Valis IV

About

Valis IV is a side-scrolling platformer that continues the saga of the Valis series. You play as twin sisters Lena and Amu as they cross ancient temples, floating islands, and celestial realms to reclaim a legendary sword and stop the power-mad prince Galgear. The game mixes precise platforming, projectile-based combat, and exploration, with levels that shift between terrestrial and otherworldly environments. Progression relies on mastering movement, collecting power-ups, and solving environmental puzzles to unlock new areas and defeat increasingly complex bosses. The game stands out for its tight controls and co-op friendly design, letting players team up to tackle challenges. While its 1991 release date and Turbografx-16/PC Engine CD exclusivity make it a niche title, fans of classic platformers praise its polished mechanics and cohesive world design. The story’s focus on sibling teamwork and mythic stakes adds depth, though the lack of modern accessibility features may limit its appeal.

Storyline

Following on the events of Valis III, Yuko has become the goddess of the world of Vecanti and has watched over the world in peace since the defeat of Glames. Trouble brews when the Dark World prince named Galgear begins to search for a magical ring. This ring increases his powers, but to the loss of control he could have maintained under its effects, and the gods of Vecanti recognize this and imprison Galgear inside a crystal sunk into the ocean. Fifteen years pass, and Galgear manages to break out of his prison, kidnapping the former heroine Valna and being pursued by troops led by Cham as a result. A member of her band, named Lena, requests permission to infiltrate Galgear's stronghold and free Valna on her own; Cham initially disagrees, but a disembodied voice convinces her to allow this, and Lena brings her twin sister Amu with her. They both succeed in reaching Galgear's inner sanctum, but are stopped by the prince and his ring, who is about to obliterate them when they are teleported away by a magic force—that of Asfal, the prince's father, who tells them that only the Valis sword, no longer in this world, can stop him. Both girls journey day and night to reach the heavens of Vecanti and claim the sword, which is bequeathed onto them by Yuko herself, sent with her blessings in stopping the power-hungry prince. They return to Vecanti and use the mystic blade to defeat Galgear.