Streets Of Rage (Bare knuckle)

"Streets of Rage" (known as "Bare Knuckle" in Japan) is a seminal beat 'em up title developed and released by Sega in 1991 for their 16-bit Sega Genesis console. It marks the beginning of the Streets of Rage series, which would later see two sequels on the Genesis, making it one of Sega's beloved franchises of the early '90s.

Gameplay: Set in a crime-infested city, players move through urban environments, dispatching groups of thugs using punches, kicks, throws, and an array of improvised weapons like bottles, knives, and pipes. Unique to this game is the "special attack" where players can call upon a police car backup, unleashing an area-wide attack that damages all on-screen enemies.

Playable Characters:

1. Adam Hunter: A former police officer turned vigilante, Adam is the powerhouse of the trio. He packs a punch but at the cost of speed.
2. Axel Stone: Balancing strength and agility, Axel's martial arts skills are formidable. He's a well-rounded choice for players.
3. Blaze Fielding: Blaze is the fastest and most agile character. Though her attacks might not be as strong, her speed and range compensate for it.

Plot: The game's narrative centers around the city's descent into chaos due to a powerful criminal syndicate that has even corrupted the police force. Three former cops, Adam, Axel, and Blaze, take matters into their own hands, deciding to clean up the streets and confront the syndicate head-on. As they battle through the city's grimiest locales, they face off against hordes of gang members, culminating in showdowns with uniquely challenging bosses.

Endings: One of the standout features of "Streets of Rage" is its branching ending based on player choices. In a dramatic twist, players can opt to join the very criminal mastermind they've been fighting against, leading to alternate conclusions based on the choice and whether the game is played solo or cooperatively.

Legacy: "Streets of Rage" has left a lasting legacy on the beat 'em up genre, with its blend of engaging combat, memorable music, and urban atmosphere. It has been re-released and remastered numerous times on various platforms over the years, allowing new generations to experience this classic title. While it may be more simple in design compared to its sequels, its foundational impact on the series and genre cannot be understated.