Developer: Digital Eclipse

Midway Arcade Treasures 2 (2004)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Midway Arcade Treasures 2 (2004) Review

Midway Arcade Treasures 2 is a compilation of 20 classic arcade games published by Midway for the GameCube, PlayStation 2, and Xbox. It was released in 2004, one year after the first Midway Arcade Treasures collection and two years before Midway Arcade Treasures 3.

The games included in Midway Arcade Treasures 2 were not featured in the first collection, and they include some of Midway’s most popular titles, such as Joust, Defender, Robotron: 2084, and Spy Hunter. The full list of games is as follows:

  • 720°
  • Blades of Steel
  • Championship Sprint
  • Cyberball
  • Defender
  • Gauntlet
  • Joust
  • Klax
  • Marble Madness
  • Mortal Kombat
  • Mortal Kombat II
  • Ms. Pac-Man
  • Rampage
  • Rampage World Tour
  • Robotron: 2084
  • Root Beer Tapper
  • Spy Hunter
  • Super Sprint
  • Total Carnage
  • Wizard of Wor

The games in Midway Arcade Treasures 2 are all faithful recreations of the originals, and they feature the same gameplay, graphics, and sound. The compilation also includes a number of special features, such as game histories, developer interviews, and other documents.

One of the most unique features of Midway Arcade Treasures 2 is the ability to upload scores to an online scoreboard. This feature is exclusive to the Xbox version of the game, and it allows players to compete against each other for high scores.

The Xbox version of Midway Arcade Treasures 2 is also not compatible with the Xbox 360, so if you want to play the game on a newer console, you will need to get the PlayStation 2 or GameCube version.

Overall, Midway Arcade Treasures 2 is a great collection of classic arcade games. The games are all faithful recreations of the originals, and the compilation includes a number of special features. If you are a fan of classic arcade games, then you should definitely check out Midway Arcade Treasures 2.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Midway Arcade Treasures 2 is identical to the original arcade games. The games are all played with a joystick and buttons, and they feature the same gameplay mechanics as the originals.

Some of the games in the compilation are more difficult than others, but they are all fair and challenging. The games are also all very addictive, and they will keep you coming back for more.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics and sound in Midway Arcade Treasures 2 are faithful recreations of the originals. The games all look and sound just like they did in the arcade, and they will bring back memories for many gamers.

The graphics in the games are all simple and pixelated, but they are still very charming. The sound effects and music in the games are also very good, and they help to create a nostalgic atmosphere.

Special Features

Midway Arcade Treasures 2 includes a number of special features, such as game histories, developer interviews, and other documents. These features are all very interesting and informative, and they provide a lot of insight into the development of the games.

One of the most interesting special features is the game histories. These histories provide a detailed overview of the development of each game, and they include information on the game’s design, development team, and release.

The developer interviews are also very interesting, and they provide a unique perspective on the development of the games. The developers talk about their experiences working on the games, and they share their thoughts on the games’ design and development.

Conclusion

Midway Arcade Treasures 2 is a great collection of classic arcade games. The games are all faithful recreations of the originals, and the compilation includes a number of special features. If you are a fan of classic arcade games, then you should definitely check out Midway Arcade Treasures 2.

Review Score

8/10

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Grand Theft Auto Advance (2004)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Grand Theft Auto Advance: A Top-Down Return to Liberty City

Released in 2004 for the Game Boy Advance, Grand Theft Auto Advance is a handheld installment in the popular Grand Theft Auto series. Developed by Digital Eclipse and published by Rockstar Games, it is the only GTA game to not be developed by a Rockstar studio.

Gameplay

GTA Advance is played from a top-down perspective, a view angle seen in the first two games in the series, Grand Theft Auto and Grand Theft Auto 2. However, it also incorporates elements from the three-dimensional counterparts, such as vehicle-based side-missions, a heads-up display, and a large majority of the weapons.

One of the most notable additions to GTA Advance is the ability for vehicles to flip over. This adds a new level of challenge and excitement to the driving gameplay.

The game is set in Liberty City, the same city featured in Grand Theft Auto III. The city is divided into three islands: Portland, Staunton Island, and Shoreside Vale. Each island has its own unique atmosphere and set of missions.

