I can barely believe that we're getting an excellent Streets of Rage 4 in 2020. It's been decades since I've been hyped up for the release of a beat 'em up. Can't wait to play.
I'm also impressed that they delivered a game in the end that crushed the fears after the very first trailer. And it get's even better, in comparison to Paprium from hour beloved Fonzie, Streets of Rage 4 is real. What I ask myself, is this still a SEGA IP? They are clearly outsourcing/lincensing their older IP's. I would like to know about SEGA's involvement here. Same as Panzer Dragoon Remake? They still own the IP or did they sell it?
If you like this type of retro style Beat´em ups,check out "Fight`n´Rage". It´s a new indie game,made by just ONE guy,which pays hommage to Streets of Rage,Final Fight,TMNT Turtles in Time etc. It has a very deep combat system,similar to a 1:1 fighting game ala Streetfighter,with combos,juggles etc. Alternative paths,multiple endings in the story mode,online and local multiplayer,various unlockable modes,costumes,characters etc. No microtransactions,no BS. It´s available on PS4,Xbone,Switch and Windows.I even installed on my old Windows 7 notebook and it runs perfect.
@@TheAufziehvogel they still own all the ip's you mentioned. I would love to know what % of sales SEGA make from the game or did they charge them a one off fee to use the streets of rage IP.
I'm glad they were able to eventually get proper power out of the Gen/MD, a bigger cartridge helped as well. Much more capable than your average Ninty kid will tell you.
Yeah, it was a big leap. Going from a four-megabit cart to 16 allowed for a lot of improvement, and it's good that Sega didn't try to cut costs on that. It wasn't common to see jumps in ROM size that big from sequential games in a series.
I started with SoR2. The jump down from that to the original also blew my mind, like I was looking at a Master System game. When I was a kid, more into console and game series wars stuff, I even was a bit embarrassed about it!
@@retrosoul8770 That's a good example. I mean, I love Golden Axe 2. I got it with my Genesis, but I an understand it feeling too similar to the first for those that had it. A real shame they didn't go with an eight megabit cart.
Just like Wonder Boy 3 Remake, they've absolutely smashed it again. Give them more forgotten SEGA IP's pls. Would kill for a proper Phantasy Star 1-4 remake, a legit Shining Force sequel (all the junk post 3 doesn't count) or even a Landstalker remake/sequel.
Now that we've all had quality time with TMNT Shredder's Revenge, we can officially declare that Streets of Rage 4 is still King of the beat'em up resurgence and in the Top 5 of all time.
@@melxb personally, I think so. Final fight 1 no doubt is cemented in history as a gamechanger for the genre. But Sor2 elevates this thing to an artform, especially for the homeconsole. I feel final fight 3 was closer to sor2 in finesse, but sor2 as a whole just came together so well. Its literally the Dark Knight of the original trilogy.
@@robertlawrence9000 look I'm not going to argue with you over this OK it's not worth it if you don't like it OK cool that's fine with me I think the game is good sure it's a little different that the others I know that but hey it's best to have something than don't have nothing so if you believe that this game is no good well that's your choice respectful
DF Retro has become one of the pre-eminent review/retrospective features. Outstanding work and a standard of quality almost unmatched by anyone else. This deserves way more views!
Brawlers used to be my favorite genre. Double Dragon, Turtles in Time, Simpsons Arcade, River City Ransom, SoR, etc. Created so many fun and amazing co-op experiences. 100% sold on this. And I never even paid attention during development. So many updates to older style games like this have been so bad lately. So glad it came out great though
Yeah, it's considered Eurodance or the mid to late 90s House Music. Techno music nowadays are guys like Carl Cox, Adam Beyer, Alan Fitzpatrick. Deep dark productions that are much more thunderous. Varies in BPMs more so these days, but the soundtrack of Streets of Rage isn't Techno at all.
No mentions about Streets of Rage Remake? It is easily one of the best fan made games of all time. Whoever made that clearly knew what made SoR great and is customizable down to every level.
Although you mentioned it briefly in the video, I don't think SoR2 gets enough credit for what (in my opinion) REALLY makes it stand out. In fact, I would add a 4th pillar to your analogy: Variety. Even with great music and visuals and satisfying impact, a side-scrolling brawler will quickly get boring if you're endlessly fighting the same goons with the same moves. Many hack-n-slash type games suffered from a similar problem. I would then break that variety down into three categories: variety of option, variety of enemy, and variety of circumstance. Almost all other brawlers, even arguably SoR1 and 3, don't quite nail this, whereas SoR2 is practically perfect in these regards. Variety of option is covered not just by 4 distinctly different characters to play as, but more importantly by the number of different moves available. It's amazing how much is possible given the limited buttons available for input. Even more amazingly though, each move serves a particular purpose, on harder difficulties spamming the same 1-2 moves simply won't work. This ties in to variety of enemy - the many different enemy types play off the move sets by each having weaknesses/strengths, where certain moves tend to be ineffective or countered in a way others won't be. Tying that all together is then variety of circumstance, as you very rarely ever feel like you're fighting the same bunch of goons, because the game constantly introduces new enemies and then new combinations of enemies. Putting all this together is what makes SoR2 not just the greatest brawler, but quite possibly one of the best-designed games of all time. I feel like I could talk about it for hours!
DUDE. I NEED an Alien vs Predator 2 Arcade beat 'em up like this in my life!!!!!!! The original Capcom AvP arcade game is one of the absolute best ever.
Wow, so glad I watched this. A great behind the scenes look at this amazing sequel, so damn informative. Thanks for including a few of the clips with the b/w line art, makes you appreciate the art here that much more. Great job on this mini-documentary! Tip for peeps playing SOR4: it's not talked about or shown in the in-game "fighting tips" but SOR4 actually has a soft land feature like a lot of the 1v1 fighting games. If you're getting knocked up into the air, hit the jump button when you're about halfway coming back down and you'll do a soft land. Saves time from getting up, so useful against bosses!
Probably one of the best videos you’ve ever made. And the technical part of SOR4 was just amazing and so respectful. I’m totally blown away but the game which is a modern retro master piece.
