Another Arcade Classic Hits the Living Room!
Behold! Another gem from the unparalleled Namco arcade vault is finally gracing home consoles. Yes, folks, “The Outfoxies” has escaped its pixelated prison and is ready to be the star of living rooms everywhere!
Blast from the Past
Released in the land of cherry blossoms and ramen in March 1995, this game was masterfully directed by Masuya Ohishi. Before anyone gets too excited, it’s essential to note that after this brilliant piece of work, he went on to twiddle with games like Soul Blade and SoulCalibur. Don’t get too jealous, though; not everyone gets to be a video game rock star.
A Bizarre Battlefield
Players, ready your controllers! Here’s the deal: Choose from a roster of the most elite assassins—because what’s more fun than eliminating friends and foes alike for the amusement of a reclusive billionaire? Uh, definitely not a plot twist anyone saw coming.
This delightful brawl is a 2D arena fighter, where combatants can flit about like caffeinated squirrels on a platform-based stage. The arena is littered with weapons just waiting to be snagged, as if this were some twisted scavenger hunt. Just remember: one person’s trash is another person’s weapon of mass distraction!
Not Your Average Combat Game
Only one-on-one battles, mind you. Some overzealous fans have boldly suggested that “The Outfoxies” might have been a pioneering inspiration for that little franchise known as Super Smash Bros, which sauntered onto the Nintendo 64 four years later. Coincidence? Perhaps. Or maybe it’s just the unending quest for fun video game chaos.
A Homecoming Worth Waiting For
Drumroll, please! Now comes the grand reveal: “The Outfoxies” has finally received its very first home port courtesy of Hamster Corporation. And no, it’s not a tiny hamster running on a wheel—it’s part of their Arcade Archives and Arcade Archives 2 series. Just to clarify: this game is a homebody now. It has graduated from the arcade nightlife and has moved in with the couch and chips.
What to Expect—And What Not to Expect
The Arcade Archives edition can be found on the Switch and PS4. While it might be tempting to don a tuxedo and roll out a red carpet, this version only caters to brave solo players. Options include:
- Original Mode: the classic experience that sparked countless enthusiastic cries of joy and rage
- Hi Score Mode: because who doesn’t love showing off their bragging rights with a single credit?
- Caravan Mode: tick-tock! You’ve got a 10-minute time limit to put your skills to the test.
And brace yourself: online rankings to ensure everyone knows who’s boss (or who isn’t, no judgment here).
Double the Fun with Arcade Archives 2
If that wasn’t enough to tickle some gamers’ fancy, the Arcade Archives 2 versions on Switch 2, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S throw in some styles. Highlights include:
- Split-screen multiplayer: for those wanting to settle scores with friends in person.
- Time Attack Mode: who can finish the game the fastest while likely ignoring the score? Challenges, accepted!
- VRR support: ensuring the game runs smoother than a buttered otter.
A Montage of Madness
To date, an impressive 391 games have launched in the Arcade Archives series. Add another 108 from the ACA Neo Geo lineup for a majestic total of 499 games. Just imagine how many drink and snack breaks are needed to tackle this marathon!
