I actually just picked this up out of curiosity and frankly I feel like a thief getting this game for only 2$ cause I've honestly enjoyed it more then some of the modern games that we have today.
***** i totally agree that this game doesn't get enough attention now days. It looks pretty awesome and i'm pretty big into retro gaming and watch a lot of channels and this game almost never gets played or even brought up. Even though i had heard of this game in magazine back in the day this is the first time i've seen video of the actual gameplay. I'm sure eventually this will start being on more n64 hidden gem lists.
dannyryu You know, I always think twice about buying a game at 59 buck, but if they remake this and have a deluxe edition, I would buy the 89 buck version for sure.
I was 7 and I finished it with my sister, and we both didint speak english at the time including castlevania as well wihch relied on text and following with the storyline. LOL
For anyone who has never played this game: Let me tell you something. I'm a fan of video games in general, I have been my whole life. I love RPG'S as well. This game right here, as a package, is unlike any other game I've ever played. For that value alone, the experience of this game is invaluable. I don't want to overlap Glenn's review, just add personal anecdotes and experience I have with the game. I have to admit, I love the characters in this game. The story is told without voice-acting, but it's well-enough written that it doesn't matter. There is psyche and hierarchy in the hybrids in this game. You meet crazy scientists who want to engineer the ultimate hybrid beast, you got short, fat Jerry who is committed to the mission, but conflicted with growing emotional dissonance, you got Hunter, one of the baddest-ass characters to come out of a game, the militant all-business hybrid. Then there's the aliens, your allies. You're just gonna have to play and see, but take it from me - these characters and the plot are brilliantly crafted and told, and the game is worth it nearly to experience the story alone. But then, there's what sets this game apart. The combat system. No other game ever showed me that it was cool to let your opponent do a Brainbuster on you, just so you could learn it and start fucking the rest of the game up with it. Or a piledriver. Or a German suplex. I mean they took the art of wrestling moves and translated it into actual survival tactics, and it just couldn't be more awesome. You can "soccer kick" your downed opponent, or get them in a figure-four leg lock. Usually these moves are reserved for sports entertainment, but in this game, it is set against a very serious backdrop. The music in battle scenes is always dramatic tense fanfare (especially in boss fights). Anyway back to the point, you can learn uppercuts, hooks, even spinning backhands. The thing is, if you predominantly use your hands in the game, your freaking main character will eventually stand a little more front-forward, in a boxers stance. If you use more kicks, your fighter will eventually stand with his arms back and his legs more forward, seemingly ready to kick even quicker. Now when in your life do you remember a video game letting you do that? That's insane. All this talk can't replace the fun of throwing monsters around and kicking and punching the shit out of them with all these different left and right punches and kicks and throws and submissions. The amount of moves in this game is just stunning. You can do a fucking axe kick and crescent kick. Arm and neck choke. FOOTBALL TACKLE. This game is fun, man. If not for the story alone, the combat mechanics have not exactly been seen elsewhere or replicated since, as far as I know. (edit: Glenn says it has since been replicated.) Hybrid Heaven is a one- of -a-kind in that sense. if that wasn't enough, individual moves can be leveled up, each body part has individual offense and defense ratings (head, left arm, body, right leg, etc.), and your character has his own stats that can be leveled. And you can choose to grind and level your mutherfucker up, too, and there's genuine sense of reward, accomplishment, and growth in it, too. when you have a battle where you get knocked out, have a Boston crab done on you, awaken Consciousness and come back and finish the battle, and then you come away from it knowing the Boston crab, every time you use that Boston crab going forward, you will remember the Triumph of the victory you learned it in. There's a dynamic there that I think game developers strive for even today. to deliver a game where your choices and experiences are truly impactful to the rest of the experience. I think hybrid Heaven definitely delivers in that regard. There are a couple other game modes worth playing, like the survival battle modes. Ultimately, I haven't regretted a single of the hours I put into this game in my life. I can confidently say no other game has told exactly the same story, nor has ever delivered quite this combat system, and executed it well. And I mean, games with actual good stories don't get enough credit, especially from back in the day, but I'm telling you, the characters in this game really give it life. I actually used to do the arm-cross-scratcy-chin thing Jerry always does, I used to do it as a kid cause I thought it was COOL lmao. This is the definition of "N64 Hidden Gem". If you are a retro collector or N64 collector, buy this game. Now. You won't be disappointed. The camera controls are a bit awkward at times, and yes it's "fuzzy" (you're going back to God damn 1998 in technology ok) and every now and then, the environment feels a little stale, but genuinely, the story keeps everything moving forward, and it's not like they blatantly reuse textures or anything. There are new environments as the game progresses (even despite all of it taking place in an underground shelter), trust me it's enough to drive the game forwards. The non-combat part of it might start to drag, but don't let it, just keep moving. It's a great game, seriously. Even at today's standards, I'd give it a 7.5 for pure effort and innovation by the staff alone, much less the story and great characters. Don't knock this one until you try it, then beat it on ultimate difficulty. Which, btw, ultimate difficulty presents its OWN challenge. it makes it harder to just "take a move" to learn it, because one brainbuster, and you'll probably be knocked unconscious and then swiftly disposed of. You can't just make mistakes like the easier difficulties. Take it from me -give this one a try.
