Introduction
Released in 1995, Guardians (known in Japan as Denjin Makai II) is a side-scrolling beat ’em up arcade game developed by Winkysoft and published by Banpresto. With a large cast of heroes and flashy special attacks, it became a cult favorite among genre fans.
Development and History
- Developer: Winkysoft
- Publisher: Banpresto
- Release Date: 1995
- Hardware: Banpresto arcade hardware
Denjin Makai II was designed as a sequel to the original Denjin Makai, expanding the gameplay with more playable characters, combos, and special moves. Winkysoft and Banpresto focused on vibrant visuals and fast-paced action to compete with other mid-90s brawlers. Its detailed sprites and large movesets set it apart from many contemporaries.
Gameplay Video
Gameplay and Mechanics
Players pick from a roster of unique heroes, each with their own fighting style and super attacks.
Key gameplay elements:
- Playable Characters: Eight selectable heroes plus additional unlockable characters
- Combos and Grabs: Chain attacks, throw enemies, and juggle opponents
- Special Moves: Use power bars to unleash powerful techniques
- Team Attacks: Co-op players can perform combined moves
- Weapons and Items: Pick up swords, guns, and healing items
The game supports up to two players working together through multiple stages.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
- Gained a strong following among beat ’em up enthusiasts
- Praised for deep combat and high replay value
- Never officially ported to home consoles, increasing its rarity
- Frequently featured in retro gaming streams and tournaments
Fun Facts
- Character designs blend superhero tropes with cyberpunk elements
- Known for having more moves per character than many other brawlers
- Boss fights often feature multiple large enemies at once
- The original Denjin Makai was released in 1994
Conclusion
Guardians / Denjin Makai II delivered flashy visuals, a deep combo system, and memorable characters that helped it stand out in a crowded arcade scene. Today, it remains a hidden gem revered by fans of classic beat ’em ups.
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