Streets of Rage 2

Synopsis

by Shawn Sackenheim

Sega's 1991 sleeper hit game of vigilante justice, which followed the story of three ex-peace officers in their struggle to bring down Mr. X and his diverse group of street thugs, receives a 16-meg sequel with more moves, two new characters, and a two-player head-to-head option. The crime boss whose syndicate was brought down one year ago has abducted Adam Hunter in his quest for vengeance. Axel and Blaze vow to rescue their captive comrade with the help of Adam's teenage brother, Skate, and Axel's friend, Max Thunder, a former wrestler. Once again two players can team-up for some old fashioned street brawling, or they can slug it out in timed best-of-three matches.

Each character is rated from one to three in five categories: power, technique, speed, jump, and stamina. Moves include standard punches and kicks as well as context-sensitive maneuvers, such as holds, throws, and cooperative attacks with another character. Two special moves are also available, but each costs a portion of the character's life gauge. Bikers, ninjas, boxers, and other unsavory types populate eight themed stages that range from an amusement park and stadium to a ship and jungle. Collect food to restore health and grab weapons such as bombs, knives, and lead pipes to help repel advancing enemies.