Players take on the role of Mike, a small-time criminal who is trying to make a name for himself in Liberty City. Mike can complete missions for various criminal organizations, including the Leone Family, the Triads, and the Yakuza.

Story

The story of GTA Advance follows Mike as he rises through the ranks of the Liberty City criminal underworld. He starts out by running errands for small-time criminals, but he quickly proves himself to be a capable and ruthless gangster.

As Mike’s reputation grows, he attracts the attention of some of the most powerful crime bosses in the city. He is recruited by the Leone Family, the Triads, and the Yakuza, and he completes missions for each of these organizations.

Eventually, Mike becomes a target of the police and the FBI. He is forced to go on the run, but he is determined to clear his name and take revenge on those who have wronged him.

Reception

GTA Advance received generally positive reviews from critics. It was praised for its faithful recreation of the GTA experience on a handheld console. However, it was also criticized for its short length and repetitive missions.

Despite the mixed reviews, GTA Advance was a commercial success. It sold over 2 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling games on the Game Boy Advance.

Legacy

GTA Advance is an important installment in the Grand Theft Auto series. It proved that the GTA formula could be successfully adapted to a handheld console. It also helped to introduce the series to a new generation of gamers.

The game’s top-down perspective has not been used in any mainline GTA game since, but it has been used in several spin-offs, such as Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories.

Conclusion

Grand Theft Auto Advance is a solid entry in the Grand Theft Auto series. It offers a faithful recreation of the GTA experience on a handheld console, and it features a compelling story and addictive gameplay. While it may not be as groundbreaking as some of the other games in the series, it is still a worthwhile experience for fans of GTA.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Midway Arcade Treasures (2003)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Midway Arcade Treasures: A Nostalgic Journey Through Gaming History

Released in 2003, Midway Arcade Treasures is a compilation of 24 classic arcade games developed by Digital Eclipse and published by Midway for the GameCube, PlayStation 2, Xbox, and PC. The collection offers a diverse range of genres, including shooters, beat ’em ups, racing games, and sports games, providing a comprehensive overview of the golden age of arcade gaming.

A Blast from the Past

Midway Arcade Treasures takes players on a nostalgic journey back to the vibrant arcades of the 1980s and 1990s. The collection features beloved titles such as Joust, Defender, Rampage, Gauntlet, Mortal Kombat II, and Spy Hunter, among others. Each game has been faithfully recreated, preserving the original gameplay, graphics, and sound effects that made them arcade classics.

Enhanced Features

While staying true to the original arcade experiences, Midway Arcade Treasures also introduces some modern enhancements to make the games more accessible and enjoyable for contemporary audiences. These enhancements include:

  • Save states: Players can save their progress at any point in a game, allowing them to pick up where they left off later.
  • Rewind: A rewind feature allows players to reverse time and correct mistakes or try different strategies.
  • Online multiplayer: Some games support online multiplayer, enabling players to compete or cooperate with friends and family over the internet.
  • Museum mode: A museum mode provides detailed information about each game’s history, development, and cultural impact.

Critical Acclaim and Commercial Success

Midway Arcade Treasures was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with reviewers praising its comprehensive game selection, faithful recreations, and enhanced features. The collection was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Legacy and Impact

Midway Arcade Treasures has left a lasting legacy in the gaming industry. It introduced a new generation of gamers to classic arcade titles and helped to preserve gaming history for future generations. The collection’s success also paved the way for numerous other retro game compilations, both official and fan-made.

Midway Arcade Treasures 2 and 3

Midway followed up the success of Arcade Treasures with two additional compilations: Midway Arcade Treasures 2 and Midway Arcade Treasures 3. These collections featured different lineups of arcade classics, including Robotron: 2084, Paperboy, Total Carnage, and WWF WrestleFest.

Midway Arcade Origins

After Midway’s bankruptcy, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment acquired the rights to the Midway Arcade Treasures series. In 2012, Warner Bros. released Midway Arcade Origins for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. This compilation included 29 select games from Volumes 1 and 2 plus Super Off Road from Volume 3. It also contained Vindicators Part II which replaced the original Vindicators from Midway Arcade Treasures.

Conclusion

Midway Arcade Treasures is a timeless collection that captures the essence of the golden age of arcade gaming. With its diverse game selection, faithful recreations, and enhanced features, the collection offers a nostalgic and immersive experience for both retro gaming enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned arcade veteran or a curious newcomer, Midway Arcade Treasures is a must-have for any gaming library.

