Mobile gamers, rejoice! Sega has finally heeded the call to release some of their classic console games on iOS. While mobile gamers have long been stuck with poorly ported emulator versions of Sega’s classic games, that time is now past. On Wednesday, the company dropped its first of several games bundles on the iOS app store, which include five classic console games, four of which are completely free. The first bundle includes:
· Sonic The Hedgehog ($2.99)
· Phantasy Star II
· Comix Zone
· Kid Chameleon
· Altered Beast
After these initial releases, Sega plans to drop more bundles every two weeks. The free versions of these games are ad supported, but if you begin playing one and find the ads are too much to handle, they can be completely removed by purchasing the game for just $1.99.
The games come equipped with virtual controllers but if those just aren’t your style, all of the titles support bluetooth controllers as well. There is also the option to save progress to the cloud, but no internet connection is required to play. In preparing for mobile releases, Sega commented that the games have been “adapted specifically for mobile devices while remaining faithful to the original games.” Spending a few moments inside of the games, we can attest to that. The games maintain all the look, feel and general mechanics of the originals and are sure to provide you hours of throwback fun.
Below is a quick overview of each of the five games released today. As Sega drops more bundles, we’ll be sure to provide updates on those as well.
Sonic The Hedgehog [ $2.99 ]
Sonic is a blue hedgehog who can run unusually fast. When the evil Dr. Robotnik begins to assimilate all the creatures on the planet into robots, Sonic must use his ability to stop Robotnik. Players battle through six zones and then face off against Robotnik in this classic platformer game.
Phantasy Star II [ Free ]
In the anti-utopian world of Mota, which is dominated by the Mother Brain computer, Rolf, a government agent, is assigned the task of finding out why Mother Brain is malfunctioning. During the game, players meet a wide variety of companions that help in various ways. You’ll have a variety of goal from finding a recorder to saving your entire solar system. The plot is deep and surprising and will suck you in. One of the great classics of RPG gaming, Phantasy Star II i s probably the game I’m most excited to see launch on iOS. tory-99%
Comix Zone [ Free ]
Mortus, the evil mastermind of Comix Zone, has escaped, but remains as a drawing trapped inside his world. In order to come to life, he must kill his creator, Sketch. Sketch is suddenly transported into the comic book that he created. Player’s take on the role of Sketch Turner, and must fight their way to the end of the book in order to defeat Mortus and stay alive.
Kid Chameleon [ Free ]
Kid Chameleon is your classic platformer and while it’s not the most original in terms of plots and gameplay, it earned notoriety for being difficult and long. The game contains 103 levels that vary in size and difficulty, with players having the ability to choose his or her own path through the game. The game includes standard features like masks or power ups that enable various powers and are often needed in order to complete a particular level.
Altered Beast [ Free ]
Altered Beast is a side-scrolling, beat 'em up arcade game set in Ancient Greece . The story follows a centurion who is resurrected by Zeus to rescue his daughter, Athena. The main character must change into beasts such as the werewolf with the use of power-ups in order to beat levels and save the ancient god’s daughter.
