Altered Beast: A Classic Sega Beat 'Em Up

Story

Altered Beast is set in ancient Greece, where players assume the role of a centurion who has been resurrected from the dead by the Greek god Zeus. The centurion’s mission is to rescue Athena, Zeus’s daughter, who has been kidnapped by the demonic sorcerer Neff. This mythological backdrop provides a rich tapestry for the game’s narrative, drawing players into a world filled with gods, monsters, and heroic quests.

As the centurion, players journey through five distinct levels, each set in a different mythologically inspired locale. These levels are populated by a variety of enemies drawn from Greek mythology, including zombies, harpies, and other fantastical creatures. The ultimate goal is to reach and defeat Neff, who transforms into a different monstrous form at the end of each level, culminating in a final showdown that tests the player’s skills and resolve.

Gameplay

Altered Beast is primarily a beat ’em up game with side-scrolling mechanics. Players progress through levels by defeating waves of enemies using a combination of punches and kicks. The game’s defining feature is its transformation mechanic, where the centurion can morph into powerful beasts by collecting spirit balls dropped by white two-headed wolves. Each transformation grants the player new abilities and attacks, making the gameplay dynamic and varied.

Human Form: In this form, the player’s attacks are limited to basic punches and kicks. However, collecting spirit balls enhances the centurion’s physical strength and size, improving his combat capabilities.

Werewolf: The first transformation allows players to become a werewolf, gaining powerful melee attacks and a special fireball projectile.

Weredragon: As a dragon, players can fly and unleash electric attacks that decimate enemies both in close quarters and at a distance.

Werebear: This form allows players to petrify enemies with a powerful breath attack, adding a strategic layer to combat.

Weretiger: The tiger form provides players with explosive jumps and energy attacks, perfect for dealing with tougher adversaries.

Each level ends with a boss fight where Neff transforms into a formidable creature. These battles require players to master the abilities of their current beast form, adding depth and challenge to the gameplay.

Graphics and Sound

Altered Beast was a technical marvel upon its release, showcasing Sega’s System 16 arcade hardware’s capabilities. The game’s graphics were notable for their large, detailed sprites and vibrant color palette, bringing the mythological world to life. Each level is distinct in its visual style, from the eerie graveyards of the first level to the fiery caverns of the final stage.

The character animations, particularly the centurion’s transformations, were groundbreaking at the time, offering a sense of fluidity and power that enhanced the overall experience. The bosses, in particular, were impressively designed, each with unique visual characteristics that made them memorable.

The sound design of Altered Beast is equally iconic. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Tohru Nakabayashi, features a collection of memorable tunes that perfectly complement the game’s mythological theme. The iconic voice samples, such as “Rise from your grave” and “Power up,” have become synonymous with the game’s identity, adding to its nostalgic charm.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Altered Beast received positive reviews for its innovative gameplay and impressive audiovisual presentation. It quickly became a staple in arcades worldwide, cementing its place as one of Sega’s most successful titles of the era. The game’s popularity led to its inclusion as a pack-in title for the Sega Genesis console, helping to drive the system’s early success.

Altered Beast’s influence can be seen in numerous subsequent games that incorporate transformation mechanics and mythological themes. Its legacy extends beyond just gameplay, as it has been referenced in various forms of media, including movies and television shows, attesting to its cultural impact.

The game has been re-released on numerous platforms over the years, including modern consoles and mobile devices, allowing new generations of players to experience its classic gameplay. While some modern gamers may find its mechanics dated compared to contemporary standards, Altered Beast remains a beloved classic that holds a special place in the hearts of those who experienced it during its heyday.

Conclusion

Altered Beast stands as a testament to Sega’s innovative spirit during the late ’80s. Its combination of engaging gameplay, mythologically rich storytelling, and impressive audiovisual design has ensured its place in the pantheon of classic video games. The game’s impact on the industry is undeniable, influencing countless titles that followed and securing its legacy as a foundational piece of Sega’s history.

As Altered Beast continues to be rediscovered by new audiences, its enduring appeal is a testament to its timeless design and the lasting impression it made on the gaming landscape. Whether you’re a nostalgic gamer revisiting a beloved classic or a newcomer exploring the roots of the beat ’em up genre, Altered Beast offers an unforgettable journey through a mythological world filled with adventure and transformation.