If there’s one thing I’ve been saying over the past three years, it’s that I’m happy to see that the 2D side-scroller beat’em up / brawler scene has been experiencing a resurgence. It’s been great with games such as Streets of Rage 4, Fight’N Rage, and countless others. Now, another upcoming title in the same genre that looks to capture those 90’s arcade vibes, while tossing in a few new tricks, Mayhem Brawler 2: Best of Both Worlds, which is currently being developed by Hero Concept.
While this game may have been revealed previously, this is the first time I’ve seen and heard about it, and despite that, I’m looking forward to it. The hand-drawn visuals look great, and the combat looks fun, even though it’s early. However, what has my attention, other than She-Wolf, who is apparently also running for major, is the addition of the rogue-lite and choose-your-own-path mechanics.
While these options aren’t new, as we’ve seen them in various games, including the recent Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons. But as far as I can recall, we haven’t seen all these mechanics in one game. From what we can see in the trailer, you’ll be able to upgrade your character via several upgrades from a vendor, and it doesn’t look like you can skip those. It appears that this vendor will also give you the ability to choose which location to play next. This part is interesting as it could mean there are multiple enemies and bosses, as well as different endings based on which path you take to the end. It’s exciting as a fan of the genre.
There’s also the feature of jumping between two timelines, which is also shown during the trailer. However, I’m not sure as to how that affects/changes the gameplay. However, I’ll be reaching out to Hero Concept to get as much info as I can about this upcoming title. And yes, for those going, go play the first game; I’m on it!
GAME FEATURES
- A perfect fuse of ‘90s arcade vibe and modern mechanics
- Jumping back or forth 20 years in time, simultaneously challenge opponents of the past and present
- Rogue-lite and RPG game mechanics vary the gameplay with each new playthrough.
- 8 playable heroes with unique abilities against more than 40 different opponents
- Experience co-op gaming with up to 4 friends online or offline
- A narrative based on player choices with voiceover and 11 subtitle options
- Hand-drawn comics-inspired art, frame-by-frame animated characters, and rocking soundtracks • Rich endgame content for replayability
Sadly, this trailer is merely a tease, as Mayhem Brawler 2: Best of Both Worlds won’t be released until 2025. And that’s if there aren’t any developmental delays along the way. Regardless, if you’re a fan of the genre like I am, add this to your ever-growing list of upcoming games you can’t wait to check out. While you wait and haven’t played the first game, like me, go play that as well.
Mayhem Brawler 2: Best of Both Worlds will be available on the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Series X|S, PC (Steam), and Nintendo Switch.
