Crystalis: all version differences
6 documented differences between the releases of Crystalis, each with a source. Back to the main page for names, releases and where to play.
Category × version
| Category | Famicom (JP) | NES (NA) | Game Boy Color | Nintendo Switch Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gameplay | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Content | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Text | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Audio | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Graphics | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Version differences
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GameplayFamicom (JP)NES (NA)
The Japanese cartridge has a cheat mode with invulnerability, all items and fast walking, turned on by holding A and B on the first controller while switching the console on. The North American release disables it.1
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ContentFamicom (JP)
Only the Japanese version hides four messages from the developers, which can be seen after the ending with the cheat mode active.1
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TextGame Boy Color
The Game Boy Color port has a new opening and a reworked plot: the Tower becomes the villain's weapon, the hero is a figure of prophecy, his default name changes from SNK to Simea, and Draygon becomes Dragonia, as in the Japanese version.2
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AudioGame Boy Color
The Game Boy Color version has an almost entirely new soundtrack, and a digitized voice calls out each sword's name when it is found.2
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GameplayGame Boy Color
On Game Boy Color enemies are no longer immune to specific swords, and the lower resolution shows less of the field, so some enemies can attack from off-screen.2
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GraphicsNintendo Switch Online
The Nintendo Switch Online release tones down the flashing effect in the opening.1
Sources
Checked: 2026-10-13