Altered Beast

Altered Beast, developed by Sega, is a classic side-scrolling beat ’em up arcade game released in 1988. Players take on the role of a resurrected centurion with the ability to transform into various mythological beasts, each possessing unique abilities. The game follows the protagonist’s quest to rescue Zeus’s daughter from the clutches of the nefarious Neff. Altered Beast’s iconic “Rise from your grave” voiceover and engaging gameplay made it a standout title during the late 1980s arcade era.

Sega developed Altered Beast to showcase the capabilities of its new arcade hardware, the Sega System 16. Released as a launch title for the Genesis/Mega Drive console, it was later ported to various other platforms. Makoto Uchida led the development team, aiming to create a visually impressive and immersive gaming experience. Altered Beast’s memorable character designs and mythical theme contributed to its popularity.

Altered Beast received mixed but generally positive reviews upon release. Critics praised its innovative transformation mechanic and atmospheric presentation, although some critiques were directed at its repetitive gameplay. The game’s success, especially on the Sega Genesis, helped establish it as a flagship title for the console and a memorable entry in the beat ’em up genre.

Altered Beast saw adaptations for numerous home consoles and personal computers, cementing its status as a Sega classic. Several sequels and spin-offs followed, expanding the Altered Beast universe. Notable titles include “Altered Beast: Guardian of the Realms” for the Game Boy Advance and “Project Altered Beast” for the PlayStation 2, showcasing the enduring legacy of the original game.

The original Altered Beast arcade cabinets are considered collectibles, and their rarity varies based on location and preservation efforts. Production numbers are not precisely documented, but surviving cabinets are relatively scarce. The game’s popularity has kept demand high among collectors, influencing its market value. Prices can fluctuate, with factors such as condition, authenticity, and the arcade cabinet’s history influencing its overall worth.

Altered Beast ran on Sega’s System 16 hardware, featuring a Motorola 68000 CPU, Zilog Z80 for sound processing, and a Yamaha YM2151 sound chip. For those interested in repairing or restoring an Altered Beast arcade cabinet, relevant parts include the CPU, sound components, and display hardware. Input devices such as joysticks and buttons may also require attention. Replacement parts can often be sourced from vintage electronics markets or specialized suppliers catering to classic arcade hardware.

Arcade Video Game Price and Field Guide:

Altered Beast:
Conversion Kit
Genre: Side Scrolling Fighter, Beat ’em Up

Lower – 575
Average – 650
Higher – 775