Review Score

8/10

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Namco Museum 50th Anniversary (2005)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Namco Museum 50th Anniversary: A Treasure Trove of Arcade Classics

Released in 2005, Namco Museum 50th Anniversary is a compilation of 14 classic arcade hits from Namco, one of the most iconic video game companies in history. The collection was released to celebrate Namco’s 50th anniversary, and it features some of the most beloved and influential arcade games of all time.

The games included in Namco Museum 50th Anniversary are:

  • Pac-Man
  • Ms. Pac-Man
  • Galaga
  • Galaxian
  • Rally-X
  • Pole Position
  • Pole Position 2
  • Xevious
  • Dragon Spirit
  • Bosconian
  • Rolling Thunder
  • Mappy
  • Sky Kid
  • Dig Dug

These games represent a wide range of genres, from action to racing to puzzles. They are all simple to learn but difficult to master, and they offer hours of addictive gameplay.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Namco Museum 50th Anniversary is faithful to the original arcade versions of the games. The controls are simple and intuitive, and the games are easy to pick up and play. However, the games are also challenging, and they will require skill and practice to master.

One of the great things about Namco Museum 50th Anniversary is that it offers a variety of different ways to play. You can play the games in their original arcade format, or you can take advantage of the collection’s many bonus features. These features include:

  • Museum Mode: This mode provides a detailed history of each game, including concept art, screenshots, and interviews with the developers.
  • Challenge Mode: This mode offers a variety of challenges for each game, such as completing a level without dying or scoring a certain number of points.
  • Online Multiplayer: You can play most of the games in Namco Museum 50th Anniversary online with friends or other players around the world.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics and sound in Namco Museum 50th Anniversary are faithful to the original arcade versions of the games. The games look and sound just as you remember them, and they are still just as fun to play.

Overall

Namco Museum 50th Anniversary is a fantastic collection of classic arcade hits. The games are all timeless classics, and they are still just as fun to play today as they were when they were first released. The collection also offers a variety of bonus features, such as Museum Mode, Challenge Mode, and online multiplayer. If you are a fan of classic arcade games, then Namco Museum 50th Anniversary is a must-have for your collection.

Review Score

8.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Includes 14 classic arcade hits
  • Faithful to the original arcade versions
  • Simple to learn but difficult to master
  • Offers a variety of bonus features, such as Museum Mode, Challenge Mode, and online multiplayer

Cons

  • Some of the games may be too difficult for some players
  • The graphics and sound are faithful to the original arcade versions, but they may be dated by today’s standards

Review Score

8.5/10

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Atari Anniversary Edition (2001)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Atari Anniversary Edition: A Nostalgic Journey into the Golden Age of Arcade Gaming

Released in 2001, Atari Anniversary Edition is a compilation of 12 classic Atari arcade games that defined the golden age of gaming. This collection offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for seasoned gamers and an introduction to timeless classics for younger generations.

A Treasure Trove of Atari Classics

Atari Anniversary Edition boasts an impressive lineup of 12 iconic arcade games:

  • Asteroids: Navigate your spaceship through a field of asteroids and enemy ships.
  • Asteroids Deluxe: An enhanced version of Asteroids with improved graphics and gameplay.
  • Battlezone: Command a tank and battle through a 3D maze filled with enemy tanks and obstacles.
  • Centipede: Shoot a giant centipede as it crawls across the screen, avoiding its deadly venom.
  • Crystal Castles: Guide your knight through a treacherous castle, collecting keys and avoiding traps.
  • Gravitar: Pilot a spaceship through a gravity-defying environment, dodging asteroids and enemy fire.
  • Millipede: A sequel to Centipede with a larger, faster millipede and new obstacles.
  • Missile Command: Defend your cities from incoming nuclear missiles.
  • Pong: The classic table tennis game that started it all.
  • Super Breakout: A brick-breaking game with enhanced graphics and gameplay.
  • Tempest: Blast your way through waves of enemies in a 3D vector graphics environment.
  • Warlords: A two-player tank battle game with simple controls and addictive gameplay.

