Uploaded July 2024 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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Streets of Rage 3 (known as Bare Knuckle 3 in Japan) often finds itself at the bottom of many Street of Rage tier lists for the Sega Mega Drive. While it may not surpass its predecessors in every aspect, dismissing it entirely overlooks a wealth of depth and nuance that deserves props.

In this retrospective review, I examine the game's history, uncovering the reasons behind its mixed reception. I look at the differences between the Japanese and Western versions, highlighting the impact of localisation on gameplay and narrative. Additionally, I discuss the cut content and hidden secrets that showcase the game's original ambition.

Streets of Rage 3 is not as a misstep, but as a complex and often misunderstood entry in the beat 'em up genre.

00:00 Intro
01:12 Development history
03:45 Bare Knuckle 3 vs Streets of Rage 3
06:44 Gameplay
09:48 Secrets and cut content
11:04 Best way to play it
12:03 Recommendation

Sources:
factmag.com/2018/02/17/streets-of-rage-3-soundtrack-review
daily.redbullmusicacademy.com/2014/09/yuzo-koshiro-interview
timeextension.com/news/2023/01/they-just-didnt-offer-us-the-project-why-streets-of-rage-3-is-the-black-sheep-of-the-family
timeextension.com/news/2022/10/sega-removes-controversial-character-from-bare-knuckle-3-on-mega-drive-mini-2
web.archive.org/web/20161127123432/http://www.soronline.net/sor3_unfinlevels.htm
ancgames.blog28.fc2.com/blog-entry-55.html
ie3.sakura.ne.jp/bk3/index.html

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