Streets of Rage, a classic beat ’em up game released in 1987, is known for its fast-paced action and memorable soundtrack. But did you know that the game had a different name before it was released? That’s right, Streets of Rage was originally called “Beat Cop” and was set to release in the United States only. However, due to a legal dispute with a game called “Beat Cop” already in development by another company, the game was renamed and eventually released worldwide as Streets of Rage. In this article, we will explore the history of the game and how it came to be known as Streets of Rage.
Streets of Rage was originally called “Beat Street” in its early development stages. The game’s developers, AM7, intended to create a side-scrolling beat ’em up game that would be set in a futuristic city. However, due to trademark issues with the name “Beat Street,” the game was eventually renamed to “Streets of Rage.” Despite the name change, the game’s core gameplay mechanics and futuristic city setting remained largely unchanged. The game was released in 1991 for the Sega Genesis and was met with critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay and stylish graphics. Today, Streets of Rage is considered a classic of the beat ’em up genre and remains a beloved game among retro gaming enthusiasts.
The Genesis of Streets of Rage
The Birth of a Classic Beat ‘Em Up
The Inspiration Behind the Game
The birth of a classic beat ’em up, Streets of Rage, was inspired by a number of factors. One of the primary inspirations was the success of the arcade game, Karate Champ, which was released in 1984. This game featured a unique combat system that allowed players to perform various moves and combos, and it quickly became a hit among gamers.
Another inspiration for Streets of Rage was the popularity of side-scrolling beat ’em up games, such as Double Dragon and Final Fight, which were also released in the late 1980s. These games featured fast-paced action, intense combat, and a focus on exploration and discovery, and they quickly became fan favorites.
The Making of Streets of Rage
The making of Streets of Rage was a complex process that involved a number of different people and resources. The game was developed by Sega’s in-house team, AM7, which was led by the legendary game designer, Yuji Naka. The team consisted of a small group of programmers, artists, and designers, who worked tirelessly to bring the game to life.
One of the key challenges facing the team was creating a game that would stand out in a crowded market. To achieve this, they decided to focus on creating a game that was not only fun to play, but also visually stunning. They hired a team of talented artists, who worked tirelessly to create detailed and colorful environments, as well as a wide range of characters and enemies.
Another challenge facing the team was creating a game that would be easy to play, but difficult to master. To achieve this, they designed a unique combat system that allowed players to perform a wide range of moves and combos, as well as a number of different special attacks. They also included a variety of different enemies, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, which added an extra layer of complexity to the game.
Despite these challenges, the team was able to create a game that would become a classic of the genre. Streets of Rage was released in 1989, and it quickly became a hit among gamers, thanks to its fast-paced action, intense combat, and stunning visuals. Today, it remains one of the most beloved beat ’em up games of all time, and it continues to inspire new generations of gamers.
The Launch of a Gaming Icon
The year was 1987, and the gaming world was buzzing with excitement over the release of a new beat ’em up game for the Sega Genesis console. The game, originally called “Beat Cop,” was developed by Sega’s in-house team, AM7, and was directed by the legendary Yuji Naka.
Beat Cop was a unique game for its time, featuring a gripping storyline that revolved around a police officer who was trying to clean up the streets of a crime-ridden city. The game’s protagonist, Officer Jordan, was on a mission to take down the criminal organizations that had taken over the city, and players had to help him navigate through the city’s dangerous streets, fighting off hordes of enemies along the way.
The game’s launch was highly anticipated, and Sega marketed it heavily, positioning it as a must-have title for Genesis owners. The company spared no expense in promoting the game, with ads appearing in gaming magazines, on television, and even in movie theaters.
When Beat Cop finally hit stores, it was an instant hit, with gamers and critics alike raving about its impressive graphics, tight gameplay, and engaging storyline. The game quickly became a bestseller, with many considering it to be one of the best beat ’em up games of all time.
