Few consoles evoke the golden age of arcades quite like the Neo Geo. While many remember the fighting game giants like King of Fighters or Samurai Shodown, SNK's powerhouse also hosted some truly excellent beat 'em ups. Among the last to grace the platform, and perhaps one of its best, is the often-overlooked Sengoku 3.
Released in 2001, long after many had written off the Neo Geo, Noise Factory's entry into the Sengoku series ditched the supernatural samurai theme of its predecessors for a more modern, fast-paced action flick vibe. And honestly? It was a fantastic decision.
What Makes Sengoku 3 Stand Out?
Unlike the slower, more deliberate pace of the first two Sengoku titles, Sengoku 3 feels like a shot of pure adrenaline. It's a side-scrolling beat 'em up, yes, but one built for speed, combos, and pure, unadulterated arcade fun.
You select from a cool cast of characters, each with their own distinct fighting style and special moves. Forget clunky movement; this game is smooth. Dodging, dashing, and chaining together attacks feels incredibly fluid, which was a breath of fresh air in the genre at the time.
Gameplay: Fast, Fluid, and Flashy
The core loop of Sengoku 3 involves moving from left to right, clearing screens of various enemies, including undead warriors, ninjas, and other supernatural baddies. But it's how you do it that matters.
- Deep Combo System: Stringing together normal attacks, special moves, and throws is key. Learning your character's combos is rewarding and essential for crowd control and taking down tougher foes.
- Character Variety: From agile ninjas to powerful brawlers, the initial roster and unlockable characters offer distinct playstyles that encourage replayability.
- Weapon Pickups: Temporary weapons add extra flair and damage, though the robust hand-to-hand combat is often satisfying enough.
- Boss Battles: Challenging and often multi-phased, the boss encounters test your mastery of the combat system.
It truly feels like a beat 'em up designed with fighting game sensibilities – responsive controls and intricate move sets.
A Late-Era Neo Geo Masterpiece
Coming out in 2001, Sengoku 3 arrived when the Neo Geo AES home console was already a collector's item. This meant many missed it in arcades or on release. Developed by Noise Factory, who would go on to work on other SNK titles, the game felt like a final, polished hurrah for the platform's beat 'em up library.
The soundtrack, composed by Toshikazu Tanaka, is also a highlight, providing energetic tunes that perfectly complement the non-stop action.
Where to Play Sengoku 3 Today
Good news, retro fans! While original Neo Geo cartridges fetch a high price, you don't need to break the bank to experience Sengoku 3. Thanks to SNK's commitment to re-releasing their classics, the game is readily available on modern platforms.
Look for it as part of the Arcade Archives series on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. These ports often include handy features like save states and display options, making it easy to jump in and experience this gem.
Why It's Considered a Beat 'em Up Gem
Upon release, Sengoku 3 garnered positive reviews, with critics praising its vastly improved visuals over its predecessors and its excellent gameplay. It's often cited as one of the best beat 'em ups on the Neo Geo and has even appeared on lists of the greatest beat 'em ups of all time.
Its speed, depth, and stylish presentation helped it rise above the crowded genre and leave a lasting impression on those who played it. It's a game that feels great to play, plain and simple.
Sengoku 3 FAQ
- Who developed Sengoku 3? Sengoku 3 was developed by Noise Factory and published by SNK.
- When was Sengoku 3 first released? It was first released in arcades in July 2001, followed by a Neo Geo AES home release in October 2001.
- Is Sengoku 3 available on modern consoles? Yes, it has been released on modern platforms like PS4, Xbox One, and Switch as part of the Arcade Archives series.
- Is Sengoku 3 connected to the previous Sengoku games? While part of the series, Sengoku 3 features a completely different gameplay style and setting compared to the first two games.
A High-Octane Trip Back to the Arcade
Sengoku 3 might have arrived late to the party, but it brought the noise. It's a testament to the Neo Geo's hardware and Noise Factory's skill, delivering a beat 'em up experience that still holds up today. If you're a fan of the genre or just curious about the Neo Geo's later library, tracking down Sengoku 3 is highly recommended. It's a fast, flashy, and fun reminder of why we love jamming coins into arcade machines... or just booting up a classic on our modern systems.
