Altered Beast

Altered Beast, released in 1988 for the Sega Genesis (then known as the Mega Drive), is a side-scrolling beat-’em-up that holds a special place in the hearts of many retro gamers. Developed by Sega AM2 and directed by Yuzo Koshiro (legendary composer of Streets of Rage), Altered Beast offers a unique blend of action, fantasy, and surprisingly dark themes for a game of its era.

The Story

The game tells the story of a Greek warrior named Gant, who is resurrected from the dead by the god Zeus. Zeus tasks Gant with rescuing his daughter, Athena, from the clutches of the demon Neff. To accomplish this, Gant must traverse a series of challenging levels, battling mythical creatures and transforming into powerful beast forms to overcome obstacles and defeat his enemies.

Gameplay

Altered Beast’s gameplay is straightforward yet engaging. Players control Gant as he moves through levels, punching and kicking enemies. The core mechanic, however, lies in the “Metamorphosis” power-up. Collecting green orbs allows Gant to transform into various beast forms, each with unique abilities:

Wolf: Increased speed and agility.

Bear: Increased strength and the ability to charge.

Dragon: Fire breath attack.

Gargoyle: Powerful melee attacks and flight.

These transformations are crucial for overcoming certain challenges, such as reaching high platforms, crossing chasms, and defeating powerful bosses.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Altered Beast boasted impressive graphics. The vibrant colors and detailed sprites brought the game’s fantastical world to life. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Yuzo Koshiro, is another highlight. The electronic music perfectly captures the game’s atmosphere, with memorable tracks that are still enjoyed by many today.

Impact and Legacy

Altered Beast was a critical and commercial success, solidifying the Sega Genesis as a serious contender in the 16-bit console wars. It became one of the most popular launch titles for the system, captivating players with its unique blend of action and fantasy.

The game’s influence can be seen in numerous later games, from other beat-’em-ups to role-playing games. Its impact on the gaming industry is undeniable, and it continues to be enjoyed by players to this day through emulators and re-releases on various platforms.

Why Altered Beast Still Matters Today

Despite being over three decades old, Altered Beast remains a relevant and enjoyable experience. Here’s why:

Timeless Gameplay: The core gameplay loop of exploring levels, defeating enemies, and collecting power-ups is still engaging and satisfying.

Challenging Difficulty: Altered Beast provides a satisfying level of challenge that encourages players to master its mechanics and improve their skills.

Nostalgic Appeal: For many gamers, Altered Beast evokes fond memories of their childhood and the excitement of playing a groundbreaking new console.

Cultural Significance: The game holds a significant place in gaming history, representing a pivotal moment in the evolution of console gaming.

Conclusion

Altered Beast is more than just a retro curiosity. It’s a timeless classic that continues to captivate players with its engaging gameplay, memorable soundtrack, and iconic imagery. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of classic games, Altered Beast is an experience worth exploring.

Note: This article is written in a relaxed, conversational style as requested.

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