Mystic Defender

• Title — Mystic Defender • Developer — Sega • Publisher — Sega • Artist — * Rieko Kodama • Takako Kawaguchi • Composer — Chikako Kamatani • Genre — Action • Modes — Single-player • Platforms — Genesis/Mega Drive

Mystic Defender takes place in an alternate Japan fantasy setting in which the anarchistic sorcerer Zareth kidnaps a young woman named Alexandra. Zareth plans to use Alexandra as a sacrifice for the resurrecting of an ancient and evil god known as Zao. Not long after the kidnapping, Zareth's plan becomes apparent as Azuchi castle - the dwelling of Zao - rises from the waters. Joe Yamato, an experienced sorcerer, is called into action to save Alexandra and stop Zareth's plan to resurrect Zao by battling his way through the dark and bizarre disciples and demons of Zao.

The player's only means of defense in the game is the use of magical spells that can be acquired by finding the power-ups. The player starts with a single shooting ball of energy that can be charged to fire one powerful shot. The player can also acquire a spiritual flame that can be pointed in straight and diagonal directions and has a long reach when charged. Finally, the player can acquire a spherical power that launches ricocheting spheres around the screen which multiply when fully charged. Aside from these powers, the player can also use a screen-clearing attack that summons a three-headed dragon which destroys all enemies and fired shots onscreen.