%
😊 8.0/10
(Sega Saturn - PAL, Action & Adventure)
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Complete
$134.83
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Developed_By:
Treasure Co. Ltd.
Published_By:
Sega
Released On:
01 Jan 1996
Ages ago, the spirits of Earth and Sky waged war on each other. Neither could win, and eventually the Sky Spirits bestowed some humans with their powers, turning them into wizards and allies in the war. The Earth Spirits were banished into darkness; but the Sky Spirits feared the human wizards and cast them underground as well.
Years have passed, and a powerful wizard named Kanon escaped from the gloomy prison and turned the human land into a puppet state trembling before his might. One legendary sword is said to bring an end to Kanon's reign. Four warriors - Han, Randy, Nicole and Ginjirou - retrieved the sword, but knights sent by Kanon are determined to take it away and destroy it at all costs. Aided by the renegade knight Serena, the four heroes must keep the world safe and protect themselves against the onslaught.
Guardian Heroes is a hybrid of a side-scrolling beat-em-up and a role-playing game. The four initial player characters are distinguished by their attributes and abilities: Han is a strong fighter who cannot use magic; Randy is a sorcerer who can cast attack spells but is physically more vulnerable; Ginjirou is a ninja-type, agile character; finally, Nicole has weak attacks but can cast healing spells.
The fighting mechanic is slightly deeper than in most other games of this type, with light and heavy attacks, special moves (executed the same way as usually in fighting games), magical attacks and the ability to block. Defeating enemies yields experience points, with which the player can upgrade the characters between levels, sharing them between various factors such as strength, speed, constitution and magic resistance.
The game has a branching storyline that develops according to the player's selection of stages. There is also a "Karma" system that evaluates the player's actions depending on how he or she treats enemies or innocent people in the game world.
Even in one-player mode, there are always two controllable characters on screen - the player commands the other character by changing his "mood" - aggressive, cowardly etc. - of which there are six. On top of this, it is possible to play the game as a more traditional beat-em-up with up to six players (human or AI-controlled); in this mode it is possible to play as any character encountered during the main game mode.
EAN-13:
4974365810351 (United Kingdom)
Sega Region Code:
670-8212-50 (United Kingdom)
Part #:
MK81035-50 (Europe)
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Save Game Methods:
Internal Storage
Multiplayer Options:
Same/Split-Screen
Number of Players Supported:
1-6 Players
Input Devices Supported/Optional:
Gamepad
Video Modes Supported:
Widescreen (16 x 9)
Multiplayer Game Modes:
Free-for-all / One-on-one (VS), Co-Op
Miscellaneous Attributes:
6-player Adapter, Backup Cart supported
Prices as of 16 Sep 2026
Typical $131.42–$134.83 (last 90 days)
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Manual
Game Guide
Extracted from the original game manual
In this sword-and-sorcery fantasy, players control a team of intrepid heroes who discover a legendary sword capable of saving the kingdom. They must make strategic decisions to battle through exciting conflicts and unravel the villainous plot of an advisor who seeks to seize power by destroying the artifact. The game offers a story-driven campaign mode as well as a competitive versus mode for up to six players.
Story
Story Premise
The Guardian Heroes are a group of intrepid adventurers united by their love for excitement and adventure. They have banded together to search for a legendary sword, said to have saved the world in ancient times.
While wandering through the woods, Han, one of the heroes, discovers a sword stuck in a rock. Using his incredible strength, he pulls the blade free and brings it back to headquarters to show his friends.
The Conflict
As Han wonders if they have found the legendary artifact, a stranger bursts in to warn them of imminent danger. Suddenly, Royal Knights arrive, ordered by the King's advisor, Kanon (also referred to as Karon or Kannon), to retrieve the sword.
The knights are unaware of Kanon's true motive: he intends to destroy the sword to seize control of the kingdom. Kanon will stop at nothing to possess the blade, and the heroes must discover why.
Gameplay Choices
The search for answers leads the team across the land through a series of exciting battles. In this sword-and-sorcery fantasy, every decision counts.
•
Make the right choices to lead the Guardian Heroes to victory.
•
Make incorrect decisions, and the sword will fall into the hands of darkness or Kanon.
