Episode 326: Streets of Rage
Added 2020-09-14 14:00:04 +0000 UTCIt's time for another journey into the mysterious realm known as... SEGA. Note that you are bound by law to read that name loudly and melodically, like the Genesis startup screen, because we're talking about a classic Sega Genesis franchise this week. Or should that be a classic Mega Drive franchise? After all, two of the three contributors to this week's episode—Retronauts contributor Stuart Gipp and Digital Foundry wizard John Linneman—hail from the continent of Europe (or thereabouts), where Genesis was just a band.
Over here in this land of confusion known as the U.S., of course, Genesis needs a Wikipedia disambiguation page, because it was also the name of a game console. And not just any game console, but specifically the one that brought us the greatest console-exclusive brawler franchise of all time: Streets of Rage. In this episode, we talk about the series' three 16-bit entries and praise the new fourth entry. We even vouch for the third game's controversial soundtrack.
It's been a while since this was recorded (as Retronauts typically is recorded a few months in advance these days), but I think we may also lament the unavailability of Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, which I guess you can safely ignore. Anyway, the point here is that Streets of Rage is still a great time, and this is a great conversation about it thanks to the deep knowledge and fiery enthusiasm of John and Stuart. Enjoy!
Comments
I'd say those old comics are worth a look. But don't take my word for it, check out Sonic the Comic the Podcast for the full scoop!
Tentomon4
2020-09-21 20:55:59 +0000 UTCReally enjoyed this episode- the guests provided the perfect balance of enthusiasm and knowledge. Saw Yuzo Koshiro perform the SoR2 soundtrack at a London nightclub a couple of years back - a very memorable evening.
Adam Elmahdi
2020-09-16 14:34:11 +0000 UTCAwesome Ep. Loved the fact that you guys were able to get into the technical aspect a bit. Looking forward to more insight into that realm in future episodes if possible.
Cajun Baz
2020-09-15 18:32:30 +0000 UTCThis was great. Lovely to hear John Linneman.
2020-09-15 15:23:15 +0000 UTCThe first stage was such an eye opening experience when my friend and I first played this. All the way up to that incredible boss music. Great topic, can't wait.
Normallyretro
2020-09-15 00:41:10 +0000 UTCAmazing art by Leeann Hamilton @peannlui
Stuart Gipp
2020-09-14 18:21:21 +0000 UTCJohn Linneman on Retronauts? A dream come true. Great doscussion between Stuart and John (and Jeremy, of course) on a classic series. And the fact that the episode was recorded a bit after the release of SoR 4 just meant the panel had some informed opinions on it, having played the whole game :)
Kormakur Gardarsson
2020-09-14 16:43:02 +0000 UTCI think what makes Streets of Rage my favorite beat em' up is that because it was designed as a console game and is limited to two players, the level design and enemy placement feels for the most part incredibly fair while still being challenging and keeps a great flow since it's not trying to steal your quarters.
Grant Baxter
2020-09-14 14:22:42 +0000 UTC
