Introduction

Welcome to the world of Savage Reign, where nine fighters assemble to battle it out for the title of not-so-legendary kings and queens of a made-up city. Yes, this is the 1995 fighting game that's back on your Xbox One, and while nostalgia may whisper sweet nothings in your ear, don't be fooled - even that still includes some not-so-sweet aftertastes.

Gameplay

In an era where fighting games were creatively blossoming like weeds, Savage Reign emerges with its cash-grab premise - a brawler tournament in a stylized version of South Town, now fancily dubbed Jipang City! A mysterious fighter named King Leo is dishing out challenges on TV. Your job? I'm still not entirely sure - something about throwing your weapons (not literally, please!) and beating up other characters who might have backstories as dull as a butter knife. The gameplay is built around weaponry, emphasizing that you can throw your trusty firestick at opponents when life gets too tough. However, if you can manage to jump between the upper and lower planes like it's a Tetris game gone wild, then you might find some semblance of enjoyment. Just don't ask me for tips on combos - if this is a fighting game, show me the punches! Your life bar will hardly feel threatened, even when going against a Walmart version of Jason David Frank (he's not in the game, don't worry). Button layout looks familiar - punch, kick, weapon, and that one button you press when you're panicking (aka jump). Behind every jab and wild swing is a whole lot of hope, praying that the neighboring character won't take you out with a move that feels like it could flatten a building. Good luck managing a skilled player; it's like asking a toddler to deal poker.

Graphics

Visually, it's as if the 90s threw up on your screen while holding a crayon box. The character designs are cheerful yet thoroughly uninspired, with color palettes dressed to the nines in 'it was acceptable back then'. Calling them innovative might be an overreach as much as King Leo's ego - even the background visuals seem like they got a little bored and decided to take a nap. If you're looking for eye candy beyond your mom's efforts in the kitchen, I'm afraid Savage Reign might disappoint.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ACA Neo Geo: Savage Reign is the type of re-release that plays two crucial roles - it sparks fond memories for those who slapped coins into arcade machines back in the '90s and serves as a reminder of everything wrong with the genre when it was clumsy with its ideas. While it offers some laughable moments and quirky characters, the overwhelming sensation you'll have while playing can best be described as 'meh and more meh'. Is it worth your time? Only if you're a chronic masochist or have a penchant for bad decisions in the nostalgia department. Otherwise, keep your 5 bucks and treat yourself to a pizza; it may hurt less than throwing yourself into the fray with this one.

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