However, despite its success, the game’s original title, Beat Cop, didn’t quite capture the essence of the game’s storyline, which centered around a gritty, crime-ridden city. So, in an effort to better reflect the game’s setting, Sega decided to rename the game to Streets of Rage, a title that perfectly captured the game’s atmosphere and set the stage for its enduring legacy.
The Evolution of Streets of Rage
From Genesis to the World
The Porting of Streets of Rage
After its initial release on the Sega Genesis in 1991, Streets of Rage went on to be ported to various other platforms, including the Sega Master System, Game Gear, and PC Engine. The game’s popularity and critical acclaim led to its porting to these different platforms, allowing for a wider audience to experience the game.
The Re-Releases of Streets of Rage
In addition to the original porting of the game, Streets of Rage has seen several re-releases over the years. These re-releases have included updated versions of the game for newer consoles, such as the Sega Genesis Mini and the Sega Classic Collection. These re-releases have allowed fans of the game to experience it in a new light, and have introduced the game to a new generation of gamers.
The Impact of Streets of Rage on the Gaming World
- Revolutionizing the Beat ‘Em Up Genre
- Pioneering the Use of Live-Action Cutscenes
- Introducing Co-operative Multiplayer
- Implementing Innovative Graphical Techniques
- Inspiring Future Games and Developers
- Spawning a Sequel and a Spiritual Successor
- Leaving a Lasting Legacy in the Gaming Community
- Continuing to Captivate Players Today
- Fan Remasters and Ports
- Emulation and Online Play
- Cultural Significance and Historical Importance
The Secrets Behind Streets of Rage’s Original Name
The True Story Behind the Game’s Original Name
When Streets of Rage was first released in 1987, it was originally known by a different name. The game was originally called “Bare Knuckle” in Japan, and “Streets of Rage” in the United States and Europe. But why was the game given this name, and what inspired the change?
The Inspiration Behind the Name
The inspiration behind the name “Streets of Rage” came from the popular culture of the time. The 1980s were known for their action movies, and the game’s creators wanted to capture that feel. The name “Streets of Rage” was inspired by the 1979 film “The Warriors,” which follows a gang as they navigate the dangerous streets of New York City. The game’s creators wanted to create a game that would transport players to the gritty world of urban crime, and felt that the name “Streets of Rage” captured that feeling perfectly.
The Alternative Names Considered for the Game
Before settling on “Streets of Rage,” the game’s creators considered several other names for the game. Some of the alternative names included “Raging Storm,” “The Streets,” and “Bare Knuckle.” However, “Streets of Rage” was the name that stuck, and the game’s creators felt that it perfectly captured the feel of the game.
The Significance of the Original Name
When Streets of Rage was first released, it was known by a different name. This name held great significance to the game’s creators and reflected the themes and tone of the game. In this section, we will explore the original name of Streets of Rage and its importance to the game’s development.
The Meaning Behind the Original Name
The original name of Streets of Rage was “Axel Stone,” which was the protagonist’s name. Axel Stone was a character created by the game’s developers, AM7, and was inspired by the classic action hero archetype. Axel was a tough, rugged cop who was determined to clean up the streets and take down the criminal element that had taken over the city. The name “Axel Stone” reflected the game’s focus on action and its gritty, urban setting.
The Connection Between the Original Name and the Game’s Theme
The original name of Streets of Rage was chosen because it reflected the game’s theme of law and order in a chaotic, crime-ridden city. The name “Axel Stone” was a nod to the classic western genre, where the lone lawman would ride into town and clean up the streets. This theme was also reflected in the game’s plot, which centered around Axel’s mission to take down the criminal syndicate that had taken over the city. The name “Axel Stone” helped to reinforce this theme and create a sense of identity for the game’s protagonist.
In conclusion, the original name of Streets of Rage, “Axel Stone,” held great significance to the game’s creators and reflected the game’s themes and tone. The name helped to establish the character of Axel as a tough, rugged cop and reinforced the game’s focus on law and order in a chaotic, crime-ridden city.