Game Modes
You can choose from two primary ways to play:
•
Choose a character to foil Kanon's evil plans and complete the campaign.
•
Activate VERSUS MODE (Face-off/Opponent mode), where up to six players can battle to determine who the true hero is.
How to Play
Starting Up: How to Use Your Sega Saturn System
This CD-ROM is designed exclusively for the Sega Saturn System. Do not attempt to play this disc on any other CD player, as doing so may damage headphones and speakers.
1. Set up your Sega Saturn system by following the instructions in your system's Instruction Manual. Plug in Control Pad 1. For 2-player games, plug in Control Pad 2 as well.
2. Place the Sega Saturn CD-ROM, label side up, in the well of the CD tray and close the lid.
3. Press the Power Button to load the game. The game starts after the Sega Saturn logo screen appears. If nothing appears, turn the system OFF and ensure it is set up correctly.
4. To stop a game in progress or restart after the game ends, press the Reset Button on the console to return to the Title Screen. To return to the Control Panel from any point, press Buttons A, B, C, and Start simultaneously.
5. If you turn on the power without inserting a CD, the Audio CD Control Panel appears. To play a game, insert the Sega Saturn CD, press the D-Button to move the cursor to the top-left button on the Control Panel, and press Start.
Important: Your Sega Saturn CD-ROM contains a security code. Keep the disc clean and handle it carefully. If the system has trouble reading the disc, wipe it starting from the center and wiping straight out towards the edge.
Note: *Guardian Heroes* supports one to six players.
Sword or Sorcery?
The Guardian Heroes are a group of adventurers seeking the legendary sword that saved the world in ancient times. Han discovers this sword stuck in rocks and brings it back to headquarters.
A stranger warns the group to flee just as the Royal Knights arrive, ordered by the King's advisor, Kanon, to find the ancient sword. Kanon secretly plans to destroy the sword to take control of the kingdom.
The Heroes embark on a quest to uncover Kanon's motives and prevent his evil scheme. You can choose a character to lead the team or enter VERSUS MODE to battle up to six players.
Controller Setup
•
One or Two Players: Control Pad 1 manages game decisions. Control Pad 2 controls character movements for Player 2.
•
Three to Six Players: Use the 6-Player Adaptor (sold separately) plugged into Control Port 2. Attach Control Pads to the adaptor in order, starting with 1P.
Starting the Adventure
If using a backup RAM Cartridge, choose where to store adventure data: internal hard RAM or cartridge memory. Use the D-Button to move the highlighter and press Button A or C to select.
Press Start to advance to the Title Screen. If no selection is made, a demo will start after a few moments. Press Start at any time to return to the Title Screen.
On the Title Screen, choose from:
•
STORY MODE: Lead a character (or two in 2-player games) through the adventure.
•
VERSUS MODE: Battle up to six players against each other.
•
OPTION MODE: View adventure data and change game parameters.
•
LOAD: Continue a saved game.
Option Mode
In Option Mode, view game data, listen to BGM and sound effects, and set button functions.
DIP Switch
Set screen messages, difficulty levels, and other game options. Highlight an option and press the D-Button left or right to change settings. Press Start or highlight EXIT and press Button A or C to exit.
•
Level: Change difficulty (EASY, NORMAL, or HARD). EASY offers 99 Continues, NORMAL offers 9, and HARD offers 3. Normal and Hard levels feature tougher opponents and hidden content.
•
Reset Key: Change the buttons used to reset the game (exit to intro). Four choices available.
•
User Friendly: ON makes gameplay easier; OFF keeps players on their toes.
•
Play Demo Time Limit: OFF allows unlimited demo watching; ON limits demo time.
•
Pause Display: ON shows Stats Window during pause; OFF leaves the screen clear.
•
Hit Combo Display: ON shows special attack hit counters; OFF hides them.
•
Audio: Select MONO or STEREO sound.
•
Enemy Level Display: ON shows opponent strength; OFF hides it for surprise.
•
Next Exp Display: ON shows XP remaining for next level; OFF hides it.