WOW that was fantastic. Thank you to the dev for bringing this game back from the dead. This was my childhood, played it on arcade, played it on Genesis and got the OG on Steam. Now i am getting this :) Also, THANK YOU Digital Foundry! this was a fantastic look. This channel is a gem.
Amazing video, so hyped for this game, excellent work once again John. Thanks for everything you're doing. The Saturn is my favorite system so it's always a joy to hear that amazing intro.
@@corey2232 um not really yakuza is amazing and i would love a remake of skies of arcadia, but sure 2d games have their place too, i guess u mean their sucky turn outs of sonic in 3d
I have a pre order on the PS4 physical. I wish it wasn't like this though. For a series soo beloved by soo many still I think it's a shame to limit the amount of people being able to get a physical copy. I'm sure many more people would have liked a freely available physical copy than copies will be made. A game like this should be for everyone without railroading people into a digital purchase, sad coming from a series and a time when it was and was only about physical copies. The originals were never limited, why should a properly done sequel like this be limited? I felt forced to get a pre order down or face having to pay a scalpers price for it later. I hate this sort of business practice and really don't like the whole limited run/super rare thing of limited production runs on popular franchises like this. Limited run or should that be limited fun?
Matt Lynch - I agree with you 100% and although I am no expert in the field, it could be that the market for that type of game isn’t really as big as you and I think it is. If they were to make physical copies widely available, besides the hardcore fans, fans of the genre in general, and those looking for a quick experience that is inexpensive, would the game really fly off the shelves to justify the production and manufacturing cost to produce physical versions of games? I don’t know how big the developer is, but finances could be the reason, maybe the publisher decided against it, who knows, but I do agree with you. I only buy physical games and I am so happy that companies like LIMITED RUN GAMES exist for that purpose. Now, if they can get the rights to turn these digital and or arcade ONLY games into purchasable physical releases, I would be forever extremely grateful!: (1)Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Arcade (Arcade) (2)Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time (Arcade) (3)Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Reshelled (4)The Simpson’s: Arcade (5)X-Men: The Arcade (6)Tomb Raider of the Lost Ark (7)Contra Evolution (Mobile) (8)Crime Fighters (Arcade) (9)Crime Fighters II Vendetta (Arcade) (10)Superman (Arcade) (11)Castlevania The Adventure ReBirth (Wii Ware) (12)Contra Rebirth (Wii Ware) (13)Gradius ReBirth (Wii Ware) (14)Excitebike: World Rally (Wii Ware) (15)Shinobi (Arcade)
well considering i bought sonic mania for my son on switch, the fact he loves monster boy and i platinumed it on ps4, and how stellar this looks to have turned out. This game is just a when not an if, and looks to be a really great way to spend an afternoon/ evening with your sega genesis friend or your son. glad to hear they made it good. and not just ok like double dragon neon, looking forward to scratching the coop beat em up itch. Also as always the care in your videos is peerless.
Digital foundry sit on the fence to do damage limitation for their corporate colleagues, they are the spin doctors in shiny suits, to keep us plebs spending.
This game is a love letter to all the fans! it looks gorgeous in every aspect!! kudos to the team for bringing the franshise back in such a top notch way. I CANT WAIT!!!
You know the industry is messed up when arguably smaller game developers pour in much more effort and work to their game's AI and polish than some bigger companies. That is exactly why the indie scene is no longer as niche as it used to be; hard work, love, and passion will ALWAYS be recognized by the ones who play.
Then your realize that the game you're comparing to others is a 2D sprite based title. You do realize working with 3D complicates the shit out of programming? Clipping is a big issue still not resolved today, along with representing surfaces and keeping deformation correct. Ever seen clothing on 3D characters that weren't glued to their skin texture? 😒🙄 Before you post ridiculous things, remember to use context. A 2D side scroller has a far lower threshold of issues that can pop up since hit scanning is also 2 dimensional. 👍 Decent thoughts but, I can list a bunch of games that are on consoles which quality is top notch from well known developers. Generalizing doesn't help either, so remember to avoid doing that.
@@evilformerlys4704 You missed a point : 2D animation requires to draw every frames at different stages : sketch, rough, clean. It doesn't need a huge computer to do so but lot of time and patience. 3D animation can be done by the CPU : give him key poses and it will compute all the interval frames. Some 3D engine can use physics to animate characters and détails (articulation, hairs, clothes...). And whatever 2D or 3D, you still have to program AI and pathfinder... SoR in mania proposes crowds of foes, so. 2D games are not easier to do, it's another job with his on issues ;) By the way, SoR4 is as solid as any 3D BTA of Plantinum Games (master of the genre)... Artisticly and mechanicly.
Love streets of rage since bitwars every snes fanboys calling this game "poor man's final fight" me in response as a Sega fan boy do final fight got sequels? ! Love its soundtracks KEEPS ON ROCKING N BUMPIN! Can't wait to play the sequel!! Ps:Blaze Fielding still a hottie!
I loved final fight at the times, but in retrospective it is quite a shallow game. There were much better fighters at the times, like SOR2 of course, but also the outstanding Vendetta (crime fighters 2) or even Golden Axe
I love the game but I do have a couple of gripes. I wish Axel and Blaze had a run or dash feature like Adam. Their lack of mobility compared to Adam/Cherry makes them harder to play (and not in a good way). It's crazy because Axel/Blaze are so good in this game! Adam is the epitome of what a SOR 4 character should be. Floyd doesn't need a dash or run because he has stupid power and range as is. At least with not giving Floyd a run/dash, it's a logical trade off in my eyes (Sacrificing speed for power and reach). Also, I hope that they make 4 player online instead of local co-op. On the PC version, there are ways around this via Parsec gaming. Other than those 2 gripes, this game is still damn good. You get loads of content and fan service for an affordable price of $25 bucks! That's more than most AAA games that charge $60 bucks! Yes, I'm talking about you Resident Evil 3 (Remake). I hope this game gets patches in the future OR some type of DLC.
Didya check Final Fight's AI to confirm the claim? Didya check other belt-scrollers to see if their AI was equal or better? Or did you just pull the claim out of your ass?
I want my dashing and rolling and SOR 3 super and star move system back. Those things added such a cool strategic element to the combat that their exclusion feels bittersweet. And no, having only one character with a dash doesn't count.
