Difference between revisions of "Ballz 3D"

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| bobscreen=Ballz title.png
 
| bobscreen=Ballz title.png
 
| publisher=[[Accolade]]
 
| publisher=[[Accolade]]
−
| developer=[[Accolade]], [[PF Magic]]
+
| developer=[[PF Magic]]
 +
| support={{company|[[Futurescape Productions]]|role=some programming{{fileref|Ballz MD US manual.pdf|page=19}}}}
 +
| distributor={{company|[[SF Interactive Media]]|region=SE rental}}, {{company|[[Sega-Ozisoft]]|region=AU}}, {{company|[[Tec Toy]]|region=BR}}
 
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]]
 
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]]
 
| sounddriver=[[GEMS]]
 
| sounddriver=[[GEMS]]
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| genre=Action
 
| genre=Action
 
| releases={{releasesMD
 
| releases={{releasesMD
−
| md_date_eu=1994-09{{magref|mms|24|80}}
+
| md_date_us=1994-10{{magref|egm|62|99}}
 +
| md_rrp_us=59.96{{magref|gameplayers|0709|80}}
 +
| md_code_us=T-119126
 +
| md_rating_us=ma13
 +
| md_date_us_sc=199x
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| md_rrp_us_sc=sub
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| md_rating_us_sc=
 +
| md_date_eu=1994-09{{magref|mms|24|80}}{{magref|mega|24|44}}
 
| md_code_eu=T-119126-50
 
| md_code_eu=T-119126-50
−
| md_rrp_uk=39.99{{fileref|CVG UK 155.pdf|page=91}}{{magref|mms|24|80}}
+
| md_rating_eu=3
−
| md_date_us=1994-10{{fileref|EGM US 062.pdf|page=99}}
+
| md_date_uk=1994-09-23{{magref|ctw|505|21}}{{fileref|DailyExpress UK 1994-09-23 46.jpg}}
−
| md_code_us=T-119126
+
| md_code_uk=T-119126-50
 +
| md_rating_uk=3
 +
| md_rrp_uk=39.99{{magref|cvg|155|91}}{{magref|mms|24|80}}
 
| md_date_au=199x
 
| md_date_au=199x
−
| md_rrp_au=109.95{{fileref|Megazone AU 47.pdf|page=32}}
+
| md_rrp_au=109.95{{magref|smz|47|32}}
 +
| md_code_au=FBAL04SMC
 +
| md_rating_au=g8
 
| md_date_br=1994
 
| md_date_br=1994
 
| md_code_br=046650
 
| md_code_br=046650
 +
| md_rating_br=13
 
| md_date_pt=1994
 
| md_date_pt=1994
 
| md_code_pt=MD119126
 
| md_code_pt=MD119126
 +
| md_date_se_r=199x
 
}}
 
}}
−
| vrc=ma13
+
| otherformats={{NonSega|SNES}}
−
| elspa=3
 
−
| tectoy=13
 
−
| oflc=g8
 
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{stub}}'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''', or just '''''Ballz''''' is a fighting game developed and published by [[Accolade]] for the [[Sega Mega Drive]]. The characters are made up of spheres of various sizes, which change to attempt to simulate 3D characters with smooth animations, similar to ''[[Vectorman]]''.
+
'''''Ballz 3D: Fighting at its Ballziest''''', known in Europe as '''''Ballz 3D: The Battle of the Balls''''', is a [[Sega Mega Drive]] fighting game developed by [[PF Magic]] and published by [[Accolade]]. Released in 1994 to positive reviews, the game is most notable for constructing its characters entirely with spheres to simulate three-dimensional animation, similar to ''[[Vectorman]]''.
  
 
==Gameplay==
 
==Gameplay==
−
{{A}} is for punches, {{B}} is for kicks and {{C}} is for jumping, the height of the jump depends on the time the button is held down. Pushing {{up}} or {{down}} moves the character in the 3D space. All characters have a wide array of special moves, including the ability to morph into other characters.
+
The game is a fighting game where each character is composed completely of colored spheres. Since spheres look the same at any angle, this technique gives the game the appearance of depth and rotation in a three-dimensional space without requiring any specialized hardware. Combat takes place in three-dimensional arenas, with each fighter able to move in any direction on a two-dimensional plane. Each fighter has a health bar, indicated by a string of balls in the top corners of the screen. Rounds last for 99 seconds; when time runs out, both fighters start rapidly losing health, allowing one fighter to finish the other off or potentially ending in a draw. Scoreboard screens in the background of the arenas show pictures and commentary based on the fight.
 +
 
