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Two Crude Dudes, a classic beat ’em up arcade game, stands as a testament to the vibrant and over-the-top designs of early 1990s video games. Developed and published by Data East in 1990, it continues to be remembered fondly by fans for its chaotic action and unique style. Known as Crude Buster in Japan, this game captured the essence of the era with its audacious concept, cheeky humor, and relentless action, leaving an indelible mark on the beat ’em up genre.
Story
Two Crude Dudes is set in a post-apocalyptic New York City, two decades after a catastrophic nuclear explosion. The city, now a desolate wasteland, has become a breeding ground for rampant crime and corruption. The story revolves around two mercenaries for hire, known simply as the “Crude Dudes.” Tasked by the U.S. government, their mission is to dismantle a nefarious organization called “Big Valley,” which has taken control of the city.
Unlike many games from its time, Two Crude Dudes embraced a simple yet effective narrative that mirrored the action-packed movies of the 80s and 90s. The game’s storyline is presented through minimalistic cutscenes that serve the primary purpose of setting the stage for relentless brawling action. The overarching theme of chaos and the fight against evil provides a straightforward motivation for players, keeping them engaged as they navigate through the debris-filled streets of a ruined metropolis.
Gameplay
The gameplay of Two Crude Dudes is where the game truly shines. It adheres to the classic beat ’em up formula while incorporating unique mechanics that set it apart from its contemporaries. Players control one of the two muscular protagonists, each with distinct abilities, as they battle through hordes of enemies. The game supports both single-player and cooperative two-player modes, allowing friends to team up and take down enemies together.
Combat Mechanics
The combat system in Two Crude Dudes is straightforward yet satisfying. Players can punch, kick, and throw enemies, using an array of moves to dispatch foes. What makes the game stand out is the ability to interact with the environment. Players can pick up and throw a variety of objects, including barrels, cars, and even pieces of the scenery, to deal damage to adversaries. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy, as players must decide when to engage in hand-to-hand combat and when to use the environment to their advantage.
Enemy Variety and Boss Battles
The game features a diverse cast of enemies, each with unique attack patterns and behaviors. From basic grunts to more formidable foes wielding weapons, players must adapt their strategies to overcome different challenges. The bosses are a highlight, each offering a significant challenge and requiring players to learn their patterns to defeat them. These encounters are often the climax of each level, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience that tests players’ skills and reflexes.
Level Design
Two Crude Dudes takes players through a series of levels, each with its own distinct theme and challenges. The levels are designed to be linear, guiding players through a variety of urban landscapes filled with obstacles and enemies. The game’s pacing is well-balanced, with moments of intense combat interspersed with brief reprieves that allow players to collect power-ups and health items. The level design encourages exploration, rewarding players for venturing off the beaten path with hidden items and bonuses.
Graphics and Sound
Two Crude Dudes boasts a visual style that captures the gritty, vibrant aesthetic of early 90s arcade games. The graphics are colorful and detailed, with character sprites that are large and expressive. The post-apocalyptic setting is brought to life with detailed backgrounds that depict a city in ruins, complete with crumbling buildings and littered streets. The game’s art direction embraces a cartoonish style that complements the over-the-top action, creating a visual experience that is both engaging and entertaining.
Audio Design
The sound design of Two Crude Dudes complements its visual style perfectly. The game features a dynamic soundtrack that matches the intensity of the action, with energetic tracks that drive the gameplay forward. The sound effects are equally impressive, with impactful punches, kicks, and explosions that enhance the sense of immersion. The voice samples, though minimal, add a layer of personality to the characters, reinforcing the game’s playful tone.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, Two Crude Dudes was met with positive reception from both players and critics. It was praised for its engaging gameplay, cooperative multiplayer feature, and unique environmental interaction mechanics. The game’s humor and style resonated with players, making it a memorable entry in the beat ’em up genre.
Two Crude Dudes found its way into the hearts of arcade enthusiasts, maintaining a cult following even decades after its initial release. It has been ported to various home consoles, including the Sega Genesis, allowing it to reach a broader audience. The game’s influence can be seen in subsequent beat ’em up titles that adopted similar mechanics and thematic elements.
Conclusion
Two Crude Dudes stands as a classic example of the beat ’em up genre, showcasing the creativity and innovation that defined early 90s arcade games. Its blend of engaging combat, environmental interaction, and humorous tone set it apart from its peers, ensuring its place in gaming history. The game’s legacy endures through its loyal fanbase and the influence it has had on subsequent titles in the genre. For those seeking a nostalgic trip to the past or an introduction to the chaotic fun of beat ’em ups, Two Crude Dudes remains a must-play experience.