Rountree1985 Wtf is wrong with you; the man wrote a pretty decent counter review yet you have the gall to verbally insult him ... shame on you ?! Please let me know how mental health figures into videogame reviews/playing retro N64 cartridges ? 😒😨😬😱👎✌
God I love this game! I normally don't play rpg games, but THIS ONE won me over big time. The music, fighting system, the environments, characters, storyline, everything!!
I remember having this game as a kid.I hated it at first and thought it was boring and confusing as hell,but once I got to chapter 3 I was impressed with the storyline.I actually got impressed with the fighting system as well as I progressed and very good at it making it a good game I enjoyed.yea this is a underrated game indeed that deserved alot more attention and definitely a sequel.
It was indeed one of my favourite games on a system that was lacking RPG's. The opening blew me away and then I felt a bit lost. If players stick with it then there will be this one moment when a switch is turned on in your brain and you realise just how awesome this game is. It is a one off Gem and I'm glad I finished it when I was a teenager. Now to go back and finish Aidyn chronicles
I Came across this Game trading with one of My friends & like you said I was CONFUSED in the beginning but eventually I was sucked in with the build of My Character & wrestling moves. Definitely an underrated & overlooked game for the N64.
for me it was all about the combat system. I loved the idea of it feeling like it still required a little bit of skill, rather than just constant dumb luck like some RPGs, what with always being able to move and having the option to reduce your damage during throws and attacks via blocking, attempting a counter or reversal throw and all that. Really great game, and very under rated. A gem of a game for anyone looking for something a little different.
thank you for this! I haven't played this in 15 years+ and forgot the name. I googled "n64 game where you wake up in a lab and fight monsters and your video popped up. I just bought a copy and am about to dig in! Cheers!
This game has single-handedly renewed my faith in the Nintendo 64. I picked it up tonight because the guys at the retro store near me said it was a "beat em' up." Boy am I glad that it's something so much more interesting. The battle system is badass.
excellent review, i really enjoyed this game about 10 years ago, will need to buy it again i dont normally enjoy rpg's but i stumbled upon this game as i thought it had a cool name, gave it a chance and was fully engrossed in the battle system, and eventually completed it which is rare for me
I also picked this Ogre Battle 64, and Adyn Chronicles the day they were released because of the lack of RPG’s on the system. Where I thought Chronicles would be the best of them, it was actually Ogre Battle and Hybrid Heaven that I enjoyed the most. I still have my cart of Hybrid Heaven to this day.
I fondly remember playing this in my first apartment First time I played it was at Funcoland I was more invested in the unique combat Rather than the story Keep up the great work Your channel always brings back fond memories of the N64 \m/
GREAT REVIEW! I just picked up this game today at my local retro game store it instantly caught my eye with its game cartridge cover art and toping it off with the KONAMI logo :D
I found the story to be confusing at first too, but when I look back at it, I feel like it's appropriate because when you play as Diaz, he doesn't know what's going on, and neither does the player. When you play as Johnny Slater, everything becomes way more clear to him, and because of that, the story becomes clear to the player. It's a neat touch to have the character and player kind of go through that same journey of discovering what's going on. As much as I enjoyed the game, the only minor gripe is that it's so easy to see the Game Over screen. While it's not extremely hard by any means, one small bad decision in a fight could end your game, or at the very least see a massive chunk of health gone. I guess it kind of makes sense because I'm sure it can be that way in a real fight too, but it's kind of annoying to have to replay parts just because you took one unlucky hit that left you unconscious before your opponent finishes you off. Other than that, solid game. I would love to see a remaster, sequel or spinoff of some sort, but knowing Konami's track record, I'm not going to hold my breath.
I loved Hybrid Heaven back when I was a kid and I still love it now. The fact that it was forgotten about/never played is something of a travesty to me, and I really hope one day we’ll get a reboot or a remaster.
I .. LOVED this game on the N64 as a kid. At the time, I hadn't had much introduction to RPGs save Pokemon and Chrono Trigger. I'd love to see this get ported or brought back. I know it's not likely but still...
Yup been playing this on and off for years and I still haven't finished it. Kinda don't want to want to keep my save file forever. Hidden gem for sure.
So what other games used this combat system? It's amazing. Also you should have mentioned how the guy's stance changes if you specialise in certain moves: a boxing stance, a muay thai stance and a wide wrestling stance. The multiplayer is also very good especially if you have a friend with a save of his own.
Depends on what moves you favor. The level of your limbs, as well. If you favor punches, your stances is of a boxer's. Developing your legs more makes you a kickboxer. A body grappler makes you a wrestler. There are in between categories as well (arms+legs, no body = street fighter for example). You switch sides (left/right) by pressing B. Your stronger limb should be at the rear to cause even more damage.
I picked this game up last year and I have not been disappointed I wish I had it when I was kid when it came out. I really enjoy the way the combat is represented.
I found this game on the clearance rack and thought I'd give it a chance. I'm glad I did, because I loved it! There were some frustratingly hard moments, but it was really satisfying to beat a difficult boss or pull of the perfect combo.
I fucking love this game. Hidden gem. konami needs to bring this back today If they give it a good plot and good graphics i don't see how it could fail.
