                           Frank Provo's 

            River City Ransom (Downtown Nekketsu Monogatari)

                    Player's Guide - version 1.5

The current version of this guide is always available in text format from:

                http://www.frankprovo.com/rcr/
                http://www.gamefaqs.com

This River City Ransom Guide may be reproduced or the information herein
included in publications (online or print), provided credit is given. 
Original portions of this Guide may not be reproduced or modified for used 
in profitable (read: Commercial) endeavors without the expressed written 
permission of Frank Provo, the owner of this Guide/FAQ.  This Guide is 
copyrighted to Frank Provo (c 1997-2001).

                                -----

                        Table of Contents

A. Opening Blurb
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. Other Technos Super-Deformed NES Titles
K. River City Ransom Online
L. The Final Blurbs
          - How to contribute?
          - Contributors & Acknowledgements
          - How long does it take to beat this darn game?

                                -----

A. 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, the game is only available in English on the 8-bit
Nintendo Entertainment System.  However, in Japan, the game may be
found on the Famicom and the PC-Engine Super CD systems with the
title 'Downtown Nekettsu Monogatari'
  The game originally came out in 1989 and bears similarity to 
another popular Technos title, Double Dragon.  There have been many
pseudo-sequels to the game in Japan, but none that contain the exact
gameplay or style of River City Ransom.
  Though similar to Double Dragon, River City Ransom emerges as
superior in every possible way--more moves, more enemies, more variety, 
etc.  To date, I haven't played a game quite like this one on any of 
the more current 16, 32, and 128-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 and fun.
  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.

                                -----

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 to 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)

                                -----

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.  There are also a number of
     power ups in the game that enable 'tag team' 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, Members, Shirt Colors, & Money Carried:

The Generic Dudes - LIGHT BLUE - $.50
Barry, Cary, Harry, Jerry, Larry, Perry, Ralph, and Terry
        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
Bob, Brady, Chip, Doug, Ernie, Greg, Peter, Robby, and Steve
        A little faster, stronger, and smarter than the Generic Dudes--
        but not by much.

The Jocks - LIGHT GREEN - $.60
Brad, Curt, Dirk, Jake, Lance, Matt, Mike, and Nick
        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
Biff, Clark, Grant, Skip, Trent, Trip, Tyler, and Logan
        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
Akbar, Andre, Boris, Fuji, Hans, Juan, Lars, Wang, and Yemi
        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
Berni, Byron, Erwin, Felix, Herb, Howie, Linus, Monty, and Waldo
        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
Lefty, Louie, Marco, Max, Mouse, Sid, Tony, and Vinny
	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
Blaze, Edge, Mooky, Slash, Snake, Stick, Sting, and Tonto
        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
Bart, Bubba, Duke, Dusty, Jed, Like, Merie, Shane, and Slim
	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
Blade, Turk, Mojo, and Thor
        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.  Tip: Bosses can be fought repeatedly.
*  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

Note: I don't mind others including this list of malls on their websites
or including it in their FAQs, but please give credit where credit is
due.  I spent hours and hours finding out all this info and typing it
out.

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 full 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.

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)

Passwords:
These next two passwords are taken directly from tsr's NES Archive, 
located at:  http://atarihq.com/tsr/

Enter them on the password screen.

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

Everything Maxed & All Items (enter on Password screen)
 W e L c Y S G T O Q 2
 a r 1 5 o A Q V X X i
 c X s U 3 m V U n 1 c

Passwords for Alex:

Start with $122, 30 in all attributes, and 99 strength
 E M 7 K G A 0 D B D h
 W c E t Z h S Q j T Z 
 f U X Y o f b a Z 7 N

Start with Acro Circus and Lightning Feet
 q J i I z 0 g y S U q
 r y h 3 0 f s R u e k
 q f i j z q m s n U Y

Star with Acro Circus, Dragon Feet, Stone Hands, Fatal Steps, Javelin Man, 
Sneakers, Excaliber, and Rodan Wing, plus $114
 8 9 B T P U S V Q S 0
 Y p m 5 G d u X A V s
 Y A u l 1 s 0 e l E a

Start with Incredible Attributes
 w 4 1 2 y s g t M q c
 M U S j K m 2 P q t E
 U J M N d U T G O Q C

Start with Ivan Beaten and High School Open
 t 1 i z v p d O Z n Z
 J x N k J p 7 C p u b
 X M P Q g X E r S M F

No One Left but Slick!
 X f M d Z T H w i R 3
 j a j 6 j f R U D E t
 t i l m 2 t W R o 8 b

                                -----

J. 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. (Special thanks to 
Mike Stucke for helping me fill out this section with tasty
Japanese goodness - especially near the bottom).

