As a beat 'em up, it takes an interesting departure from the likes of SOR2 by being non-linear and having multiple endings. The music is also great, and the iconic gore factor this series is known for is in full effect.
That being said, the gameplay itself is hideously unbalanced in the North American release. It quickly becomes "spin kick to win", and when you become Monster Rick, it becomes "tentacle r*pe to win" (I don't know what the move is called but it's the same motion as the spin kick). You almost have to be using these moves 24/7 if you want any chance of success, as the enemies are incredibly overpowered and even early one some are capable of robbing an entire life from you in one or two hits.
It's fine enough for a once over, but the original Splatterhouse is a far better game in almost every category. Shame that never got ported to the Genesis...
That being said, the gameplay itself is hideously unbalanced in the North American release. It quickly becomes "spin kick to win", and when you become Monster Rick, it becomes "tentacle r*pe to win" (I don't know what the move is called but it's the same motion as the spin kick). You almost have to be using these moves 24/7 if you want any chance of success, as the enemies are incredibly overpowered and even early one some are capable of robbing an entire life from you in one or two hits.
It's fine enough for a once over, but the original Splatterhouse is a far better game in almost every category. Shame that never got ported to the Genesis...