As a teenager, I remember not even knowing what genre of game this was when I decided to get it. I just thought the name, and the fact that it was sci-fi, seemed cool to me. Come to think of it, this might very well have been my first RPG. I remember renting Quest 64 back before, but only played it for a couple sit-downs. But yeah...the combat and RPG elements had me pretty gripped once I found and became accustomed to the depth and structure. The story didn't get me, mainly because I wasn't sure what the story was... I just loved the bit of romance in the otherwise dingy arc...and that ending was a good reward -- the cherry on top.
I loved this game as a kid, I must have been about 7 or probably 8 years old by then but the combat system was sooo good, I remember playing it again about 12 years ago, I should probably play it once again thanks for bringing this back
I was just a kid at the time I had found this game and didn't understand how to play it since I was so young and didn't understand it but I still loved to play it I thought it was amazing and as I got older I forgot about it completely until one random night I went to bed and had a dream of this game somewhat recently and questioned if it really was a game at all since I couldn't remember much of it and it's name so I looked up every N64 game ever made and found this in the list then a smile came across my face as the memories of playing this game blindly as a kid came back to me and remembering how I hated I didn't have a memory card to save the game yet I would still turn it on and start all over again 9 year old me was creeped out by some of the monsters and felt like a badass when I beat them in fights. Now I'm a 31 year old who just wants games like this again that really pull you in and hooks you to it in a good way and that is feature complete you know a full game. Oh and I feel like I should add this just to see if some people find this funny or laugh due to remember this epic store but I rented this game with my mother at blockbuster.
I bought this game on a whim and loved it. It has been a long time since I have played it but I played through it more than once. The unique game play style was fun despite the platforming stuff could be frustrating. Still a great game that people might have overlooked or never heard of.
This game was amazing in my opinion. And I was always more of a fan of punching over kicking, especially once you got the R Hook and R Uppercut. If you did a five punch combo of all R Hook and they all connect, then you'd be given a bonus charged punch that would send enemies flying. It was great fun!
I've owned this game just over 20 years and it was the most best experience i ever had in a game that time, it was unique and very mysterious witch made me wanting to play this game over and over again. and till this day it's a hidden gem and will always be remembered. One of the best fighting mechanics, one of a kind. RECOMMENDED
well done, I agree 100%. especially about the story line. I had to beat the game twice to finally understand what the hell was going on. but despite the fact that this game hasn't aged well, it still a good game to play through even today. you make me want to dig through my closet, dust off my 64 and play some of those great games you have reviewed again.
This is such a weird and unique game, I got it back in the day and never expected to have as much fun as I did playing it. I ended up enjoying the heck out of it and consider it one of the exclusive hidden gems of the 64. Thanks for the excellent review, mate! ✌️👊
Seen the cartridge a bunch of times at vintage stores before, but never knew what the game was even about. An “RPG?” with wrestling moves to master would’ve won me over as a kid! Now I need to hunt this game down for the collection lol
This was one of the games I bought with my very limited funds as a kid. While that had often led me to appreciate games that were generally bad...I always knew this was something special. So few games have a battle system even remotely similar, and that's a shame.
I've been watching some of your videos. How could I've missed your channel? I will continue to watch through all of your videos. You just got another subscriber. :)
Gem of a game I had the honor of playing when I was a child. I really would love to play it again soon as an adult ! I never knew this was suppose to be a MGS game, interesting!
Your video was the second time I'd ever seen this game. The first time I saw it, I was a little kid and I turned it on, beat it to completion in one sitting, and then took it back to blockbuster. I found this game recently at a retro game store for $12.
It was good to hear about this game in as much detail as you provided. I always assumed this was a run-of-the-mill action/platforming game, I was unaware it has role playing elements. I may have to check it out one of these years. Shame about the RAM expansion issues too--Legacy of Darkness had the exact same problem with the framerate in the "high res" mode.
This game really delivers. Well directed real -time cut -scenes, rewarding battle system, Huge areas with sound atmostpheric music and sound effects that are even coming from other rooms. Storyline where player is unsure is he on good or bad side when doing things. Very good abilitys for character development. One of the most memorable exclusives for N64. For those who played it... Sadly Konami learned expansion pack just after this game for Castlevinia:LOD. Hybrid Heaven would have deserved it. Still runs rock solid 30fps, on standart.
I've been trying to remember the name of this game for literal years. I remember getting it as a kid, and being so goddamn confused I returned it after a week and convinced myself I just had a feaver dream. I literally remember the day my dad took me to gamestop to trade it in, I remember the ride to and back. I also remember being baffled by the level design and combat system. I think I was also only semi literate ( I was like 7 sue me) and I suffered from double vision at the time (No one knew I did because I developed a special way to read. Angle my head so I could only see from one eye), meaning I couldn't really read the writing.
THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST NINTENDO 64 GAME IVE PLAYED. I was only 7 at the time and i had no problems grinding through the levels and defeating the opponents, and through this, I was able to learn English since I lived in Mexico at the time, and I had no idea what the text contained. I still finished the game and I'm glad i got some verification in a few things.
This game was absolutely amazing for its time definitely one of my favorite n64 games and I still play hybrid heaven to this day great review my friend
I remember when this was released and I picked it up on a whim at target, not knowing anything about it but as a kid back then the box art attracted me. I loved it, it's pseudo RPG elements got me into other RPG's today and the wrestling combat moves, such as the grapple moves always got me pumped up. Again, another great review Glenn, thank you so much!
