Akira. The name alone stirs feelings in fans. This classic anime is almost above criticism, much like Pac-Man or Super Mario Bros. The anime was released in 1988 representing the most expensive anime film created up to that point. There was a lot riding on the success of Akira, and it delivered. Fans that are also gamers have been waiting a long time for a chance to control of Tetsuo Shima and re-enact the events in the film.

Close but no cigar

Those dreams are still dashed if the information coming from those that have had hands on experience with the prototype. According to Hidden Palace, only about two thirds of the game ROM is accessible. The remaining bit being unused graphics and such.

On top of that, the Akira prototype also apparently locks up, none of the levels can be completed (level select is used to change levels), and a lot of the music and sound effects are not used/implemented.

What is cool here

This is an Akira prototype. How much cooler can you get? Well, for one, it shows that there was indeed game in development by Black Pearl. We knew it was at some point in development as a demo was shown at the Summer Consumer Electronics Show in 1994. What is cool here though is, this prototype predates that demo shown. Hidden Palace have a great write up of the history of Akira coming to almost be a video game.

That means there is a newer prototype out there somewhere, maybe one closer to completion.

We need a hero

Could someone step up and finish Akira for the Sega Genesis and release it officially? Someone like Piko Interactive, whom have a record for doing this type of thing? I mean, they are doing it right now with Jim Power for Sega Genesis, SNES (fixing that annoying parallax for one), a brand-new NES port, etc. on Kickstarter.

It could happen but it would certainly be a costly venture. We just must be patient and support those giving us what we want so they can keep doing it. For more Sega Genesis fun, check out our coverage. Want that one elusive game for your collection? Check out eBay or get a deal on Amazon and get it in 2 days with a Prime membership.

Carl Williams

It is time gaming journalism takes its rightful place as proper sources and not fanboys giving free advertising. If you wish to support writers like Carl please use the links below. https://www.paypal.me/WCW https://www.patreon.com/CarlWilliams