Streets of Rage 3

I read the Japanese original is way to go with this one. It's kind of odd since the US version is way too hard on Normal and Japanese is the easiest in the series, thanks to the new set of moves that includes running, vertical roll, a back attack (if you have a 6-button controller), a longer reach attack, and a new bar that fills up frequently allowing for special attacks that don't harm the player. All of this, along with stages that have memorable scenarios and obstacles, make it the best in the series and one of the greatest beat 'em ups of all time.

The soundtrack is nuts. I didn't like it at first but I've grown to appreciate it. It's daring and innovative for the time, using random music generation to make some Aphex Twin-esque experimental music. I found the multiple endings/pathways kind of annoying since I wanted to see the full game on my first attempt, but I'd probably of appreciated the replayability on release. This game doesn't make 2 irrelevant but I certainly would recommend checking out this superior sequel.