This game was great. I remember think it was bad at first until later when I understood the combat and levelling up. The story was actually very good, they should make a modern version
I played this game for N64 when I was a kid and I loved every minute of it, I think I'm gonna pick it up again, however if they can remake it that would be sick
Thanks for that review! This is my all time favorite N64 game! and I didn't know the Kojima's involvement on in! (Now I know why I liked this game so much and also I've always felt a "Metal gear vibe" on it) For me as a kid this game was like some "fresh air" in the N64, I was not very pleased with the games coming out on this console in that time, but then I rent this one... just it's cover alone felt "different" -in a good way- and the intro scene really blew my mind, the music, characters, etc. I really loved the storyline, way more complex that normal n64 games. I remember thought something like: "Finally a game that looked and felt more "adult" or more "cinematographic" on n64" I think it's the most underrated game on the console, I always mention this game on meetings with friends, and almost no one knows about it. But thanks of your review many people will play it! ...and that weekend -when I've rented the game- was one of the best weekends ever! I played almost nonstop, and I managed to finish the game, the ending was awesome! :)
I actually just picked this up out of curiosity and frankly I feel like a thief getting this game for only 2$ cause I've honestly enjoyed it more then some of the modern games that we have today.
***** that is a steal :)
***** i totally agree that this game doesn't get enough attention now days. It looks pretty awesome and i'm pretty big into retro gaming and watch a lot of channels and this game almost never gets played or even brought up. Even though i had heard of this game in magazine back in the day this is the first time i've seen video of the actual gameplay. I'm sure eventually this will start being on more n64 hidden gem lists.
I just got it for $7! haha
I just got it for 8.
well the dec'veloper wouldent get anything from your dollar, so be happy you got it cheap, aint like its thee resellers ip.
Personally I think this is one of the best games on the n64, the atmosphere,music,fighting system and graphics are brilliant.
Glad you enjoyed this one too
I agree!
never even heard of it but it definitely looks interesting and unique.
You kidding....it sucks.
I remember having to pop the expansion pack into the system to make the graphics a bit sharper for this one lol
Loved this game! If they would make a remastered version i would buy it instantly👍
dannyryu You know, I always think twice about buying a game at 59 buck, but if they remake this and have a deluxe edition, I would buy the 89 buck version for sure.
Fatal, it was an N64 game..Obviously they're not going to play as well as a game of today's standards
good luck with that. Konami sucks now and doesnt want to do anything other than make $ on casino machines and Pachinko parlors
How about we get a new game?
Agreed! Totally underrated!
I hated this game growing up it was to difficult for me but I could never stop thinking about it. I need this on the switch
U missed out if u didnt beat it back then,it was an enjoyable victory when i beat this as a kid.
I was 7 and I finished it with my sister, and we both didint speak english at the time including castlevania as well wihch relied on text and following with the storyline. LOL
Same although for some reason I think about it more and then.
Same...After one of those hybrids tombstone powerdrive me and killed me i was done with this game lol.. I still wondered about it tho.
For anyone who has never played this game:
Let me tell you something. I'm a fan of video games in general, I have been my whole life. I love RPG'S as well.
This game right here, as a package, is unlike any other game I've ever played. For that value alone, the experience of this game is invaluable.
I don't want to overlap Glenn's review, just add personal anecdotes and experience I have with the game.
I have to admit, I love the characters in this game. The story is told without voice-acting, but it's well-enough written that it doesn't matter. There is psyche and hierarchy in the hybrids in this game. You meet crazy scientists who want to engineer the ultimate hybrid beast, you got short, fat Jerry who is committed to the mission, but conflicted with growing emotional dissonance, you got Hunter, one of the baddest-ass characters to come out of a game, the militant all-business hybrid. Then there's the aliens, your allies. You're just gonna have to play and see, but take it from me - these characters and the plot are brilliantly crafted and told, and the game is worth it nearly to experience the story alone.
But then, there's what sets this game apart. The combat system.
No other game ever showed me that it was cool to let your opponent do a Brainbuster on you, just so you could learn it and start fucking the rest of the game up with it. Or a piledriver. Or a German suplex. I mean they took the art of wrestling moves and translated it into actual survival tactics, and it just couldn't be more awesome. You can "soccer kick" your downed opponent, or get them in a figure-four leg lock. Usually these moves are reserved for sports entertainment, but in this game, it is set against a very serious backdrop. The music in battle scenes is always dramatic tense fanfare (especially in boss fights). Anyway back to the point, you can learn uppercuts, hooks, even spinning backhands. The thing is, if you predominantly use your hands in the game, your freaking main character will eventually stand a little more front-forward, in a boxers stance. If you use more kicks, your fighter will eventually stand with his arms back and his legs more forward, seemingly ready to kick even quicker. Now when in your life do you remember a video game letting you do that? That's insane. All this talk can't replace the fun of throwing monsters around and kicking and punching the shit out of them with all these different left and right punches and kicks and throws and submissions. The amount of moves in this game is just stunning. You can do a fucking axe kick and crescent kick. Arm and neck choke. FOOTBALL TACKLE. This game is fun, man. If not for the story alone, the combat mechanics have not exactly been seen elsewhere or replicated since, as far as I know. (edit: Glenn says it has since been replicated.) Hybrid Heaven is a one- of -a-kind in that sense.
