The game is notable for being one of the first ever console role-playing games (see the chronology of console role-playing games). The graphics and gameplay are extremely similar to and clearly heavily influenced by the blockbuster computer RPG of the time, Ultima IV, though Hydlide ultimately failed to capture the same attention. The game also features quick save and load options, which can be done at any moment of the game, provided the console is not turned off. However, the game uses passwords as the primary back-up.