Stats Window
This window displays character data:
1. Name
2. Level
3. Hit Points
4. Magic Points
5. Strength
6. Intelligence
7. Agility
8. Experience
9. Next Level
10. Vitality
11. Mental Protection
12. Luck
Key Config
Set custom button functions. Highlight a button and press the D-Button left or right to change its function. Press Start or highlight EXIT and press Button A or C to exit.
•
Defend: Guard against attacks.
•
Normal Attack: Standard strike.
•
Powerful Attack: Stronger strike.
•
Command: Move the Undead Warrior.
•
Change Level: Move between battlefield levels.
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Magic: Cast spells.
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Move Back/Forward: Navigate battlefield layers.
Player Settings
Create a database to save VERSUS MODE victory data. Highlight PLAYER SETTINGS and press Button A or C.
•
**EDIT
Controls
POWER/OFF
Load the game
Reset
Return to the game's title screen
A, B, C, and Start buttons simultaneously
Return to the control panel
R-button
Move the cursor to the top-left button on the control panel
Start
Appear the introductory screens of a game
Direction key (D-key)
Move the marker and browse through explanatory texts / Move player character forwards and backwards
Start key (Start)
Choose mode and settings / Pause and resume play
Key A
Choose settings / Protect player character / Activate undead fighter
Key B
Cancel selections / Perform normal strength attack
Key C
Choose settings / Perform powerful attack / Scroll messages forwards
Key X
Activate undead fighter
Key Y
Jump one level towards furthest part of battlefield
Key Z
Perform magic attack
Left Shift-key (key L)
Jump one level towards furthest part of battlefield
Right Shift-key (key R)
Jump one level towards nearest part of battlefield
Enemies & Characters
Samuel Han
Originally a member of the Royal Knights Blue Team, he became a wandering adventurer carrying one of the most powerful swords ever forged.
Randy M. Green
A shy sorcerer who studies under his colleague Edward M. Nando, joining the Guardian Heroes to hone his skills through travel and combat.
Ginjirou Ibushi
A ninja traveling to find the legendary soul-bound sword Muramasa, he joined the Guardian Heroes to pursue this goal.
Nicole Neale
A mischievous but devout cleric and optimist who sees the group's journey as an interesting diversion, though she hides many secrets.
Undead Warrior
A mysterious knight resurrected from the dead by a power greater than life, who now fights on the side of the Guardian Heroes.
Serena Corsaire
Commander of the Royal Knights Red Team who sides with the heroes, though she keeps knowledge about Han's sword secret.
Edward M. Ned
Randy M. Green's best friend and companion in arms, also known as Ed.
Ginjō Ibrushi
A ninja who travels the world in search of the legendary Mazurana whose powers are linked to fire.
The Zombie Warrior
A mythical knight pulled from his tomb by a force more powerful than life who obeys the commands of the Guardian Heroes.
Ginjiro Ibushi
A ninja who travels in search of the legendary sword Muramasa and decided to join the Guardian Heroes team.
Exhumed Warrior
A mysterious knight exhumed from the grave who now obeys the orders of the Guardian Heroes.
Zombie Warrior
A mysterious knight raised from the grave by a power greater than life, now serving on the side of the Guardian Heroes.
Undead Fighter
A mysterious knight risen from his grave by a power greater than life, now standing on the side of the Guardian Heroes and following their orders.
Tips & Maps
Battle Tips
Survival is key, so use the Defend technique (Button A) when not attacking. Avoid magic and speed attacks with the level jump or aerial recovery techniques, and press buttons in a circle or repeatedly to recover from being stunned.
Magic and Skill Management
Magic points are limited and can be recovered via special attacks, so do not rely on magic exclusively. Distribute skill points to strengthen character weaknesses, as each hero starts with different inherent abilities.
Handling Your Sega Saturn CD-ROM
Use the CD-ROM only with the Sega Saturn system, keeping it clean and free from heat sources or direct sunlight. Take breaks during extended play to rest both yourself and the disc.
Projection TV Warning
Still pictures or images may cause permanent damage to the picture tube or mark the phosphor of CRT projection televisions; avoid repeated or extended use on such devices.
Serena Corsaire
The commander of the Royal Knights Red Team, Serena has decided to take the side of the Guardian Heroes and seems to know about the sword Han found, though her true motives remain unclear.
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