[#09] Golden Axe (Genesis)


Genre: Beat 'em up
Developer: Sega
Publisher: Sega
Original release: 1989

What began as side-scrolling arcade fighting game by Sega soon turned into a fitting port on the Genesis. Released in 1989, and from the designer who also would go on to create Altered Beast, Golden Axe was a king among paupers in its genre. While not particularly stunning in any sense, the crisp graphics and beat 'em up style of "just plain meant to be fun" landed Golden Axe a place in the hearts of every arcade fan.

Following three noble heroes; Gillius Thunderhead, a battle-axe wielding dwarf; Ax Battler, a two handed barbarian fighter; and Tyris Flare, an amazon, Golden Axe sought to tell the story of murder and revenge without getting too wrapped up in its self. The simplistic game play meant bashing, slashing and hacking away at skeleton warriors and knights was about all there was to do, though with three characters available along spell casting abilities, Golden Axe is certainly an entertaining journey to partake. Players will even find mounts along the way to spice up the battles, or bring a friend in to share the experience.

If you're the kind of player that just loves a quick and easy game to hop in to, then Golden Axe is right up there, and that's why it's #09 on our list. I mean, come on, you get to be a dwarf and ride dragons - what could be better? Before you say anything, let me remind you that there are skeleton warriors and amazons. When was the last time you played a good skeleton warrior bashing game, Diablo II? Make no mistake, Golden Axe, while not exactly mind blowing, will be well worth your Wii Points.














Number 08 on our countdown is closely related to Golden Axe. Continue reading to find out why, and more importantly what it is.