Kishin Dōji Zenki FX: Vajra Fight

Did You Know?

• The game was published with a retail price of JP¥7,800.
• Copies have fetched over US$300 on the secondary video game collecting market.
• It is one of the rarest titles in the PC-FX library.

Gameplay

Kishin Dōji Zenki FX: Vajra Fight is a side-scrolling action-platform beat 'em up reminiscent of The Ninja Warriors and Guardian Heroes. Players assume the role of either Zenki or Chiaki Enno through various stages set in Japan, fighting demonic beings known as the Seeds of Karuma and attempting to rescue a girl named Nozomi. The gameplay structure is similar to Alien Soldier, with short stages populated by weak enemies that serve as downtime between boss battles, which are a major focus. A second player can join at any time, allowing two players to play through the entire game. Zenki is a melee-oriented character focusing on close-quarter physical attacks, while Chiaki is a range-based character who attacks with energy projectiles. Both characters have a special move executed by collecting a Bracelet of Protection: if Zenki grabs it, he transforms into a more powerful demon lord form with increased offense and defense until defeated; if Chiaki grabs it, she invokes Zenki in his true demon lord form to perform a powerful dash attack. Losing all energy results in a game over, but players can continue with a limited number of credits. An options menu is accessible at the title screen, and a cheat code unlocks a level select screen.

Reception and legacy

Kishin Dōji Zenki FX: Vajra Fight, a Japan-exclusive for the PC-FX, earned mixed to positive reviews from import critics. GameFan's Nicholas Barres, Casey Loe, and Dave Halverson liked its visuals and gameplay but found it too short and disliked the intermission scenes. HonestGamers' Zigfried praised the presentation, graphics, story, and music, yet called the gameplay sloppy and the game brief. Bruno Sol of Superjuegos highlighted it as a standout PC-FX title, commending its gameplay and presentation. Hardcore Gaming 101's John Szczepaniak appreciated the visuals but pointed out several flaws, especially the controls and length. Retro Gamer's Rory Milne lauded the presentation, enemy design, audio, dialogue, and frantic action. In 2014, Retro Gamer ranked it among the console's best games.