Time Killers (v1.32)

Time Killers is a head-to-head fighting game released in 1992 by Strata and Incredible Technologies for two players. Eight distinct characters are available to select, each possessing unique weapons and abilities used to battle one another. The gameplay focuses on dismemberment and outright decapitation of opponents through skillful use of these weapons, resulting in a visually striking and somewhat controversial arcade experience that led to its removal from some locations. The game features an unusual control layout designed to resemble human anatomy; five buttons are arranged in a specific pattern intended to facilitate complex moves requiring simultaneous button presses. Players utilize an eight-way joystick for movement and the unique button configuration for attacks, creating a distinctive gameplay feel. Developed with a Motorola 68000 and M6809 CPU alongside an ES5506 sound chip, Time Killers showcases impressive technical capabilities for its era. A sequel, Blood Storm, would later follow in 1994 but adopted a different control scheme inspired by Mortal Kombat. Notably, this arcade cabinet previously belonged to Michael Jackson and was sold at auction in 2009. A port of the game also appeared on the Sega Mega Drive in 1996.