Nekketsu Oyako Longplay (Sega Saturn) [4K]

Game Info
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Developer: Technosoft
Publisher: Technosoft
Year of Release: 1995

Game Review & Impressions
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Time for a rather intriguing release from the Sega Saturn catalogue, another Japan-exclusive release, and one with one of the most distinctive and quirky art-styles and game designs I've played recently.

The game was lined up as a launch title for the original PlayStation, with the Saturn version arriving a year or so later. The Saturn port benefits from an improved colour palette and updated feature, although unlike the PS1, there's no fan-made translation patch for Western audiences.

In terms of plot, scientist Saeko Hibino has been captured by the shadowy Haraguro corporation, which forces Saeko to build a doomsday device. None-too-happy at his wife's kidnapping, wrestler Rando and daughter Rio set off on a mission to rescue Saeko, accompanied by Tora Minoru, Saeko's assistant. Selecting from one of these combatants, players must duff up anything and everyone who gets in your way, using weapons when they appear and grabbing the usual array of pavement food, snacks and items for extra health and bonus points.

The main thing which sets this game apart from similar titles is the fact its tongue is wedged well and truly in cheek. From weird boxing-glove wearing foes, to the stage fought inside the guts of a whale, this is a game never to take itself too seriously.

As for the gameplay itself, it's OK. Each of the characters has a decent array of moves, throws and grapples to execute, some of which aren't documented in the game's manual. Rando in particular has a number of "secret" moves, discoverable only through experimentation and various combinations of button presses.

Personally, I felt the sluggish pacing of the game, coupled with some overly long levels, detracted from the fun factor. Even with the faster and more agile characters, I never really felt "in the groove", so to speak.

Nekketsu Oyako may bear the visual and sonic hallmarks of a 32-bit game, but there are numerous 16-bit brawlers which, in my opinion at least, play better than this.


Information & Trivia
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Video Notes
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Related Longplays & Videos
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Chapters
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