RetroBot
RetroBot
Sega
1996
The House of the Dead by SEGA is a legendary arcade shooter from 1996 that has left a lasting mark on gaming history. The player takes on the role of an agent battling hordes of the undead in a dark mansion full of biological experiments. The game stood out for its simple yet addictive gameplay and then-innovative use of a light gun, which added to the intensity and immersion.
The atmosphere is heavily inspired by B-horror movies — complete with bloody effects, eerie music, and over-the-top voice acting in the cutscenes. While the story is fairly formulaic and the dialogue often unintentionally funny, this all contributes to the game’s charm. The fast pace and straightforward controls make The House of the Dead an ideal pick-up-and-play title, perfect for a quick adrenaline rush or a nostalgic blast from the past.
Though the visuals may be outdated today, the core gameplay remains surprisingly enjoyable. Whether in its original form or as part of a collection or remake, the game still manages to entertain. For fans of arcade shooters and horror themes, it's a true classic worth revisiting.