That would be way dope, more defensive combat options, especially considering the higher difficulty levels. For extra credit, they can add bots in Battle mode eith multiple difficulty levels for each. I can just imagine epic 3 on 1 matches again the toughest a.i.
@@steezyboyallday7362 Yeah, I mean I really wanted 4 to be definitive, but personally I still prefer SOR Remake over it. That being said, I've spent more time with the game, and I like the changes and some of the things they added more than I did originally. I like the juggling, I like how you can combo into "forward-forward-attack" (what were previously called star moves) and special moves more seamlessly, and I like how the special move system works where provisional self damage is applied than can be negated if you do enough followup damage without getting hit. I still think SOR 3's special meter is a better system though. It just sucks because while I agree with everyone else about the quality of SOR 3's level design, soundtrack, and localization issues marking it as inferior to its predecessor, again I still think that its combat mechanics are the best, and after having played so much of SOR Remake and the levels from 1 and 2 with them, going back to being dashless and roll-less, and not being able to level up star moves through good gameplay is annoying. The dashing and rolling adds such a cool strategic dimension to things, allowing you to engage and disengage in combat in deeper ways, adding a much more offensive element to SOR's combat, which I always felt to be much more defensive without it. Oh well, SOR 4 is still really damn good.
Streets of Rage 2 is imo a perfect game, so I'm curious to see how well this new entry stacks up. Also, SoR3's soundtrack is a guilty pleasure of mine, as chaotic it can get at times. The arrangements made for SORRemake turn an already excellent soundtrack for all three games even better.
Hell yeah, with some RPG elements, over the top magic effects, and superior weapons combat with serious impact. Maybe make it have a sort of dungeons and dragons dark and gritty style.
This video is phenomenal! It was fascinating to learn how they made the game. Thanks for your hard work! About to play the game. Looking forward to a great time!
Thank you for this excellent detailed review. You hit every nail on diving into many details. Love the behind the scenes the developers provided. I too was skeptical but seeing the reviews and new trailers I think it looks great!!! The visuals are dope!!!
I didn't know about the history or that I wanted to play Streets of Rage 4 before watching this, thanks John. And thank God for Gamepass, I get to play this on day one with my subscription!
Great series review and tech analisys, as usual. I'm waiting patiently to your update about the Switch versión before I throw my euros. Keep the good work!
If you still wanna play it now look up "Fusion" a genesis emulator for PC. Got all 3 streets games on it, runs like a dream and there's no setup bullshit like with the Amiga one
Great video! my only complaint is that lack of variety of enemies. Since we dont have limitations in technology now we could have had a few more types of enemies rather than tons of Y. Signals, Donovons and Galcias
It seems like very few people know about the star system in SoR3 and the fact that you can enter button commands with a 6 button genesis controller to do super versions of some moves for each character.
I faintly remember that. I have the Sega Classics on Switch which includes all 3 SoR games. My intention was to beat them all again before this. I’ll have to try that out! Thanks!!
I loved seeing the behind the scenes. It is mesmerizing to see the kind of technology they employed in this game, not to mention the passion and respect for the source material.
@@rocketassistedgoat1079 You know you can change numerous options in SORR to make them more like SOR 2 instead of SOR 3 if you don't like it, and use SOR 1 & 2 versions of characters (unlockables) to make them attack the same/have movesets from those games, right?
Streets of Rage - I remember my introduction to this game was being blown away by Blaze's 'punch-flip-suplex' combo. Only ever played the game with her to this very day. Bought SoR4 via Steam a few days ago. Really did take me back !!
Man, could you imagine a dark and gritty Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter V beatem up? That would be sick to implement like an Ultimate MK 3 combo system, maybe to the degree of Jax. Then add some insane sound effects that rattle the wall.
Great Video, Keep up the good work! Waiting on my physical copy for the PS4 to arrive tomorrow. Mainly getting it for the art book since I already owned it on both Nintendo Switch as well the PC via Xbox Game Pass.
To see that Spikeout was even mentioned here is something that really makes me think how this channel really goes their way out to research about these games. Very nice :)
The one thing that makes me feel Streets of Rage 3 is better is that everyone has the ability to run, whereas in 4, only Cherry can run. This is a massive step back, as it makes SOR4 slower than SOR3, and the purpose of a sequel is to play faster and better. SOR4 is definitely a slower game. GOOD, but definitely slower.
This pissed me off too... And is the only thing stopping me from buying the game... I dislike slow paced games... Once i played sor3 as a kid i wondered how i ever did without the run feature... If they fix this in an update i will IMMEDIATELY PURCHASE THIS GAME
The lack of a roll from sor3 is even more important to me, feels like you are stuck. But the you get used what this game adds in return and it is great overall I think
@@danehenry895 SoRR practically just plagiarized the original music. Not saying that's a bad thing really cuz it worked for that game, but I'm glad they went for more modern sounding music in SoR 4 to match the modern visuals.
Late 80s/early 90s was the golden age for beat 'em ups. One of the most iconic genres and one of the most fun to play! Tecnos, Capcom and Sega were masters at this fine art with the likes of Double Dragon, Final Fight, Golden Axe or Streets of Rage. I've just noticed that Streets of Rage 4 has been getting rave reviews. I can't wait to try it out, hoping that it's actually that good and, as such, that it lives up to this legendary series!
Anybody here has ever played the AWSOME fan made Streets Of Rage Remake? Its on pc its very well made... Also i recomend another AWSOME fan made game Final Fight LNS ultimate (also for pc) check them out if you are and oldschool beat em up fan
Funny how, for me, the first one is by far the best. It just feels real: no flashy moves, only you, your most of the time bare knuckles, and the punks. The ninjas, jetpack men, the aliens, the flashy street fighter-like moves just break the ambiance. I'll probably enjoy this fourth Streets of Rage, but unfortunately the game won't put me bare knuckles against my enemies.
i agree 100%, the first one is so pure and fun. figuring out the boss patterns and i love the elevator fight and the "boss rush" in the last level. i tried to like the other versions too, but nope. its SOR 1 for me!
