Now this is a seriously intriguing project. Developer Sasha Darko just sent me the details for Sacred Line III, and if there’s one thing that gets my attention, it’s a Sega Mega Drive / Genesis game being pushed to its absolute limits.
Unsurprisingly, this is the sequel to Sacred Line II, and is the final chapter of the Sacred Line trilogy, and it sounds far more ambitious than your typical retro release.
3D graphics, symphonic metal, and Yugoslavian demons
This is a graphic adventure that wraps up the dark story of two sisters, Ellen and Sarah, who are trapped in a war-torn Yugoslavia besieged by demons. The timeline is split, taking place in both 1366 and 1999, which is a unique and ambitious backdrop for a 16-bit game.
What really makes this stand out is how the developer is squeezing every last drop of juice out of the Mega Drive hardware:
- Advanced 3D Graphics: The visuals are built using Unity and then optimized specifically for CRT TV screens. It’s not just retro; it’s a deliberate technical push to create something unique on the platform.
- The Soundtrack: They claim this is the “most advanced soundtrack on the platform.” It’s an all-digital symphonic / metal soundtrack recorded using live instruments (synths, violin, and guitar). That is not what you expect to hear coming out of a Genesis sound chip, and I need to hear it in its entirety, right now!
Take a look at this trailer:
Sacred Line III has text-based dice fighting and fair play puzzles
The gameplay retains elements of classic adventure titles while adding some unique twists:
- Overhauled Combat: It features a classic text-based dice fighting system that has been retooled for Sacred Line III. This adds a layer of tabletop strategy to the adventure.
- Narrative Support: The developer has included an in-game encyclopedia and a “Previously on Sacred Line” menu. This is a crucial feature for a finale, making sure new players aren’t lost, and long-time fans can brush up on the lore.
- No Hardcore Frustration: It promises tricky logic puzzles but includes fair play with starting you from the last checkpoint when you die. It sounds like they want you focused on the multiple endings and the surreal setting, not repeating a half-hour segment.
You get the full digital ROM version right after purchase, and the game can run on original hardware or emulation. The developer even threw in their email address (earth_incubator@yahoo.com) and said they are available 24/7—that’s serious dedication to supporting a fantastic, niche project!
Learn more and get the demo ROM from Sasha Darko’s website.
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.
