Frank Provo's
River City Ransom
Player's Guide
version 1.31
Note: The current version of this guide is always available in text
or HTML format from:
http://www.pair.com/~mosaic/rcr/
What is River City Ransom?
River City Ransom is a pseudo-3D action RPG fighting game
created by Technos Japan and marketed in America by American Technos.
As far as I know, it is only available for the 8-bit Nintendo
Entertainment System (also known as The Famicom in Japan). It came
out in 1989 and looks similar to another popular Technos title, Double
Dragon.
Though similar to Double Dragon, River City Ransom emerges as
superior to the entire Double Dragon series in every possible way--
more moves, more enemies, more variety, etc. It's rather amusing then
that a sequel wasn't made to this game, while many sequels (and a movie!)
were made for Double Dragon. To date, I haven't played a game quite like
this one on any of the more current 16 & 32 bit systems. While its
graphics & sound might pale to more recent games, the sheer fun factor
and playability of River City Ransom make it more enjoyable than a good
95% of the current era of gaming.
Another nice touch is that River City Ransom is for 1 or 2
players. Okay, so that's not entirely unusual, but what is unusual is
the existence of certain tag team moves you can do with the aid of another
player. They aren't exactly spectacular, but they add a ton of amusement
to the game--which is what 2-player games should be: amusing.
For a game released in 1989, River City Ransom screams longevity.
Fighting elements, lots of action, an excellent 2-player co-operative
system, and nice pseudo-anime graphics make this a must-have game for
anyone who calls themselves a gaming conniseur. I can't think of one
game I'd recommend higher.
-----
Table of Contents
A. Version History
B. Plot
C. Controls
- How to play
- 2-Player Considerations
- How the submenu works
- Weapons you and the baddies can use
D. Verbosity
E. Gangs, Colors & Loot
- The Gangs
- Gang Fighting Tips
F. The Good Guys
G. Bosses
H. Malls, Shops & Power Ups
- Malls, items, price, and what they do
- Shopping Tips
I. Cheats & Codes
J. River City Ransom Online
K. Other Technos Super-Deformed NES Titles
L. The Final Blurbs
- How to contribute?
- Contributors & Acknowledgements
- How long does it take to beat this darn game?
A. Version History:
Note: The current version of this guide is always available from
the Totally Technos Website:
http://www.pair.com/~mosaic/rcr/
This guide has gone through many incarnations. Here's a summary of
what you've missed (or gained)
06/14/97: Version 0.91 - first attempt, VERY rough, not released
06/17/97: Version 0.92 - added more gang & control info, added shopping
tips, tidied up english, not released
06/29/97: Version 0.93 - began the section on bosses, not released
07/01/97: Version 0.94 - more info on the bosses, not released
07/03/97: Version 0.95 - finished bosses section, began section on shop
items, not released
07/04/97: Version 0.96 - much more added to the shops section, changed
the layout a bit, added defeated gang member
payout info, not released
07/10/97: Version 0.97 - finished 3rd mall, tidied up a bit,
not released
07/11/97: Version 0.98 - finished final mall, redid plot a bit,
not released.
07/12/97: Version 1.0 - Added section on the Good Guys, slapped
self for forgetting to do so earlier,
first released version of this guide.
07/13/97: Version 1.1 - Added a cheats & codes section, what
Fatal Steps does and another RCR
related page.
08/11/97: Version 1.11 - Added Ben Turner's RCR Site to the
Links at the end of this guide.
08/13/97: Version 1.2 - Added information on other Technos NES
games. Added a password for full stats,
and lots of money. Added a regeneration
cheat.
09/04/97: Version 1.21 - Added info on World Cup Soccer.
12/07/98: Version 1.31 - Added info about possible RCR 2, grand
slam tip, bounce kick technique, codes
from tsr's NES Archive.
-----
B. The Plot (adapted a tad from the manual):
It's a nice, clear day out, so like any self-respecting High
School students, you and your friend Alex ditch school and spend most
of the day socializing. Rather than dwell on the fact that you have
a math test tomorrow, you decide to meet up with your girlfriend,
Cyndi, and go shopping. Unfortunately, this means heading back to
school, but hey--that's in a few hours, so you're not going to get
too distracted from your double mocha latte'.
After a few hours have gone by, you head back over to school
and take the long walk up the curiously empty steps. Stopping by your
locker to pick up your jacket, you note a "post-it" stuck to your
locker door. Upon closer inspection, it reads:
"I hold your city captive &
RYAN's girlfriend hostage.
With my gangs of students &
evil bosses, nobody can stop
me now. Meet my demands - or
else!... P.S. Alex & Ryan if
you interfere, you'll be in
for the fight of your lives!
