Zillion on the Sega Master System is one of those weird, cool action-platformers that feels like it got lost in time. You play as JJ, this space agent sneaking through a maze-like base full of laser grids, patrolling robots, and doors that only open if you punch in the right passcode (good luck remembering those). The controls take a second to get used to—your guy moves kinda stiff, but once you figure out the timing for dodging and shooting, it clicks.

What really sticks with me is the atmosphere. The music’s got this tense, synth-heavy vibe, and the levels are packed with little details—flickering lights, weird computer panels, enemies that pop out of nowhere. It’s not an easy game, either. You’ve got limited lives, no continues, and some of those later stages feel like they’re actively trying to murder you. But there’s something satisfying about finally nailing a tricky jump or outsmarting a patrol bot.

If you’re into retro games that don’t hold your hand, Zillion’s worth a look—just maybe keep a notepad handy for those passcodes.