Out of all the games I've ever played my entire life I've probably played Streets of Rage 1 2 and 3 and Final Fight 1 2 and 3 in all the other beat em up games more than any other game I've ever played
Great video! I saw IGN's review and was alittle unsure what to think - when I saw the notification for this video I was genuinely excited to see what you thought. This will be a must buy for me now as a big fan of the originals. Keep up the great work DF
Any particular reason you didn't choose to even mention SoR Remake? Seems a bit iffy if you ask me, considering it's practically the best SoR game out there, even if it's a fan made project.
Can’t believe they actually did it and made a worthy entry in the series. Great video too, loved how detailed it was and the great behind the scenes stuff.
I love the effort you put in every DF retro, they're like mini documentaries. Stay retro, John!
I agree I learn so much more here then your regular reviews
o7
It really is pretty incredible, i love this series!
All of them are very passionate at what they do. For instance, John Linneman loves retro gaming. That's why he is so thorough in this video.
Ghosty for real
I can barely believe that we're getting an excellent Streets of Rage 4 in 2020. It's been decades since I've been hyped up for the release of a beat 'em up. Can't wait to play.
I'm also impressed that they delivered a game in the end that crushed the fears after the very first trailer. And it get's even better, in comparison to Paprium from hour beloved Fonzie, Streets of Rage 4 is real. What I ask myself, is this still a SEGA IP? They are clearly outsourcing/lincensing their older IP's. I would like to know about SEGA's involvement here. Same as Panzer Dragoon Remake? They still own the IP or did they sell it?
at least some good news in 2020 lol
i agree with you,the game is great & fits right in with the series heres to hoping a 5 & 6 is on the horizon too
If you like this type of retro style Beat´em ups,check out "Fight`n´Rage".
It´s a new indie game,made by just ONE guy,which pays hommage to Streets of Rage,Final Fight,TMNT Turtles in Time etc. It has a very deep combat system,similar to a 1:1 fighting game ala Streetfighter,with combos,juggles etc.
Alternative paths,multiple endings in the story mode,online and local multiplayer,various unlockable modes,costumes,characters etc. No microtransactions,no BS.
It´s available on PS4,Xbone,Switch and Windows.I even installed on my old Windows 7 notebook and it runs perfect.
@@TheAufziehvogel they still own all the ip's you mentioned. I would love to know what % of sales SEGA make from the game or did they charge them a one off fee to use the streets of rage IP.
The leap from SoR to SoR 2 blew my mind when i was a kid
I'm glad they were able to eventually get proper power out of the Gen/MD, a bigger cartridge helped as well. Much more capable than your average Ninty kid will tell you.
Yeah, it was a big leap. Going from a four-megabit cart to 16 allowed for a lot of improvement, and it's good that Sega didn't try to cut costs on that. It wasn't common to see jumps in ROM size that big from sequential games in a series.
@@ravagingwolverine yeah thankfully I think they learned their lesson from being cheap with Golden Axe 2, using the same paltry cart size.
I started with SoR2. The jump down from that to the original also blew my mind, like I was looking at a Master System game. When I was a kid, more into console and game series wars stuff, I even was a bit embarrassed about it!
@@retrosoul8770 That's a good example. I mean, I love Golden Axe 2. I got it with my Genesis, but I an understand it feeling too similar to the first for those that had it. A real shame they didn't go with an eight megabit cart.
Just like Wonder Boy 3 Remake, they've absolutely smashed it again.
Give them more forgotten SEGA IP's pls. Would kill for a proper Phantasy Star 1-4 remake, a legit Shining Force sequel (all the junk post 3 doesn't count) or even a Landstalker remake/sequel.
SO MUCH THIS. Modern gamers have no idea why Sega has such a reverent following among old schoolers. Show them why!
I'd kill for earthworm jim reboot, contra hard corps remaster, robocop vs terminator remaster,
Alex kid in shinobi world remaster
@@sirmi9868 Man a Dot EMU remake of Alex Kidd in Miracle World would be amazing.
I see you are a man of culture. Sega brings the better memories.
Now that we've all had quality time with TMNT Shredder's Revenge, we can officially declare that Streets of Rage 4 is still King of the beat'em up resurgence and in the Top 5 of all time.
Fight n Rage also exists.
Streets of rage, particularly 2, Is still a staple in my current gaming diet. Looking fwd to this.
Yup, SoR 2 is my favorite. While I liked the music in SoR 1 but the gameplay is nothing compared to 2
What’s a gaming diet?
I just beat it a couple of weeks ago on my 3DS. Love the 3D effect in that game! Wish the 3DS had Turtles in Time also, that would be cool.
is streets of rage better than final fight
@@melxb personally, I think so. Final fight 1 no doubt is cemented in history as a gamechanger for the genre. But Sor2 elevates this thing to an artform, especially for the homeconsole. I feel final fight 3 was closer to sor2 in finesse, but sor2 as a whole just came together so well. Its literally the Dark Knight of the original trilogy.
This is a fantastic video! Love the depth you went into and seeing the early dev for the game and how it's all pieced together! Fascinating stuff!
SOR is back 😭it's so beautiful
Big respect to the developers of sor4
It's crap out of touch garbage
@@robertlawrence9000 look I'm not going to argue with you over this OK it's not worth it if you don't like it OK cool that's fine with me I think the game is good sure it's a little different that the others I know that but hey it's best to have something than don't have nothing so if you believe that this game is no good well that's your choice respectful
@@bashirjohnson4120 it's aggravating that Sega just threw away the franchise like this
@@robertlawrence9000 how is it bad?
Robert Lawrence I disagree with you big time. I think SOR 4 is a great game and definitely a worthy sequel.
man, this vid really makes me appreciate SoR4 way more than I already did.
22:10 This makes me wish Sega would revisit something like Comix Zone.
This art style is very similar to Comix Zone only higher def. That is also one of the best games on Genesis, strange no one picked it up
Comix Zone had franchise potential. Ball was dropped somewhere.
Yes Comix Zone all the way!
I would like Golden Axe in this style but with a bit more gritty old school comic look
Hell yes! I just played through comix zone a couple weeks ago. Still holds up as a fantastic game. Definitely could use a sequel or reboot.
DF Retro has become one of the pre-eminent review/retrospective features. Outstanding work and a standard of quality almost unmatched by anyone else. This deserves way more views!
Double dragon, streets of rage, final fight. The late 80's early 90's had great fighting games.