... SLICK"
Argh! Just what you need on a day like this--pathetic melodrama.
Thanks to a rather conceited note, it looks like you're going to spend
your day kicking butt and taking names. Wait a minute, where did all of
the other students go? Did Slick kidnap them too? Hmmm.... Ah well,
can't dwell on that now, you gotta save this town and get Cyndi back to
her shopping before the Malls close. (You know how she hates to miss
a sale)
Well Ryan, it's up to you to save Cyndi and free the town from
the clutches of the evil Slick. Then again, you could just ask Alex to
do it, or at least enlist his help in the fight. Hmmm, so many options,
so little time. Hmmm... your jacket's not inside your locker. Aigh!
Slick stole that too?! That's it! It's on now.
-----
C. Controls:
A - Punch, Block, & Use Weapon
B - Kick, Block, & Throw Weapon
A+B - Jump (You can punch, kick, and throw in midair)
Start - Pause/Submenu (belongings, password, stats,
level/message speed, help)
Select - Switch between Stamina Guage and Money Guage
D-Pad - Move around in the psuedo-3D environment
Tap D-Pad twice to run - you may attack while running
2-Player Considerations:
In 2 player mode you can jump on top of your partner and
stand on his head. Your partner can throw you (no damage)
while you're on top of him, enabling you to fly through
the air doing multiple attacks
When you first turn on the game, your options are to choose
either 1p or 2p and your character. You can change your
character's name by hitting 'Select' on this screen.
After choosing characters, you can change the message
speed and difficulty level of the game. Choosing Advanced
will result in the enemy having twice the stamina, speed,
and strength they'd normally have. You can change this
during the game too. Beginners should pick Novice level.
The "Status" Screen: (during game - hit Start, pick Status)
Min/Max
15/63 Punch Damage your punches do
15/63 Kick Damage your kicks do
15/63 Weapon Damage your armed attacks do
15/63 Throw Damage done when throwing someone/thing
15/63 Agility A mixture of speed and jump height
15/63 Defense Bears upon your ability to block
15/63 Strength Ability to break an enemy's block or hold them
15/63 Will Power Ability to regain consciousness when K.O.'d
63/127 Stamina Your Life
63/127 Max Power Your Maximum Amount of Life
Weapons you (and the gangs) can use:
Wooden Crate - A big wooden box to smack someone with.
Trash Can - Pretty much the same as the crate.
Concrete Tire - A Grey, concrete tire. Acts like a trash can.
Concrete Rock - Great for throwing, adds power to your punch.
Brass Knuckles - Pretty similar in usage to the rock.
Wooden Stick - Batter Up! Good for throwing too.
Lead Pipe - Same as the stick; but a little more spiffy.
Metal Chain - As effective as the stick, but looks cooler.
Gang Members - Battering Ram! Can just toss em for damage too.
Your goal in the game is simple, make it to the end and save your
girl. You'll have to defeat 4 bosses to gain access to River City
High, and along the way will spend mucho dinero in shops in order to
power yourself up. Thankfully, each time you beat up an enemy they
drop a little bit of money. Most "levels" will yield between $5 and
$10 depending on the gang who controls it.
When defeated you don't die, you simply awaken from your beating
at the last mall you passed through--with your wallet pilfered. If
your Willpower is 35 or above, you will regain consciousness in the
spot you're at a few seconds after being knocked down, with 20 life
points (2 bars) regained.
-----
D. Verbosity:
All throughout the game, enemies and friends alike tend to babble
to you about anything that comes to mind. Most of the time it's just
those pesky college guys harassing you, or the gangsters bragging about
how they're going to kick your butt. However, sometimes you can gain
valuable clues through what's said. For instance, Roxy clues you in
on the existence of a hidden room on the top floor of River City High.
Even those pesky Zombies have wisdom to impart, telling you which Zombie
to defeat next and where to find them. Additionally, depending on the
character you choose, some of the messages will differ slightly--i.e.
Roxy's clues to Cyndi's whereabouts change a little bit between Alex &
Ryan.
-----
E. The Good Guys
Alex & Ryan
In a one player game you can be either of them. In a 2-Player
game both of them get to kick some gang butt. Other than Ryan having
a blue shirt, he's not physically different from Alex. You gotta love
'em though, since they're your main characters :)
Roxy
Slick's girlfriend, who has a change of heart and informs you
of Cyndi's whereabouts. She also warns you about the twins, and
basically kicks the plot into high gear when it's needed most.
Cyndi
Ryan's girlfriend, who seems to be more interested in shopping
than the predicament she is in. For proof of this, beat the twins inside
River City High, and go into the door just left of where you met Randy &
Andy. Cyndi's being held there, and yet she'll chew you out for being
late--she's so grateful, isn't she?
