Altered Beast (Juuouki in Japan) ROM Video Game
QUICK INFO
- Game Title: Altered Beast (Juuouki in Japan)
- Developer: Sega (Team Shinobi)
- Publisher: Sega
- Region: Worldwide
- Release Date: June 14, 1988 (Arcade) / August 14, 1989 (Genesis NA)
- Release Status: Released (Available on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack)
- Category: Triple-A Classic / Arcade Port
- Console: Arcade / Sega Genesis
- Size: 4 Megabits (512 KB)
- Platforms: Arcade, Genesis, Master System, PC Engine, NES, PS2 (Reboot), 3DS, Switch
- Genre: Beat ’em up / Side-scroller
- Game Mode: Single-player / Local Co-op (2 players)
- Engine: Sega System 16 (Arcade) / Custom Assembly
- Age Rating: ESRB: E10+ / PEGI: 7
- Language: English, Japanese
- One-line impression: Iconic transformation-based brawler known for legendary voice lines and monster forms.
Previous game link here : Gunstar Heroes
ABOUT
Altered Beast throws players straight into mythological Ancient Greece chaos. A fallen centurion is revived by Zeus for divine rescue mission. The goal of Altered Beast is saving Athena from demon god Neff’s control. Defeated enemies drop Spirit Balls needed for transformation progression system. Collecting three balls triggers beast transformation cinematic sequences every stage.
Each form changes combat style with unique attacks and abilities. Werewolf and Weredragon forms feel especially powerful in later stages.
Boss fights against Neff appear at the end of every level. Voice samples like rise from your grave became instantly iconic. College gamers still recognize it as classic SEGA arcade nostalgia.
WHAT’S NEW
- 3D Classics version adds randomized transformation mode for replay variety.
- PS2 reboot introduces cyborg style protagonist with expanded transformation roster.
- Genesis Mini version includes save states for easier progression handling.
- Rewind feature on Switch allows correcting missed Spirit Balls easily.
- CRT filters recreate authentic arcade screen presentation style visually.
- Improved audio clarity enhances famous voice lines across modern ports.
- Famicom edition adds exclusive animal transformations not in original version.
- Modern collections stabilize performance compared to original arcade hardware limits.
- Control responsiveness improved across handheld and console rerelease versions today.
- Co op color differentiation helps players identify characters more clearly.
- Hidden cheat options unlock level select in Genesis versions.
- Classic gameplay loop remains unchanged across all modern adaptations.
FAQs
- What happens if players miss Spirit Balls during a level ?
Stage loops until enough Spirit Balls are collected properly.
- Are arcade and Genesis versions different in Altered Beast design ?
Genesis version has smaller sprites and added cheat features.
- Do beast forms change player health during transformations ?
Health stays same while attack abilities become significantly stronger.
- Can both players transform into different beast forms separately ?
Both players share same beast form with different colors.
- How many times do players fight Neff in Altered Beast ?
Neff appears as boss at end of every level.