 +
Fighters move with {{left}} or {{right}} and strafe around the arena with {{up}} or {{down}}. They jump {{C}}, with the height of the jump controlled by holding the button longer. They can punch with {{A}} and kick with {{B}}. Kicks are generally slower than punches but do more damage. They can do a low attack by holding {{down}} while simultaneously pressing the {{A}} or {{B}}, a lunging attack by holding the D-Pad toward the opponent and pressing {{A}} or {{B}}, or a short attack by holding the D-Pad away the opponent and pressing {{A}} or {{B}}. Fighters also have several special moves exclusive to them. They can block attacks by holding the D-Pad away from the opponent. They can block high or low using the diagonals. Some special moves, such as explosions or cyclones, still cause damage when blocked. If knocked down, they can roll away by pressing {{up}} or {{down}} while simultaneously pressing the punch button.
  
−
After each few fights, unplaybale boss characters await, which are exceptionally tough to take down, e.g. an ostrich or a dinosaur.
+
When both fighters are close to each other, one fighter can grab the other by pressing {{A}}. Pressing {{repeat|{{A}}}} rapidly can break the grapple, with whichever player presses it faster winning the struggle and delivering a counterattack. Alternatively, a fighter can perform a grab attack by pressing {{B}} when near the opponent.
  
−
While coming out after ''[[Street Fighter II]]'', the game's simple controls and mechanics are more akin to early fighting games such as ''[[Power Athlete]]''.
+
Fighters become dizzy when they are hit three times in a row without blocking. This leaves them vulnerable as they are unable to move or attack, but it can be escaped by pressing {{repeat|{{A}}}} rapidly. When low on life, fighters become tired and change to a fatigued stance. They can beg for additional life by pressing {{down}} {{down}} {{down}} quickly. When the opponent is fatigued, a fighter can perform a finishing move by pressing {{up}} {{up}} {{up}} to instantly finish the opponent. Fighters break apart into their constituent balls when defeated.
  
−
Due to many sprites being drawn at once, the game suffers from sprite flickering.
+
Fighters can perform a taunt by pressing {{A}}+{{B}}+{{C}}, which leaves them vulnerable for attack but increases the damage of the next attack. Multiple taunts can be performed to further increase the damage of the next move.
 +
 
 +
===Modes===
 +
In the single-player mode, the player faces a series of matches to the best of three rounds. There are 13 opponents, with a fight against a sub-boss every three matches to earn a colored belt (as in martial arts). There are four belts (red, green, blue, and black), with each one increasing the damage that the fighter inflicts. Part of the fighter's model changes color to indicate a promotion. After defeating the fourth sub-boss in the twelfth match and attaining a black belt, the player progresses to a final fight against the Jester. There is a difficulty setting, which changes the number of times the game can be continued if the player loses a match (6 for Easy, 3 for Medium, or 1 for Hard).
 +
 
 +
There is also a two-player versus mode where players choose any character and fight a match to the best of three rounds. There are options to change the number of rounds needed to win a match (1-out-of-1, 3-out-of-5, 6-out-of-11, or 11-out-of-21) and the handicap for each player (none, red, green, blue, or black, with each color doing progressively more damage). The game shows an instant replay after the last round of the match.
 +
 