Sad to say, but other than the mall workers, that's about it in the
way of good guys. 500 of them, 4 of you - nice odds eh?
-----
F. The Gangs, Shirt Colors, & Money Carried:
The Generic Dudes - LIGHT BLUE - $.50
Your basic wannabee gang members. Rather slow, not too strong,
etc. You'll meet these guys predominantly in the beginning of
your mission.
The Home Boys - TAN - $.75
A little faster, stronger, and smarter than the Generic Dudes--
but not by much.
The Jocks - LIGHT GREEN - $.60
Medium speed, a bit like the Home Boys after they've hit the gym.
Tend to use weapons if they find them laying around. All in all,
a very middle-ground gang.
The Frat Guys - PINK - $.55
These guys love to bring weapons into the party, and attack like
drunken lunatics. They usually appear on a level running, and
will attack at full speed if you're close. Many times they will
run off after a punch or two.
The Internationals - DARK GREEN - $1.10
A somewhat smarter, later in the game, version of the Home Boys.
They're quite wimpy by the time you encounter them though.
The Squids - BURGUNDY - $1.00
The Frat Guys on crack is what these guys are. Fast, strong, and
they love to throw you around if given the chance. If that
weren't enough, they love to use weapons as well. Another gang to
simply avoid.
The Mob - GREY - $.90
Similar to the Squids, only a little less fast. They tend to
appear carrying weapons though, so it's tougher heading them off
at the pass. They're another gang probably best left alone.
Moose, the Construction site boss, and Rocko, the Warehouse boss,
wear Mob shirt colors.
The Plague - RED - $1.25
You'll meet these guys inside River City High School, and
they'll be quite the pushovers when you do. While a tad stronger,
they fight like the Internationals, and take a beating just like
them too.
The Cowboys - DARK BLUE - $1.20
You'll run into these guys just outside of River City High, and
from time to time inside as well. They attack just like the Mob.
Be careful around them, they love to doubleteam. Tex, the boss on
the 2nd floor of River City High, is probably a cowboy.
The Zombies - RED - $2.50-3.75
Not a gang per se, but you'll fight their members at various times
throughout the game. They wear red shirts like the Plague, only
you'll have to beat four of them before you even meet up with the
Plague members.
Benny & Clyde - PURPLE - $7.00 ($3.50 each)
A gang unto themselves. They first accost you at the base of the
Capital Ave. Bridge. They always come replete with weapons, and
will use any means necessary to put you down for the count. If
you beat them once, prepare to face them again in front of Pop's
Health Club.
General Gang-Fighting Tips
* The gang you face on each "level" is random, so if you don't like
fighting a certain gang, leave the screen. When you return, a new
gang may take their place.
* Avoid fighting the Frat Guys, the Squids, & the Mob until you are
strong enough to defeat them (i.e. stat levels above 20 or so for the
Frat Guys, above 30 or so for the rest).
* Weapons slow you down and are a detriment when fighting in close
quarters. If the enemy is close to you, stick to hand-to-hand combat.
If an enemy has a weapon, move offline a bit and hit him with a running
kick--he'll lose his lunch.
* Never stay in between two gang members; they'll beat you silly.
* Stronger gang members yield more money when defeated. Learn which ones
pay off the most and use this to your advantage. You'll need money if
you're to survive. Bosses can be fought repeatedly, and leave behind
the most cash.
* The quickest way to defeat gang members in the presence of bottomless
pits is to simply push or throw them in. You won't reap monetary gain
however, and they can do the same to you (falling into a pit is instant
defeat and sends you back to the last mall you visited).
* This last point can't be stressed enough: USE WALLS TO YOUR ADVANTAGE.
The programmers dotted levels with benches, walls, etc. to climb on,
and they make wonderful points of attack. Enemies freeze when you
climb above them--so get them close, jump on a wall, move over, and
attack while falling.
-----
G. Bosses
Though Benny & Clyde and the Zombies are mentioned above, it
seemed prudent to give a summary of all the bosses, where you'll find
them, and their fighting styles.
Moose - Sticksville Construction Site - $2.25
Likes to do jump attacks. Favorite move seems to be a punch
followed by a jumping kick. Tends to run. Uses weapons with
nearly the same speed as his attacks. Not a very easy boss to
fight early on, but can be defeated. Attack him while he is going
for weapons, take advantage of the walls around you, and if need
be--knock him into the pit.
Benny & Clyde - Base of the Capital Ave. Bridge - $3.50 each
As mentioned above. Absolutely love to use weapons. Are quick,
will doubleteam, and will not hesitate to throw you around. Your
best bet is to have either the Stone Hands or Dragon Feet
technique bought by this time. Benny seems slightly quicker and
more apt to block than Clyde. They don't jump too often, but
will take advantage when you are stunned.