if that wasn't enough, individual moves can be leveled up, each body part has individual offense and defense ratings (head, left arm, body, right leg, etc.), and your character has his own stats that can be leveled. And you can choose to grind and level your mutherfucker up, too, and there's genuine sense of reward, accomplishment, and growth in it, too. when you have a battle where you get knocked out, have a Boston crab done on you, awaken Consciousness and come back and finish the battle, and then you come away from it knowing the Boston crab, every time you use that Boston crab going forward, you will remember the Triumph of the victory you learned it in. There's a dynamic there that I think game developers strive for even today. to deliver a game where your choices and experiences are truly impactful to the rest of the experience. I think hybrid Heaven definitely delivers in that regard.
There are a couple other game modes worth playing, like the survival battle modes.
Ultimately, I haven't regretted a single of the hours I put into this game in my life. I can confidently say no other game has told exactly the same story, nor has ever delivered quite this combat system, and executed it well. And I mean, games with actual good stories don't get enough credit, especially from back in the day, but I'm telling you, the characters in this game really give it life. I actually used to do the arm-cross-scratcy-chin thing Jerry always does, I used to do it as a kid cause I thought it was COOL lmao.
This is the definition of "N64 Hidden Gem". If you are a retro collector or N64 collector, buy this game. Now. You won't be disappointed. The camera controls are a bit awkward at times, and yes it's "fuzzy" (you're going back to God damn 1998 in technology ok) and every now and then, the environment feels a little stale, but genuinely, the story keeps everything moving forward, and it's not like they blatantly reuse textures or anything. There are new environments as the game progresses (even despite all of it taking place in an underground shelter), trust me it's enough to drive the game forwards. The non-combat part of it might start to drag, but don't let it, just keep moving. It's a great game, seriously. Even at today's standards, I'd give it a 7.5 for pure effort and innovation by the staff alone, much less the story and great characters. Don't knock this one until you try it, then beat it on ultimate difficulty.
Which, btw, ultimate difficulty presents its OWN challenge. it makes it harder to just "take a move" to learn it, because one brainbuster, and you'll probably be knocked unconscious and then swiftly disposed of. You can't just make mistakes like the easier difficulties.
Take it from me -give this one a try.
+Adam Bartlett thank you for such a Detailed response!
Rountree1985 Wtf is wrong with you; the man wrote a pretty decent counter review yet you have the gall to verbally insult him ... shame on you ?! Please let me know how mental health figures into videogame reviews/playing retro N64 cartridges ? 😒😨😬😱👎✌
@@DmitriyK12 Agree
God I love this game! I normally don't play rpg games, but THIS ONE won me over big time. The music, fighting system, the environments, characters, storyline, everything!!
I thought it was the best RPG on the N64! :D
@@jeremym9011 it is
All the things. Never liked rpgs at my young age. But it had me hooked!
I remember having this game as a kid.I hated it at first and thought it was boring and confusing as hell,but once I got to chapter 3 I was impressed with the storyline.I actually got impressed with the fighting system as well as I progressed and very good at it making it a good game I enjoyed.yea this is a underrated game indeed that deserved alot more attention and definitely a sequel.
It was indeed one of my favourite games on a system that was lacking RPG's. The opening blew me away and then I felt a bit lost. If players stick with it then there will be this one moment when a switch is turned on in your brain and you realise just how awesome this game is. It is a one off Gem and I'm glad I finished it when I was a teenager. Now to go back and finish Aidyn chronicles
Just picked this game up from a flea market two days ago. I can't stop playing it.
Did you stop yet?
@@CPS2 😂
loved this game as a kid! an still do now as a adult. just want to say thank you for giving a childhood game of mine the great review it deserves! 👏
It's one of the underrated gems of my excellent N64 collection
Glad you think so too
I Came across this Game trading with one of My friends & like you said I was CONFUSED in the beginning but eventually I was sucked in with the build of My Character & wrestling moves.
Definitely an underrated & overlooked game for the N64.
I'd love to play a fighting RPG like this.
This is pretty much its own thing in terms of rpgs. Theres nothing else like it.
Other fighting RPGS are:
Yakuza series
Draglade 1 & 2
Virtual Quest
You might like Legend of Legaia on PS1.
Try out Treachery in Beatdown City
There is also God Hand.
@@budgiecat9039 hey vagrand story its almost the same
I really love this game and beat it at least 5 times and I am still not tired of it and it is by far my favorite n64 game and it really is underrated.
My favorite N64 game
for me it was all about the combat system. I loved the idea of it feeling like it still required a little bit of skill, rather than just constant dumb luck like some RPGs, what with always being able to move and having the option to reduce your damage during throws and attacks via blocking, attempting a counter or reversal throw and all that. Really great game, and very under rated. A gem of a game for anyone looking for something a little different.
This game need to be remastered at least the same way as Perfect Dart on 360 or Turok2 on switch
Or get put on the n64 list the switch has now. At the least
thank you for this! I haven't played this in 15 years+ and forgot the name. I googled "n64 game where you wake up in a lab and fight monsters and your video popped up. I just bought a copy and am about to dig in! Cheers!
