In the 1800s, young Johnny was in search of adventure. While investigating a series of mysterious disappearances near a local ravine, he was thrown from his horse by an unknown being. After quickly pulling out his six-shooter and firing a couple of rounds into the air, he was then rendered unconscious by the mysterious figure.

After coming to, Johnny discovered that Suzuki had saved his life; the hero had been a lifelong friend of his father's. With a burning desire to become a hero, he begged his savior to teach him the ancient Zipang form of fighting. Suzuki agreed and a few days later, the two had left town and headed east.

Johnny returned many years later to his home in the west, only he was no longer known by his real name. He's a hero now; a gunman and a dangerous samurai. He's the blue-eyed Super-Ultra Sexy Hero Zan! Unfortunately, his town is now being invaded by an evil group of ninja assassins called Jackal. Its time to kick butt and put that Zipang training to good use!

Played from a third-person perspective Agetec's Rising Zan: The Samurai Gunman has you utilizing a sword and a six-shooter to rid the town of the cultists intent on stealing the town's supply of gold. You'll slash and shoot your way through 10 levels crammed with a variety of ninjas, sumo wrestlers, straw men, and henchmen in an attempt to bring down the root of all evil -- the Queen Jackal.

Over the course of his studies, Zan learned many unique combinations and special attacks that will help you progress through the enemy infested levels. As you cut down your foes, the protagonist gains hero points that can be used to channel power into his sword and move at a higher rate of speed. Zan also has the ability to block or bounce back an opponent's attack.

After completing each level, Zan is rated on his performance. The higher the rating achieved, the more hero badges he'll receive. Upon completion of the game, the hero badges can then be used to unlock additional gameplay modes and special rewards.

Rising Zan: The Samurai Gunman requires one memory card block in order to save game progress. It also supports analog controllers and the vibration function.

Rising Zan: The Samurai Gunman (Sony PlayStation 1, 1999)