Rocko - Inside the WSL Co. Warehouse - $2.00
Fights pretty much like Moose, only the quarters are less cramped.
He's got so so speed, loves weapons, and is dangerous -- however,
if you use the walls and boxes to your advantage (i.e. to avoid
always being on the same plane as Rocko) you will be fine. If you
have one of the triple attack techniques by now, Rocko is toast.
Blade - Sherman Park - $3.50
After beating Rocko, he tells you to head back to Sherman Park
(i.e. the entrance is located in Sticksville, the Frat Boys usual
home) to fight Blade--The first of the Zombies. Blade loves
weapons, will block ad infinitum, and knocks off damage like a
freight train. He's very into jump attacks also. Your best bet
is to get him while he has a weapon, since he'll be (A LITTLE)
slower. Also, the columns and benches in the park provide
strategic spots for taking cheap shots at him.
Turk - Third portion of Armstrong Thru-Way - $2.50
Another unannounced Zombie to get in your way. He fights
exactly like Blade and Mojo, so refer to their sections. One
caveat--you have no walls or obstacles to hide behind this time.
If you aren't powered up, you will be slaughtered.
Mojo - Downtown "Playground" - $2.50
Although Blade says you have to get through Thor to fight Slick,
he neglected to mention the zombie known as Mojo. You'll find
Mojo just before Flatirons Mall, at a makeshift streetfighting
playground (replete with bleachers!). Just like Blade, Mojo
loves weapons, and once again there are plenty of obstacles with
which to stand on. If you aren't powered up, attack via the
walls and bleachers. If you are, hit him when he has a weapon.
Don't fight him too much if he is weaponless, mainly because if
he knocks you down, his throws take mucho stamina.
Thor - Vacant 3rd Wheel Factory - $3.75
If you've beaten all of the zombies mentioned above, you can
have the honor of fighting Thor in the back room of the Vacant
3rd Wheel Factory. Again, he fights similar to the others, with
one notable exception--There's a huge pit on his level.
Basically, use the elevated floor to your advantage, and don't
get thrown into the pit.
Benny & Clyde - Burb Village Health Club (After Oak Hill Mall) - $3.50ea
They fight the exact same as they did previously, only now they
(and you hopefully) are powered up. Attack them one at a time,
don't get in between them, and don't turn your back--that's all
you need for these clowns. When defeated, $7.00 for you (hint
hint: they are a great way to get rich).
Ivan - Just outside of River City High School - $8.75
A rather anomolous boss to say the least. Wearing a dark green
shirt, this guy is one badass mofo. Unlike his shirt though, he
doesn't fight like a wimpy International. He is fast, has many
jump attacks, and loves to thwap you in midair with weapons. He
also has a viscious headbutt that does major damage even when
your character is maxed out. On the upshot, if you have any of
the triple attacks by now, and have bought ample powerups, you'll
eat him for breakfast in no time. Wait til he picks up a weapon
and let him have it.
Otis - River City High School Gym - $4.00
He could be a zombie, or he might be a very angry Plague member;
either way, he's mad. You're wearing gym shoes on his floor,
and he's not happy. He loves jump attacks, two-in-ones, and will
gladly throw you all over if given half a chance. Your best bet
is to use elevated objects, or to at least have your punch or
kicks maxed out (including either Dragon Feet or Stone Hands).
By this late in the game though, he shouldn't be too difficult.
Tex - 2nd Floor of River City High School - $9.50
Finally, a boss representing the Cowboy's gang. Unlike other
bosses though, he has huge bulging eyes and looks like he's
hopped up on Roids. He doesn't fight much different than Otis
or Ivan though. Likes weapons, two-in-ones, and loves to pick
you up and throw you around--sound familiar? Unlike Otis or
Ivan though, he appears with a big fat stick, and isn't afraid
to bash your head in with it. Beware his spinning stick swings
too--they can do you major hurt if you're unlucky enough to be
hit by them. Get in the first hit and take him down--heck,
he'll even cheer you on.
Randy & Andy - 3rd floor of River City High School - $18.00 each
If you hear the "Double Dragon" theme playing, you know you're
fighting these guys. Not coincidentally, they fight with moves
resembling those of Billy & Jimmy, the Double Dragons. They are
both fast, will throw you if they manage to knock you down, and
have insane attack priority over you. Additionally, they have
a viscious triple spin kick. That's not the worst part though--
the worst is that their attacks will do HUGE damage on you, to
the tune of between 30 & 60 points per successful blow. Fight
them one at a time, throw them if you can, and make sure your
attacks are powered up mucho. It also couldn't hurt to get the
"grand slam" power up and bring along Tex's stick.
