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Wonder Boy in Monster Land took a side-scrolling platformer and turned into an incredible action/RPG that launched a franchise. The Master System port was excellent, and while it suffered from many of the same flaws of the arcade original, it remains a great addition to anyone’s 8-bit Sega library.
Rambo II was the Master System’s first big-name, two-player run-‘n-gun, and it was a pretty fun romp while it lasted. Varied environments and lots of enemies helped make up for the game’s relatively slow pace, and the soundtrack is highly underrated. This is one gem that Master System owners should give a try.
MAD magazine’s wacky pair of spies made an appearance on multiple formats in the ’80s, including the Master System. While it does manage to retain the charm of the comics, the gameplay isn’t very deep. Try playing a few quick sessions with a friend for the best effect.
The only Ys released on the Master System was a port of the first game, and while it lacks the advanced features of its CD-ROM cousin, it offers an excellent rendition of the classic action/RPG. Adol’s first adventure is one anyone with Sega’s 8-bit machine should play, and it still holds up, even with its somewhat clunky combat.
The Master System saw its fair share of sword-slinging action, and one game that many have overlooked is Kenseiden. Though not perfect (and quite challenging), the game is worth spending some time with. Great visuals and a variety of levels are sometimes overshadowed by the stiff gameplay, but there’s fun to be had.