Altered Beast is an arcade and Genesis classic, but the Master System version is woefully inferior. Horrible graphics and sound, reduced stages and gameplay elements, and poor control make this one beast that deserves to be put down. Do yourself a favor and get the superior Genesis version instead.
Reviews
Chuck Rock (Master System)
Chuck Rock was fun on the Genesis and Sega CD, but the Master System port left a good deal of that charm back in the stone age. Poor visuals and uninspired gameplay make this the low entry on the franchise’s evolutionary scale, and it plays like a real fossil compared to other platformers. Move on to something else before we run out of puns.
Taz-Mania (Game Gear)
Taz-Mania on the Genesis was a great game with incredible visuals and solid gameplay. Sadly, the Game Gear version bears little resemblance in quality, and sluggish gameplay ruins what could have been a great port. Fans of the character should stick to the Genesis games instead and avoid this one unless they absolutely need to play every Taz game there is.
Cascade
Super Fighter Team’s first puzzler on the Genesis may not have the single-player legs that other classics like Columns and Mean Bean Machine do, but it’s still a enjoyable game to play, especially with a friend. Short but engaging, it’s a decent addition to your Genesis library if you’re looking for some simple fun.
Champions of Europe
With the popularity of soccer in Europe, it’s not surprising that consoles there saw some releases that never made it to North America. Champions of Europe for the Master System is one example, and judging by the gameplay, perhaps it was better left on the other side of the pond. It’s not great, but it has nothing on excellent releases like Sensible Soccer.