Anybody played Streets of Rage 2 and remember that wrestler boss ?..... how many of us called him Ultimate Warrior.. lol
He was actually based on the Ultimate Warrior from WWF
Haha meeee
Is he in Streets of rage 4 as well
@@MrGoodboyjoy yes as a secret boss fight.
@@stevejohnson1503 Thanks Mate!
Excellent work as usual. Hype is through the roof!
I kind of wish you mention SoR remake though. That fan game is incredible.
Sonic Mania and SoR 4 are Proof that classic side scrolling games are still relevant today and can be GREAT!
Brawlers used to be my favorite genre. Double Dragon, Turtles in Time, Simpsons Arcade, River City Ransom, SoR, etc.
Created so many fun and amazing co-op experiences.
100% sold on this. And I never even paid attention during development. So many updates to older style games like this have been so bad lately. So glad it came out great though
Every character in this game looks woke compared to the originals
@@robertlawrence9000 Yeah, not loving the hippy feminazi vibe. The standing and walking animations look tacky and overdone compared to the older ones.
Vendetta, why nobody mentions it? It's one of the best brawler of all, time, maybe second only to Streets of Rage.
@@Protestan88 Why are you scared that women are in the game?
I love the OST of Streets of Rage 2... It was a techno masterpiece even compared to today's standards
"even compared to today's standards"
today's standards are lower. that sentence makes no sense.
Yeah, it's considered Eurodance or the mid to late 90s House Music. Techno music nowadays are guys like Carl Cox, Adam Beyer, Alan Fitzpatrick. Deep dark productions that are much more thunderous. Varies in BPMs more so these days, but the soundtrack of Streets of Rage isn't Techno at all.
Sonic you are tripping hardcore. So does Sonic’s music on the genesis sound awful too?
@Sonic sorry but you're wrong. That is why is considered one of the soundtrack on any video game.
SOR 1 for me. That street level music is just timeless!
No mentions about Streets of Rage Remake? It is easily one of the best fan made games of all time. Whoever made that clearly knew what made SoR great and is customizable down to every level.
The knowledge, enthusiasm and joy of gaming on display in every one of John's DF Retro videos is incredible - it puts a big smile on my face :D
25 years later we get a new Streets of Rage. SOR2 and Brawl Brothers were my 2 favorite beat em ups back in the day. Love you videos. Stay safe!
@Chris S. agreed brother
John the work you and everyone does at DF is amazing. My favorite video game channel on UA-cam. Thank you all for all the amazing work you do.
This looks awesome. If they're not already making a remake of the first 3 games in the style/engine of this one then they absolutely should.
I'd smash that to bits :-)
Although you mentioned it briefly in the video, I don't think SoR2 gets enough credit for what (in my opinion) REALLY makes it stand out. In fact, I would add a 4th pillar to your analogy: Variety. Even with great music and visuals and satisfying impact, a side-scrolling brawler will quickly get boring if you're endlessly fighting the same goons with the same moves. Many hack-n-slash type games suffered from a similar problem. I would then break that variety down into three categories: variety of option, variety of enemy, and variety of circumstance. Almost all other brawlers, even arguably SoR1 and 3, don't quite nail this, whereas SoR2 is practically perfect in these regards. Variety of option is covered not just by 4 distinctly different characters to play as, but more importantly by the number of different moves available. It's amazing how much is possible given the limited buttons available for input. Even more amazingly though, each move serves a particular purpose, on harder difficulties spamming the same 1-2 moves simply won't work. This ties in to variety of enemy - the many different enemy types play off the move sets by each having weaknesses/strengths, where certain moves tend to be ineffective or countered in a way others won't be. Tying that all together is then variety of circumstance, as you very rarely ever feel like you're fighting the same bunch of goons, because the game constantly introduces new enemies and then new combinations of enemies. Putting all this together is what makes SoR2 not just the greatest brawler, but quite possibly one of the best-designed games of all time. I feel like I could talk about it for hours!
DUDE. I NEED an Alien vs Predator 2 Arcade beat 'em up like this in my life!!!!!!! The original Capcom AvP arcade game is one of the absolute best ever.
yooooooooooooooooooo
@@agamaz5650 TIME TO HUNT!
Wow, so glad I watched this. A great behind the scenes look at this amazing sequel, so damn informative. Thanks for including a few of the clips with the b/w line art, makes you appreciate the art here that much more. Great job on this mini-documentary!
Tip for peeps playing SOR4: it's not talked about or shown in the in-game "fighting tips" but SOR4 actually has a soft land feature like a lot of the 1v1 fighting games. If you're getting knocked up into the air, hit the jump button when you're about halfway coming back down and you'll do a soft land. Saves time from getting up, so useful against bosses!
I've been looking forward to this game for a long time. I love Streets of Rage!
Probably one of the best videos you’ve ever made. And the technical part of SOR4 was just amazing and so respectful. I’m totally blown away but the game which is a modern retro master piece.
WOW that was fantastic. Thank you to the dev for bringing this game back from the dead. This was my childhood, played it on arcade, played it on Genesis and got the OG on Steam. Now i am getting this :)
Also, THANK YOU Digital Foundry! this was a fantastic look. This channel is a gem.
Amazing video, so hyped for this game, excellent work once again John. Thanks for everything you're doing. The Saturn is my favorite system so it's always a joy to hear that amazing intro.
Bare Knuckle 3 is hands down my favorite entry in the franchise, I can play that game and listen to the music for hours.
Finally some love for Streets of rage 3. Thank you
This is what Sega should have been doing instead of trying to make everything 3D.
At the very least, once they realized they sucked at making everything 3D they should've gone back to this.
Kos4Evr it's a damned if you do damned if you don't thing.
@@corey2232 um not really yakuza is amazing and i would love a remake of skies of arcadia, but sure 2d games have their place too, i guess u mean their sucky turn outs of sonic in 3d
i honestly would love capcom doing a 3d entry of final fight
@@melxb it already exists, it's called Final Fight: Streetwise for PS2.
Never played it but I would imagine reviews aren't kind 😕
John, you are knocking it out of the park with these DF Retro videos during lock down!