Renegade (Nekketsu Kouha Kunio-Kun) - 1996/7
  A sort of side-scrolling beat 'em up.  The American version 
removed all indication that the characters were, in fact, high 
schoolers.  Gameplay isn't so great, but it was incredibly popular 
at the time.  As for the title, Nekketsu means "Hot Blooded", Kouha 
means roughly "tough elements", and Kunio-kun is the name of the 
main character (Kunio is his name, "-kun" is frequently used when 
addressing young men).

Double Dragon - 1988
  The game that started Technos on the path of success.  A 1 or 2 
player alternating fist-fest.  A good game, average difficulty. It's 
basically your normal, everyday side scrolling beat-em up.

River City Ransom (Downtown Nekketsu Monogatari) - 1988/9
  The game this guide is about.  Released first for the Famicom/NES, 
then later for NEC's PC Engine Duo as a Super CD game.  

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 (Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball) - 1989
Released in arcades in 1988, this title made its way to the NES in 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!  Variations of this game are also available
for NEC's PC Engine Duo and SNK's Neo Geo MVS cartridge system.

World Cup Soccer (Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball bu Soccer hen ) - 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.

Technos Samurai (Kunio kun no Jidaigeki Dayo) - 1991
  A real, honest to goodness sequel to River City Ransom, sort of.
The gameplay is the same, but the setting is in feudal Japan.  The
most amusing thing, is to ponder the fact that you're a samurai
who fights with rocks, buckets and fisticuffs.  The game isn't as
endearing or as well rounded as RCR, but it is well worth 
checking out.  The game also gives you a sidekick who tags along,
sort of like Guardian Heroes, but he's pretty useless.

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.  This game sucked in
the arcade, it sucked on the NES, and it later went on to suck on
the Genesis.

Crash 'N The Boys Street Challenge (Nekketsu Shin Kiroku) - 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 (Ike! Ike! Nekketsu Hockey bu 
Subette Koronde Dai Rantou) - 1992
  Apparently this game was released in a small scale.  I've never 
seen or played it, but people email me all the time describing it.
A hockey game with life bars.

Nekketsu! Street Basket Ganbare Dunk Heroes (Japan Only) - 1993
  A Nekketsu / River City Basketball game.  Kunio and his friends 
go to the United States and challenge all sorts of "American 
stereotype" teams to basketball.  RCR-type fighting is permitted, and 
there are all sorts of special moves and weapons available.  As for 
the basketball, each side of the court has three backboards, each one 
screen above another.  If the ball falls through multiple hoops, those 
points count.  Sounds A LOT like MTV Rock and Jock Basketball TV shows.

Super RCR 2 (Shodai Nekketsu Kouha Kunio-kun, Japan Only) - 1992/3
  There exists a Japanese Super Famicom (SNES) game with mechanics 
and graphics bearing some similarity to River City Ransom.  Think of
it as "River City Ransom: The College Years."  The game is not 
very faithful to RCR's gameplay, but it does have shops, experience, 
and conversation--i.e. all those RCR elements we love.

Kunio Tachi no Banka (Japan Only) - 1994
  A pure beat-em-up. Resembles Final Fight, only with super-deformed 
characters.  Sounds a lot like a third sequel to either Renegade or
River City Ransom.  Kunio (Alex) and Riki (Ryan) go to prison after 
being framed for their friends' death.  There are many cutscenes 
throughout, but it's not a terribly difficult game, as there are
infinite continues.

Technos Japan went bankrupt in late 1993.  They ecked out a few Kunio 
and non-Kunio titles in 1994, and were even tapped as late as 1995 for
a minor PlayStation project (I don't know the name), and then 
vanished.  Who owns the rights now?  A GBA version of River City Ransom
would be nice.
                      
                                -----

K. 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
* Seanbaby's RCR Page (HILARIOUS!)
      http://www.seanbaby.com/nes/rcr.htm
* tsr's NES archive
      http://atarihq.com/tsr/
* NES World
      http://nesworld.parodius.com/
      
                                -----

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, Technos
     History, other Technos games and information on other RCR pages.
     ESPECIALLY WANTED is a run down, screens, or anything on the PC
     Engine Super CD of Downtown Nekketsu Monogatari / River City 
     Ransom.


Credits:

	Here's a list of people who've contributed to this guide, or
aided in its evolution.

Cancilla
   - first 3 game genie codes, and fatal steps info.
Mike Faerber
   - Information on Super Dodge Ball, Crash 'N The Boys Street
     Challenge, and info 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
Mike Stucke
   - Japanese Technos Perspectives

A 2nd RCR FAQ!:
Jason Velez has his own version of an RCR FAQ, you can find it,
and many other FAQs, at http://www.gamefaqs.com.


Time to Defeat Game: 
     Novice
	Beginners - 4 hours
        Experienced - 1.5 hours
        Experts - ~35-45 min.
     Advanced
	Beginners - 6 hours
	Experienced - 4 hours
	Experts - 2 hours

..end..
