Top Five Sega Master System Two-Player Games

Games-Related Top Fives Disclaimer: I’ve traditionally stuck to the games I know and love so far, and these game-related top fives reflect that. One of the purposes of this blog is diversify my gaming experiences, to play games I haven’t played before, so I will do new game-related top fives in a few years to see how different they are!

5. Super Off Road (1992)

Unlike the arcade version (and NES version), the MS port of this spiritual successor to Super Sprint does only support two players simultaneously (as opposed to three and four respectively), but that doesn’t massively detract from the enjoyment of racing around these bumpy, pot-hole-ridden courses. Exciting, fast-paced fun for beginners and experts alike.

4. Gauntlet (1990)

Some say that Gauntlet was never meant as a one-player game and is no fun when played alone. I don’t agree, I’ve always loved playing it, by myself or not. There can be little doubt, however, that it’s much more fun with a friend in tow, even if the age-old problem of deciding who gets to choose their favourite character never seems to go away! The MS version of this arcade classic was a revelation when it came out and still holds up fantastically well today.

3. Double Dragon (1988)

The arcade version of this one was much loved, but the home conversions have been a real opinion-divider! I can still remember the arguments about which ones were good and which weren’t. This MS version, renowned for horrifying levels of sprite-flicker, it may be (so much so, even getting a usable screenshot is a challenge!), remains one of the best. Two-player scrolling fighters are few and far between, but ones this slick and playable are to be treasured!

2. Spy vs Spy (1986)

As much fun as a two-player co-operative game is, I think most people will agree that outwitting (no to mention beating the crap out of) a friend is even more fun! And what better way to do it than the fantastic MS version of this classic? Of course, you’re supposed to be rushing around the rooms looking for the items you need to escape, but most people end of spending their time setting booby-traps to catch your friend out, then cackling as they get fried/blown-
up. And with random room and
item placement, you’ll never get
bored of doing it!

1. Fantasy Zone the Maze (1987)

Unusual choice? Maybe, but my good friend Luke and I have spent so much time playing this under-appreciated gem, I just had to put it in the number one spot! I must admit, a Pac-Man-inspired collect-the-dots game wouldn’t have been the most obvious use of the Fantasy Zone name, but it works really well. Collect the coins, use them to buy weapons to get further in the game. It’s simple, addictive, and awesome fun. Plus, it’s too hard in one-player mode, I need some help!

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