Due to changing times and recent events (and the fact that I have absolutely no desire to have my ass handed to me by Capcom) I've decided to change course with this project somewhat.
I'm going to continue the development with a view to develop a Beats of Rage style engine - beginning with some simple customisation options of the gfx and gradually getting deeper. This will eventually require the development of certain tools, but expect it to be a long road folks.
Big thanks to all contributors and constructive comments. I'll continue with the gfx and other resources that I have with an aim to finishing the game that I've started, with a little more free license as to how it's going to pan out.
Thanks for being a part of it
Cheers TCD for help and sorting out the thread title