Atari’s BLOOD WILL TELL: TEZUKA OSAMU’S DORORO is based on the story of Dororo, an anime created by Tezuka Osamu, best known for his ASTRO BOY series. The action/adventure game sends players to ancient Japan on a quest to retrieve 48 body parts and defeat a horde of demons. Players take on the role of Hyakkimaru, a samurai who had 48 of his body parts stolen from him by demons when he was an infant. This rather unusual samurai is accompanied by the even more unusual thief, Dororo, who players can issue commands to and, at certain parts of the game, take direct control of. The two are out to retrieve Hyakkimaru’s body parts by defeating over 60 bosses. Adding to Hyakkimaru’s unusualness is the fact that he has replaced much of his missing body with man-made items like blades or cannons. His main weapon is a sword, which can be upgraded or traded for more powerful swords as players work their way through the seven main chapters of the game. Hyakkimaru also gains more abilities as his body parts are found. For example, the game begins in black and white, and it isn’t until players find the left eye that the game shifts to color. Other parts, like his left leg, give Hyakkimaru access to new attacks or abilities. Gamers who love Tezuka Osamu’s anime series or enjoy unique action games will find BLOOD WILL TELL has an incredibly deep story and interesting characters and also provides a challenge.