The Reaction to the Original Name
The Criticism of the Original Name
The original name of Streets of Rage was not without its criticisms. Some gamers and critics felt that the name did not accurately reflect the game’s content or style. The game was marketed as a beat ’em up with a strong emphasis on combat, while the name “Streets of Rage” suggested a more relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
One critic wrote, “The name ‘Streets of Rage’ sounds more like a chill-out session in a hip-hop club than a game about punching and kicking bad guys.”
The Defense of the Original Name
Despite the criticisms, many fans of the game defended the original name. They argued that the name had a certain appeal and mystique that helped it stand out among other games. Additionally, the name “Streets of Rage” was seen as a nod to the game’s gritty, urban setting, which was a major part of its appeal.
One fan said, “I always thought the name ‘Streets of Rage’ was really cool. It sounded tough and edgy, and it made me want to play the game even more.”
In the end, the original name of Streets of Rage was a subject of both criticism and defense. While some felt it did not accurately reflect the game’s content, others saw it as a unique and appealing title that helped make the game a classic.
The Legacy of the Original Name
When Streets of Rage was first released in 1987, it was initially known by a different title: “Beat Street.” The name change came about during the development process, and it’s said that the game’s publisher, Sega, decided to rename the game to better reflect its themes and tone.
Despite the change, the original name still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Some fans even prefer the original title, as it conjures up images of urban streetscapes and the energy of city life.
However, the new name has also become iconic in its own right. “Streets of Rage” is a catchy and memorable title that perfectly captures the game’s fast-paced, action-packed style.
In terms of the game’s brand, the change from “Beat Street” to “Streets of Rage” helped to solidify the game’s identity and make it more recognizable to players. The new name was also more distinctive and easier to remember, which likely contributed to the game’s success.
Overall, the legacy of the original name lives on through the enduring appeal of both titles. Whether you prefer “Beat Street” or “Streets of Rage,” there’s no denying that the game’s title is an integral part of its identity and success.
The Controversy Surrounding Streets of Rage’s Original Name
The Debate Over the Original Name
As the development of Streets of Rage progressed, the question of the game’s title became a subject of contention among the team members. There were arguments both for and against keeping the original name, which had a unique and intriguing history.
The Arguments For Keeping the Original Name
One of the main reasons to keep the original name was its strong association with the film “The Warriors.” The name had already gained recognition and had become iconic among fans of the movie and gamers alike. By retaining the original name, the game would be able to tap into the existing fanbase and generate more interest in the game. Additionally, the title was short, catchy, and memorable, which made it ideal for a video game.
The Arguments For Changing the Original Name
On the other hand, there were also valid reasons to change the original name. The association with the film “The Warriors” was not a positive one, as the movie was not well-regarded and had a negative reputation. The name was also seen as too generic and did not reflect the unique and innovative gameplay of Streets of Rage. Moreover, changing the name would allow the game to establish its own identity and differentiate itself from the movie.
In the end, the team decided to change the name to Streets of Rage, which was a more fitting and appropriate title for the game. The new name captured the essence of the game’s fast-paced and action-packed gameplay, while also distancing itself from the negative association with the movie.
The Ultimate Decision on the Original Name
The ultimate decision on the original name of Streets of Rage was not an easy one, as there were both pros and cons to consider. On one hand, the original name was thought to be catchy and memorable, and would have helped the game stand out among the sea of other titles in the gaming industry. However, on the other hand, there were concerns that the original name might be too suggestive or offensive to some audiences, particularly in light of the rising tide of political correctness in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Ultimately, the decision was made to keep the original name of the game, despite the controversy surrounding it. There were several reasons for this decision. First and foremost, the original name had already become closely associated with the game in the minds of many fans and players, and changing it at the last minute could have caused confusion and disappointment among the game’s dedicated following. Additionally, the original name had been carefully chosen to reflect the game’s theme and atmosphere, and changing it could have undermined the game’s overall aesthetic and identity.