Heck yes! Picked up the LRG CE of it on PS4, stoked to get it
Excellent retrospective and analysis of the very excellent 4th one. Love all the behind the scenes footage you managed to get!
Have the LRG edition preordered and can’t wait to buy it digitally when it releases, it’s my favorite childhood series
Drink a Beer and Play a Game - When does LRG ship?
@@NYCJoeBlack probably 2-4 months after the pre order period.
I have a pre order on the PS4 physical. I wish it wasn't like this though. For a series soo beloved by soo many still I think it's a shame to limit the amount of people being able to get a physical copy. I'm sure many more people would have liked a freely available physical copy than copies will be made. A game like this should be for everyone without railroading people into a digital purchase, sad coming from a series and a time when it was and was only about physical copies. The originals were never limited, why should a properly done sequel like this be limited? I felt forced to get a pre order down or face having to pay a scalpers price for it later. I hate this sort of business practice and really don't like the whole limited run/super rare thing of limited production runs on popular franchises like this. Limited run or should that be limited fun?
Matt Lynch - I agree with you 100% and although I am no expert in the field, it could be that the market for that type of game isn’t really as big as you and I think it is. If they were to make physical copies widely available, besides the hardcore fans, fans of the genre in general, and those looking for a quick experience that is inexpensive, would the game really fly off the shelves to justify the production and manufacturing cost to produce physical versions of games?
I don’t know how big the developer is, but finances could be the reason, maybe the publisher decided against it, who knows, but I do agree with you. I only buy physical games and I am so happy that companies like LIMITED RUN GAMES exist for that purpose.
Now, if they can get the rights to turn these digital and or arcade ONLY games into purchasable physical releases, I would be forever extremely grateful!:
(1)Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Arcade (Arcade)
(2)Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time (Arcade)
(3)Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Reshelled
(4)The Simpson’s: Arcade
(5)X-Men: The Arcade
(6)Tomb Raider of the Lost Ark
(7)Contra Evolution (Mobile)
(8)Crime Fighters (Arcade)
(9)Crime Fighters II Vendetta (Arcade)
(10)Superman (Arcade)
(11)Castlevania The Adventure ReBirth (Wii Ware)
(12)Contra Rebirth (Wii Ware)
(13)Gradius ReBirth (Wii Ware)
(14)Excitebike: World Rally (Wii Ware)
(15)Shinobi (Arcade)
Frederick Gerard Garcia - Thanks!!
You make the best new retro reviews, not just from the technology analysis perspective but as whole. Really glad this game turned out great, cheers!
well considering i bought sonic mania for my son on switch, the fact he loves monster boy and i platinumed it on ps4, and how stellar this looks to have turned out. This game is just a when not an if, and looks to be a really great way to spend an afternoon/ evening with your sega genesis friend or your son.
glad to hear they made it good. and not just ok like double dragon neon, looking forward to scratching the coop beat em up itch.
Also as always the care in your videos is peerless.
My lil girl's favorite by far was River City Girls beat it 4 times, I hope she enjoys this enough to play through with me at least once.
This game came out of nowhere for me, I love it so much. The depth in the combat is very rewarding.
Heck yeah, was hoping DF would take a look at these.
Great job DF. I love your deep dive into one of my favorite game genres around. I appreciate everything you do.
Who was waiting on Digital Foundry SOR 4 impressions? Great timing.
Digital foundry sit on the fence to do damage limitation for their corporate colleagues, they are the spin doctors in shiny suits, to keep us plebs spending.
@@leeboy2k1 uuuuug how so
This game is a love letter to all the fans! it looks gorgeous in every aspect!! kudos to the team for bringing the franshise back in such a top notch way. I CANT WAIT!!!
I always thought Axel said "Grab da pa"
Now I know it's "Grand Upper".
I always thought he said Ran Ta Par.
Sounds like greta pa to me lol
I just translated to grandpa
I thought it was the French word "guet-apens" that means ambush XD
Wrath of paw!
Theres so much going on underneath the surface of this game, thank you for breaking it all down so that I can appreciate it even more thoroughly
You know the industry is messed up when arguably smaller game developers pour in much more effort and work to their game's AI and polish than some bigger companies. That is exactly why the indie scene is no longer as niche as it used to be; hard work, love, and passion will ALWAYS be recognized by the ones who play.
Then your realize that the game you're comparing to others is a 2D sprite based title. You do realize working with 3D complicates the shit out of programming? Clipping is a big issue still not resolved today, along with representing surfaces and keeping deformation correct. Ever seen clothing on 3D characters that weren't glued to their skin texture?
😒🙄 Before you post ridiculous things, remember to use context. A 2D side scroller has a far lower threshold of issues that can pop up since hit scanning is also 2 dimensional. 👍 Decent thoughts but, I can list a bunch of games that are on consoles which quality is top notch from well known developers. Generalizing doesn't help either, so remember to avoid doing that.
@@evilformerlys4704 You missed a point : 2D animation requires to draw every frames at different stages : sketch, rough, clean.
It doesn't need a huge computer to do so but lot of time and patience.
3D animation can be done by the CPU : give him key poses and it will compute all the interval frames. Some 3D engine can use physics to animate characters and détails (articulation, hairs, clothes...).
And whatever 2D or 3D, you still have to program AI and pathfinder... SoR in mania proposes crowds of foes, so. 2D games are not easier to do, it's another job with his on issues ;)
By the way, SoR4 is as solid as any 3D BTA of Plantinum Games (master of the genre)... Artisticly and mechanicly.
@@evilformerlys4704 Way too much money is wasted on making games today and they never turn out better than SoR 4.
Thank you for the thorough, technical, and entertaining video! I will be playing it for the first time tomorrow.
Love streets of rage since bitwars every snes fanboys calling this game "poor man's final fight" me in response as a Sega fan boy do final fight got sequels? ! Love its soundtracks KEEPS ON ROCKING N BUMPIN!
Can't wait to play the sequel!!
Ps:Blaze Fielding still a hottie!
It got, 2 in fact!
Final fight does have sequels, but I do agree that streets of rage kicks its ass all up and down the street. Sega boyyyyssss
Poor man's Final Fight those fanboys say? To which I would reply, why was Final Fight Guy a thing, again? 😅
Then we got final fight perfect on mega cd.
