You know the vinyl resurgence is legitimate when people start pressing 16-bit video game soundtracks. Data Discs, the first record label committed solely to vinylizing video game soundtracks, has announced Streets of Rage 2 as its next project. It’s an apt choice, since the 1992 SEGA classic is remembered nearly as much for its score as it is its legendary brawls.

The 25-track soundtrack, written by video game composer Yuzo Koshiro, is most revered for being ahead of its time. To build his chiptune score, Koshiro drew from house, techno, and breakbeat, creating dynamic and intricately complex compositions—especially impressive considering the audio limitations of the Mega Drive/Genesis console. I mean, how invigorating is that boss theme? In 1993, Electronic Games described Koshiro as “just about universally acknowledged as the most gifted composer currently working in the video game field.” It seems a restoration is well deserved.

According to Data Discs, the score’s audio “has been carefully remastered using multiple sources, including the original NEC PC-88 files supplied by Koshiro himself, and packaged in original artwork sourced from the SEGA archives in Japan.”

The gatefold double LP will include four bonus tracks of demos, unused music and alternate versions, as well as two lithographic prints that feature archival artwork. Beginning February 27, Streets of Rage 2 will be available for pre-order in the following editions:

• 2 x 180g transparent vinyl with black smoke effect and blood splatter (limited edition, available exclusively from this website) – £24.99/$35
• 2 x 180g transparent vinyl with black smoke effect – £24.99/$35
• 2 x 180g classic black vinyl – £22.99/$32

What’s more memorable to you, the gameplay or the soundtrack? Could one even exist without the other? Let us know what you think in the comments.

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HT: Polygon

Image: Data Discs