Altered Beast: A Classic Arcade Adventure

Story

Altered Beast is set in the mythological past, drawing heavily from Greek mythology to weave a tale of resurrection, revenge, and supernatural power. The narrative begins with Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, resurrecting a fallen Roman centurion. This centurion, the player character, is brought back to life with a singular mission: to rescue Zeus’s kidnapped daughter, Athena, who has been taken by the demon god Neff.

The storyline unfolds across five distinct levels, each set in different mythological landscapes filled with grotesque beasts and undead creatures. As the centurion battles through these levels, the overarching theme of transformation becomes central to the plot. Zeus grants the hero the ability to morph into powerful beast forms, each endowed with unique abilities essential for overcoming the challenges posed by Neff’s minions. This transformative journey from mere mortal to a god-like creature serves as a metaphor for the centurion’s quest for redemption and divine strength.

Gameplay

Altered Beast’s gameplay is characterized by its side-scrolling action and beat ’em up mechanics, reminiscent of the arcade era’s golden age. Players begin each level in human form, equipped with a basic set of attacks such as punches and kicks. The primary objective is to defeat enemies and collect spirit balls, which are power-ups that appear after defeating certain white wolves. These power-ups are crucial for the player’s progression, as they enhance the centurion’s strength and eventually trigger his transformation into a beast.

Each beast form is uniquely designed to fit the theme of the level and offers a distinct set of abilities:

Werewolf: The most iconic form, offering increased speed and the ability to launch powerful energy balls.

Dragon: Capable of flying and shooting lightning bolts, ideal for aerial combat.

Bear: Known for its defensive capabilities and the ability to petrify enemies.

Tiger: Combines agility with strong melee attacks and energy waves.

Golden Werewolf: An enhanced version of the werewolf, featuring superior speed and strength.

The transformation mechanic is not only a visual spectacle but also a strategic element, requiring players to adapt their tactics according to the beast’s abilities. The game’s linear progression and boss fights at the end of each level challenge players to master both human and beast forms to succeed.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Altered Beast was a visual marvel, showcasing the Sega System 16 hardware’s capabilities. The game features large, detailed sprites and smooth animations, which were revolutionary in 1988. The transformation sequences, in particular, were groundbreaking, with the centurion’s body morphing fluidly into various beast forms.

The game’s levels are richly designed, each with its own distinct theme inspired by Greek mythology. From the eerie graveyards of the first level to the dark caverns and temples of later stages, the art direction effectively conveys the mythological setting and enhances the narrative’s epic scope.

Sound plays a critical role in Altered Beast, with its memorable soundtrack and iconic voice samples. The deep, commanding voice of Zeus instructing the player to “Rise from your grave” has become synonymous with the game. Composer Tohru Nakabayashi delivered a soundtrack that complements the game’s intense action, using synthesizers to create a soundscape that was both atmospheric and adrenaline-pumping.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Altered Beast received widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay and impressive graphics. It quickly became a staple in arcades worldwide, and its success led to multiple home console ports, including the Sega Genesis, Master System, and later, various compilations and digital releases.

The game’s impact on the industry is evident in its continued presence in gaming culture. Altered Beast inspired numerous sequels and spin-offs, though none quite captured the original’s magic. It also paved the way for the development of future Sega hits, serving as a precursor to the company’s later successes, such as Golden Axe and Streets of Rage.

Despite its age, Altered Beast remains a beloved classic, often revisited by fans and newcomers alike. Its straightforward yet challenging gameplay, combined with its mythological narrative, continues to resonate with players. The game’s influence is also seen in modern titles that incorporate transformation mechanics and mythological themes, a testament to Altered Beast’s enduring legacy.

Conclusion

Altered Beast is more than just an arcade game; it is a piece of gaming history that exemplifies the creativity and innovation of the late 1980s. Its engaging story, unique gameplay mechanics, and memorable audiovisual elements have cemented its status as a classic in the annals of video gaming. As players continue to revisit this iconic title, Altered Beast’s legacy as a trailblazer in the industry remains undeniable, inspiring generations of gamers and developers alike. Whether through nostalgic arcade sessions or modern-day emulations, Altered Beast continues to rise from its grave, standing as a testament to the enduring power of myth and legend in the world of video games.