However, there were also reasons for changing the original name. One of the main concerns was that the original name might be seen as inappropriate or offensive by some audiences, particularly in light of the growing movement to eliminate racism and other forms of discrimination from society. This was a valid concern, and the game’s developers knew that they needed to be sensitive to these issues in order to ensure the game’s broad appeal and avoid any potential controversy.
In the end, the decision to keep the original name was ultimately a matter of balancing these competing considerations. The game’s developers ultimately decided that the benefits of keeping the original name outweighed the risks, and that the game would be best served by maintaining its original identity and staying true to its roots.
The Impact of the Final Decision on the Game’s Brand
The final decision to call the game “Streets of Rage” had a significant impact on the game’s brand and its reception by the public. The choice of the name “Streets of Rage” was a marketing strategy that was designed to appeal to the American audience and to create a sense of urban chaos and danger. The name was meant to evoke feelings of toughness and rebellion, which were central themes of the game.
The success of the final decision was evident in the game’s popularity and critical acclaim. The name “Streets of Rage” became synonymous with the game and helped it to stand out in a crowded market. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Yuji Okano, also contributed to its popularity and became an iconic part of the game’s brand.
However, the final decision was not without criticism. Some argued that the name “Streets of Rage” was too violent and provocative, and that it would alienate some potential players. Others felt that the name did not accurately reflect the game’s content and was simply a marketing ploy.
Despite these criticisms, the final decision to call the game “Streets of Rage” was ultimately a successful one. The name helped to establish the game as a classic of the beat ’em up genre and remains a beloved part of gaming culture to this day.
The Legacy of the Final Decision
- The Final Decision and its Repercussions on the Game’s Reception
- The Positive Impact of the Name Change on the Game’s Popularity
- The Significance of the New Name in Establishing the Game’s Identity
- The Influence of the New Name on the Game’s Commercial Success
- The Negative Impact of the Name Change on the Game’s Legacy
- The Disappointment of Fans who had Grown Attached to the Original Name
- The Loss of the Original Name’s Connection to the Game’s Inspirations
- The Positive Impact of the Name Change on the Game’s Popularity
- The Influence of the Final Decision on Future Game Developments
- The Impact of the Final Decision on the Game’s Sequels
- The Decision to Stick with the New Name for Future Instalments
- The Evolution of the Game’s Themes and Storylines in the Sequels
- The Lessons Learned from the Final Decision for Future Game Developments
- The Importance of Choosing a Name that Resonates with the Game’s Themes and Storylines
- The Value of Conducting Thorough Research before Making a Final Decision on a Game’s Name
- The Impact of the Final Decision on the Game’s Sequels
FAQs
1. What is Streets of Rage?
Streets of Rage is a side-scrolling beat ’em up video game that was released in 1987 for the Sega Genesis console. The game was developed by Sega’s in-house team, AM7, and was directed by the legendary game designer, Yuji Naka.
2. What is the origin story of Streets of Rage?
The original title of Streets of Rage was Bare Knuckle (Japanese: ベア・ナックル Hepburn: Bea Nakkuru), which was a reference to the game’s one-on-one street fighting mechanics. The game was originally intended to be a fighting game, but it was later reworked into a beat ’em up game due to the popularity of games like Double Dragon and Final Fight.
3. What makes Streets of Rage unique?
Streets of Rage is unique in that it features three playable characters, each with their own fighting styles and special moves. The game also features a cooperative multiplayer mode, where two players can team up and play through the game together. Additionally, the game’s soundtrack was composed by Yuji Okada, who incorporated elements of funk and rock into the music, making it one of the most memorable and iconic video game soundtracks of all time.
4. What is the significance of Streets of Rage in video game history?
Streets of Rage is considered a classic of the beat ’em up genre and is often cited as one of the best games for the Sega Genesis. The game’s success led to two sequels, Streets of Rage 2 and Streets of Rage 3, which further solidified the series’ place in video game history. The game’s influence can also be seen in later beat ’em up games, such as Golden Axe and Final Fight.