 +
===Characters===
 +
{{MoveListNote|legend=Basic|key1={{jump}}|value1=Jump}}
 +
====Playable====
 +
All eight playable fighters are faced in the single-player game, and they are all playable in either mode.
 +
{{InfoTable|
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Kronk
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=A caveman who carries a club.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Overhead Club | {{up}}+{{punch}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Lobber Loogie | {{left}} {{up}} {{punch}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Tee Off | {{kick}} (close)}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Duck, Dive, and Roll | {{right}} {{right}} {{right}}}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Boomer
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=A circus clown.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Left Handstand Kick | {{left}} {{left}} {{kick}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Head Hurl | {{left}} {{right}} {{punch}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Jack-in-the-Box | {{up}}+{{punch}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Self-Destruct | {{right}} {{down}} {{left}} {{up}} {{punch}}}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Bruiser
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=128 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=A bodybuilding jock.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Cartwheel Left | {{left}} {{left}} {{kick}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Cartwheel Right | {{right}} {{right}} {{kick}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Slide Tackle | {{down}} {{down}} {{kick}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Torqueno | {{right}} {{down}} {{left}} {{up}} {{punch}}}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Turbo
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=192 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=A superhero.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Charge Flip Kick | {{right}} {{right}} {{right}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Flying/Hover | {{jump}} {{kick}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Super Blow | {{right}} {{right}} {{punch}}}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Tsunami
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=256 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=A sumo wrestler.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Belly Charge | {{right}} {{right}} {{right}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Flying Somersault Kick | {{left}} {{left}} {{jump}}}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Yoko
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=320 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=A monkey.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Backflip | {{up}}+{{kick}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Grab Pole and Swing | {{jump}} {{up}} {{up}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Stun Fart | {{left}} {{left}} {{left}} {{left}}}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Divine
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=384 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=A ballerina dancer.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Flip and Throw | {{punch}}+{{kick}} (close)}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Spanking | {{punch}} (close)}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Reverse Cartwheel Head Scissors | {{right}} {{right}} {{right}}}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Crusher
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=448 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=An enraged rhinoceros.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Charge | {{right}} {{right}} {{right}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Pummel | {{punch}} (close)}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Underhand Horn Heave | {{left}} {{right}} {{punch}}}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
====Bosses====
 +
Four sub-bosses are fought in the single-player game, then the Jester is fought as the final boss. The bosses are not playable in either mode.
 +
{{InfoTable|
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Guggler
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=72 | crop_x=192 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=The first sub-boss. An ostrich. Defeating her wins the red belt.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Bounder
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=320 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=The second sub-boss. A kangaroo who wears boxing gloves. Defeating him wins the green belt.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=T-Wrecks
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png | 2 | crop_width=66 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=448 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=The third sub-boss. A gigantic dinosaur. Defeating him wins the blue belt.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Lamprey
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=128 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=The fourth sub-boss. A mystical genie who can transform into different forms. Defeating him wins the black belt.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=El Ballz
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=One of the transformations of Lamprey. A bull.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Byte Viper
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=One of the transformations of Lamprey. A viper.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=Spike
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=256 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=One of the transformations of Lamprey. A scorpion.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow|
 +
| title=The Jester
 +
| bgcolor=#000
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png | 2 | crop_width=64 | crop_height=64 | crop_x=384 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=The final boss. A jester and the one who challenged all of the fighters to a tournament.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Morphing===
 +
Every fighter has the ability to morph into another fighter in the middle of a match. The button combinations are the same regardless of which fighter is being played. The morph lasts until the end of the match or until the player morphs into a different fighter.
 +
{{MoveListTable |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Boomer | {{right}} {{left}} {{punch}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Bruiser | {{right}} {{down}} {{left}} {{punch}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Crusher | {{down}} {{right}} {{punch}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Divine | {{right}} {{up}} {{left}} {{punch}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Kronk | {{left}} {{left}} {{punch}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Tsunami | {{left}} {{right}} {{punch}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Turbo | {{right}} {{right}} {{punch}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Yoko | {{right}} {{up}} {{punch}}+{{jump}}}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Stages===
 +
Every character has their own stage when faced in the single-player mode, except the bosses, who all share the same stage. In the two-player mode, the game uses the stage for the player with the most wins (or the first player, if both players are tied).
 +
{{gallery|widths=200|screens=yes|
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Kronk.png|Kronk}}
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Boomer.png|Boomer}}
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Bruiser.png|Bruiser}}
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Turbo.png|Turbo}}
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Tsunami.png|Tsunami}}
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Yoko.png|Yoko}}
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Divine.png|Divine}}
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Crusher.png|Crusher}}
 +
{{gitem|Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Boss.png|Boss}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==History==
 +
===Development===
 +
The Mega Drive version was originally intended for use with the [[Edge 16]], a modem system for multiplayer gaming that was eventually cancelled.
  
 
==Versions==
 
==Versions==
−
''Ballz 3D'' was released simultaneously on the Mega Drive and Super NES, and while the two share similar gameplay, the visuals differ significantly.
+
''Ballz 3D'' was released simultaneously on the Mega Drive and [[Super NES]], and while the two share similar gameplay, the visuals differ significantly.
  
