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.
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 ? 😒😨😬😱👎✌
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 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
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
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!!
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 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 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.
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 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.
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
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.
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/
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...
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 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 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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
I bought this game new back in the day bacause it got good reviews in N64 magazine. At first it put me off because the characters were uninspiring and the enviroments quite dull. But I gave it another chance a few years later and committed to at least playing a few hours and make some progress, and after a while it really got to me and the game turned out to be so much better then my initial impression. The levelling up and general game mechanics are actually quite good if you can look though it's visual appearance. It's the battles that really make this game stand out.
@@n64glennplant Yeah, it's definetely an underrated game. PS: I love that you have video's of pretty much every N64 game. I've recenly started adding to my old collection again (also to my GBA collection) and these video's are really helpfull to help me decide which ones to get.
I remember playing this game and 1) wondering if after a certain number of levels you would finally reach the surface and 2) going for as many S ratings as possible on subsequent playthroughs
Played this game as a young teen the music and storytelling had me feeling immersed in it’s world but it seems to have gone under the radar for any other gamers to want a remake of the game as for myself i never finished the game either the camera controls were difficult sometimes and made it hard to navigate the area the last of the few games I played for the N64 before giving up on playing video games all together but I really think a remake of the game and with a more serious storyline style this game could be a much better hybridized version of the original hybrid heaven
I played the heck out of this game when I was younger. Playing it again now. Ahhhh the memories. Anyone know the difference between normal hard and ultimate modes?
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
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.
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.
New to the N64. Purchase a green N64 along with 10 games and Hybrid Heaven. Will say that from the beginning a was like they killed the supposedly main guy already lol. The RPG fights are a bast w/suplex, running bulldog, body slam, etc. Just getting started w/game but good so far.
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 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 had two copies of this game (thought I lost first disc). I remember it being £9.99 in Woolworths. I sold my N64 the other day as I'm moving abroad and can't take everything buy kept one of them. This was (is) easily my favourite game on the N64. I loved the storyline I like the confusing elements (and didn't find it hard to follow) kept me thinking and interested (I agree with you on the expansion pack issue). I remember whisperings of a film being made from the storyline but it never materialized. I read somewhere today that by technical definition it's actually not an RPG (but a live action game) due to it lacking elements RPG's should have. what are your thoughts on that?
The only camera change I hate is running from the big guy then getting on the retracting bridge. The sudden camera change while running on to it. Killed my mood alot of times. Other than that I love the rest of it
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 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. :)
Got this game when it first came out and loved every moment, every time I found an area that has re-spawning enemies I would leave and return to the area to learn more moves and build up my character. I didn't find the story confusing, I was wondering why did this or that happen but I figured it would be revealed later in the game so I didn't think too much of it until later. Do agree the expansion pack was a missed opportunity as the loss in frame rate can hinder you, especially when in combat.
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 wanted to like this game so bad, but I don't think I knew how to use the fighting system, and the save point system spaced after a bunch of exploration and several fights made the already-challenging gameplay frustrating as I'd die on the last fight, only to lose thirty minutes of progress. Cool world and look though.
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
great review as always glenn im glad im not the only one who likes this game and still do till this day like i do despite its quirks i will admit that the storyline does get a little confusing at first when i first rented the game from blockbuster back in 1999 when i was 14 years old but as i keep playing the game and beat the game more often i understand what's going on once i start to really pay attention to the story which the story kept me hooked till the end and i also agree that the music of hybrid heaven is fantastic and in my opinion one of konami's most severly underated and overlooked soundtracks which no one on youtube did a remix or cover of the games soundtrack not even orchestral video game concerts like say video games live arranged a orchestrated medley of the hybrid heaven score which is a shame and its also a shame that konami isnt intrested of re-releasing hybrid heaven on the wii u virtual console or even do a hd remake of the game for that matter sense we all know konami is being konami for the wrong reasons if you catch my drift which is just tragic but i digrase so keep up the good work ^_^
Bought it day one, loved it, BUT got COMPLETELY CONFUSED by the accidental backtracking and HATED the ED-209 monster chase, got stuck there, and never played it again. I still think it's a cool game, and have considered giving it another shot. Perhaps I might do so, in the near future.