Slick (a.k.a Simon) - River City High School roof
Ah yes, Slick turns out to be none other than Simon, famous of
Double Dragon fame. Compared to Randy & Andy he is an utter wuss.
He's got moderate speed, will jump with weapons, and likes jump
attacks. However, he doesn't seem to block as smartly as he
should, and he's very susceptible to being picked up and tossed
when on the ground. He's got the same vulnerabilities his
minions have when it comes to picking up weapons also. In short,
by the time you reach him, you should be able to beat him.
-----
H. Malls, Shops & Power Ups
KEY - WP = WILL POWER, D = DEFENSE, ST=STAMINA, SG=STRENGTH,
AG=AGILITY, MP = MAX POWER, WN=WEAPON, TH=THROW
The power up levels listed below are maximal values. The Stamina
and Max Power increases you receive will depend on how damaged
you are.
Max Power Increases can be calculated with this formula:
Possible Increase - (Max Power - Stamina) = Max Power Increase
Grotto Mall
Rise & Shine Cafe
Coffee .95 (WP+2,ST+15,MP+4)
Tea .95 (WP+4)
Hot Cocoa 1.25 (D+1,ST+24,MP+5)
Pancakes 3.30 (ST+25,MP+7)
Waffles 4.10 (AG+1,SG+1,ST+25,MP+6)
Metro Bakery
Donut .80 (WP+6)
Muffin .90 (AG+1,ST+6,MP+1)
Bagel .90 (D+1,ST+6,MP+1)
Honey Bun .90 (SG+1,ST+6,MP+1)
Croissant 1.00 (ST+8,MP+1)
Sushi Bar
*Cheaper Sushi*
Egg 2.25 (P+1,ST+10,MP+2)
Octopus 2.25 (WN+1,ST+8,MP+2)
Squid 2.25 (TH+2,ST+4,MP+1)
Conger Eel 3.75 (D+2,ST+16,MP+3)
Prawn 6.00 (SG+2,ST+32,MP+3)
*Expensive Sushi*
Salmon 8.25 (P+1,WP+2,ST+40,MP+7)
Ark Shell 9.00 (WN+1,WP+2,ST+50,MP+12)
Sea Urchin 11.50 (TH+2,WP+2,ST+64,MP+14)
Halibut 18.50 (D+3,WP+7,ST+80,MP+20)
Swordfish 28.75 (P+4,TH+4,SG+4,WP+5,ST+80,MP+8)
*Rolls*
Salad Roll 2.00 (ST+20,MP+5)
Tuna Roll 3.75 (ST+32,MP+7)
Shrimp Roll 6.25 (ST+50,MP+11)
Mixed Roll 10.50 (ST+80,MP+15)
Grotto Book Store
Stone Hands 26.95 (Three Punches per Punch)
Dragon Feet 26.95 (Three Kicks per Kick)
Acro Circus 26.95 (Running Midair Spin Attack)
Waterfront Mall
Waterfront Books
Scandal Rag 4.50 (D+2,WP+3)
Comic Times 6.50 (WN+2,D+1,WP+4)
Mystic Seer 18.00 (AG+2,WP+13)
Nuclear Spy 9.95 (ST+4,WP+5)
Indian Lore 28.75 (WP+30)
Chez Walle's
Salad Paris 2.35 (ST+10,MP+2)
Onion Soup 3.50 (ST+12,MP+2)
Cornish Hen 27.75 (TH+4,WP+25)
Veal Walle 36.00 (ST+5,WP+28,ST+99,MP+24)
Mao's Place
Egg Roll 3.50 (D+3,ST+24,MP+6)
Fried Rice 5.95 (TH+1,ST+40,MP+1)
Garlic Pork 5.75 (WN+1,ST+32,MP+7)
Pepper Beef 5.95 (ST+52,MP+10)
Chow Mein 5.95 (K+1,ST+40,MP+9)
Merv's Burger Joint
*Sandwiches*
Merv Burger 2.00 (WN+1,ST+8,MP+1)
Cheese Merv 2.25 (TH+1,ST+10,MP+2)
Fish Merv 2.50 (AG+1,ST+12,MP+2)
Mondo Merv 3.45 (WP+2,ST+16,MP+3)
*Drinks*
Milk .85 (ST+10,MP+2)
Iced Tea .95 (WP+2)
Soda 1.10 (WN+1,ST+8,MP+2)
Merv Malt 2.00 (D+1,ST+10,MP+2)
*Side Orders*
Merv Fries 1.50 (ST+14,MP+3)
Merv Rings 1.50 (SG+1,ST+12,MP+3)
Apple Pie 2.00 (AG+1,ST+10,MP+2)
Spicy Chili 2.75 (D+1,ST+16,MP+3)
Smile Free ("Alex/Ryan Blushed" - 0 INCREASE)
Jones' Pharmacy
Vita-Mints 2.10 (WP+1,ST+8,MP+2)
Digestol 4.95 (WP+2,ST+24,MP+6)
Recharge! 9.75 (SG+1,WP+2,ST+56,MP+14)
Karma Jolt 15.25 (TH+3,ST+99,MP+24)
Omni Elixir 19.95 (P+2,WP+8,ST+80,MP+20)
