Growl

Growl is a 1990 Arcade beat 'em up where you select one of four forest rangers, each with unique stats, to fight through seven stages across varied locales like jungles and moving trains. Gameplay centers on using an eight-way stick and two buttons for context-sensitive attacks, jumps, and special moves that strike all nearby foes. Players can acquire and utilize eight different weapons, including melee, throwing, and firearms, and rescue animal allies like elephants to aid in combat against poachers.

This is a classic 1990 arcade release falling under the fighting, hack and slash, and beat 'em up genres. Players step into the role of one of four distinct forest rangers, each possessing unique starting attributes regarding health, attack power, and jump height, setting the stage for varied combat approaches across its stages. The core experience revolves around navigating seven regular stages and one bonus stage, taking players through diverse environments such as cityscapes, moving trains, jungles, and hidden poacher hideouts.

Core Gameplay Mechanics and Combat

The control scheme is straightforward, utilizing an eight-way joystick for movement and two dedicated action buttons for attacking and jumping. Combat depth is achieved through context-sensitive attacks; players can execute different punches, kicks, and finishing blows based on their proximity and positioning relative to an enemy.

Versatile Weapon Acquisition and Use

A significant feature is the ability to procure and utilize a wide array of weaponry found by smashing barrels and crates or disarming specific foes. Players can find melee options like pipes, swords, and whips, as well as throwable items such as knives and hand grenades. Furthermore, firearms like pistols, machine guns, and rocket launchers offer ranged combat capabilities. Even when ammunition is depleted, firearms like the machine gun and rocket launcher remain usable as melee weapons, though the pistol is thrown after its bullets are spent. Players also have the option to drop their current weapon by pressing down and attack simultaneously.

What makes the combat system unique?

Beyond standard attacks, players can unleash a special move by pressing both action buttons simultaneously while surrounded, striking all nearby enemies. Aerial maneuvers are also enhanced; holding both buttons while moving upward executes a longer jump. The game also incorporates environmental interaction, allowing players to pick up and throw barrels and crates at opponents.

Allies and Opposition

The player will encounter six distinct types of standard enemies throughout the journey, culminating in a final boss encounter featuring two distinct forms. A notable element of the gameplay involves rescuing animal helpers, such as an eagle, a herd of deer, or an elephant, who will then assist the player during their mission.

Available Content and Platform Context

As a main game released in 1990 for the Arcade platform, the experience is self-contained. There are no officially listed DLCs, expansions, remakes, or remasters associated with this title, representing the complete original arcade offering.