Best Sega Genesis Games for iPhone and Android

If you are a millennial (or a bit older), the mention of Sega brings fond childhood memories. If you rewind some thirty years, you’ll remember the splash the releases of Sega Genesis and Sonic the Hedgehog made on the gaming scene. Unfortunately, it was short-lived and the company struggled to stay afloat up till recently.

On the bright side, Sega now focuses on software development and the old titles are available on multiple platforms including Android and iPhone. We’ve short-listed some of the best Genesis games you can play on mobile devices and in the odd case that you’ve never heard of Sonic it might be love at first sight.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Classic

For some, Sonic is just Sega’s answer to the iconic plumber from Nintendo – Mario. But if you look beyond the linear gameplay and classic Japanese design, Sonic provides a unique gaming experience. This is because of the engaging storyline and demanding levels.

You are in the role of Sonic, a super-fast hedgehog whose job is to fight Dr. Eggman and his creations. You get some help from a pair of sidekicks – Knuckles and Tails – and there are tons rings to collect and obstacles to overcome.

The best thing about the iPhone and Android versions is that you get some new features. Hidden Palace Zone is now readily available and you get to fly when playing as Tails.

The Revenge of Shinobi

As one of the earliest releases, The Revenge of Shinobi (Android, iPhone) is a true Sega classic. If you are into ninja action slasher flicks, this game should be right up your alley. And again, much of the game’s appeal lies in the storyline.

Ancient Japanese crime syndicate captured your bride and killed the shogun. It’s time to take revenge and ninja your way through the retro Sega world. You get to collect special powers and weapons, hone ninjutsu skills, and collect hidden power-ups.

Another major highlight is the soundtrack which was composed by the legendary Yuzo Koshiro. Plus, it’s oddly pleasing to throw ninja stars at pixelized enemies and somersault at the same.

Streets of Rage 2 Classic

This series is among the most popular urban brawlers in gaming history and Streets of Rage 2 (iPhone, Android) is still considered one of the most iconic Sega games. Compared to the original release, the second version features a great soundtrack, improved gameplay, and excellent graphics.

So what’s the story? Mr. X kidnapped Adam Hunter and Adam’s brother gangs up with his friends to clean the streets from thugs and release Adam. The game is full of action-packed bare-knuckle fights, blitz attacks, and quirky mid and end-level bosses.

Just to tease your imagination a little more – you get to fight Big Ben the fire-breathing boss and an assortment of psychos with jet-packs. Plus, the game is surprisingly fluid so you’ll lose the sense of its linearity.

Comix Zone Classic

Comix Zone Classic (Android, iPhone) is a beat ‘em up unlike the ones you are used to. You are in the character of Sketch Turner – a comic book artist that got stuck inside a post-apocalyptic comic book. The enemies and bosses are drawn as Sketch enters the frame, there is the Mutant Queen, and the final goal is to defeat the arch-nemesis Mortus and escape the comic world.

Roadkill, the pet rat, accompanies you through the adventure and it’s there to find hidden items. As for the weapons, you get to use dynamite, knives, grenades, as well as paper planes. Sketch Turner can use a wide variety of fighting moves and power-ups.

A great thing about this game is that it’s compatible with HID controllers and works without Wi-Fi.  Plus, there is a leaderboard where you get to fight for the highest score with other players from around the world.

Crazy Taxi Classic

The cult Crazy Taxi was one of the first properly made open-world games. Its mobile version, Crazy Taxi Classic (Android, iPhone), is bound to keep you glued to the screen for hours on end. As you might have already guessed, you are in the character of a funky taxi driver and the aim is to get your customer to the destination as fast as possible.

However, there’s traffic, steep and winding streets, and pedestrian areas to navigate. And yes, this means there’ll be a lot of jumping, hitting, and drifting. At the same time, the crazier the ride the more points and money you get from the fare.

Crazy Taxi’s graphics are hard to rival when compared to other Sega classics. The entire game has been remastered to fit mobile devices and the controls are super simple.

Gunstar Heroes Classic

Those of you who liked Konami’s Contra will surely love Gunstar Heroes Classic (iPhone, Android). This iconic run-and-gun takes the action up a notch, so make sure to warm up your thumbs because this game is bound to tire them down.

There are two playable characters and you can switch between them at any given time. As for the objective – just shoot everything you see. But given the pace of the game, this is easier said than done and you’ll need excellent reflexes and hand-eye coordination.

There’s No School Like the Old School

Aside from the six titles featured in this article, there are many more and they are all available on both Android and iPhone. So, which Sega Genesis game is your all-time favorite? Have you played them before? Share your experience in the comments section below.