Battle Master: Kyuukyoku no Senshi-tachi (1993)
Battle Master: Kyuukyoku no Senshi-tachi (literally "Battle Master: Ultimate Warriors") is a fighting game developed and published by Toshiba EMI for the Super Famicom, released on October 29, 1993. The game is a 2D fighting game featuring a roster of warriors from various martial arts disciplines, each with unique fighting styles and special moves. Toshiba EMI, better known as a music label, ventured into game publishing with this title, creating a fighting game that was praised for its solid mechanics and visual style.
Gameplay and Fighting Mechanics
Battle Master is a 2D fighting game where players choose from a roster of characters, each with a unique set of martial arts moves and special attacks. The game features a "power meter" that fills up as players land hits, allowing them to perform devastating special moves. The game's controls are responsive and well-suited for the fighting game genre. The game's characters are inspired by various martial arts styles, including karate, kickboxing, and wrestling, each with distinct attack patterns and strengths.
The game includes a story mode where players follow the tournament arc, a versus mode for two-player competitive matches, a training mode, and a "survival" mode. The game's visual style is detailed and colorful, with large, expressive character sprites and vibrant, detailed backgrounds. The soundtrack features energetic rock and electronic themes that match the fighting action.
Battle Master: Kyuukyoku no Senshi-tachi received positive reviews for its solid fighting mechanics and visual style, becoming a popular title among fighting game fans. It remains a nostalgic classic for its unique character roster and Toshiba EMI's ambitious entry into game publishing.