Always love hearing stories similar to this 🙏🏼
THIS....should be remade, it was a really cool fighting system, really enjoyed it!
This game has single-handedly renewed my faith in the Nintendo 64. I picked it up tonight because the guys at the retro store near me said it was a "beat em' up." Boy am I glad that it's something so much more interesting. The battle system is badass.
excellent review, i really enjoyed this game about 10 years ago, will need to buy it again
i dont normally enjoy rpg's but i stumbled upon this game as i thought it had a cool name, gave it a chance and was fully engrossed in the battle system, and eventually completed it which is rare for me
I also picked this Ogre Battle 64, and Adyn Chronicles the day they were released because of the lack of RPG’s on the system.
Where I thought Chronicles would be the best of them, it was actually Ogre Battle and Hybrid Heaven that I enjoyed the most.
I still have my cart of Hybrid Heaven to this day.
This was one if my favorite N64 games. I wish it got talked about more. It's worthy of being considered a classic.
Cracking game, I like to replay it every few years, the battle system is one of my favourites in an RPG.
I miss finding those diamond in the rough games. This was a great game at a time in life when I needed something good to play.
This game made me glad I got a Nintendo 64 instead of a Playstation.
My friend found this game at a thrift shop for $3 and got for me. One of the most unique games Ive played. This game is awesome. Great review!
I fondly remember playing this in my first apartment
First time I played it was at Funcoland
I was more invested in the unique combat
Rather than the story
Keep up the great work
Your channel always brings back fond memories of the N64
\m/
This game is awesome, this is what we called a hybrid RPG... Yeah Hybrid xD
I had this on launch day, I loved it, it's one of my favourite n64 games and still replay it to this day. Shame they didn't continue the series
Yeah would be very cool but I think the storyline was kinda wrapped up on this game even if rushed ending a little
@@n64glennplant true, but during past playthroughs I've noticed ways they could expand the story, shame they won't make a sequel
GREAT REVIEW! I just picked up this game today at my local retro game store it instantly caught my eye with its game cartridge cover art and toping it off with the KONAMI logo :D
I owned this game too! The moody atmosphere, great preempted combat system and the fights were cool. And that gunplay worked well
I found the story to be confusing at first too, but when I look back at it, I feel like it's appropriate because when you play as Diaz, he doesn't know what's going on, and neither does the player. When you play as Johnny Slater, everything becomes way more clear to him, and because of that, the story becomes clear to the player. It's a neat touch to have the character and player kind of go through that same journey of discovering what's going on.
As much as I enjoyed the game, the only minor gripe is that it's so easy to see the Game Over screen. While it's not extremely hard by any means, one small bad decision in a fight could end your game, or at the very least see a massive chunk of health gone. I guess it kind of makes sense because I'm sure it can be that way in a real fight too, but it's kind of annoying to have to replay parts just because you took one unlucky hit that left you unconscious before your opponent finishes you off.
Other than that, solid game. I would love to see a remaster, sequel or spinoff of some sort, but knowing Konami's track record, I'm not going to hold my breath.
I remembering seeing this game in Nintendo Power but I had no idea what it was about until now. Fantastic review, you have a new subscriber.
welcome! hope you enjoy this game its not for everyone but if it gets you then you'll always love it
The wrestling moves in this game are really well animated.
I loved Hybrid Heaven back when I was a kid and I still love it now. The fact that it was forgotten about/never played is something of a travesty to me, and I really hope one day we’ll get a reboot or a remaster.
I .. LOVED this game on the N64 as a kid. At the time, I hadn't had much introduction to RPGs save Pokemon and Chrono Trigger. I'd love to see this get ported or brought back. I know it's not likely but still...
Yup been playing this on and off for years and I still haven't finished it. Kinda don't want to want to keep my save file forever. Hidden gem for sure.
I played this game when i was like 8 years old. Never understood the story back then but i loved the overall gameplay.
I've rent this game 3 times at the local game shop that the girl who owned it gave me for free. Loved the combat system!
Replaying now after about 20 years. Possibly my favorite rpg on the n64, of not one of my favorite games on the system
It’s certainly a very unique and quirky game!
So what other games used this combat system? It's amazing.
Also you should have mentioned how the guy's stance changes if you specialise in certain moves: a boxing stance, a muay thai stance and a wide wrestling stance.
The multiplayer is also very good especially if you have a friend with a save of his own.
JoeCrow how u do different stances?
Depends on what moves you favor. The level of your limbs, as well.
If you favor punches, your stances is of a boxer's.
Developing your legs more makes you a kickboxer.
A body grappler makes you a wrestler. There are in between categories as well (arms+legs, no body = street fighter for example).
You switch sides (left/right) by pressing B. Your stronger limb should be at the rear to cause even more damage.
I dont remember thete being multiplayer for this game.
@@iamking9077 there is a multiplayer option in creature battle. You do need two controller packs with an HH save file in each of them.
@@richyroa ok i remember now,i thought he was talking about multiplayer in the main campaign lmao
I picked this game up last year and I have not been disappointed I wish I had it when I was kid when it came out. I really enjoy the way the combat is represented.
I've always wondered what this game was all about. Yet another to check out. Thanks for the great review!
I gotta own this now.
