M.U.G.E.N

Popular programs in Graphics Engines

What is M.U.G.E.N

For gamers looking to recreate the experience of fighting games like Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter, few options will seem as appealing to in-the-know fans as the Mugen series of programs. Combining characters from a wide breadth of video game history and recreating an authentic feel of arcade-style play, Mugen allows users to pick fights between favorite icons, such as Luigi (of Super Mario), M. Bison (of Street Fighter II), and other familiar faces from gaming lore. The whole effect creates a fast-paced game with '90s-style graphics.

Indeed, one of the best aspects of Mugen is its incorporation of video game history into its layout. Games like Street Fighter became all the rage in the early 1990s when 16-bit graphics in video game systems first started matching the looks of those found in professional arcades, and Mugen captures the early-'90s arcade look and feel that made fighting games so compelling to owners of Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis systems.

Anyone familiar with the early Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat games will immediately know how to play Mugen. Players are thrown into tournaments battling other characters, where they attempt to "knock out" their opponents through a storm of kicks, punches, and special karate maneuvers. The graphics and sound of Mugen feel authentic and charming, and players will feel as though they are using a vintage game system while playing.

One of the coolest additions to Mugen is its use of striking video art. Drawing heavily from anime culture, the characters in the game often have a remarkably well-designed look that feels just like top-notch Japanese animation.

The game's retro feel and quick response time will make play a throwback to simpler times and no doubt earn many fans. Players who want to remind themselves of what games were like during their childhood will be especially keen to check out Mugen and make the game a favorite. Owners with children of their own will especially enjoy experiencing the same fun with their kids that they once had on similar games.

Pros:

• Retro feel
• Fast pacing
• Interesting graphics

Cons:

• Fairly limited play
• Limited technology