The combat system shows only a few differences with the one used in SHF2. The graphics are okay and the gameplay is pretty good, though the system is a little slow compared to its SHF2 counterpart. There are also some minor differences in the spells of both games (e.g. Blaze 1 can inflict 15 damage when you're really lucky). When your characters have reached the 100 exp border, they gain a level and their exp. total is 0 again. All excess exp. is lost, so I don't suggest killing a monster with Guntz if he already has 90+ exp. When you gain a level, your stats may or may not increase. This is also quite different to its sequel. Things as +6 Hit Points or +7 defense are not that rare and I've even seen a +16 Hit Points with my own eyes!

Although the graphics are okay (even good when taking into account that it's a Genesis game), they are pretty buggy. In the game I've noticed several tile errors and one scene is totally screwed (when you get polymorphed into a chicken, you're...oh, well...find out yourself...). I think the sound is just as good as in SHF2, but some might disagree with me. The music of the walkabout theme doesn't intend to leave once it's in your head and the music in the battle vs. Kain is rather nervous, but I see that as a positive thing, because you're supposed to be nervous then and it adds to the "feel of the game".