City Connection Announces Retro Jaleco Classics 'Saiyūki World 2' and 'Rod Land' for Nintendo Switch

City Connection, a respected publisher known for reviving classic Japanese titles, has revealed plans to bring two more Jaleco fan favorites to the Nintendo Switch.

Announced as part of the JALECOlle Famicom Ver series, 'Saiyūki World 2' and 'Rod Land' are set to join the expanding lineup of retro reissues, granting new and returning players digital access to these classic games on Nintendo's popular platform. Originally released for the Famicom in 1990, 'Saiyūki World 2' is a platformer inspired by the legendary Chinese novel 'Journey to the West.' North American audiences may recognize it by its localized title, 'Whomp 'Em.' Developed by Jaleco, the game is a sequel to 1988's 'Saiyūki World,' itself a notable entry in the action-adventure RPG genre and influenced by the classic 'Wonder Boy in Monster Land.' Players take on the role of Sun Wukong, the famed Monkey King, on a quest to retrieve the seven Celestial Beads stolen by the deity Mara.

Armed with his iconic Ruyi Staff, Wukong traverses six provinces, each controlled by formidable demon gods.

'Saiyūki World 2' distinguishes itself through its stage-select system, which gives players the freedom to choose their path through the provinces.

With each completed stage and recovered Celestial Bead, Wukong gains new mystical abilities—such as wielding a Flame Blade, riding the Somersault Cloud, or splitting into clones with the Cloning Staff.

These powers, alongside the game's defensive and attack mechanics, offer a blend of strategic depth and classic platforming action.

Notably, this upcoming Nintendo Switch release marks the first time the original, unlocalized Japanese version of 'Saiyūki World 2' will be available outside of Japan. The second title, 'Rod Land,' made its debut on the Famicom in 1992.

This fixed-screen arcade action game features the fairy siblings Tam and Rit on a mission to rescue their mother from the sinister Tower of Maboots.

With magic rods in hand and enchanted shoes bestowed by their village chief, players use a combination of grappling, slamming, and item-based attacks to defeat waves of adversaries across vibrant, enemy-filled levels.

The NES/Famicom version introduces special stages where players can unleash magical projectiles, further enriching the gameplay. 'Rod Land' has experienced a storied history on Nintendo platforms.

While the Arcade Archives edition is already available on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4, this upcoming release represents the first digital outing for the Famicom/NES version on the Nintendo eShop.

The cartridge was reissued in 2024 through Retro-Bit Gaming, but digital availability is anticipated to reach an even wider audience. Although an official release date for 'Saiyūki World 2' and 'Rod Land' has yet to be announced, both have dedicated sections on City Connection's official website, providing fans with detailed overviews and screenshots.

This ongoing effort underscores City Connection’s commitment to preserving classic Japanese gaming history and making rare Famicom gems accessible for Switch users worldwide. As more retro games find new life on the Nintendo Switch, City Connection continues to champion notable titles from Jaleco’s rich catalog, offering an invaluable glimpse into the formative years of platform and arcade gaming.

Retro enthusiasts and new players alike should keep an eye on the Nintendo eShop for further updates and launch details.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch City Connection Famicom Jaleco JALECOlle Famicom Ver Saiyūki World 2 Rod Land Retro-Bit Gaming Arcade Archives Wukong Whomp 'Em