Gameplay and Graphics

Each game in the compilation remains faithful to its original arcade counterpart, offering the same classic gameplay and pixelated graphics that captivated gamers decades ago. The controls are simple and intuitive, making the games accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.

While the graphics may seem primitive by today’s standards, they retain a timeless charm that evokes the nostalgia of the arcade era. The vibrant colors, blocky characters, and simple animations create a unique and unforgettable visual experience.

Nostalgic Value and Historical Significance

Atari Anniversary Edition is more than just a collection of games; it’s a piece of gaming history. These games played a pivotal role in shaping the industry and introducing generations of gamers to the wonders of electronic entertainment.

The compilation allows players to revisit their childhood memories or experience these classics for the first time. It’s a celebration of the golden age of arcade gaming and a testament to the enduring power of timeless game design.

Legacy and Impact

The Atari Anniversary Edition not only preserved these classic games but also inspired future generations of game developers. The simple yet addictive gameplay, innovative graphics, and competitive nature of these games continue to influence modern game design.

Many of the mechanics and concepts introduced in these Atari classics can be found in popular games today, from first-person shooters to puzzle games. The legacy of Atari Anniversary Edition extends far beyond its initial release, shaping the very fabric of the gaming industry.

Conclusion

Atari Anniversary Edition is a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the history of video games. It’s a compilation that perfectly captures the essence of the golden age of arcade gaming, offering hours of nostalgic fun and a glimpse into the origins of the industry we love today.

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer looking to relive your childhood memories or a newcomer eager to experience the classics, Atari Anniversary Edition is a timeless collection that deserves a place in every gamer’s library.

Review Score

8/10

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Street Fighter II (1991)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Street Fighter II: The World Warrior (1991)

Street Fighter II: The World Warrior is a competitive fighting game released by Capcom in 1991. It is the second installment in the Street Fighter series, and it quickly became one of the most popular and influential fighting games of all time. Street Fighter II introduced many of the conventions that are still used in fighting games today, including the use of special moves, combos, and the six-button configuration. It also featured a roster of iconic characters, such as Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li, and Guile.

Gameplay

Street Fighter II is a one-on-one fighting game in which players control a character from a roster of eight different fighters. Each character has their own unique fighting style and special moves. The game is played on a two-dimensional plane, and players can move their characters left, right, up, and down. They can also jump, crouch, and block their opponent’s attacks.

Players can attack their opponents with a variety of punches, kicks, and throws. Each attack has its own unique properties, such as range, speed, and damage. Players can also perform special moves by inputting a combination of directional and button-based commands. Special moves are more powerful than regular attacks, but they also require more time to execute.

Street Fighter II is known for its fast-paced and technical gameplay. Players must learn how to use their character’s unique moves and abilities to their advantage in order to win. The game also requires players to have quick reflexes and good timing.

Characters

Street Fighter II features a roster of eight different characters:

  • Ryu: A Japanese martial artist who uses the Ansatsuken style of karate.
  • Ken: An American martial artist who uses the Shotokan style of karate.
  • Chun-Li: A Chinese martial artist who uses the Chinese kenpo style of kung fu.
  • Guile: An American soldier who uses a variety of military-based techniques.
  • Zangief: A Russian wrestler who uses a variety of grappling moves.
  • Dhalsim: An Indian yogi who uses a variety of long-range attacks.
  • Blanka: A Brazilian beast-man who uses a variety of electrical attacks.
  • Honda: A Japanese sumo wrestler who uses a variety of grappling moves.

Each character has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Players must learn how to use their character’s unique abilities to their advantage in order to win.

Legacy

Street Fighter II was a critical and commercial success. It is credited for starting the fighting game boom during the 1990s. The game’s success led to the production of several updated versions, each offering additional features and characters over previous versions. Some of the home versions of the Street Fighter II games have sold millions of copies, with the SNES port of the first Street Fighter II being Capcom’s best-selling consumer game of all-time as of 2008.

Street Fighter II has also had a major impact on popular culture. The game’s characters and music have been featured in numerous films, television shows, and other media. The game has also been parodied and imitated in numerous other video games.

Street Fighter II is considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time. It is a classic fighting game that is still enjoyed by millions of players around the world.

