The Sega Saturn, released in 1994, was a pioneering console that brought 3D gaming to the mainstream. While it may not have been as commercially successful as its competitors, the PlayStation and Nintendo 64, the Saturn still boasted an impressive library of games, particularly in the fighting genre. Here are five of the best fighting games on the Sega Saturn:
1. Virtua Fighter 2
Released in 1995, Virtua Fighter 2 was a landmark game that showcased the Saturn's capabilities. Developed by Sega-AM2, the game built upon the success of the original Virtua Fighter, introducing new characters, stages, and gameplay mechanics. The game's 3D graphics and realistic fighting mechanics set a new standard for the genre.
Realistic Fighting Mechanics
Virtua Fighter 2's fighting system was praised for its realism and depth. The game featured a variety of characters, each with their unique fighting styles and movesets. Players could choose from a range of characters, including Akira Yuki, Pai Chan, and Wolf Hawkfield, each with their strengths and weaknesses.
2. Street Fighter Alpha 2
Street Fighter Alpha 2, released in 1996, was a port of the popular arcade game. Developed by Capcom, the game was a major hit on the Saturn, thanks to its smooth gameplay, colorful graphics, and iconic characters.
Classic Street Fighter Gameplay
Street Fighter Alpha 2 retained the classic gameplay of the original Street Fighter II, with players able to choose from a range of iconic characters, including Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li. The game's "Alpha" series introduced new characters and gameplay mechanics, such as the "Custom Combo" system, which allowed players to create their own unique combos.
3. X-Men: Children of the Atom
Released in 1995, X-Men: Children of the Atom was a fighting game developed by Capcom, based on the popular Marvel Comics franchise. The game featured a range of X-Men characters, including Wolverine, Psylocke, and Colossus.
Fast-Paced Gameplay
X-Men: Children of the Atom was praised for its fast-paced gameplay and colorful graphics. The game's fighting system was similar to Street Fighter II, with players able to perform special moves and combos. The game's stages were also interactive, allowing players to destroy parts of the environment.
4. Marvel Super Heroes
Marvel Super Heroes, released in 1995, was another Capcom-developed fighting game based on the Marvel Comics franchise. The game featured a range of Marvel characters, including Spider-Man, Iron Man, and the Hulk.
Unique Gameplay Mechanics
Marvel Super Heroes introduced a unique gameplay mechanic, known as the "Infinity Gem" system. Players could collect Infinity Gems, which granted them special abilities and enhancements. The game's stages were also interactive, allowing players to use the environment to their advantage.
5. Samurai Spirits III: Zankuro Musouken
Released in 1995, Samurai Spirits III: Zankuro Musouken was a fighting game developed by SNK, part of the popular Samurai Shodown series. The game featured a range of samurai characters, each with their unique fighting styles and movesets.
Challenging Gameplay
Samurai Spirits III: Zankuro Musouken was praised for its challenging gameplay and beautiful 2D graphics. The game's fighting system was similar to other SNK fighting games, with players able to perform special moves and combos. The game's stages were also interactive, allowing players to use the environment to their advantage.
If you're a fan of fighting games, the Sega Saturn has plenty to offer. From the 3D graphics of Virtua Fighter 2 to the classic gameplay of Street Fighter Alpha 2, these five games are must-haves for any Saturn collector.
We'd love to hear from you! Which of these fighting games is your favorite? Do you have any other favorite Saturn games? Let us know in the comments below!
What is the best fighting game on the Sega Saturn?
+Virtua Fighter 2 is widely considered the best fighting game on the Sega Saturn, thanks to its 3D graphics and realistic fighting mechanics.
Can I play these games on other consoles?
+Some of these games have been ported to other consoles, such as the PlayStation and Dreamcast. However, the Saturn versions are often considered the most authentic and original.
Are these games still worth playing today?
+Absolutely! These games are still enjoyable today, thanks to their challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, and nostalgic value.