Brutal Unleashed - Above the Claw (USA)

What is Brutal Unleashed - Above the Claw (USA)?

Brutal Unleashed - Above the Claw is a gritty fighting game originally released for the SEGA 32X system. Set in a dystopian urban underworld, players battle ruthless fighters in brutal one-on-one combat across gritty arenas. The game emphasizes aggressive martial arts combat with visceral animations and a dark, cinematic atmosphere. As a contender in the underground fighting circuit, you must climb the ranks by defeating increasingly dangerous opponents to challenge the mysterious warlord known as "The Claw."

Game Features

• Visceral Combat System: Execute bone-crushing combos, grapples, and special moves with impactful animations
• Diverse Fighters: Choose from 10 unique brawlers, each with distinct fighting styles and lethal finishers
• Dynamic Environments: Battle in interactive arenas with destructible objects and hazardous terrain
• Progression System: Unlock hidden characters and bonus content by dominating the tournament ladder
• Multiplayer Showdowns: Challenge friends in intense local versus matches
• Signature Brutality Moves: Finish opponents with cinematic, over-the-top fatalities

How to Play Brutal Unleashed - Above the Claw (USA)?

1. Character Selection: Choose your fighter from the roster, considering their speed, strength, and special abilities
2. Master Controls:
   • Movement: Arrow keys or WASD to navigate
   • Basic Attacks: Z key for punches, X key for kicks
   • Special Moves: Combine directional inputs with attack buttons (e.g., ↓→ + X)
   • Block: Hold A key to defend against incoming strikes
   • Brutality Finisher: Press S key when opponent is near defeat (requires full power meter)
3. Battle Mechanics:
   • Deplete your opponent's health bar to win rounds
   • Build power meter by landing hits to unleash special attacks
   • Use environmental hazards (walls, traps) for bonus damage
   • Win 2 out of 3 rounds to advance in the tournament
4. Game Modes:
   • Arcade: Battle through 8 opponents to reach The Claw
   • Versus: Challenge another player locally
   • Survival: Endless fights until defeat

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Brutal Unleashed different from other fighting games?
Its emphasis on cinematic violence and environmental interaction sets it apart – expect exaggerated physics, destructible stages, and graphic finishing moves that lean into its "no-holds-barred" theme.

How do I perform special moves consistently?
Timing is crucial: input directional commands (e.g., ←↙↓↘→) before pressing attack buttons. Practice in training mode to master character-specific combos like cyclone kicks or seismic slams.

Are there secret characters? How do I unlock them?
Yes! Defeat the final boss without losing a single round to unlock "Reaper," or complete Arcade Mode with all base fighters to access "Spectre." Both feature unique move sets and alternate costumes.