"genome cyborgs" with Project Altered Beast! The 2005 PlayStation 2 game Altered Beast (also known as Jūōki: Project Altered Beast in Japan) features this concept prominently in its lore.
In Project Altered Beast, the protagonist, Luke Custer, is explicitly referred to as a "Genome-Cyborg." The game's backstory reveals that the U.S. Army funded "Project Altered Beast," which involved artificially altering human DNA and genetic makeup using "Genome-Chips." These micro-chips contain the genetic information of various creatures, allowing the Genome-Cyborgs to transform into anthropomorphic beasts.
Here's how it fits the definition:
* Genome modification: Luke's DNA is directly manipulated by the "Genome-Chips."
* Cybernetic elements: The "chips" themselves are technological implants, making him a cyborg.
* Enhanced abilities: The purpose of this integration is to grant him the ability to transform into powerful beasts like werewolves, merfolk, garudas, and dragons, providing enhanced combat capabilities.
The game explores the implications of this technology, including the physical and mental stress it places on the "genome-cyborgs" and the dangers of the "Genome Mist" that results from failed experiments. So, in the context of Project Altered Beast, "genome cyborgs" are humans who have undergone a fusion of genetic engineering and cybernetic implantation to gain beast-like transformation abilities.