Golden Axe: Beast Rider

 PlayStation 3
Metascore
44

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 30 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 30
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 30
  3. Negative: 17 out of 30
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  1. GameDaily
    70
    The graphics and sound are great, and the numerous challenges and arena modes offer some diversity. If you're up for a quick hack-and-slash game, rent it. If you want a game with depth, however, this Axe needs sharpening.
  2. GamingXP
    62
    There has not been a real development concerning the gameplay of Golden Axe: Beast Rider. Graphics are quite good, also the sound of the game.
  3. Game Informer
    60
    Eschewing the expected hack-n’-slash mindlessness, a timing-based evasion and blocking system is required to master the melee. It’s not enough to save an otherwise lackluster effort, but Secret Level was definitely on to something with the combat.
  5. 3DJuegos
    58
    Golden Axe: Beast Rider confuses the tribute to retro with the flat and boring gameplay. The new game of SEGA is mediocre in every aspect, and comes as a failure in its attempt to recover a legendary name and turn it into a worthy product of Next-Gen platforms.
  6. Game Revolution
    58
    The Golden Axe name is liable to do Beast Rider more harm than good.
  7. Jolt Online Gaming UK
    55
    While it’s kind of cool to see a new take on such an old game, the presence of a muddy palette and outdated game mechanics combined with the inexplicable absence of co-op makes Beast Rider forgettable and so much less than it could have been.
  8. Play.tm
    55
    Unfortunately the main gimmick of the game is pointless at best and frustrating at worst. There are challenge modes available after the game is completed and extra costumes to unlock, but nothing to offer real replay value.
  9. GameTrailers
    55
    Tyris is likeable enough, but generic and uninspired gameplay manage to reduce everything in Golden Axe: Beast Rider to the lowest common denominator. It’s simply not fun--offering very little incentive to keep playing.
  10. Gameplayer
    50
    Above all, there's the sense that every aspect of the game has been designed not to challenge, but to frustrate. Like the witch doctors who can summon rocks to fall from the sky and crush you, or the just-barely-visible bear traps scattered about.
  11. GameSpot
    50
    This halfhearted revival attempt leaves Golden Axe lifeless and dull.
  12. Worth Playing
    50
    I don't believe that there's anything inherently wrong with Sega trying to do something different with the series, but by taking away a feature that many fans wanted and offering nothing compelling in exchange, Beast Rider will have a hard time appealing to both series fans and those who are just looking for a decent action game.
  13. Thunderbolt
    50
    As you attempt to cut through your enemies in grisly fashion you’ll recall a simpler time, where you rode a purple chicken and kicked gnomes in their fannies.
  14. games(TM)
    50
    It’s a perfectly playable game, but a frankly boring one that quickly becomes a chore to play. [Christmas 2008, p.102]
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Awards & Rankings

68
#68 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2008
57
#57 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2008

User Reviews

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User Score
5.7

Mixed or average reviews- based on 34 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 34
  3. Negative: 13 out of 34
  1. Shadescale
    Aug 31, 2015
    8
    First lets get the negative out of the way. There is no multiplayer. With a game sporting the title "Golden Axe" we expect multiplayer. TheFirst lets get the negative out of the way. There is no multiplayer. With a game sporting the title "Golden Axe" we expect multiplayer. The fact there isn't any is one drawback. But this doesn't mean the game should be forgotten and tossed aside. As a single player campaign driven game it was enjoyable and had a few throwbacks to the Golden Axe arcade style games we all love.

    If your jumping in expecting game play kin to "God of War", then you will be be disappointed because it is a game that sports a more defensive fighting style than the all out balls to the wall play style of GoW. Instead the game play is based off of a counter equals reward system. The players attack and based off a flashy color, you parry or evade and unleash more damage as a reward. If you can stick with the game long enough to learn how to play the game, it grows on you.

    Overall, the game was enjoyable. I have played all the Golden Axe titles, and I was extremely anticipating this next phase the GA saga. There were from frustrating moments at first as you learn to cope with some camera issues and dealing with enemies that you can't see because they are placed behind your camera. But once you learn to keep your enemies on screen, you adjust.

    The art style is dark and muted, and honestly, I really enjoy that gritty look for a game based on barbarians and magic wielding shamans. It just fits. I don't expect bright colors in a town full of mud huts and dead trees. The creatures, especially the Abrax and Lynth, were really well modeled and detailed, but I do have to add that the enemies did get a bit monotonous. While they looked cool, there just wasn't a lot of variety.

    If your looking for a gritty game with some gritty game play, and want to stomp around some of your favorite areas from the Golden Axe arcades, then spend a bit of money and try it out. Just don't expect God of War or you will be disappointed, not because the game is bad, but because it isn't God of War.    … Full Review »
  2. AllanD
    Jan 5, 2010
    8
    As others have stated this game is underrated. OK so it's not the next Eldar Scrolls but the graphics are great. If you've played As others have stated this game is underrated. OK so it's not the next Eldar Scrolls but the graphics are great. If you've played Conan you'll know what to expect, there's a lot less combos on offer but this is made up for with the coutering system which I won't go in to here - but if you can master it, it's as satifying a game mechanic as you're likely to find. Really hope there is a sequel! (And to SEGA, leave out the Barbarian and the dwarf, just put in more customisation for Tyris!) I paid £8 pre-owned. If you see this game for less than a tenner, grab it.… Full Review »
  3. Funkymonk
    Jan 26, 2009
    4
    As a big fan of the classic original I can only express dissapointment at this update. The gamplay is repetitive, the fighting flawed and As a big fan of the classic original I can only express dissapointment at this update. The gamplay is repetitive, the fighting flawed and apart from a few of the characters it doesn't even have much in common with the original. Do not buy this. Not even at a bargin bin price and especially not if you have a soft spot for the old Golden Axe. You're the ones who would be most let down.… Full Review »
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