Impact on the Fighting Game Genre

Street Fighter II had a profound impact on the fighting game genre. It introduced many of the conventions that are still used in fighting games today, including:

  • The use of special moves: Special moves are powerful attacks that can be performed by inputting a combination of directional and button-based commands. Special moves give players a way to deal more damage to their opponents and to control the pace of the match.
  • Combos: Combos are a series of attacks that are linked together. Combos allow players to deal more damage to their opponents and to keep them from attacking.
  • The six-button configuration: The six-button configuration is a control scheme that uses six buttons to control a character’s attacks. The six-button configuration gives players more control over their characters and allows them to perform a wider variety of moves.

Street Fighter II also popularized the use of character-specific strategies. In Street Fighter II, each character has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Players must learn how to use their character’s unique abilities to their advantage in order to win.

Street Fighter II is considered to be one of the most important fighting games of all time. It is a classic game that is still enjoyed by millions of players around the world. The game’s impact on the fighting game genre is undeniable, and it continues to inspire and influence new fighting games today.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs (2003)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs (2003)

Overview

Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs is a 2003 isometric platformer video game developed by Digital Eclipse and published by Universal Interactive for the Game Boy Advance. It is the third Spyro game released for the handheld console, following Spyro 2: Season of Flame and Spyro: Enter the Dragonfly.

The game introduces several new features to the Spyro series, including RPG elements such as quests, mini-quests, and an inventory system. It also features a new art style that is more cartoonish than previous Spyro games.

Gameplay

Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs is an isometric platformer in which the player controls Spyro the dragon. Spyro can run, jump, glide, and breathe fire to defeat enemies and solve puzzles. The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges.

In addition to the main story quests, the game also features a number of side quests and mini-quests. These quests can be completed to earn rewards, such as new items and abilities.

The game’s inventory system allows Spyro to carry a variety of items, including weapons, armor, and healing items. Items can be found throughout the game world or purchased from vendors.

Story

The story of Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs begins when Spyro and Sparx are flying over the Dragon Realms when they see a group of Rhynocs attacking a village of fairies. Spyro and Sparx swoop down to help the fairies, and they soon learn that the Rhynocs are planning to invade the Dragon Realms.

Spyro and Sparx set out to stop the Rhynocs, and they quickly learn that the Rhynocs are led by an evil sorcerer named Ripto. Ripto is planning to use a powerful artifact called the Rhynoc Staff to conquer the Dragon Realms.

Spyro and Sparx must travel across the Dragon Realms to find the Rhynoc Staff and stop Ripto. Along the way, they will meet a variety of allies, including Hunter the cheetah, Bianca the rabbit, and Agent 9 the monkey.

Reception

Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised the game’s new RPG elements and art style, while others criticized its repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation.

Despite the mixed reviews, Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. It is considered to be one of the best Spyro games released for the Game Boy Advance.

Legacy

Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs is remembered as a solid isometric platformer with some innovative RPG elements. It is also notable for being the last Spyro game released under the Universal Interactive label.

The game’s success helped to pave the way for future Spyro games, and it remains a popular choice for fans of the series.

Additional Information

  • Developer: Digital Eclipse
  • Publisher: Universal Interactive
  • Release Date: November 10, 2003
  • Platform: Game Boy Advance
  • Genre: Isometric platformer
  • ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)

Tips for Playing Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs

  • Explore every level thoroughly. There are many hidden items and secrets to find.
  • Complete side quests and mini-quests. They can earn you valuable rewards.
  • Use your inventory wisely. The right items can make a big difference in battle.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to play the game.

Review

Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs is a solid isometric platformer with some innovative RPG elements. It is a fun and challenging game that is sure to please fans of the Spyro series.

Score: 8/10

Review Score

8/10

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Spyro 2: Season of Flame (2002)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Spyro 2: Season of Flame (2002): A Blazing Adventure on the GBA

Prepare to soar through the vibrant realms of Avalar once more in Spyro 2: Season of Flame, the electrifying sequel to Spyro: Season of Ice. Released in 2002 for the Game Boy Advance, this isometric adventure ignited the GBA with its fiery gameplay and captivating story.

A Familiar Tale with a Fresh Twist

Season of Flame continues the epic saga of Spyro, the courageous purple dragon, as he embarks on a new quest to restore balance to Avalar. This time, the nefarious sorcerer Ripto has invaded the realm, spreading his evil influence and casting a shadow over the land.

