Format: Cartridge
Genre: Brawler
Developer: Sega
Publisher: Sega

Much like other early Genesis titles, such as Sword of Vermillion and Altered Beast, Golden Axe's art struggles a bit with perspective, but otherwise paints an interesting and distinct fantasy world in which the action is set. Also like Altered Beast, Golden Axe is a well done Genesis adaptation of an arcade classic.

Outside of a couple of selections, Golden Axe's soundtrack is surprisingly unmemorable, although the songs are at least catchy during gameplay, and the instrumentation is very appealing. Sound effects are effective, and the scream digital sound effect used during baddie deaths helps lend the game its own character.

As far as brawler evolution goes, Golden Axe is a great representation of the second wave of such games-- its core mechanics are more sophisticated than Double Dragon's, but not quite as elaborate as Streets of Rage 2's. The stages are well paced, the enemy designs varied and balanced, and the ridable creatures add an extra dimension as well.

Golden Axe's solid artwork, distinctive atmosphere, and good design made the title one of several wonderfully enjoyable games available to Sega Genesis owners at the North American launch. Along with Makoto Uchida's Altered Beast, Golden Axe gave early adopters of the system a pair of excellent action titles with which to occupy their time.