I loved final fight at the times, but in retrospective it is quite a shallow game. There were much better fighters at the times, like SOR2 of course, but also the outstanding Vendetta (crime fighters 2) or even Golden Axe
I love the game but I do have a couple of gripes. I wish Axel and Blaze had a run or dash feature like Adam. Their lack of mobility compared to Adam/Cherry makes them harder to play (and not in a good way). It's crazy because Axel/Blaze are so good in this game! Adam is the epitome of what a SOR 4 character should be. Floyd doesn't need a dash or run because he has stupid power and range as is. At least with not giving Floyd a run/dash, it's a logical trade off in my eyes (Sacrificing speed for power and reach). Also, I hope that they make 4 player online instead of local co-op. On the PC version, there are ways around this via Parsec gaming. Other than those 2 gripes, this game is still damn good. You get loads of content and fan service for an affordable price of $25 bucks! That's more than most AAA games that charge $60 bucks! Yes, I'm talking about you Resident Evil 3 (Remake).
I hope this game gets patches in the future OR some type of DLC.
Didya check Final Fight's AI to confirm the claim? Didya check other belt-scrollers to see if their AI was equal or better? Or did you just pull the claim out of your ass?
I want my dashing and rolling and SOR 3 super and star move system back. Those things added such a cool strategic element to the combat that their exclusion feels bittersweet. And no, having only one character with a dash doesn't count.
That would be way dope, more defensive combat options, especially considering the higher difficulty levels. For extra credit, they can add bots in Battle mode eith multiple difficulty levels for each. I can just imagine epic 3 on 1 matches again the toughest a.i.
@@steezyboyallday7362 Yeah, I mean I really wanted 4 to be definitive, but personally I still prefer SOR Remake over it. That being said, I've spent more time with the game, and I like the changes and some of the things they added more than I did originally. I like the juggling, I like how you can combo into "forward-forward-attack" (what were previously called star moves) and special moves more seamlessly, and I like how the special move system works where provisional self damage is applied than can be negated if you do enough followup damage without getting hit. I still think SOR 3's special meter is a better system though.
It just sucks because while I agree with everyone else about the quality of SOR 3's level design, soundtrack, and localization issues marking it as inferior to its predecessor, again I still think that its combat mechanics are the best, and after having played so much of SOR Remake and the levels from 1 and 2 with them, going back to being dashless and roll-less, and not being able to level up star moves through good gameplay is annoying. The dashing and rolling adds such a cool strategic dimension to things, allowing you to engage and disengage in combat in deeper ways, adding a much more offensive element to SOR's combat, which I always felt to be much more defensive without it. Oh well, SOR 4 is still really damn good.
first ff7 now this damn we are being blessed by john.
Awesome video as always, John. If DF was a band you would be the lead singer.
Streets of Rage 2 is imo a perfect game, so I'm curious to see how well this new entry stacks up.
Also, SoR3's soundtrack is a guilty pleasure of mine, as chaotic it can get at times. The arrangements made for SORRemake turn an already excellent soundtrack for all three games even better.
SOR4 is perfect. Must play
Love the editing on this one John. and the footage in front of the crt truly chef's kiss material
Please get the developer to make golden axe too.
Derek Stewart Yes
Hell yeah, with some RPG elements, over the top magic effects, and superior weapons combat with serious impact. Maybe make it have a sort of dungeons and dragons dark and gritty style.
Golden Axe with the upgrade system similar to Castle Crashers.
These videos are such high quality, you continually impress me!
I love when Axel sounds like he's yelling "SANTA CLAUSE!" in Streets of Rage 2.
This video is phenomenal! It was fascinating to learn how they made the game. Thanks for your hard work! About to play the game. Looking forward to a great time!
My opinion on the game has substantially improved. Particularly love what they've done with shadow, lighting and reflections.
Me too for sure.
The output from this guy just keeps on getting better.
Is the awesome music around the beginning a track of SOR 4 ? If so, ace soundtrack as usual.
Edit : thanks for your answer John later in the video :D
Gotta love gamepass, my arcade sticks are ready for this masterpiece!
@@ricepony33 I'm on xbox but I'm pretty sure pc will have it too. Can't confirm it though.
xbox gamers don't buy games
Thank you for this excellent detailed review. You hit every nail on diving into many details. Love the behind the scenes the developers provided. I too was skeptical but seeing the reviews and new trailers I think it looks great!!! The visuals are dope!!!
I didn't know about the history or that I wanted to play Streets of Rage 4 before watching this, thanks John. And thank God for Gamepass, I get to play this on day one with my subscription!
Great series review and tech analisys, as usual. I'm waiting patiently to your update about the Switch versión before I throw my euros. Keep the good work!
Loved Street of Rage 2, played the hell out of that game back in the day.
If you still wanna play it now look up "Fusion" a genesis emulator for PC. Got all 3 streets games on it, runs like a dream and there's no setup bullshit like with the Amiga one
Great video! my only complaint is that lack of variety of enemies. Since we dont have limitations in technology now we could have had a few more types of enemies rather than tons of Y. Signals, Donovons and Galcias
"OK GOOGLE: how do I upvote a youtube video 100 times?"
Out of touch
make 99 more accounts XD
Love what you guys do at digital foundry!! My favorite UA-cam channel Bar None!
favorite beat em up alongside turtles in time.
This game is masterpiece. Loved the video, great work as always.
I love the art style of Streets Of Rage 4.
It's impressive, but I hate it for streets of rage
Amazing review of a most anticipated game. Kudos for the thorough and technical aspects of it, this is one serious gaming channel!
It seems like very few people know about the star system in SoR3 and the fact that you can enter button commands with a 6 button genesis controller to do super versions of some moves for each character.
whoa! I had no idea about that. That game gets a lot of negativity
I faintly remember that. I have the Sega Classics on Switch which includes all 3 SoR games. My intention was to beat them all again before this. I’ll have to try that out! Thanks!!
I loved seeing the behind the scenes. It is mesmerizing to see the kind of technology they employed in this game, not to mention the passion and respect for the source material.
I was expecting some mention to BOR and SORR, specially the last one that could have been an official thing if things had worked like today.
I have SORR: the impacts don't feel right. Very disappointing. Play SoR2 back to back, and you'll see: the original is vastly better.
