Introduction

Released in 1991, Vendetta is a side-scrolling beat ’em up arcade game developed by Konami. Known in Japan as Crime Fighters 2, it offered intense four-player co-op action set in a crime-ridden city, featuring colorful characters and over-the-top moves. The game combined fast-paced fighting with a dark comic book aesthetic.

Development and History

• Developer: Konami
• Publisher: Konami
• Release Date: 1991
• Hardware: Konami Custom Arcade System

Vendetta was developed as a follow-up to Konami’s earlier beat ’em up Crime Fighters (1989). The sequel improved on the formula with smoother animations, more varied enemy designs, and the addition of team attacks. Developers focused on refining collision detection and introducing new combat mechanics to keep players engaged. Konami aimed to compete with other popular brawlers of the time, like Final Fight and Double Dragon, by emphasizing fast gameplay and cooperative mechanics.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Players pick from four vigilante heroes on a mission to rescue their kidnapped teammate.

Playable characters:

• Blood: Ex Prize Fighter
• Hawk: Former Professional Wrestler
• Boomer: Martial Arts
• Sledge: Ex Military Convict

Key gameplay elements:

• Side-scrolling stages through urban environments
• Two-button controls: attack and jump
• Grapple moves and environmental weapons
• Cooperative team attacks when players combine strikes
• Health-restoring items and power-ups

Each level ends with a boss fight against a themed gang leader. The gameplay was designed to encourage teamwork and crowd control.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

• Popular for its four-player simultaneous action and gritty style
• Notable for its colorful and sometimes controversial enemy designs
• Ported to home computers in Europe but never officially released on consoles
• Remains a cult favorite among beat ’em up collectors and arcade enthusiasts

Fun Facts

• Known as Crime Fighters 2 in Japan
• Featured a cameo from Konami’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles arcade art in some cabinets
• The character Sledge’s chain attacks were inspired by Mad Max aesthetics
• Some enemy sprites were reused in later Konami arcade games

Conclusion

Vendetta delivered classic arcade brawling with polished controls, memorable characters, and chaotic four-player action. Its combination of humor, violence, and detailed pixel art made it stand out among early ’90s brawlers. While it didn’t reach the fame of Konami’s licensed hits, it stands as a gritty and satisfying entry in the beat ’em up genre that still draws fans today.

Want to Go Deeper Into Arcade History?

If this game left you craving more, dive into the complete stories behind some of the most iconic arcade genres and franchises. These articles explore the rise, innovation, and legacy of the games that shaped arcade culture:

• Top 25 Beat ’Em Up Arcade Games of All Time – Discover the ultimate ranking of the greatest beat ’em ups ever to hit arcades
• The History of Beat ’Em Up Arcade Games – From Double Dragon to Final Fight, here’s how brawlers ruled the late ’80s.
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• The Economics of Arcade Gaming: The Golden Age of Coin-Op – This article explores the full arc of arcade economics: the explosive rise, the industry-shaking crash, and the waves of reinvention that kept the business alive
• The Complete History of Mortal Kombat Arcade – How a gritty fighter became a pop culture phenomenon.