One interesting note about games in the 90s is just how quickly other developers picked up on popular trends. When Street Fighter II hit, several fighting games followed, including legendary favorites like Samurai Shodown. Likewise, when Capcom ruled the streets with Final Fight, several companies tried their hand at the formula. Of course, that’s a benefit, if only because we see what new ideas can get on the board. And that includes what Nalua Studio has done with its recent release, Vengeance Hunters.
It channels back to the days of Neo-Geo, mainly because that’s the initial platform for the game’s development. But it’s also available for other systems, so others can enjoy all of its beat-em-up glory.
In the game, you choose from three Vengeance Hunters as they pummel anyone they come across. Each character varies in style and strength, but can put together some nifty combo and juggle attacks.
It doesn’t raise the bar in the genre like Streets of Rage 4 and Shredder’s Revenge have done. But Vengeance Hunters is a captivating throwback title, filled with enough beat-em-up excitement for you and your friends. Plus its vintage cheesy presentation is just right for fans of the genre. Just enjoy and serve up that vengeance!
Bring On the Vengeance Hunters
The game introduces us to Candy, Golem and Loony, three different types of characters. I mean, where else can you choose to fight as a noble robot? (Well, in games this is year, anyway.) After making your selection, you hit the streets, using your barrage of attacks to fend off the baddies.
There is an interesting little story here, though the focus is clearly kept on the action. And pretty good action it is. While the general moves may seem basic, Vengeance Hunters has a deeper system with its juggles and combos.
See, you can execute attacks that drain your enemy’s health bar while keeping them in the air. Some take a bit of practice, but they’re all worthwhile. What’s more, they add a level of strategy to the boss battles, as some prove to be a handful. Watching your combo meter build up is quite satisfying.
The game doesn’t really go above and beyond that, nor does it introduce any abundant extras. But it remains a delightful arcade affair, filled with lots of brawling tactics and good smashing fun. Plus the super moves add to the mix, along with dashing techniques to clear out what’s ahead of you.
There could’ve been a little more variety in the levels and the dangers they provide. But I did like the sub-stages, including a fun spaceship sequence and a stage packed with…TNT boxes? Who makes these?!
It may not have reinvention on its side, but, man, Vengeance Hunters is a cool little old-school title. I could easily see this in my Neo-Geo library (once I get my lottery win in.)
A Good Looking Beat-Em-Up
Along with its exciting gameplay, Vengeance Hunters also packs a punch with its visuals and sound.
While the graphics are, again, not over the top, they are great quality when it comes to Neo-Geo. The animations are sharp and the characters look nice, particularly some of the bosses. And, of course, Golem is a charmer, ladies. Again, the level design could’ve used a little sprucing up, but they’re not too bad.
As for the soundtrack, it’s really something. Nalua channels some of the best kind of Neo-Geo memories with its musical selections. They sound great and will have you humming along as you cave in some punk’s skull. Plus the sound effects are meaty, with lots of thwacks and crunches.
For an old-school inspired brawler, Vengeance Hunters more than gets the job done.
Go Have Yourself a Vengeance
Although there are better games in the genre, Nalua Studio’s Vengeance Hunters has no problem finding a comfortable fit. Its visuals and audio have that awesome old-school flair, and the gameplay feels just right with its wild combos and juggles. I do wish there was more to unlock, but it suits its purpose when it comes to being a retro favorite. And for a mere $20, at that.
Anyone looking for fresh beat-em-up territory should definitely give Vengeance Beaters a good go-around. Do it for Golem!
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Nalua Studio for the review code! Vengeance Beaters is available now for Nintendo Switch, PC,Xbox and PlayStation platforms.
Oh, you want more old-school reviews? Check out our coverage on Aero the Acro-Bat 2 and Castlevania Dominus Collection!
