PLATFORM ADVENTURE
Monster World IV (MD, 1994)
Subgenre: Zelda-like Platform Adventure
Movement Mechanics: Hover jump via an animal mascot
Other: Town hub w/ a shop, Separate intro area, Overworld and dungeons structure
Almost fully linear structure (can't revisit beaten sub areas, maze dungeons)
Evenly placed save points
No area maps besides basic layout maps for the ice dungeon, vague world map
Creates a good sense of vulnerability in the late game (spoilers: by taking away your sidekick, also creating more of an emotional impact via the game mechanics)
Teleport back to town (magic carpet rides)
Some sequence breaking possible by infinite jumping against a wall in town (the game gets a little glitchy though)
Playthrough - Video Review - Mini-Review
Influenced by: Probably Zelda II, possibly Dragon View, Aladdin or Magic of Scheherazade
Influenced: Probably Shantae, Monster Tale, possibly Pokemon or Tamagotchi