Streets of Rage is a side-scrolling beat 'em up where you punch and kick through eight stages of a crime-controlled city. You pick one of three ex-cops—a boxer, a martial artist, or a judo expert—each with different speed and power stats. Combat's straightforward: basic attacks, throws, and a screen-clearing special move that costs health. Weapons like pipes and knives appear mid-stage for temporary use. Two-player co-op lets a friend jump in. The story involves taking down a syndicate that's corrupted the police force, but your ending changes based on choices made near the finale. If you accept the crime boss's offer, you can rule the syndicate yourself instead of destroying it. Expect repetitive enemy waves and boss fights every few levels. It's arcade-style action with no complex systems—just movement, attack buttons, and crowd control.
