so you guys might think I abandoned my project with the Sega Saturn prototype disc because I stopped talking about it. Tbh AMOC removed the download so I assumed he revoked access or something(?) but I have been messing with it, as have Gregory and some other people. We figured out where in the hex codes things are located, how much of the game was playable (level one, as assumed) and if there were any visible changes in the pre-rendered background (not really)
I was however dealing with my own problems that prevented me from having the spoons to update the post detailing my findings. Using my “adult voice” even online can be emotionally draining and I wanted that post to remain professional. But that doesn't mean we weren't making progress.
However it wouldn't play in the emulator I was using. Turns out it did run in another one. The resolution and dimensions are all off which means no high quality video or sprites or animated gifs from me until I fix it, but it means I can play through the level. (It’s a similar issue with recording the PlayStation version in emulator. It’s why I don’t do so other than emulation problems.)
And there are differences.
The biggest? SPECTRES GOT NERFED. (probably just for this disc, or maybe it’s because it’s part of the debugging?) I’m joking about how the spectres are vegan on the Sega Saturn because all they can do is knock Andy over.
The spectres (normally would “hug” or eat Andy in the final game) have unique shoving animations that are not present in any previously playable version of the game (demos, PC, PlayStation, etc) They shove him over onto his belly with a grunt or a squeal and Andy cries out. Just like he does when knocked over. Interestingly enough, he can’t fall off the canyon when this happens like in the final game. *edit* turns out Andy can technically be knocked off the canyon by the spectres, but not the shadow dogs. The only spectres who can do so in the final game. It’s only on certain screens where they gain this ability. The screen that the shadow dogs show up on in the final game, and the bone ladder bridge. Possibly more. I’m messing around deliberately to see.
The biggest noticeable change to me though, was the shadow dogs.
They have two unique unused vocalizations. A squeal, and what honestly sounds like bleating. Like a goat. Note: the manual officially calls them shadow dogs. But their charge attack combined with this noise makes sense. As well as lowering their heads when they charge Andy they also have an unused scratching behind the ears animation and a barking animation. They are so cute. Remember when I was gushing over them sitting and skidding to a halt temporarily in the official release? Why was this cut? :’(
The fact that this is a thing makes me want a “baby mode” for the remaster where the spectres can only shove you over like this. That way all the people who act like this is the hardest game ever made won’t feel left out that the game doesn't cater to them.
Once I fix the dimensions I’ll upload a full video showing off what’s different from the official release. Keep your eyes peeled for that.