An Unforgettable Cast of Characters

Accompanying Spyro on his perilous journey are a host of familiar faces from previous games, including the loyal Sheila the Kangaroo and the witty Agent 9. Additionally, Season of Flame introduces new allies, such as the enigmatic Bianca and the diminutive Sparx.

Gameplay Aflame

Season of Flame introduces a unique gameplay mechanic that sets it apart from its predecessors: the fire/ice breath toggle. Spyro can switch between breathing fire and ice at will, allowing him to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles in creative ways. Certain items can only be affected by one element or the other, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.

An Isometric Adventure

Unlike the PlayStation games, Season of Flame presents the world of Avalar in a primarily isometric view. This perspective shift allows for more intricate level design and a greater sense of depth. Spyro can navigate the varied environments, from lush forests to icy caverns, with ease and fluidity.

A Symphony of Sound and Visuals

Season of Flame boasts an impressive technical presentation for its time. The GBA’s vibrant color palette is fully utilized to create a visually stunning world, with detailed character models and eye-catching special effects. The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of catchy tunes and atmospheric melodies that enhance the gameplay experience.

A Fiery Conclusion

As Spyro delves deeper into Ripto’s lair, he faces increasingly challenging obstacles and formidable foes. The final confrontation with Ripto is an epic battle that tests Spyro’s skills and determination to the limit. With the fate of Avalar hanging in the balance, Spyro must summon all his might to defeat the evil sorcerer and restore peace to the realm.

Legacy and Impact

Spyro 2: Season of Flame was a critical and commercial success upon its release, solidifying the Spyro franchise as a beloved gaming icon. The game’s innovative gameplay, charming characters, and captivating story continue to resonate with fans today. Season of Flame remains a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the developers at Digital Eclipse, who managed to create a fully realized and engaging experience on the GBA’s limited hardware.

Tips and Tricks for Season of Flame

  • Master the Fire/Ice Breath: Utilize Spyro’s unique ability to switch between fire and ice breath to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles.

  • Explore Every Nook and Cranny: Avalar is filled with hidden secrets and collectibles. Explore every corner of each level to uncover hidden gems and power-ups.

  • Befriend the Locals: Interact with the inhabitants of Avalar to gain valuable information and assistance.

  • Upgrade Your Abilities: Collect gems and power-ups to enhance Spyro’s abilities, such as his glide and fire breath.

  • Don’t Give Up: Season of Flame can be challenging at times. If you get stuck, take a break and come back to it later with a fresh perspective.

Conclusion

Spyro 2: Season of Flame is a blazing adventure that set the GBA on fire. With its innovative gameplay, unforgettable characters, and captivating story, Season of Flame remains a beloved classic in the Spyro franchise. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, this isometric gem is sure to ignite your passion for platforming and adventure.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Spyro: Season of Ice (2001)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Spyro: Season of Ice (2001)

Introduction

Spyro: Season of Ice is a platformer video game developed by Digital Eclipse and published by Vivendi Universal Games. It was released for the Game Boy Advance in 2001. The game is the first Spyro game not developed by Insomniac Games and to appear on a handheld console.

Gameplay

Season of Ice is a 2D platformer played from an isometric overhead perspective. The player controls Spyro the dragon, who must travel through a series of levels to collect gems and defeat enemies. Spyro can use his signature flame breath to attack enemies and melt ice obstacles. He can also glide through the air and use his head to charge into enemies.

The game features a variety of levels, including icy caves, snow-covered forests, and volcanic caverns. Each level is filled with enemies, puzzles, and secrets. Spyro must use all of his skills to overcome the challenges and progress through the game.

In addition to the main story mode, Season of Ice also features a number of bonus levels. These levels are accessed by collecting special keys hidden throughout the game. The bonus levels are more challenging than the main story levels, but they also offer unique rewards.

Story

The story of Season of Ice begins when Spyro is invited to the Dragon Kingdom to celebrate the Festival of Ice. However, when Spyro arrives, he finds that the kingdom has been frozen over by the evil sorcerer Grendor. Grendor has also kidnapped the Dragon Elders and stolen the Dragon Eggs.

Spyro sets out on a journey to defeat Grendor and save the Dragon Kingdom. Along the way, he is joined by a variety of allies, including Sheila the kangaroo, Bentley the yeti, and Agent 9 the monkey.

