Altered Beast Remake Brings Enhanced Visuals, Music, and New Transformations to Classic Sega Game

Sega’s beloved arcade hit "Altered Beast" roars back to life in 2024 with a comprehensive fan remake, courtesy of independent developer LucasJogos2.

Originally crafted by game designer Makoto Uchida and released in 1988, Altered Beast is celebrated for its mythological setting, unique transformation mechanics, and long-standing legacy as a cornerstone of Sega’s gaming history—serving as the iconic pack-in title for the Sega Genesis and Mega Drive consoles in Western markets. The "Altered Beast Remake," now available for free download, revitalizes Uchida’s classic vision for modern audiences on PC, Mac, Linux, mobile devices, and via HTML5 in-browser play.

The updated version boasts reimagined visuals and a newly-composed soundtrack, offering a refreshed auditory and visual experience while preserving the spirit of the original. Set in a "mystical world full of challenges," players once again take up the mantle of a resurrected warrior on a mission to halt the nefarious sorcerer Neff, who threatens to conquer multiple realities.

According to the official GameJolt listing, only by enduring Neff’s monstrous army and a series of perilous trials can players stop his ascension to power.

One standout addition to this unofficial remake is the innovative 'Altered Mode,' which comprehensively revamps stages and challenges, providing an entirely new take on classic levels.

Additionally, the "Epic Battle Mode" introduces a boss rush experience, setting the stage for intense, high-stakes combat.

The remake further enriches gameplay by offering extra modes such as Versus Mode—with optional CPU assistance—alongside a suite of new selectable levels and customization options.

This comprehensive overhaul “blends nostalgia and innovation,” ensuring a rewarding experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the series. Altered Beast’s influence extends beyond this latest project, with additional fan-made sequels, including an unofficial "Altered Beast 2," currently in the works.

While Sega has shown some leniency toward fan tributes and projects leveraging its intellectual property, the company has also demonstrated caution—recently discontinuing an acclaimed unofficial Golden Axe sequel, another franchise created by Uchida. Since its arcade debut, "Altered Beast" has seen multiple official releases, though its sequels on the Game Boy Advance and PlayStation 2 met with mixed reception.

The game’s most recent re-release was as part of the Sega 3D Classics series for the Nintendo 3DS, reaffirming its enduring popularity among retro gaming enthusiasts. With its sweeping visual and audio enhancements and inventive new modes, the "Altered Beast Remake" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Sega’s classic.

Fans eager for a blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay can experience the remake now via downloadable and online options.

Sega PC arcade soundtrack