The Sega Saturn, while a technological marvel ahead of its time, struggled to match the success of its competitors.
Within its library of games, a few unfortunate titles emerged, epitomizing the challenges faced by this enigmatic console.
From abysmal graphics to baffling gameplay choices, these games left a trail of disappointment and frustration for those who dared to play them.
Join us on a journey through the forgotten annals of gaming history as we uncover the worst Sega Saturn games of all time, immortalizing their place in infamy.
#10. Albert Odyssey: Legend of Eldean
- Release Data: SunSoft/Working Designs, 1997
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Albert Odyssey, the first of Working Designs’ RPGs, falls short in its transition to 32-bit from SNES.
While the music and dialogue are impressive, dated graphics and massive slowdown during battles hinder the experience.
It’s a decent RPG, but technical issues and delays make it less enjoyable. It’s better suited for patient players.
#9. Virtua Fighter Kids
- Release Data: Sega AM2/Sega, 1996
- Genre: Action » Fighting » 3D
Virtua Fighter Kids, a bizarre spin-off of Virtua Fighter 2, transforms fighters into cute six-year-olds with limited range due to their size.
Some features, like Combo Maker, may appeal to hardcore Virtua Fighter 2 fans, but it offers little to those already owning other Virtua Fighter games.
Moreover, the concept of children fighting might unsettle some players.
#8. Last Bronx
- Release Data: Sega, 1997
- Genre: Action » Fighting » 3D
Last Bronx, though successful in Japanese arcades, failed to gain traction in the US.
The game’s weapons set it apart from Virtua Fighter, but the graphics suffer from disappearing polygons, affecting the overall presentation.
In the end, while this title is somewhat decent, it fails to stand out among other Sega fighting games.
#7. Bug Too!
- Release Data: Realtime Associates/Sega, 1996
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Bug Too! falls short, despite quirky characters like “Maggot Dog” and “Superfly.”
Its incorporation of a 3D element leads to frustrating forced paths, making the gameplay tedious. Moreover, the movie-based levels lack parody and resemblance to the films.
And while the sound is tolerable, overall, Bug Too! just simply fails to impress.
#6. The House of the Dead
- Release Data: Tantalus/Sega, 1998
- Genre: Action » Shooter » Light Gun
The Saturn port of The House of the Dead, an arcade classic, falls short in several aspects.
The visuals are pixelated with frequent slowdowns during gameplay, and the mid-level load times also disrupt the action.
Moreover, it lacks the smoothness and fluidity expected from a light gun shooter, making it less enjoyable compared to other games in the genre.
#5. Crusader: No Remorse
- Release Data: Realtime Associates/Electronic Arts, 1996
- Genre: Action » General
The game’s transition to the Saturn comes with significant drawbacks.
The graphics suffer, appearing grainy and dull compared to the original PC version. Controlling the protagonist is also frustrating due to unresponsive movements and difficulty in turning quickly.
In fact, these control issues can hamper the overall enjoyment of the game.
#4. Magic Knight Rayearth
- Release Data: Sega, 1998
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
With this title, the generic anime tale of schoolgirls wielding magical powers lacks depth and surprises.
The gameplay is also uninspired, with simplistic dungeon layouts and predictable enemy AI. Moreover, the removal of in-game voice acting and uninteresting diary entries further dampens the experience.
Ultimately, the game feels dated and lacks the charm to appeal to a broader audience.
#3. Sonic R
- Release Data: Traveller’s Tales/Sega, 1997
- Genre: Racing » Arcade » Other
Sonic R for the Saturn disappoints with its limited content.
Additionally, the two-player mode lacks excitement, and the game fails to capture the essence of a true Sonic experience, making it feel more like a racing game with minimal interaction with Dr. Robotnik or other elements typical of the Sonic series.
#2. Manx TT Super Bike
- Release Data: Tantalus/Sega, 1997
- Genre: Racing » Simulation » Automobile
The Saturn version disappoints with its lackluster gameplay and mediocre graphics.
The limited number of tracks is also a major drawback, making the game feel repetitive and dull.
Ultimately, it fails to deliver the excitement and value expected from a racing game, making it a poor choice for Saturn players seeking a thrilling and immersive experience.
#1. Scud: The Disposable Assassin
- Release Data: Syrox Developments/SegaSoft, 1997
- Genre: Action » General
What once a terrific comic book, fails to translate well to the Saturn as a video game.
The basic side-scrolling gameplay lacks depth, becoming monotonous quickly. And the graphics also lack detail, with characters looking pasted onto dull backgrounds.
It’s best suited for diehard fans of the comic, but it falls short of delivering an enjoyable gaming experience.
While the Saturn delivered countless unforgettable experiences, these titles serve as cautionary reminders of the industry’s occasional missteps.
Let us remember them as important lessons in the ever-evolving world of gaming.