Introduction
Released in 1992, Time Killers is an arcade fighting game developed by Incredible Technologies and published by Strata. Known for its graphic violence and limb-chopping mechanics, it became one of the early contenders in the one-on-one fighting boom sparked by Street Fighter II.
Development and History
- Developer: Incredible Technologies
- Publisher: Strata
- Release Date: 1992
- Hardware: Strata arcade hardware
Time Killers was conceived as a way to capitalize on the growing popularity of fighting games while adding extreme gore and dark humor. The development team created a cast of warriors pulled from different time periods, all battling to face Death himself. It was among the first fighting games to feature weapon-based combat and dismemberment.
Gameplay Video
Gameplay and Mechanics
Players choose from eight characters, each wielding weapons and able to sever opponents’ limbs during combat.
Key gameplay elements:
- Limb Targeting: Each attack button corresponds to a specific body part
- Decapitations: Special attacks can instantly end matches
- Weapon Combat: Swords, axes, and chainsaws are part of each fighter’s arsenal
- Simple Inputs: No complex motions, focusing on direct button presses
- Two-player Versus Mode: Head-to-head battles with gory outcomes
Losing both arms disables a fighter’s attacks, adding unique strategy.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
- Gained notoriety for its violence, predating Mortal Kombat’s fatalities
- Ported to the Sega Genesis, though the release was delayed and poorly received
- Inspired other violent fighters like BloodStorm
- Remembered as a cult curiosity among early ’90s arcade games
Fun Facts
- One of the first games to let players win by decapitation mid-match
- Characters included Viking warriors, futuristic soldiers, and cyborgs
- Despite controversy, it attracted a loyal niche following
Conclusion
Time Killers delivered weapon-based fighting and over-the-top violence at a time when arcades were hungry for edgy content. Though it never reached mainstream success, it carved out a place in fighting game history as one of the earliest ultra-violent titles.