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 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!
Another game I recall from the Gamepro magazines, but never had the chance to play. It always looked interesting to me. This is the first review I've watched in regards to this game. Looks like I missed out on a good one.
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
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
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
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 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.
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
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!
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 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.
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! 👏
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
Just picked this game up from a flea market two days ago. I can't stop playing it.
Did you stop yet?
@@CPS2 😂
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.
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
My favorite N64 game
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 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's one of the underrated gems of my excellent N64 collection
Glad you think so too
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
5:14 which games are you referring to? Eager to try somerhing vaguely similar because this game really rocks in my opinion.
Beatdown city is modern but probably closest in terms of action turned based with level up body parts etc and moves
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.
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 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
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!
Always love hearing stories similar to this 🙏🏼
THIS....should be remade, it was a really cool fighting system, really enjoyed it!
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.
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!
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.
Cracking game, I like to replay it every few years, the battle system is one of my favourites in an RPG.
This was one if my favorite N64 games. I wish it got talked about more. It's worthy of being considered a classic.
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
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/
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 .. 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...
This game is awesome, this is what we called a hybrid RPG... Yeah Hybrid xD
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'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 :)
The wrestling moves in this game are really well animated.
I owned this game too! The moody atmosphere, great preempted combat system and the fights were cool. And that gunplay worked well
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 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 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.
This game was a hidden gem
2:53 Check out the guy briefing him whilst confusingly looking at his knob, haha.
Beating the game, then playing battle mode with my friends was some of the best times i had, even better than goldeneye
I want to see a remake and a sequel
+Jesh Wostad you and I both Jesh
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'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!
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.
Remember this game... it scared the hell out of me as a kid!
Some of the aliens are pretty freaky!
I loved this game but I never finished it
Brings back memories
I played this game when i was like 8 years old. Never understood the story back then but i loved the overall gameplay.
"man put some clothes on will you?" hahaha
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.
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
Is this game connected in any way to Blue Stinger on the Dreamcast?
No but I believe I’ve played that at some point
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
I bought this game new back in the day bacause it got good reviews in N64 magazine. At first it put me off because the characters were uninspiring and the enviroments quite dull. But I gave it another chance a few years later and committed to at least playing a few hours and make some progress, and after a while it really got to me and the game turned out to be so much better then my initial impression. The levelling up and general game mechanics are actually quite good if you can look though it's visual appearance. It's the battles that really make this game stand out.
Glad you stuck with it nic, this is a game which takes some
Patience but I think it pays off too
@@n64glennplant Yeah, it's definetely an underrated game. PS: I love that you have video's of pretty much every N64 game. I've recenly started adding to my old collection again (also to my GBA collection) and these video's are really helpfull to help me decide which ones to get.
Nic B thanks nick, that’s what this channel is all about 😬👍
I remember playing this game and 1) wondering if after a certain number of levels you would finally reach the surface and 2) going for as many S ratings as possible on subsequent playthroughs
Played this game as a young teen the music and storytelling had me
feeling immersed in it’s world but it seems to have gone under the radar for any other gamers to want a remake of the game as for myself i never finished the game either the camera controls were difficult sometimes and made it hard to navigate the area the last of the few games I played for the N64 before giving up on playing video games all together but I really think a remake of the game and with a more serious storyline style this game could be a much better hybridized version of the original hybrid heaven
Would love to see it, sadly Konami hates their customers so doubt we will ever see this 😂
Been waiting on this one for awhile! Thank you!!! Awesome review!
Brandon Keeks thanks for checking it out :)
I played the heck out of this game when I was younger. Playing it again now. Ahhhh the memories. Anyone know the difference between normal hard and ultimate modes?
never got to a higher difficulty, it was challenging already, it even makes it better.
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
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.
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
New to the N64. Purchase a green N64 along with 10 games and Hybrid Heaven. Will say that from the beginning a was like they killed the supposedly main guy already lol. The RPG fights are a bast w/suplex, running bulldog, body slam, etc. Just getting started w/game but good so far.
