Monkey Hero

About

Monkey Hero follows a primate protagonist who gets separated from their companion during a mining expedition. A cave-in drops you deep underground where you grab a bamboo staff that becomes your primary weapon. The game mixes platforming sections with turn-based combat as you navigate tunnels and surface world environments. You'll track down a mystical mentor who equips you with communication gear before sending you on a mission to recover a stolen storybook from a villainous figure. The game stands out for its straightforward blend of exploration and classic RPG systems. While its 1999 release date shows in the visuals, the linearity of the adventure and steady progression of abilities create a focused experience. Small details like the staff being your only weapon for most of the game add to the charm. The PlayStation version remains the only official release across a 25-year span since launch.