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Rygar (NES, 1987)

Subgenre: ARPG (exp adds to attack and defense+upgrades your life bar - automatic stat increases, get clues on what tools to use and basic directions from NPCs)/Zelda II-like

Perspective: TD view/Side view hybrid (both have platforming and enemies)

Other: Overworld/Hub area (TD view) and partial hub area in one sub area (Gran Mountains)

Only one gained tool adds to your moveset (the other three are more like keys)
No side view area maps (first area is mapped in the manual - also shows the overworld layout with marked exits to side view areas as well as which area holds what item) - mostly maze-like areas with some dead ends
Mostly linear structure (can move some ways into the second and third areas in the beginning, after getting the pulley+the crossbow you can pick between two areas, one optional boss (Doroga - defends a useful piece of armor))
No save or password save - the game's not that long though plus you get unlimited continues and respawn at the beginning of the current area after dying (no exp or MP loss, 3 HP restored - leads to some grinding/backtracking as health drops are pretty rare)
Can get an HP recovery potion from some NPCs if you have a coat of arms item (need to beat a certain boss), Some NPCs restore your health (one per area or so)
Three spells from the get go (can't gain more spells; MP drops from enemies; power up - upgrades distance/speed/strength of your main weapon until death, attack and assail=10 smart bomb attacks, recover=full heal)
Auto-teleport out of boss areas back to the overworld
Frequently respawning enemies in most areas
Several death pits and you die from falling into water (jumping down where you can climb down via a rope also kills you)

Playthrough - Video Review - Mini Review

Influenced by: Zelda II, Rygar (ARC), Greek mythology, possibly Xanadu, Castlevania or Vampire Killer (MSX), Kid Icarus

Influenced: Possibly Golvellius, Star Tropics, Gremlins 2, Battle of Olympus