Hard4Games Retro Gaming thanks for watching :)
This game was a hidden gem
I found this game on the clearance rack and thought I'd give it a chance. I'm glad I did, because I loved it! There were some frustratingly hard moments, but it was really satisfying to beat a difficult boss or pull of the perfect combo.
I'm really glad to hear that mason, this game needs more love and attention than it gets
Beating the game, then playing battle mode with my friends was some of the best times i had, even better than goldeneye
Remember this game... it scared the hell out of me as a kid!
Some of the aliens are pretty freaky!
I fucking love this game. Hidden gem. konami needs to bring this back today If they give it a good plot and good graphics i don't see how it could fail.
As a teenager, I remember not even knowing what genre of game this was when I decided to get it. I just thought the name, and the fact that it was sci-fi, seemed cool to me. Come to think of it, this might very well have been my first RPG. I remember renting Quest 64 back before, but only played it for a couple sit-downs. But yeah...the combat and RPG elements had me pretty gripped once I found and became accustomed to the depth and structure.
The story didn't get me, mainly because I wasn't sure what the story was... I just loved the bit of romance in the otherwise dingy arc...and that ending was a good reward -- the cherry on top.
I loved this game but I never finished it
2:53 Check out the guy briefing him whilst confusingly looking at his knob, haha.
I loved this game as a kid, I must have been about 7 or probably 8 years old by then but the combat system was sooo good, I remember playing it again about 12 years ago, I should probably play it once again thanks for bringing this back
Glad you enjoyed this one too!
I was just a kid at the time I had found this game and didn't understand how to play it since I was so young and didn't understand it but I still loved to play it I thought it was amazing and as I got older I forgot about it completely until one random night I went to bed and had a dream of this game somewhat recently and questioned if it really was a game at all since I couldn't remember much of it and it's name so I looked up every N64 game ever made and found this in the list then a smile came across my face as the memories of playing this game blindly as a kid came back to me and remembering how I hated I didn't have a memory card to save the game yet I would still turn it on and start all over again 9 year old me was creeped out by some of the monsters and felt like a badass when I beat them in fights. Now I'm a 31 year old who just wants games like this again that really pull you in and hooks you to it in a good way and that is feature complete you know a full game. Oh and I feel like I should add this just to see if some people find this funny or laugh due to remember this epic store but I rented this game with my mother at blockbuster.
I remember this game looking amazing back then as a kid lol. Really enjoyed playing this.
I bought this game on a whim and loved it. It has been a long time since I have played it but I played through it more than once. The unique game play style was fun despite the platforming stuff could be frustrating. Still a great game that people might have overlooked or never heard of.
I’m glad that I saw your review of this game. Picked it up over break, and even though I’m only an hour into it I’m already hooked.
glad you're enjoying it, its not for everyone but if you get into it its awesome
This game was amazing in my opinion. And I was always more of a fan of punching over kicking, especially once you got the R Hook and R Uppercut. If you did a five punch combo of all R Hook and they all connect, then you'd be given a bonus charged punch that would send enemies flying. It was great fun!
I loved Hybrid Heaven. Definitely one of the best N64 games made.
I've owned this game just over 20 years and it was the most best experience i ever had in a game that time, it was unique and very mysterious witch made me wanting to play this game over and over again. and till this day it's a hidden gem and will always be remembered. One of the best fighting mechanics, one of a kind. RECOMMENDED
I want to see a remake and a sequel
+Jesh Wostad you and I both Jesh
well done, I agree 100%. especially about the story line. I had to beat the game twice to finally understand what the hell was going on. but despite the fact that this game hasn't aged well, it still a good game to play through even today. you make me want to dig through my closet, dust off my 64 and play some of those great games you have reviewed again.
This is such a weird and unique game, I got it back in the day and never expected to have as much fun as I did playing it. I ended up enjoying the heck out of it and consider it one of the exclusive hidden gems of the 64.
Thanks for the excellent review, mate!
✌️👊
This game felt ahead of its time. I don’t recall an rpg fighting game being in any other game. Sure it wasn’t perfect but it was definitely unique
Yeah I’d love to see the mechanic be used again in a new rpg
Seen the cartridge a bunch of times at vintage stores before, but never knew what the game was even about. An “RPG?” with wrestling moves to master would’ve won me over as a kid! Now I need to hunt this game down for the collection lol
Loved this game
This was one of the games I bought with my very limited funds as a kid. While that had often led me to appreciate games that were generally bad...I always knew this was something special. So few games have a battle system even remotely similar, and that's a shame.
I've been watching some of your videos. How could I've missed your channel?
I will continue to watch through all of your videos. You just got another subscriber. :)
Welcome Andreas! Thanks for joining!
Literally just remembered about this game just now after forgetting abt it for years
Very cool! Hope it got you some good memories!
Brings back memories
yes this is definitely one of my old favorites great atmosphere and suspense .
Gem of a game I had the honor of playing when I was a child. I really would love to play it again soon as an adult ! I never knew this was suppose to be a MGS game, interesting!
The storyline blew my tiny mind as a kid. Awesome setting and plot
Your video was the second time I'd ever seen this game. The first time I saw it, I was a little kid and I turned it on, beat it to completion in one sitting, and then took it back to blockbuster.
