Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up
- Platforms: PlayStation 2
- Developers: Sega Corporation
- Publishers: Sega Corporation
Altered Beast (2005): A Nostalgic Trip with a Modern Twist
In the realm of video game remakes, Altered Beast (2005) stands out as a faithful yet innovative reimagining of the classic 1988 arcade game. Developed by Sega and released exclusively for the PlayStation 2, this action-adventure beat ’em up breathes new life into the original while introducing significant changes that enhance the gameplay experience.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Tale
While the core gameplay of Altered Beast (2005) remains largely intact, the story, characters, and setting have been completely overhauled. The game follows the journey of a Roman legionary named Leon, who is tasked with rescuing his fellow soldiers from the clutches of the evil sorcerer Neff. Along the way, Leon encounters a mysterious sorceress named Rhea, who grants him the ability to transform into various beasts, each with unique abilities.
The story of Altered Beast (2005) is more fleshed out and engaging than its arcade predecessor. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the narrative offers a compelling mix of action, adventure, and mythology. The game’s world is also richly detailed, with stunning environments that range from ancient ruins to fiery pits of hell.
Transform and Conquer
The defining gameplay mechanic of Altered Beast is the ability to transform into different beasts. In the 2005 remake, Leon can transform into six different beasts, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:
- Wolf: Fast and agile, with a powerful bite attack.
- Bear: Strong and durable, with a devastating charge attack.
- Tiger: Balanced stats, with a versatile range of attacks.
- Gorilla: Powerful and slow, with a crushing ground pound attack.
- Elephant: Massive and unstoppable, with a powerful trunk attack.
- Dragon: The ultimate form, with devastating fire breath and flight abilities.
Transforming into beasts not only enhances Leon’s combat abilities but also grants him access to new areas and abilities. For example, the Wolf can crawl through tight spaces, while the Dragon can fly over obstacles. This adds a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay, as players must carefully choose the right beast for each situation.
Gameplay Enhancements
In addition to the updated story and characters, Altered Beast (2005) introduces several gameplay enhancements that improve upon the original. The combat system has been expanded with new moves and combos, making it more fluid and satisfying. The game also features a variety of puzzles and platforming challenges, adding variety to the gameplay.
Another significant improvement is the addition of online multiplayer. Players can team up with friends or compete against each other in a variety of cooperative and competitive modes. This adds a whole new dimension to the game, allowing players to experience the action with others.
Visuals and Sound
Altered Beast (2005) boasts impressive visuals for its time. The character models are detailed and expressive, and the environments are lush and atmospheric. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with a mix of heavy metal and orchestral pieces that perfectly captures the game’s epic tone.
Nostalgia with a Modern Touch
Altered Beast (2005) is a successful remake that captures the spirit of the original while introducing enough new elements to make it feel fresh and exciting. The updated story, characters, and gameplay enhancements make it a worthwhile experience for both fans of the classic arcade game and newcomers to the series.
Whether you’re a nostalgic gamer looking to revisit a childhood favorite or a newcomer seeking a thrilling action-adventure experience, Altered Beast (2005) is a game that deserves a place in your collection.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
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