−
In addition to making use of the wider colour palette, the Super NES version of ''Ballz 3D'' utilises the DSP-1B maths co-processor, allowing for more advanced "mode 7" scaling and rotation than many other SNES titles. This subsequently means the floor in the SNES version of ''Ballz 3D'' is textured, while backgrounds are able to make use of alpha transparency, neither of which are supported by standard Mega Drive hardware. The Mega Drive version instead uses an untextured surface for its floor, comprised of a single gradient of colour (though interestingly, the later 3DO "''Directors Cut''" version also opts for a similar style).
+
In addition to making use of the wider colour palette, the Super NES version of ''Ballz 3D'' utilises the DSP-1B maths co-processor, allowing for more advanced "mode 7" scaling and rotation than many other SNES titles. This subsequently means the floor in the SNES version of ''Ballz 3D'' is textured, while backgrounds are able to make use of alpha transparency, neither of which are supported by standard Mega Drive hardware. The Mega Drive version instead uses an untextured surface for its floor, comprised of a single gradient of colour (though interestingly, the later [[3DO]] ''Directors Cut'' version also opts for a similar style).
  
 
The Mega Drive version runs with a higher screen resolution and at a higher frame rate than its Super NES counterpart.
 
The Mega Drive version runs with a higher screen resolution and at a higher frame rate than its Super NES counterpart.
 +
 +
==Production credits==
 +
{{multicol|
 +
{{creditstable|
 +
{{creditsheader|PF. Magic Credits}}
 +
*'''Game Design and Concept:''' [[Keith Kirby]]
 +
*'''Producer:''' [[Ted Barnett]]
 +
*'''Lead Programmer:''' [[Keith Kirby]]
 +
*'''Lead Animator:''' [[Frank M. Saxon Jr.]]
 +
*'''Main Character Animations:''' Adam Frank, Will Friedewald, Kyle Kirby, Dan Lopez, Lon Richter
 +
*'''Character Design:''' Adam Frank, Will Friedewald, Kyle Kirby, Bill Maher
 +
*'''Creative Producer:''' Curtis Norris
 +
*'''Shell Programmers:''' Larry Garner, [[Matthew Hubbard]], Rich Young
 +
*'''Shell Art:''' [[Connie Braat]], [[Chris Donovan]], Charles Hacskaylo, Richard Hermanson
 +
*'''Instant Replay Programmer:''' [[Matthew Hubbard]]
 +
*'''Arena and Background Art:''' [[Chris Donovan]]
 +
*'''Intro and Belt Ceremony Art:''' [[Connie Braat]], Richard Hermanson
 +
*'''Music and Sound Effects:''' [[Neuromantic Productions]], [[Mark Miller]], [[Jason Scher]]
 +
*'''Voice Casting and Coaching:''' SmarTalk, Beth J. Kaufman
 +
*'''Voices:''' Colin Hussey, Heather McClure, Shawn Owens
 +
*'''Edge 16 Support Programming:''' Lee Powell
 +
*'''Manual Text - Jester's Worlds:''' Flint Dille, Buzz Dixon
 +
*'''Lead Tester:''' [[Mike Palser]]
 +
*'''On-Site Testers:''' [[Travis Boatman]], [[Stefan M. Nelson]]
 +
*'''Scoreboard Text:''' Flint Dille, Reed Kirk Rahlmann
 +
*'''Ballz slang written and created by:''' Reed Kirk Rahlmann
 +
*'''TV Art:''' [[Connie Braat]], [[Chris Donovan]], Richard Hermanson, Dan Lopez, [[Rick Lucy]]
 +
*'''Executive Producers:''' [[Rob Fulop]], [[John Scull]]
 +
*'''Technical Director:''' [[David Feldman]]
 +
*'''Chief Financial Officer:''' Jim Guerard
 +
*'''Marketing Coordinator:''' Brooke Boynton
 +
*'''Special Thanks to:''' Fox Hughes, Paul Wilkerson, [[Brenda Ross]], Barbara Hryniewicz, Thena MacArthur, Gay Littlepage, [[Futurescape Productions]], [[Studio Brazil]]
 +
{{creditsheader|Accolade Credits}}
 +
*'''Producer:''' [[Todd Thorson]]
 +
*'''Product Marketing Manager:''' Karen Safran
 +
*'''Testers:''' [[Alex V. Cabal]], [[Randall Hauser]], [[Ty Johnson]], [[Chris Nash]]
 +
*'''Marketing:''' Larry Wiesler, Melinda Mongelluzzo, Shirley Sellers
 +
| console=MD
 +
| source=US manual
 +
| pdf=Ballz MD US manual.pdf
 +
| pdfpage=19
 +
}}
 +
}}
  
 
==Magazine articles==
 
==Magazine articles==
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{{gallery
 
{{gallery
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
−
|EGM US 062.pdf|egm|62|98-99
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|egm|62|98-99
 
}}
 
}}
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
−
|SegaVisions US 21.pdf|sv|21|54-55
+
|sv|21|54-55
−
|GamePro US 064.pdf|gamepro|64|190
+
|gamepro|64|190
 