Merlin's Mystery Shop |Hidden in the Armstrong Thru-Way Tunnel|
|Press and Hold 'Up' about 3/4 of the |
|way through the tunnel to find it. |
Excaliber 100.00 (WN+30,WP+48,ST+99, MP+24)
Zeus' Wand 200.00 (TH+48,SG+48,WP+48,ST+99,MP+24)
Rodan Wing 100.00 (D+30,WP+48,ST+99,MP+24)
Gold Medal 100.00 (P+30,WP+48,ST+99,MP+24)
Isis Scroll 20.00 (TH+20)
Flatirons Mall
Flatirons Books
Stone Hands 26.95 (Three Punches per Punch)
Dragon Feet 26.95 (Three Kicks per Kick)
Fatal Steps 37.50 (Jump near downed enemies; they die)
The Roman Cow
Ice Cream 3.50 (AG+2,ST+16,MP+4)
Roman Shake 4.25 (WN+2,ST+24,MP+6)
Cola Float 4.75 (D+2,ST+32,MP+8)
Nero Pizza 6.25 (ST+50,MP+12)
Lasagna 6.25 (ST+48,MP+12)
Amy's Sweet Tooth
Mint Gum .95 (SG+1,WP+1)
Lolly Pop .95 (TH+1,WP+1)
Jaw Breaker .95 (WN+1,WP+1)
Rock Candy .95 (P+1,WP+1)
Fudge Bar .95 (K+1,WP+1)
Happy Feet Shoes
*Shoes*
Sneakers 28.00 (K+10,AG+20)
Boat Shoes 37.95 (K+10,AG+30)
Loafers 45.50 (K+30,AG+15)
Army Boots 58.75 (K+40,AG+20)
Texas Boots 99.95 (K+60,AG+60)
*Others*
Slippers 4.95 (K+2,AG+2)
Insoles 8.20 (SG+7)
Thongs 9.75 (K+4,AG+3)
Sandals 19.95 (K+7,AG+13)
Mod Boots 59.75 (K+20,AG+40)
Butcher Shop
Sirloin 4.95 (P+2,TH+3)
Rib-eye 5.95 (P+1,AG+4)
T-bone 6.95 (P+3,D+3)
Lamb Leg 11.95 (P+2,WP+48)
Toys Galore
Maze Craze 52.75 (K+1,WP+40,ST+87,MP+24)
Decathlete 57.50 (SG+3,WP+43,ST+86,MP+24)
Hyper Ball 57.50 (WN+4,TH+4,WP+38,ST+84,MP+24)
Techno Belt 27.25 (SG+18,ST+80,MP+20)
Teddy Bear 28.00 (SG+20,ST+80,MP+20)
CD Cellar
R & B 9.95 (SG+3,ST+56,MP+14)
Rock 9.95 (P+4,ST+48,MP+12)
Pop 9.95 (D+4,ST+48,MP+12)
Soul 9.95 (AG+4,ST+48,MP+12)
Classical 9.95 (WP+4,ST+48,MP+12)
Oak Hill Mall
The Tea Bag (located to left of Mall Entrance)
Fresh Juice 1.85 (WP+2,ST+16,MP+4)
Lemon Tea 2.35 (WP+4)
Herbal Tea 2.35 (SG+1,ST+16,MP+4)
Carrot Cake 4.15 (WN+2,ST+24,MP+6)
Pound Cake 4.15 (P+1,K+1,ST+28,MP+7)
Kate's Cookies (located to left of Mall Entrance)
Sugar 1.00 (WP+1,ST+6,MP+1)
Toll House 1.00 (D+1,ST+6,MP+1)
Maple Pecan 1.00 (SG+1,ST+6,MP+1)
Oatmeal 1.00 (P+1,ST+6,MP+1)
Brownie 1.00 (WN+1,ST+6,MP+1)
Oak Hill Bookstore
Stone Hands 26.95 (Three Punches per Punch)
Dragon Feet 26.95 (Three Kicks per Kick)
Grand Slam 57.50 (Triples Attacks with Weapons)
Read All About It
Stone Hands 26.95 (Three Punches per Punch)
Dragon Feet 26.95 (Three Kicks per Kick)
Javelin Man 78.25 (Throw opponents like a missle)
Hack's Chicken Shack
*Chicken*
Chickwich 2.10 (WN+1,ST+8,MP+2)
Dark Meat 2.65 (TH+1,ST+10,MP+2)
White Meat 3.25 (AG+1,ST+12,MP+3)
Combination 4.00 (WP+2,ST+16,MP+4)
*Beverages*
Milk .85 (ST+10,MP+2)
Iced Tea .95 (WP+2)
Soda 1.10 (WN+1,ST+8,MP+2)
Lemonade 1.85 (D+1,ST+10,MP+2)
*Fixin's*
Gravy 1.50 (ST+14,MP+3)
Biscuits 1.50 (SG+1,ST+12,MP+3)
Corn Cobbler 2.25 (AG+1,ST+10,MP+2)
Cole Slaw 2.85 (D+1,ST+16,MP+4)
Smile Free ("Alex/Ryan Blushed" - 0 INCREASE)
Cedar Street Drugs
Vita-mints 2.10 (WP+1,ST+8,MP+2)
Date Saver 7.95 (WP+3,ST+40,MP+10)
Love Potion 9.95 (ST+80,MP+20)
Antedote 12 10.00 (SG+1,WP+3,ST+48,MP+12)
Karma Jolt 15.25 (TH+3,ST+99,MP+24)
Pop's Health Club (not part of Oak Hill mall per se)
Sauna 3.50 (WP+15,ST+30,MP+8)
Shopping Tips
* The first thing you should purchase when you reach the Grotto Mall