Development

Season of Ice was developed by Digital Eclipse, a company founded by former employees of Iguana Entertainment, the developer of the original Spyro games. The game was designed to be a faithful adaptation of the Spyro formula to the Game Boy Advance.

One of the biggest challenges in developing Season of Ice was creating a 3D-like experience on the Game Boy Advance. The GBA’s limited hardware capabilities made it difficult to create true 3D graphics. However, Digital Eclipse was able to use a variety of techniques, including Mode 7 scaling and rotation, to create the illusion of 3D.

Reception

Season of Ice received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s faithful adaptation of the Spyro formula, while others criticized its repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation. However, the game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Season of Ice is a solid entry in the Spyro series that offers a fun and challenging platforming experience. The game’s visuals are impressive for the Game Boy Advance, and the gameplay is faithful to the classic Spyro formula. While the game may not be as innovative as some of its predecessors, it is still a worthwhile adventure for fans of the purple dragon.

Conclusion

Spyro: Season of Ice is a fun and challenging platformer that takes the classic Spyro formula and gives it a new isometric twist. The game’s visuals are impressive for the Game Boy Advance, and the gameplay is faithful to the classic Spyro formula. While the game may not be as innovative as some of its predecessors, it is still a worthwhile adventure for fans of the purple dragon.

Review Score

7.5/10

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X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse (2001)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse (2001): A Mutant Masterpiece for the Game Boy Advance

Introduction

Released in 2001 for the Game Boy Advance, X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse is an action-packed side-scrolling beat ’em up that immerses players in the thrilling world of the X-Men. Developed by Vicarious Visions and published by Activision, the game transports players to an alternate reality where the supervillain Apocalypse reigns supreme and the X-Men must fight their way back to their own dimension.

Story

The game’s story begins with the X-Men being transported to an alternate reality by the villainous Shadow King. In this twisted world, Apocalypse has conquered the planet and established a regime of terror. The X-Men find themselves lost and disoriented, with no memory of how they arrived.

As the X-Men explore this strange new world, they encounter familiar faces who have been corrupted by Apocalypse’s power. Former allies like Gambit and Psylocke have become twisted and evil, forcing the X-Men to confront their own former comrades.

As the X-Men progress through the game, they uncover a sinister plot by Apocalypse to merge the human and mutant populations into a single, subservient race. The X-Men must band together and use their unique abilities to stop Apocalypse and restore balance to the world.

Gameplay

X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse is a side-scrolling beat ’em up that combines fast-paced action with strategic combat. Players can choose to play as one of four X-Men characters: Wolverine, Cyclops, Storm, or Rogue. Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyle, allowing players to tailor their gameplay experience to their preferences.

The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and enemies. Players must battle their way through hordes of Apocalypse’s minions, including mutant soldiers, robotic Sentinels, and powerful bosses. Along the way, players can collect power-ups that enhance their abilities and unlock new moves.

In addition to the main story mode, X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse also features a versus mode where players can compete against each other in head-to-head battles or team up to take on waves of enemies. The game also includes a variety of unlockable characters and bonus content, providing plenty of replayability for dedicated players.

Graphics and Sound

For a Game Boy Advance game, X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse features impressive graphics that bring the world of the X-Men to life. The character sprites are detailed and expressive, and the backgrounds are vibrant and full of life. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with catchy tunes that perfectly capture the atmosphere of the X-Men universe.

Critical Reception

X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised the game’s fast-paced combat, diverse roster of characters, and engaging story. The game was also commended for its impressive graphics and sound design, which were considered to be among the best on the Game Boy Advance.

Legacy

X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse is considered to be one of the best X-Men games ever made. It was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish the Game Boy Advance as a viable platform for action-packed superhero games. The game’s success also led to the development of several sequels, including X-Men: Mutant Academy and X-Men: The Official Game.

Conclusion

X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse is a timeless classic that remains one of the best superhero games ever made. With its fast-paced combat, diverse roster of characters, and engaging story, the game offers a truly immersive experience for fans of the X-Men universe. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or a newcomer to the world of the X-Men, X-Men: Reign of Apocalypse is a must-play for any fan of action-packed superhero games.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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