}}
 
}}
 
|{{GalleryPrintAd
 
|{{GalleryPrintAd
−
|EGM2 US 05.pdf|egm2|5|60-61
+
|egm2|5|60-61
−
|EGM US 065.pdf|egm|65|136
+
|egm|65|136
 
}}
 
}}
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
−
|SegaVisions US 22.pdf|sv|22|169
+
|sv|22|169
−
|GamePro US 066.pdf|gamepro|66|19
+
|gamepro|66|19
 
}}
 
}}
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
 
|{{galleryPrintAd
−
|HobbyConsolas ES 037.pdf|hobbyconsolas|37|29
+
|hobbyconsolas|37|29
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Physical scans==
 
==Physical scans==
−
{{ratings
+
{{ratings|MD}}
−
| icon=MD
 
−
| consolesplus=87
 
−
| consolesplus_source={{num|35|page=100}}
 
−
| cvg=87
 
−
| cvg_source={{num|155|page=91|pdf=CVG UK 155.pdf}}
 
−
| gamesmaster=79
 
−
| gamesmaster_source={{num|21|page=46}}
 
−
| gamesmastertv=80
 
−
| gamesmastertv_source={{num|63}}
 
−
| gamepro=100
 
−
| mms=91
 
−
| mms_source={{magref|mms|24|80|printpage=80-82}}
 
−
| mega=80
 
−
| mega_source={{num|24|page=44/45/46/47}}
 
−
| playerone=74
 
−
| playerone_source={{num|45|page=100}}
 
−
| segamaguk=71
 
−
| segamaguk_source={{num|10|page=88/89}}
 
−
| segapower=80
 
−
| segapower_source={{num|59|page=54/55}}
 
−
| segapro=90
 
−
| segapro_source={{num|37|page=50/51}}
 
−
| stc=86
 
−
| stc_source={{num|39|page=10}}
 
−
| videogamesus=80
 
−
| videogamesus_source={{num|72|page=62|pdf=VideoGames US 72.pdf}}
 
−
}}
 
 
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==Technical information==
 
==Technical information==
−
===ROM dump status===
+
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Technical information}}
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{{romtable|
 
−
{{rom|MD|sha1=4825cb9245a701cc59900c57a7a5fa70edc160f0|md5=339a8c9a96fcdedb2922b04bcc34f0d2|crc32=b362b705|size=2MB|date=1994-07|source=Cartridge (US/EU)|comments=|quality=good|prototype=}}
 
−
}}
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
  
−
[[Category:Sega Channel games]]
+
{{Ballz3DOmni}}
 +
[[Category:Mega Drive fighting games]]

Revision as of 12:07, 20 November 2024

n/a

Ballz title.png

Ballz 3D
System(s): Sega Mega Drive
Publisher: Accolade
Developer:
Supporting companies:
Distributor: SF Interactive Media (SE rental), Sega-Ozisoft (AU), Tec Toy (BR)
Sound driver: GEMS
Genre: Action

















Number of players: 1-2
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Mega Drive
US 		$59.9659.96[3] T-119126
Videogame Rating Council: MA-13
Sega Mega Drive
US ▼
(Sega Channel) 		SUBsub
Sega Mega Drive
EU 		T-119126-50
ELSPA: 3+ OK
Sega Mega Drive
PT 		MD119126
Sega Mega Drive
UK 		£39.9939.99[8][4] T-119126-50
ELSPA: 3+ OK
Sega Mega Drive
SE
(Rental)
Sega Mega Drive
AU 		$109.95109.95[9] FBAL04SMC
OFLC: G8
Sega Mega Drive
BR 		046650
Tectoy: 13+
Non-Sega versions

Ballz 3D: Fighting at its Ballziest, known in Europe as Ballz 3D: The Battle of the Balls, is a Sega Mega Drive fighting game developed by PF Magic and published by Accolade. Released in 1994 to positive reviews, the game is most notable for constructing its characters entirely with spheres to simulate three-dimensional animation, similar to Vectorman.

Gameplay

The game is a fighting game where each character is composed completely of colored spheres. Since spheres look the same at any angle, this technique gives the game the appearance of depth and rotation in a three-dimensional space without requiring any specialized hardware. Combat takes place in three-dimensional arenas, with each fighter able to move in any direction on a two-dimensional plane. Each fighter has a health bar, indicated by a string of balls in the top corners of the screen. Rounds last for 99 seconds; when time runs out, both fighters start rapidly losing health, allowing one fighter to finish the other off or potentially ending in a draw. Scoreboard screens in the background of the arenas show pictures and commentary based on the fight.

