Three classic Sega games from the 1990s will be re-released in a single bundle on January 16, 2024. This collection, titled the Earnest Evans Collection, features the titles El Viento, Earnest Evans, and Anett Futatabi. Notably, this marks the first time that many players in the United States and Europe will have the opportunity to experience Anett Futatabi, as it was previously only available in Japan.
The re-release is a collaboration among Mighty Rabbit Studios, Headless Chicken Games, and Limited Run Games. While this collection has been available on the Nintendo Switch since last month, it was limited to the Japanese market until now.
A Look Back at the Games
The earliest title in this collection, El Viento, was launched on September 20, 1991, for the Sega Genesis. Developed by the now-defunct Wolf Team, this platformer is the inaugural entry in the Earnest Evans trilogy. Upon release, the game received a mix of reviews, yet it still garnered enough interest to spawn a sequel.
That sequel, Earnest Evans, debuted the same year on the Sega CD before making its way to the Sega Genesis the following year. It became the most popular title of the series, especially in Western markets, although it too faced a divided reception. The trilogy concluded with the release of Anett Futatabi in 1993, which, despite being the final installment, did not gain traction outside of Japan. Its lukewarm reception contributed to the series’ decline.
New Features and Nostalgic Appeal
The latest re-releases are not remakes or remasters. Instead, they retain the original gameplay while introducing some modern features. Players can expect fully voiced cutscenes, a rewind feature, and a save feature that enhance the experience without altering the nostalgic feel of the titles.
Limited Run Games has been known for reviving obscure franchises from the 1990s, making this collection a welcome addition for both nostalgic gamers and newcomers alike. As these classic games return to the spotlight, fans are reminded of the unique charm that defined an era of gaming.
As excitement builds ahead of the release, players and collectors are encouraged to share their thoughts on the collection and its significance within the gaming community.
