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Step into a world where giant mechs, cybernetic heroes, and galactic guardians trade their high-tech gadgets for swords and shields. The Great Battle III (also known as Great Battle III or by its full title コンパチヒーローシリーズ ザグレイトバトルIII) is a side-scrolling beat 'em up that offers a unique twist on the crossover formula. As the third entry in the main Great Battle sub-series and the seventh title in the expansive Compati Heroes Series: The Great Battle III lineup for the Super Famicom, this game is a fascinating relic of 16-bit gaming history. It brings together iconic franchises—Gundam, Ultraman, and Kamen Rider—alongside original character Fighter Roar for an adventure unlike any other in their respective universes.
Unlike its predecessors, which leaned heavily into sci-fi and tokusatsu tropes, The Great Battle III transports its heroes to a traditional fantasy world. The narrative follows our four protagonists as they are whisked away to a land of magic, castles, and mythical beasts. The setting is a radical departure for characters like the F91 Gundam or Ultraman, who are typically seen soaring through space or battling in modern metropolitan areas. Here, they must navigate dense forests, treacherous dungeons, and medieval fortifications to stop a rising evil. This change in scenery isn't just cosmetic; it defines the entire atmosphere of the game, blending the colorful aesthetic of the Super Famicom with a distinct "Dungeons & Dragons" vibe that was immensely popular in Japanese RPGs and action games of the early 90s.
At its core, The Great Battle III is a traditional scrolling brawler, but it introduces several mechanics that set it apart from its contemporaries. The most notable change is the shift to medieval weaponry. Instead of beam sabers and energy blasts, the characters wield swords, maces, and bows. Each of the four playable characters offers a different playstyle: Fighter Roar acts as a balanced warrior, Kamen Rider specializes in close-quarters agility and speed, Ultraman provides raw power for heavy hits, and F91 Gundam utilizes ranged attacks and tactical positioning.
The game also incorporates a light RPG-style progression system. Players can collect money dropped by enemies or found in hidden chests to visit shops between stages. These shops allow for the purchase of equipment upgrades, healing items, and powerful magical spells that can clear the screen of enemies. This adds a layer of strategy to the brawling; deciding whether to save for a stronger sword or spend on immediate health can be the difference between victory and defeat. The inclusion of two-player cooperative play further enhances the experience, allowing friends to team up and combine their "medieval-ized" superpowers to take down screen-filling bosses.
This game was originally released for the Super Famicom in Japan, catering to the massive audience of the Compati Hero franchise during the height of the 16-bit era.
As the seventh of seventeen Compati Hero Series games released for the Super Famicom, The Great Battle III holds a significant place in Banpresto's history. It represented a bold experimental phase for the franchise, proving that these characters could be adapted into any genre or setting—be it a shooter, a sports game, or a medieval fantasy brawler. While many Western gamers missed out on the title during its initial run due to it being a Japan-exclusive release, it has gained a dedicated following through the retro gaming community and fan translations. It remains a highlight of the 16-bit beat 'em up era, praised for its charming sprite work and the sheer novelty of its crossover premise.