is either Stone Hands or Dragon Feet. Stone Hands has less range
since it's a punch, but is a better idea since there are more cheap
punch powerups earlier in the game than kick powerups.
* Punch and Kick Power Ups are VERY sparse. If you find a place that
sells them, consider buying multiple items. (Unless ya happen to be
in the Shoe Store--then ya buy Texas Boots and become happy)
* The cheapest items in shops _usually_ don't give you much in the way of
Stamina or Max Power increases; however, they're the best way to power
up your punches and kicks ($48 to fill either to max via Amy's Sweet
Tooth for instance). In general, the more expensive items yield
Stamina and Max Power increases.
* Try and avoid items over $10 in cost until you are able to defeat
Benny & Clyde (either location) semi-readily.
-----
I. Cheats & Codes
Two Player Regeneration (from T. Mask)
If you play in two player mode, and one player dies, the other player
can quickly leave the screen (While or a few seconds after the corpse
flashes), the deceased player will return at fulll health w/o loss of
money. This is extremely useful when one player beats the crap out
of the other, then exits, thus restoring his friend to full health.
Two Player Grand Slamming (from Wendell Owen)
In two player mode, both buy the book grand slam, and stand on both
sides of the boss(s). Use lead pipes an beat them silly. This works on
twins, just hit them at the same time.
Bouncing Kick Technique (from Vladimir Drakul)
If you start running, jump, then tap B really quickly, you'll bounce
your way along doing jump-kicks. This does horrendous amounts of
damage if you're lucky enough for it to hit.
Everything Maxed & All Items (enter on Password screen)
WeLcYSGTOQ2
ar15oAQVXXi
cXsU3mVUn1c
Game Genie codes
VOSNAVYA - every attribute at 99 (from Cancilla)
OAENIYAE - $999.99 for player 1 (from Cancilla)
OAONGYAE - as above except for player 2 (from Cancilla)
These next codes are taken directly from tsr's NES Archive, located at
http://www.komkon.org/~tsr
Start with full energy, 63 of everything, every book, and $0.15 -
i q X o k e S f a c i
m K p v c U k Z U z W
R i Q v r q h k T 4 Q
Start with 63 of all levels, full will power, full stamina,
every book, Texas Boots, and $500.50 -
j r Y p l f T g b d j
n O o r L T I Y X w R
S j T u q p i l U H P
passwords for Alex:
EM7KGA0DBDh
WcEtZhSQjTZ - start with $122, 30 in all attributes, and 99 strength
fUXYofbaZ7N
qJiIz0gySUq
ryh30fsRuek - with Acro Circus and Lightning Feet
qfijzqmsnUY
yFl43Lo3kUu
aHR3gfsReru - with Acro Circus, Dragon Feet, Stone Hands, Fatal Steps and
efqjzqicnOY Javelin Man, plus $60
2B5zJGuNsYu
mz5yAbodavq - with above plus $114
SbWfvmmYjjU
zA'c2INrXNVr
bjx2jYtQdop - with above plus sneakers and Excaliber
dB'riyphdg7X
89BTPUSVQS0
Ypm5GduXAVs - with above plus Rodan Wing
YAul1s0elEa
w412ysgtMqc
MUSjKm2PqtE - start with incredible attributes
UJMNdUTGOQC
mubsoiWsugi
SL8qcQgFQ3S - ready to fight ivan (high school guard)
eTWXnedgbYM
t1izvpdOZnZ
JxNkJp7Cpub - ivan beaten, high school open
XMPQgXErSMF
XfMdZTHwiR3
jaj6jfRUDEt - no one left but slick!