@@rocketassistedgoat1079 both of those are way better than this garbage
@@rocketassistedgoat1079 I'm curious; What do you mean the impacts dont feel right in SORR?
@@rocketassistedgoat1079 You know you can change numerous options in SORR to make them more like SOR 2 instead of SOR 3 if you don't like it, and use SOR 1 & 2 versions of characters (unlockables) to make them attack the same/have movesets from those games, right?
What??? SoRR feels perfect. You guys are on crack. The gameplay is pretty much identical to SoR3.
Streets of Rage - I remember my introduction to this game was being blown away by Blaze's 'punch-flip-suplex' combo. Only ever played the game with her to this very day. Bought SoR4 via Steam a few days ago. Really did take me back !!
This decade is the time for beat em ups to excel
That kuzoboy can finally have new material to remix
I agree! First River City Girls and now this!
Man, could you imagine a dark and gritty Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter V beatem up? That would be sick to implement like an Ultimate MK 3 combo system, maybe to the degree of Jax. Then add some insane sound effects that rattle the wall.
Great Video, Keep up the good work! Waiting on my physical copy for the PS4 to arrive tomorrow. Mainly getting it for the art book since I already owned it on both Nintendo Switch as well the PC via Xbox Game Pass.
I thought the new Special mechanic is taken from Street Fighter IV's Focus Attack.
To see that Spikeout was even mentioned here is something that really makes me think how this channel really goes their way out to research about these games. Very nice :)
The one thing that makes me feel Streets of Rage 3 is better is that everyone has the ability to run, whereas in 4, only Cherry can run. This is a massive step back, as it makes SOR4 slower than SOR3, and the purpose of a sequel is to play faster and better. SOR4 is definitely a slower game. GOOD, but definitely slower.
This pissed me off too... And is the only thing stopping me from buying the game... I dislike slow paced games... Once i played sor3 as a kid i wondered how i ever did without the run feature... If they fix this in an update i will IMMEDIATELY PURCHASE THIS GAME
The lack of a roll from sor3 is even more important to me, feels like you are stuck. But the you get used what this game adds in return and it is great overall I think
agreed, same happened to Mortal Kombat 11 where they removed the ability to run, pissed me off so much
This is absolutely the BEST review for this game
The only low point I found was the music: After 25 years, the old tunes still rock, and the new ones sound... Bland.
I agree, the BOMBER GAMES remake managed to blend both old and new styles tho. Surprised SEGA didn't quite nail it with that.
I agree the music sucked. Nothing like the originals. I was waiting for a track to give the original vibe and none did.
@@danehenry895
SoRR practically just plagiarized the original music. Not saying that's a bad thing really cuz it worked for that game, but I'm glad they went for more modern sounding music in SoR 4 to match the modern visuals.
@@steveafanador6441 Chinatown was good.
NO!
Looking forward to getting to play this tomorrow. It looks really good and you showing the detail of the craftsmanship that went into it is great.
This has got to be the fifth time DF has convinced me to buy a game I had little or even no interest in. And it isn't even a review.
Hope you went back and played SOR2 while you were waiting. I literally hate all fighting and beat em up games except SOR2 and 3.
4 is really good
It's on Xbox game pass for PC and Xbox one, FYI.
Late 80s/early 90s was the golden age for beat 'em ups. One of the most iconic genres and one of the most fun to play! Tecnos, Capcom and Sega were masters at this fine art with the likes of Double Dragon, Final Fight, Golden Axe or Streets of Rage. I've just noticed that Streets of Rage 4 has been getting rave reviews. I can't wait to try it out, hoping that it's actually that good and, as such, that it lives up to this legendary series!
Anybody here has ever played the AWSOME fan made Streets Of Rage Remake? Its on pc its very well made...
Also i recomend another AWSOME fan made game Final Fight LNS ultimate (also for pc) check them out if you are and oldschool beat em up fan
This was well done! I really loved the retrospective of the series here. Much love and respect was put into this game and this video
Watch the making off the channel "stratefox" did with the older games, that channel it's excellent BTW! Give them the attention they deserve.
Yes yes yeeeeeessssssss stratefox is often underlooked and under appreciated give them some love
Strafefox must be part of the DF Retro team. I follow him since years.
strafefox is one of the best channels out there. it oozes that lovely mega drive/synth wave vibe and is very informative
Thisss!! I called it splash wave in my recommend. But yes my peeps. Check this out as a companion pie e to this Df.
Yes please everyone, check out Splashwave!
Love this John! Installing the game now, been waiting so long for it!
Damn this is sick, definitely buying.
It's trash. Download the free Streets of Rage Remake. It's 100% better
DF Retro videos are always crazy high in quality, wow!
Funny how, for me, the first one is by far the best. It just feels real: no flashy moves, only you, your most of the time bare knuckles, and the punks.
The ninjas, jetpack men, the aliens, the flashy street fighter-like moves just break the ambiance.
I'll probably enjoy this fourth Streets of Rage, but unfortunately the game won't put me bare knuckles against my enemies.
3 is my favorite 1 because its fast paced and has more moves
i agree 100%, the first one is so pure and fun. figuring out the boss patterns and i love the elevator fight and the "boss rush" in the last level. i tried to like the other versions too, but nope. its SOR 1 for me!
1 is my favourite too. The intro theme of SoR 1 is the best score ever made in a video game for me.
I love all 3 and while 2 gets the most love it isnt necessarily my favorite
Out of all the games I've ever played my entire life I've probably played Streets of Rage 1 2 and 3 and Final Fight 1 2 and 3 in all the other beat em up games more than any other game I've ever played
Great video! I saw IGN's review and was alittle unsure what to think - when I saw the notification for this video I was genuinely excited to see what you thought.
This will be a must buy for me now as a big fan of the originals.
Keep up the great work DF
Any particular reason you didn't choose to even mention SoR Remake? Seems a bit iffy if you ask me, considering it's practically the best SoR game out there, even if it's a fan made project.
Can’t believe they actually did it and made a worthy entry in the series. Great video too, loved how detailed it was and the great behind the scenes stuff.
What is the song name from the begining?! I neeeeed it
Dionysus Streets of Rage 4 main theme