Fighters move with Left or Right and strafe around the arena with Up or Down. They jump C, with the height of the jump controlled by holding the button longer. They can punch with A and kick with B. Kicks are generally slower than punches but do more damage. They can do a low attack by holding Down while simultaneously pressing the A or B, a lunging attack by holding the D-Pad toward the opponent and pressing A or B, or a short attack by holding the D-Pad away the opponent and pressing A or B. Fighters also have several special moves exclusive to them. They can block attacks by holding the D-Pad away from the opponent. They can block high or low using the diagonals. Some special moves, such as explosions or cyclones, still cause damage when blocked. If knocked down, they can roll away by pressing Up or Down while simultaneously pressing the punch button.

When both fighters are close to each other, one fighter can grab the other by pressing A. Pressing AAAAA rapidly can break the grapple, with whichever player presses it faster winning the struggle and delivering a counterattack. Alternatively, a fighter can perform a grab attack by pressing B when near the opponent.

Fighters become dizzy when they are hit three times in a row without blocking. This leaves them vulnerable as they are unable to move or attack, but it can be escaped by pressing AAAAA rapidly. When low on life, fighters become tired and change to a fatigued stance. They can beg for additional life by pressing Down Down Down quickly. When the opponent is fatigued, a fighter can perform a finishing move by pressing Up Up Up to instantly finish the opponent. Fighters break apart into their constituent balls when defeated.

Fighters can perform a taunt by pressing A+B+C, which leaves them vulnerable for attack but increases the damage of the next attack. Multiple taunts can be performed to further increase the damage of the next move.

Modes

In the single-player mode, the player faces a series of matches to the best of three rounds. There are 13 opponents, with a fight against a sub-boss every three matches to earn a colored belt (as in martial arts). There are four belts (red, green, blue, and black), with each one increasing the damage that the fighter inflicts. Part of the fighter's model changes color to indicate a promotion. After defeating the fourth sub-boss in the twelfth match and attaining a black belt, the player progresses to a final fight against the Jester. There is a difficulty setting, which changes the number of times the game can be continued if the player loses a match (6 for Easy, 3 for Medium, or 1 for Hard).

There is also a two-player versus mode where players choose any character and fight a match to the best of three rounds. There are options to change the number of rounds needed to win a match (1-out-of-1, 3-out-of-5, 6-out-of-11, or 11-out-of-21) and the handicap for each player (none, red, green, blue, or black, with each color doing progressively more damage). The game shows an instant replay after the last round of the match.

Characters

Note: Move lists assume that the character is facing right. When facing left, Left and Right should be reversed.

P Punch
K Kick
Jump Jump

Playable

All eight playable fighters are faced in the single-player game, and they are all playable in either mode.

Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png
 Kronk
A caveman who carries a club.
Move list
Name Command Description
Overhead Club Up+P
Lobber Loogie Left Up P
Tee Off K (close)
Duck, Dive, and Roll Right Right Right
Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png
 Boomer
A circus clown.
Move list
Name Command Description
Left Handstand Kick Left Left K
Head Hurl Left Right P
Jack-in-the-Box Up+P
Self-Destruct Right Down Left Up P
Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png
 Bruiser
A bodybuilding jock.
Move list
Name Command Description
Cartwheel Left Left Left K
Cartwheel Right Right Right K
Slide Tackle Down Down K
Torqueno Right Down Left Up P
Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png
 Turbo
A superhero.
Move list
Name Command Description
Charge Flip Kick Right Right Right
Flying/Hover Jump K+Jump
Super Blow Right Right P
Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png
 Tsunami
A sumo wrestler.
Move list
Name Command Description
Belly Charge Right Right Right
Flying Somersault Kick Left Left Jump
Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png
 Yoko
A monkey.
Move list
Name Command Description
Backflip Up+K
Grab Pole and Swing Jump Up Up
Stun Fart Left Left Left Left
Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png
 Divine
A ballerina dancer.
Move list
Name Command Description
Flip and Throw P+K (close)
Spanking P (close)
Reverse Cartwheel Head Scissors Right Right Right
Ballz 3D MD, Characters.png
 Crusher
An enraged rhinoceros.
Move list
Name Command Description
Charge Right Right Right
Pummel P (close)
Underhand Horn Heave Left Right P

Bosses

Four sub-bosses are fought in the single-player game, then the Jester is fought as the final boss. The bosses are not playable in either mode.

Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png
 Guggler
The first sub-boss. An ostrich. Defeating her wins the red belt.
Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png
 Bounder
The second sub-boss. A kangaroo who wears boxing gloves. Defeating him wins the green belt.
Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png
 T-Wrecks
The third sub-boss. A gigantic dinosaur. Defeating him wins the blue belt.
Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png
 Lamprey
The fourth sub-boss. A mystical genie who can transform into different forms. Defeating him wins the black belt.
Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png
 El Ballz
One of the transformations of Lamprey. A bull.
Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png
 Byte Viper
One of the transformations of Lamprey. A viper.
Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png
 Spike
One of the transformations of Lamprey. A scorpion.
Ballz 3D MD, Bosses.png
 The Jester
The final boss. A jester and the one who challenged all of the fighters to a tournament.

Morphing

Every fighter has the ability to morph into another fighter in the middle of a match. The button combinations are the same regardless of which fighter is being played. The morph lasts until the end of the match or until the player morphs into a different fighter.

Move list
Name Command Description
Boomer Right Left P+Jump
Bruiser Right Down Left P+Jump
Crusher Down Right P+Jump
Divine Right Up Left P+Jump
Kronk Left Left P+Jump
Tsunami Left Right P+Jump
Turbo Right Right P+Jump
Yoko Right Up P+Jump

Stages

Every character has their own stage when faced in the single-player mode, except the bosses, who all share the same stage. In the two-player mode, the game uses the stage for the player with the most wins (or the first player, if both players are tied).

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Kronk.png

Kronk
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Kronk.png

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Boomer.png

Boomer
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Boomer.png

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Bruiser.png

Bruiser
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Bruiser.png

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Turbo.png

Turbo
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Turbo.png

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Tsunami.png

Tsunami
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Tsunami.png

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Yoko.png

Yoko
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Yoko.png

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Divine.png

Divine
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Divine.png

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Crusher.png

Crusher
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Crusher.png

Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Boss.png

Boss
Ballz 3D MD, Stages, Boss.png

History

Development

The Mega Drive version was originally intended for use with the Edge 16, a modem system for multiplayer gaming that was eventually cancelled.

Versions

Ballz 3D was released simultaneously on the Mega Drive and Super NES, and while the two share similar gameplay, the visuals differ significantly.

In addition to making use of the wider colour palette, the Super NES version of Ballz 3D utilises the DSP-1B maths co-processor, allowing for more advanced "mode 7" scaling and rotation than many other SNES titles. This subsequently means the floor in the SNES version of Ballz 3D is textured, while backgrounds are able to make use of alpha transparency, neither of which are supported by standard Mega Drive hardware. The Mega Drive version instead uses an untextured surface for its floor, comprised of a single gradient of colour (though interestingly, the later 3DO Directors Cut version also opts for a similar style).

The Mega Drive version runs with a higher screen resolution and at a higher frame rate than its Super NES counterpart.

Production credits

PF. Magic Credits
Accolade Credits
Source:
US manual
Ballz MD US manual.pdf
[1]

Magazine articles

Main article: Ballz 3D/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) #62: "September 1994" (1994-xx-xx)
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Sega Visions (US) #21: "October/November 1994" (1994-xx-xx)
also published in:
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in EGM² (US) #5: "November 1994" (1994-1x-xx)
also published in:
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Sega Visions (US) #22: "December/January 1994/1995" (1994-xx-xx)
also published in:
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Hobby Consolas (ES) #37: "Octubre 1994" (1994-xx-xx)
Logo-pdf.svg

Physical scans

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
1700 igr dlya Sega (RU)
60
[13]
Consoles + (FR)
87
[14]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
87
[8]
Electronic Games (1992-1995) (US) NTSC-U
58
[15]
Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
62
[16]
Game Players (US) NTSC-U
73
[3]
GamePro (US) NTSC-U
90
[17]
Gamer (GR)
83
[18]
GamesMaster (UK) PAL
79
[19]
GamesMaster (UK) PAL
80
[20]
Games World: The Magazine (UK) PAL
77
[21]
Game Informer (US) NTSC-U
75
[22]
LeveL (CZ)
60
[23]
Mega (UK) PAL
80
[5]
Mega Force (FR) PAL
84
[24]
Mega Fun (DE) PAL
63
[25]
Mean Machines Sega (UK) PAL
91
[4]
Player One (FR)
74
[26]
Play Time (DE)
75
[27]
Power Up! (UK)
76
[28]
Sega Magazine (UK) PAL
71
[29]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
80
[30]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
90
[31]
Sonic the Comic (UK) PAL
86
[32]
Todo Sega (ES)
83
[33]
Tricks 16 bit (RU)
90
[34]
Video Games (DE) PAL
81
[35]
VideoGames (US)
80
[36]
Sega Mega Drive
 78
Based on
28 reviews

