Makai Eiyuki MAXIMO

Released in Japan on September 18, 2003, Makai Eiyuuki Maximo: Maou no Deshi (known in the West as Maximo vs. Army of Zin) is a 3D action-platformer developed by Capcom Production Studio 8 for the PlayStation 2. Serving as the polished sequel to the original Maximo, the game follows the titular hero and his companion Grim as they battle a mechanical legion of soul-stealing monsters known as the Zin. 

This entry refined the series' difficult gameplay by introducing more fluid combat, a new "Grim" transformation mode, and a "Save the Villagers" mechanic that rewards players with unique power-ups and items. While it retains the classic Ghosts 'n Goblins aesthetic and challenging platforming, the Japanese version is often noted for its distinct cover art and for being one of the final major collaborations between Capcom's Western and Japanese development teams.