Streets of Rage Games Collection
Since 1991, SEGA's Streets of Rage (Bare Knuckle in Japan) has defined arcade-style beat-'em-ups with its synth-wave soundtrack, urban crime drama, and iconic trio - Axel Stone, Blaze Fielding, and Adam Hunter. Set in a crime-ridden metropolis, the series combines bone-crunching combat with social commentary.
Core Gameplay & Legacy
- Golden Age (1991-1994): SoR1 introduced special police backup attacks, SoR2 refined movement with dash/dive rolls- Modern Revival: SoR4 (2020) by Dotemu/Lizardcube blended hand-drawn animations with classic mechanics
- Spin-offs: Bare Knuckle MD (2023 fan remake) and Final Fight crossover rumors
Cultural Impact
With 10+ million sales, the series:- Popularized Yuzo Koshiro's techno soundtrack (influencing Hotline Miami)
- Inspired River City Ransom and Double Dragon modern reboots
- Became a LGBTQ+ icon through Blaze's design (voted "Best Dressed" by Retro Gamer)
Why It Endures
From pipe-wielding thugs to Mr. X's limo fights, Streets of Rage delivers pure 90s arcade nostalgia with surprisingly deep combo systems.🎮All Streets of Rage Retro Games
1991
Beat 'em upSega's definitive 16-bit beat-'em-up where ex-cops Axel, Blaze, and Adam clean up crime-ridden streets. Features Yuzo Koshiro's iconic techno soundtrack and cooperative gameplay.
1992
Beat 'em upThe pinnacle of 16-bit beat-'em-ups with expanded movesets and Yuzo Koshiro's legendary soundtrack. Play as Axel, Blaze, Max or Skate to defeat Mr. X's syndicate across 8 stages.
1994
Beat 'em upThe darkest entry in the trilogy with branching paths and multiple endings. Introduces Ash as the first unlockable character and a controversial 'rage' health-based attack system.
1991
Beat 'em upStreets of Rage (Bare Knuckle in Japan) is a side-scrolling beat 'em up for Sega Master System. Players control ex-cops Axel, Blaze, or Adam as they fight through crime-ridden streets to overthrow the evil Mr. X and his syndicate.