Ballz 3D

Mega Drive, US
Ballz3D MD US Box.jpg
Cover
Ballz3D MD US Cart.jpg
Cart
Ballz MD US manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, EU
Ballz3D MD EU Box.jpg
Cover
Ballz3D MD EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Ballz MD EU Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, EU (UPC sticker)
Ballz 3D MD EU Box UPC Sticker.jpg
Cover
Ballz3D MD EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Ballz MD EU Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, FR
Ballz3D MD FR blister back.jpgNospine.pngBallz3D MD FR blister front.jpg
Cover
Mega Drive, PT

Mega Drive, SE (rental; SF)
Ballz3D MD SE Rental Box Back.jpgNospine.pngBallz3D MD SE Rental Box.jpg
Cover
Ballz3D MD SE Rental Cart.jpg
Cart
Mega Drive, AU
Ballz3D MD AU box back.jpgNospine.pngBallz3D MD AU cover.jpg
Cover
Ballz3D MD US Cart.jpg
Cart
Ballz MD US manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, BR
Ballz3D MD BR Box.jpg
Cover
Ballz3D MD BR Cart.jpg
Cart

Technical information

Main article: Ballz 3D/Technical information.

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 File:Ballz MD US manual.pdf, page 19
  2. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "September 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 99
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Game Players, "Vol. 7 No. 9 September 1994" (US; 1994-0x-xx), page 80
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Mean Machines Sega, "October 1994" (UK; 1994-08-xx), page 80
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Mega, "September 1994" (UK; 1994-08-18), page 44
  6. ↑ Computer Trade Weekly, "" (UK; 1994-09-19), page 21
  7. ↑ File:DailyExpress UK 1994-09-23 46.jpg
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Computer & Video Games, "October 1994" (UK; 1994-09-15), page 91
  9. ↑ Sega Megazone, "January 1995" (AU; 199x-xx-xx), page 32
  10. ↑ GamePro, "November 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 190
  11. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "December 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 136
  12. ↑ GamePro, "January 1995" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 19
  13. ↑ 1700 igr dlya Sega, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 24
  14. ↑ Consoles +, "Septembre 1994" (FR; 1994-0x-xx), page 100
  15. ↑ Electronic Games (1992-1995), "September 1994" (US; 1994-0x-xx), page 72
  16. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "October 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 38
  17. ↑ GamePro, "September 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 58
  18. ↑ Gamer, "Dekémvrios 1994" (GR; 1994-xx-xx), page 1
  19. ↑ GamesMaster, "September 1994" (UK; 1994-08-25), page 46
  20. ↑ GamesMaster (UK) "Series 4, episode 1" (1994-09-20, 24:00) (+8:25)
  21. ↑ Games World: The Magazine, "October 1994" (UK; 1994-08-25), page 12
  22. ↑ Game Informer, "September/October 1994" (US; 1994-0x-xx), page 24
  23. ↑ LeveL, "Leden 1995" (CZ; 1995-01-24), page 41
  24. ↑ Mega Force, "Septembre 1994" (FR; 1994-0x-xx), page 110
  25. ↑ Mega Fun, "11/94" (DE; 1994-10-19), page 77
  26. ↑ Player One, "Septembre 1994" (FR; 1994-0x-xx), page 100
  27. ↑ Play Time, "11/94" (DE; 1994-10-05), page 106
  28. ↑ Power Up!, "Saturday, October 01, 1994" (UK; 1994-10-01), page 1
  29. ↑ Sega Magazine, "October 1994" (UK; 1994-09-15), page 88
  30. ↑ Sega Power, "October 1994" (UK; 1994-09-01), page 54
  31. ↑ Sega Pro, "October 1994" (UK; 1994-09-08), page 50
  32. ↑ Sonic the Comic, "November 25th 1994" (UK; 1994-11-12), page 10
  33. ↑ Todo Sega, "Octubre 1994" (ES; 1994-xx-xx), page 60
  34. ↑ Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 18
  35. ↑ Video Games, "10/94" (DE; 1994-09-28), page 98
  36. ↑ VideoGames, "January 1995" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 62


Ballz 3D

Ballz title.png

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Sega Mega Drive
Prototypes: 1994-06
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