Altered Beast - Alternate Style
Altered Beast - Alternate Style: Genesis Beat em Up
Altered Beast - Alternate Style is a fan-made ROM hack for the SEGA Genesis version of Altered Beast, the classic side-scrolling beat 'em up originally released by Sega in 1989. This hack modifies the original game's code to deliver a different gameplay experience, though the exact changes are not widely documented. It was created by the hacker MUGG and distributed online for emulation use, making it a niche addition to the library of Genesis hacks.
As a beat 'em up, the core loop remains: you guide a warrior through levels filled with skeletal enemies and other undead foes. Collecting three spirit orbs triggers a transformation into a powerful beast, each with its own attack style. The Alternate Style hack likely tweaks aspects like enemy placement, difficulty, or character abilities, but the fundamental structure of side-scrolling combat and transformation mechanics stays intact. The game supports two-player co-op, though it's unclear if the hack alters that.
For retro enthusiasts, this hack is worth a look if you've already played the original to death and want a fresh spin. It's not a total conversion or a dramatic overhaul, but a subtle reimagining that changes the flow of combat. Compared to other Genesis beat 'em ups of the era, it's a curiosity that appeals more to collectors of ROM hacks than to casual players. If you enjoy seeing how a single game can be remixed, this is a neat example.
How to Play Altered Beast - Alternate Style Online
To get started, load the ROM in an emulator and press Enter to start. The game immediately throws you into a graveyard level where skeletons emerge from the ground. Attack with the S key (B button) and jump with X (A button) to avoid hits. The core objective is to reach the end of each stage by defeating all enemies and collecting three white orbs to transform into a beast, which increases your damage and changes your moveset. Each level ends with a boss fight, after which you transform into a new beast for the next stage.
The Alternate Style hack tweaks the original balance, so expect differences in enemy behavior or item placement compared to the stock version. Dying costs a continue from the current level, and you have a limited number of continues. The game is entirely in English, so menu navigation is straightforward. Master the dodge timing and learn each beast's attack range to survive the later stages.
Altered Beast - Alternate Style Keyboard Controls
Controls
- Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
- X: A button
- S: B button
- Z: C button
- A: X button (6-button pad)
- Q: Y button (6-button pad)
- E: Z button (6-button pad)
- Enter: Start / Mode
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