tilm2tWRo8b
-----
J. River City Ransom On the Internet
By an odd twist of fate, a River City Ransom page appeared at the
same time I began writing this guide. Thus arose the possibility of
including this section. Here's a list of places to visit for further
information about River City Ransom and related topics:
* Ben Turner's Definitive Guide to River City Ransom
http://www.worldlynx.net/bent/rcr/index.htm
* Forehand's River City Ransom Page
http://www.pressenter.com/~rforehan/rcr/rcr.htm
* Scott Timpe's River City Ransom Page
http://pw1.netcom.com/~ctimpe/rcr/rcr.htm
* tsr's NES archive
http://www.komkon.org/~tsr
* NESturbation
http://tc.simplenet.com/nesturbation/
* NES World
http://www-kvu.ah.dk/~i1q/
-----
K. Other Technos Super-Deformed NES Titles
River City Ransom isn't the only game by Technos to feature big
heads on smallish bodies. Besides being the creators of Double Dragon,
they made other games featuring the River City Ransom characters (or
at least their likenesses.
Double Dragon - 1988
The game that started Technos on the path of fighting mayhem. A 1
or 2 player alternating fist-fest. A good game, average difficulty.
It's basically your normal, everyday side scrolling beat-em up.
Double Dragon II - 1989
The sequel to the above game. Same concept, although the controls
were ruined by some auto-reverse layout (your attack depends on which
way you face, poor human factors decision), and the game is just less
interesting. Oh yeah, One Player this time.
Super Dodge Ball - 1989
A fighting game, but not in the normal sense. It's 5 on 5 attack
volleyball basically. One or 2 players can participate, and frankly
the game is very enjoyable. Also, the characters look exactly like
the River City Ransom gang--big plus!
World Cup Soccer - 1990
As they did in Dodge Ball, it's RCR merged to form a soccer hybrid.
The game is actually pretty fun, though it doesn't follow the actual
rules of real soccer. It's multiplayer, has a tournament mode, and
actually requires strategy.
Double Dragon III - 1991
The third, and final, Double Dragon game on the NES. Now it's
2-Player simultaneous, but you have to use up credits to buy power
ups, and the game itself is kind of annoying.
Crash 'N The Boys Street Challenge - 1992
A valiant attempt at merging River City Ransom with Track N Field.
While the Swimming and Hammer Golf competitions are enjoyable, the
rest are a venture into annoyance. It can be played by up to 2
players, which is nice, but let's face it--it gets old fast.
Crash 'N The Boys Ice Challenge - ?
I have no idea if this game was ever made, and I've never played
it, but if it's anything like Street Challenge I doubt I'd want to.
Mr. Kunia / RCR 2 - ???
Never played this game, but enough rumours about it have popped
up on my RCR web site to warrant a mention. Apparently there exists
a Japanese Super Famicom (SNES) game with mechanics and graphics
bearing some similarity to River City Ransom. People who've written
me speak of the game as "River City Ransom: The College Years."
While I am skeptical, the game at least warrants some curiosity since
it has shops, experience, and conversation--i.e. all those RCR elements
we love.
-----
L. The Final Blurbs
How to contribute to this guide:
If you have some information you think should be included in
this guide, or have any suggestions for improving it, please direct your
comments to Frank Provo at mosaic@innocent.com. Tips, codes, hints,
and pretty much anything River City Ransom related is welcome. If I
include information you contribute, I will gladly list your name, email
address, and web site address at the end of this guide if you so desire.
* Extremely wanted is information about the game's history and
information on other RCR pages.
Credits:
Here's a list of people who've contributed to this guide, or
aided in its evolution.
Cancilla
- first 3 game genie codes
- fatal steps info.
Mike Faerber
- Information on Super Dodge Ball
- Information on Crash 'N The Boys Street Challenge
- Information about Crash 'N The Boys Ice Challenge
T. Mask
- 2 Player regeneration trick
William Seremak
- Information on World Cup Soccer
Wendell Owen
- 2 Player grand slam trick
Vladimir Drakul
- Bouncing Kicks Technique
Mizubaku & Dyslexic DJ
- Info on Possible RCR 2
Time to Defeat Game:
Novice
Beginners - 4 hours
Experienced - 1.5 hours
Experts - 45 min.
Advanced
Beginners - 6 hours
Experienced - 4 hours
Experts - 2 hours
..end..
