The Touhou Project is a well-known series of bullet hell (danmaku) games that has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide with its unique blend of challenging gameplay, intricate storytelling, and a vibrant cast of characters. Among the many titles in this series, “10Desires” (東方神霊廟, Tōhō Shinreibyō) stands out as a particularly beloved installment. Released in 2011 as the 13th game in the Touhou Project, 10Desires has continued to captivate players with its distinct features, memorable characters, and engaging mechanics. This article will delve into what makes 10Desires so special, examining its gameplay, storyline, and lasting impact on the Touhou community.
A Brief Overview of 10Desires
10Desires is a vertically scrolling shooter developed by Team Shanghai Alice, a one-man team led by Jun’ya Ota, better known as ZUN. The game follows the traditional format of the Touhou series, where players control a character who must navigate through waves of enemy fire while shooting down enemies and dodging intricate patterns of bullets. What sets 10Desires apart from its predecessors and successors is its unique “Divine Spirits” mechanic, which adds a new layer of strategy and depth to the gameplay.
In 10Desires, players can collect Divine Spirits, which are released by defeated enemies and can be used to activate a “Trance” mode. This mode temporarily grants the player invincibility and increases their attack power, allowing them to clear challenging sections of the game or score significant points. The timing and strategic use of the Trance mode become critical to mastering the game, offering a fresh experience even to veteran Touhou players.
The Storyline: A Journey Through the Afterlife
One of the key aspects of the Touhou series is its richly developed storylines, and 10Desires is no exception. The game is set in the fantasy land of Gensokyo, a realm where humans and supernatural beings coexist. The story begins when strange occurrences in Gensokyo lead the main characters to investigate a mysterious phenomenon: the sudden appearance of divine spirits.
The player can choose to control one of four characters, each with her own unique abilities and story arc. These characters include Reimu Hakurei, the shrine maiden of the Hakurei Shrine; Marisa Kirisame, an ordinary magician with extraordinary skills; Sanae Kochiya, the shrine maiden of the Moriya Shrine; and Youmu Konpaku, a half-human, half-phantom swordswoman.
As the characters delve deeper into the mystery, they discover that the divine spirits are linked to a powerful figure from the afterlife, Toyosatomimi no Miko, who is based on the historical figure Prince Shōtoku. Miko seeks to revive herself using the divine spirits, and it’s up to the player to confront her and prevent her from achieving her goals.
The story of 10Desires is rich in references to Japanese history, mythology, and religion, adding layers of meaning and intrigue for those familiar with these cultural elements. For others, it provides an immersive narrative that enhances the overall gaming experience.
Gameplay Mechanics: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Touhou games are renowned for their challenging gameplay, and 10Desires continues this tradition with its demanding bullet patterns and fast-paced action. However, it also introduces new mechanics that set it apart from other games in the series.
The Divine Spirits mechanic is central to 10Desires gameplay. These spirits appear as small orbs on the screen, and collecting them fills the player’s Trance gauge. Once the gauge is full, the player can activate Trance mode, which grants invincibility for a limited time. This mechanic encourages players to balance between collecting spirits and managing their Trance gauge, adding a layer of strategy to the intense action.
In addition to the Trance mode, 10Desires features a variety of enemy patterns that test the player’s reflexes and strategic thinking. The game includes multiple difficulty levels, from Easy to Lunatic, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy the game. The “Spell Card” system, a staple of the Touhou series, also returns in 10Desires, challenging players to navigate through complex patterns of bullets to defeat powerful bosses.
The game’s visuals and music are also noteworthy. ZUN’s signature art style, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate bullet patterns, is on full display in 10Desires. The music, composed by ZUN, features a mix of traditional Japanese instruments and modern electronic sounds, creating an atmospheric soundtrack that complements the game’s setting and story.
Characters: The Heart of 10Desires
The Touhou series is famous for its large and diverse cast of characters, many of whom have become iconic in the gaming community. 10Desires introduces several new characters while also featuring familiar faces from previous games.
- Toyosatomimi no Miko: As the main antagonist of 10Desires, Miko is a key figure in the game’s story. Based on Prince Shōtoku, she is depicted as a wise and powerful leader with the ability to hear 10desires at once, hence the game’s title. Her character design, inspired by historical Japanese attire, and her complex motivations make her one of the most memorable characters in the series.
- Seiga Kaku: Another notable character introduced in 10Desires is Seiga Kaku, a wicked hermit with the ability to pass through walls. Seiga’s mischievous personality and unique abilities add an interesting dynamic to the game’s story and gameplay.
- Yoshika Miyako: Yoshika is a Jiangshi (a Chinese hopping vampire) who serves as Seiga’s loyal servant. Her undead status and unusual movement patterns make her a unique opponent in the game.
These characters, along with the returning protagonists like Reimu and Marisa, contribute to the rich tapestry of the Touhou universe. Fans of the series often engage in discussions, fan art, and fan fiction centered around these characters, further solidifying their place in gaming culture.
The Legacy of 10Desires
Since its release, 10Desires has maintained a special place in the hearts of Touhou fans. Its combination of challenging gameplay, innovative mechanics, and rich storytelling has earned it a lasting legacy within the series. The game’s characters, particularly Toyosatomimi no Miko, have become iconic, and its music continues to be celebrated in fan remixes and performances.
The game has also inspired a wealth of fan-created content, from doujinshi (fan-made comics) to music arrangements and even full-length fan games. This vibrant fan community is a testament to the enduring appeal of 10Desires and the Touhou series as a whole.
Conclusion: Why 10Desires Still Matters
10Desires is more than just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has left a significant mark on the Touhou Project and the gaming community at large. Its unique mechanics, engaging storyline, and memorable characters make it a standout title in a series already known for its excellence.
For those new to the Touhou Project, 10Desires offers a great entry point with its accessible gameplay and rich narrative. For longtime fans, it provides a fresh take on the familiar formula, with enough depth and challenge to keep players coming back for more.
As we look back on 10Desires more than a decade after its release, it’s clear that this game remains a beloved and influential part of the Touhou Project. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the series, 10Desires is a game that deserves your attention and appreciation.
