Golden Axe Returns: A Stunning Fanmade Comeback for an Arcade Classic
Last Updated on January 27, 2023
Golden Axe Returns proves there is life in the franchise yet…
Golden Axe is a beloved Sega franchise that never seemed to garner the same love that Streets of Rage did. Eventually, Streets of Rage got a phenomenal modern sequel in Streets of Rage 4. Sadly, it’s unlikely Golden Axe will get the same treatment anytime soon.
Fortunately, it doesn’t need to! A superb fanmade title called Golden Axe Returns has just come out and is free to download and play. You can check it out for yourself here
This game starts right where Golden Axe 3 left off and offers a wide array of characters to pick from. It’s a blast from the past and is sure to please fans of the series and genre.
Golden Axe Returns was made by Zvitor using OpenBor, a specialized engine for 2D side-scrolling games like beat em’ ups and space shooters. Zvitor is known for their Mugen characters (Mugen is a 2d fighting game engine) but has made quite the library of full games too. They are all available to download here.
Right now, the manual for Golden Axe Returns is just a blank square. Fortunately, you’re thrust into a training area when you start the game, and it’s easy enough to work out the controls and start slaying every baddie in sight.
Anthony is a freelance writer and has worked in the industry for four years. He’s furiously competitive and is always looking for the next big multiplayer hit. Anthony is a passionate PS1 collector and firmly believes in playing his retro games rather than letting them collect dust on a shelf. He also loves speedrunning and always looks forward to the next GDQ and ESA events.
