When Sega released James “Buster” Douglas Knockout Boxing for the Genesis, the product’s shelf life had already been cut short. Shortly after the game hit shelves, Douglas lost the belt in his first title defense, and Sega was left with one big turkey of a license. To top it off, the game was little more than a remix of Taito’s Final Blow coin-op. Most people waiting for a real boxing title were left with a bad taste in their mouths, and by the time the game was ported to the Master System, people had moved on. What they didn’t realize is that the 8-bit version is totally different and bears more of a resemblance to Sega’s Rocky than it’s 16-bit sibling.
Author: Baloo
Samurai Shodown (CD)
IPPON! SNK’s Samurai Shodown sliced and diced its way onto just about every console imaginable, and many gamers expected the Sega CD version to be the best one. Sadly, this wasn’t the case. Long load times, a missing character, and an unforgivable bug hamper what is otherwise an excellent port.
Sega Classics Arcade Collection (4-In-1)
If there’s one thing Sega knows how to do, it’s rehash the biggest stars of the Genesis era. Before the numerous compilations released on modern consoles, the Sega CD was among the first machines to get hit with the cash run wave. Home to not one but two editions of the Sega Arcade Classics Collection (the only difference being one game), the add-on gave Segaphiles their first taste of watered down ports. The worst part? Sega didn’t even wait until the Genesis was discontinued before it started to butcher its library.
Double Take: Knuckles Chaotix
Knuckles Chaotix is a game that stirs controversy whenever it’s mentioned. Some people enjoy its distinctly unSonic-like gameplay, considering it a solid attempt at bringing something new to an established formula. Others hate the rubber band dynamic and the weird level design, citing the game as something better left on the cutting room floor. Staff writer Christian Matozzo is of the former frame of mind, and he’s not afraid to show his love for this unique 32X title.
Double Take: Eternal Champions
Sega’s famous fighter Eternal Champions is a game most people seem to either love or hate, with few taking the middle road. Those who defend it note its complex fighting style and unique Sega feel, while those who trash it seem to do so for those very same reasons!