Did u beat it?
I loved Hybrid Heaven. Definitely one of the best N64 games made.
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!
the combat was nicem and the detail in hitboxes and dmg multiplier was stunning at the time
I remember this game looking amazing back then as a kid lol. Really enjoyed playing this.
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 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.
10:51 i played the game for years and I've never seen a hit as strong as that one from that monster
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 had two copies of this game (thought I lost first disc). I remember it being £9.99 in Woolworths. I sold my N64 the other day as I'm moving abroad and can't take everything buy kept one of them. This was (is) easily my favourite game on the N64. I loved the storyline I like the confusing elements (and didn't find it hard to follow) kept me thinking and interested (I agree with you on the expansion pack issue). I remember whisperings of a film being made from the storyline but it never materialized. I read somewhere today that by technical definition it's actually not an RPG (but a live action game) due to it lacking elements RPG's should have. what are your thoughts on that?
The only camera change I hate is running from the big guy then getting on the retracting bridge. The sudden camera change while running on to it. Killed my mood alot of times. Other than that I love the rest of it
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.
These reviews are amazing
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!
Got this game when it first came out and loved every moment, every time I found an area that has re-spawning enemies I would leave and return to the area to learn more moves and build up my character.
I didn't find the story confusing, I was wondering why did this or that happen but I figured it would be revealed later in the game so I didn't think too much of it until later.
Do agree the expansion pack was a missed opportunity as the loss in frame rate can hinder you, especially when in combat.
Wolfsite yeah its a shame its so jittery with the expansion pack as the visual bump is awesome
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 wanted to like this game so bad, but I don't think I knew how to use the fighting system, and the save point system spaced after a bunch of exploration and several fights made the already-challenging gameplay frustrating as I'd die on the last fight, only to lose thirty minutes of progress. Cool world and look though.
This was one hell of a Game!
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 remember picking this up used in a video store and loving it.
I remember renting this as a kid and knowing nothing about RPG elements. Rented it alot and never beat it. Would like a remake.
Literally just remembered about this game just now after forgetting abt it for years
Very cool! Hope it got you some good memories!
great review as always glenn im glad im not the only one who likes this game and still do till this day like i do despite its quirks i will admit that the storyline does get a little confusing at first when i first rented the game from blockbuster back in 1999 when i was 14 years old but as i keep playing the game and beat the game more often i understand what's going on once i start to really pay attention to the story which the story kept me hooked till the end and i also agree that the music of hybrid heaven is fantastic and in my opinion one of konami's most severly underated and overlooked soundtracks which no one on youtube did a remix or cover of the games soundtrack not even orchestral video game concerts like say video games live arranged a orchestrated medley of the hybrid heaven score which is a shame and its also a shame that konami isnt intrested of re-releasing hybrid heaven on the wii u virtual console or even do a hd remake of the game for that matter sense we all know konami is being konami for the wrong reasons if you catch my drift which is just tragic but i digrase so keep up the good work ^_^
Bought it day one, loved it, BUT got COMPLETELY CONFUSED by the accidental backtracking and HATED the ED-209 monster chase, got stuck there, and never played it again. I still think it's a cool game, and have considered giving it another shot. Perhaps I might do so, in the near future.
Yeah it’s such an interesting game I should revisit it soon in the channel
@@n64glennplant Absolutely! Looking forward to it.
4:09 Carnage? Hell yeah!
yes this is definitely one of my old favorites great atmosphere and suspense .
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 remember being six years old and shitting myself when the giant hybrid chased me I always turned the N64 off 😂
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
I bought this 2nd hand and really loved it.
Another game I recall from the Gamepro magazines, but never had the chance to play. It always looked interesting to me. This is the first review I've watched in regards to this game. Looks like I missed out on a good one.
its one which you'll either love or hate. ive always enjoyed it but I know many big RPG fans who dont rate it as highly
@@n64glennplant Well, if it's a short game like you said I don't think I would be too upset that I played it too much if I didn't enjoy it
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