Beat 'em up

Beat 'em up (also known as brawler) is a video game genre featuring hand-to-hand combat between the protagonist and an improbably large number of opponents. Traditional beat 'em ups take place in scrolling, two-dimensional (2D) levels, though some later games feature more open 3D environments.

History

The beat 'em up genre emerged in the 1980s, with the release of games such as Kung-Fu Master (1984) and Renegade (1986). These early games laid the groundwork for the genre by introducing side-scrolling action and a focus on melee combat.

The genre gained significant popularity with the release of Double Dragon in 1987, which introduced cooperative multiplayer gameplay, allowing two players to fight together. This was followed by other successful titles such as Final Fight (1989) and Streets of Rage (1991), which further refined the formula and became iconic examples of the genre.

Gameplay

Beat 'em up games typically involve the player controlling a character or group of characters who must fight their way through a series of levels populated with numerous enemies. The gameplay is often simple, focusing on combat mechanics such as punches, kicks, and special moves. Players can usually move in all directions within the game environment, which is often a side-scrolling or isometric view.

Common Features

• Cooperative Play: Many beat 'em ups allow for two or more players to play simultaneously, working together to defeat enemies.
• Power-ups and Weapons: Players can often pick up weapons or power-ups that enhance their abilities or restore health.
• Boss Battles: Levels typically culminate in a boss fight, where players must defeat a more powerful enemy to progress.

Evolution and Variants

In the 1990s, the genre began to evolve with the introduction of 3D graphics and more complex gameplay mechanics. Games like Fighting Force (1997) and Dynamite Cop (1998) brought the beat 'em up experience into 3D environments.

The genre has also influenced and been influenced by other genres, leading to hybrid games that incorporate elements of RPGs, platformers, and fighting games.

Notable Games

• Double Dragon (1987)
• Final Fight (1989)
• Streets of Rage (1991)
• Golden Axe (1989)
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time (1991)

Legacy

The beat 'em up genre has had a lasting impact on the video game industry, influencing the development of modern action games. While the genre's popularity waned in the late 1990s, it has seen a resurgence in recent years with the release of retro-inspired titles and remakes, such as Streets of Rage 4 (2020).

References

• Smith, John (2008-05-12). "The History of Brawler Games". Gamasutra.

External Links

• The International Arcade Museum
• MobyGames