First Pinoy 2D fighting game features characters based on Rizal, Bonifacio, etc.

Filipino heroes have been featured in a two-dimensional computer fighting game called Bayani.

According to a report by Lei Alviz on  "24 Oras", they include Joe, who is based on Jose Rizal. Like Rizal, he is a fencer with special powers involving books. Lolang Tsora, based on Melchora Aquino or Tandang Sora, has magic.

Tonio, based on Antonio Luna, has physical strength, while Leon, based on Emilio Aguinaldo, has a hand of steel which can transform into a gun or a sword.

"Isa sa goal ng Bayani 'yun nga is to increase awareness. Para makatulong sa kabataan na ma-familiarized sila sa history natin," said Ben Joseph Banta, the CEO of Ranida Games which created Bayani.

Other heroes include Dre based on Andres Bonifacio, Oria based on Gregoria De Jesus, and Rio based on Apolinario Mabini. Another character in the game is Fernando, based on Ferdinand Magellan.

Game locations are also based on historical places in the Philippines like the Luneta, Vigan, and the Aguinaldo Shrine in Cavite. Game music is also original Filipino compositions.

A demo version of Bayani is available for download at www.bayaniph.com while an early access version will be released on the Independence Day on June 12.

Bayani was selected to present at the Indie-cade International Festival of Independent Games in Sta. Monica, California in October.

The game also landed second place in the PC Indie Pitch category at the G-Star, an annual trade show for the computer and video games industry. —Marisse Panaligan/NB, GMA News