I found this game recently at a retro game store for $12.
That must have been a damn long sitting! This game isn’t easy by any means 👍
@@n64glennplant I"m autistic. It's normal for me to not know when to stop something when I'm in the zone.
It was good to hear about this game in as much detail as you provided. I always assumed this was a run-of-the-mill action/platforming game, I was unaware it has role playing elements. I may have to check it out one of these years. Shame about the RAM expansion issues too--Legacy of Darkness had the exact same problem with the framerate in the "high res" mode.
Austin Mackert yeah its a common problem but its something i often overlooked back in the day just to get better visuals
This was one hell of a Game!
I was 8 or 9 and I was terrified by the music, the monster design and the feeling of oppressive solitude in those rooms.
i remember playing this as a kid, one my favorites. the nostalgia is real im 20 now lol
I remember being six years old and shitting myself when the giant hybrid chased me I always turned the N64 off 😂
Theres something special about a game you pick up on day one in your youth
Yeah especially when it’s not like you have full control like you do as an adult
This game really delivers. Well directed real -time cut -scenes, rewarding battle system, Huge areas with sound atmostpheric music and sound effects that are even coming from other rooms. Storyline where player is unsure is he on good or bad side when doing things. Very good abilitys for character development. One of the most memorable exclusives for N64. For those who played it... Sadly Konami learned expansion pack just after this game for Castlevinia:LOD. Hybrid Heaven would have deserved it. Still runs rock solid 30fps, on standart.
I loved the combat in HH. Very unique and very enjoyable
I've been trying to remember the name of this game for literal years. I remember getting it as a kid, and being so goddamn confused I returned it after a week and convinced myself I just had a feaver dream. I literally remember the day my dad took me to gamestop to trade it in, I remember the ride to and back.
I also remember being baffled by the level design and combat system. I think I was also only semi literate ( I was like 7 sue me) and I suffered from double vision at the time (No one knew I did because I developed a special way to read. Angle my head so I could only see from one eye), meaning I couldn't really read the writing.
Wow what a story! I hope you’ve been able to go back and play this again to see what you think of it now
THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST NINTENDO 64 GAME IVE PLAYED. I was only 7 at the time and i had no problems grinding through the levels and defeating the opponents, and through this, I was able to learn English since I lived in Mexico at the time, and I had no idea what the text contained. I still finished the game and I'm glad i got some verification in a few things.
I say - a very unique game for it's time and still to this day very playable game on N64.
+SNES Fan89 agree - it's really underrated
This game was an absolute beast. I loved it.
I bought this 2nd hand and really loved it.
This game was absolutely amazing for its time definitely one of my favorite n64 games and I still play hybrid heaven to this day great review my friend
***** glad I'm not the only one enjoying it still :)
***** But I do agree the frame-rate in hi-res mode was terrible other then that its a great game can't wait for the next one
I remember when this was released and I picked it up on a whim at target, not knowing anything about it but as a kid back then the box art attracted me. I loved it, it's pseudo RPG elements got me into other RPG's today and the wrestling combat moves, such as the grapple moves always got me pumped up. Again, another great review Glenn, thank you so much!
Evan Peters thanks for watching evan :) sometimes yo get lucky when you pick up games on the fly
We need NIGHT DIVE STUDIOS to Remake this.
I remember my older brother getting this for Christmas and both of us love this game. I love the chase/boss fight sequence with Dr. Bross' monsters.
AntiMagicToxin yeah they are awesome :)
It has a cyberpunk feel to it. I love that, can't wait for Making Divided. Great review man
I remember renting this as a kid and knowing nothing about RPG elements. Rented it alot and never beat it. Would like a remake.
I remember my mom getting me this game as a surprise i didnt think id like it but i was wrong. Game was kinda creepy/weird but fun.
i remember picking this up used in a video store and loving it.
This game was great. I remember think it was bad at first until later when I understood the combat and levelling up. The story was actually very good, they should make a modern version
Yeah I’d like to see that too, can’t think of many games like it to be honest even now it’s unique
Completed this bad boy not long back what a hidden gem! 👍🍒✊
+MyCherryHurts glad you thought so too :-)
Awesome bro you have made my day! 😆 your reviews for the N64 are the best on youtube! 👍🍒✊
the combat was nicem and the detail in hitboxes and dmg multiplier was stunning at the time
I played this game for N64 when I was a kid and I loved every minute of it, I think I'm gonna pick it up again, however if they can remake it that would be sick
Thanks for that review! This is my all time favorite N64 game! and I didn't know the Kojima's involvement on in! (Now I know why I liked this game so much and also I've always felt a "Metal gear vibe" on it) For me as a kid this game was like some "fresh air" in the N64, I was not very pleased with the games coming out on this console in that time, but then I rent this one... just it's cover alone felt "different" -in a good way- and the intro scene really blew my mind, the music, characters, etc. I really loved the storyline, way more complex that normal n64 games. I remember thought something like: "Finally a game that looked and felt more "adult" or more "cinematographic" on n64" I think it's the most underrated game on the console, I always mention this game on meetings with friends, and almost no one knows about it. But thanks of your review many people will play it! ...and that weekend -when I've rented the game- was one of the best weekends ever! I played almost nonstop, and I managed to finish the game, the ending was awesome! :)