Platform: Turbografx-16/PC Engine CD

Loom (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Loom (1990): A Timeless Classic of Interactive Storytelling

Released in 1990 by LucasArts, Loom is a groundbreaking point-and-click adventure game that captivated players with its innovative storytelling, enchanting world, and unforgettable characters. Set in a mystical realm where weavers possess the power to manipulate the fabric of reality, Loom tells the tale of Bobbin Threadbare, a young weaver’s apprentice who must unravel a dark mystery and save his Guild from oblivion.

A Tapestry of Enchantment:

Loom’s world is a vibrant and imaginative tapestry woven with rich textures, vibrant colors, and intricate details. From the quaint village of Loom to the ethereal Shadowlands, each location brims with charm and atmosphere. The game’s painterly visuals, inspired by the works of pre-Raphaelite artists, create a timeless and enchanting aesthetic that draws players into its embrace.

A Symphony of Sound:

Complementing the visuals is a haunting and evocative soundtrack composed by the legendary George Lucas. The music of Loom perfectly captures the game’s ethereal and otherworldly atmosphere, shifting seamlessly from gentle melodies to dramatic crescendos. The game’s lack of spoken dialogue enhances the immersive experience, allowing the music and sound effects to convey emotions and set the tone.

The Power of the Weavers:

At the heart of Loom’s gameplay lies the unique ability of the weavers to manipulate reality through the power of music. Bobbin can learn a series of magical “drafts” that allow him to interact with the world in extraordinary ways. From summoning objects to solving puzzles, the drafts provide a novel and engaging way to navigate the game’s challenges.

A Tapestry of Characters:

Loom’s cast of characters is as memorable as its world. Bobbin, the young and idealistic weaver’s apprentice, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and heroism. Hetchel, the enigmatic and powerful master weaver, guides Bobbin on his quest. And Fleece, the loyal and mischievous sheepdog, provides comic relief and unwavering support.

A Timeless Tale:

Loom’s story is a timeless tale of good versus evil, light versus darkness. As Bobbin unravels the mystery surrounding the disappearance of his Guild, he uncovers a sinister plot that threatens to plunge the world into chaos. The game’s themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the power of belief resonate deeply with players, leaving a lasting impact long after the credits roll.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy:

Upon its release, Loom received widespread critical acclaim for its groundbreaking storytelling, innovative gameplay, and stunning visuals. The game was praised for its ability to transport players to another world and immerse them in a truly interactive experience. Loom has since been recognized as one of the greatest adventure games of all time, and its influence can be seen in countless games that followed.

Conclusion:

Loom (1990) is a timeless classic of interactive storytelling that continues to enchant and inspire players to this day. Its captivating world, unforgettable characters, and innovative gameplay have stood the test of time, cementing Loom’s place among the pantheon of gaming greats. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure game enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Loom is a must-play experience that will leave an indelible mark on your gaming journey.

Review Score

9/10

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Todd’s Adventures in Slime World (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Todd’s Adventures in Slime World: A Gooey, Drippy Adventure

Released in 1990 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Todd’s Adventures in Slime World is a charming and challenging platformer that takes players on a journey through a vibrant and gooey world. Players take control of Todd, a brave explorer who must venture deep into Slime World to rescue his friends from the evil Dr. Mucus.

Gameplay

Todd’s Adventures in Slime World is a side-scrolling platformer with a unique twist: the entire world is made of slime. Todd can walk, jump, and shoot his way through levels filled with colorful blobs, slippery platforms, and hidden secrets.

The game’s levels are varied and imaginative, taking players through caves, forests, and even inside the belly of a giant slime monster. Each level is filled with challenging obstacles, including moving platforms, spikes, and enemies that shoot slime projectiles.

Todd can collect a variety of weapons and power-ups to help him on his journey. These include a gun that shoots slime, a shield that protects him from enemy attacks, and a jetpack that allows him to fly.

Multiplayer

One of the most unique features of Todd’s Adventures in Slime World is its multiplayer mode. Up to eight players can team up to explore the game’s levels together. Players can help each other out by sharing health and ammo, or they can compete to see who can reach the end of the level first.

The multiplayer mode adds a whole new level of fun and challenge to the game. It’s a great way to experience Todd’s Adventures in Slime World with friends or family.

Graphics and Sound

For a NES game, Todd’s Adventures in Slime World has impressive graphics. The world is colorful and detailed, and the animations are smooth and fluid. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that perfectly capture the game’s whimsical atmosphere.

Legacy

Todd’s Adventures in Slime World was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive multiplayer mode. The game has since been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Game Boy, Super Nintendo, and Wii Virtual Console.

Todd’s Adventures in Slime World is still enjoyed by gamers today. It’s a classic platformer that offers a unique and challenging experience. Whether you’re playing it alone or with friends, Todd’s Adventures in Slime World is sure to provide hours of gooey, drippy fun.

Tips for Playing

  • Use the slime gun to shoot enemies and destroy obstacles.
  • Collect power-ups to give Todd new abilities.
  • Use the jetpack to reach high places and avoid hazards.
  • Team up with friends in multiplayer mode to make the game easier.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different weapons and power-ups.
  • Take your time and explore the levels thoroughly. There are many hidden secrets to find.

Review

Todd’s Adventures in Slime World is a charming and challenging platformer that offers a unique and addictive experience. The game’s vibrant graphics, catchy soundtrack, and innovative gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re playing it alone or with friends, Todd’s Adventures in Slime World is sure to provide hours of gooey, drippy fun.

Score: 7/10

Review Score

7/10

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Fatal Fury Special (1993)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Fatal Fury Special: The GRANDMOTHER of All Fighting Games

Released in 1993, Fatal Fury Special is a fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade and home console. It is the second installment in the Fatal Fury series, and is widely considered to be one of the greatest fighting games of all time.

Fatal Fury Special features a roster of 15 characters, including returning favorites such as Terry Bogard, Andy Bogard, and Joe Higashi, as well as new characters such as Billy Kane, Axel Hawk, and Laurence Blood. The game also introduces several new gameplay mechanics, such as the “Line Battle” system, which allows players to fight on multiple planes, and the “Desperation Move” system, which allows players to perform powerful special moves when their health is low.

Fatal Fury Special was a critical and commercial success, and is still considered to be one of the best fighting games ever made. It has been praised for its stunning graphics, innovative gameplay, and iconic characters.

Gameplay

Fatal Fury Special is a 2D fighting game in which players control one of 15 characters and battle against each other in one-on-one matches. The game features a variety of different attacks, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves. Players can also use the “Line Battle” system to fight on multiple planes, and the “Desperation Move” system to perform powerful special moves when their health is low.

Fatal Fury Special is known for its fast-paced and intense gameplay. The game requires players to have quick reflexes and good timing in order to succeed. It also features a variety of different strategies and techniques that players can use to defeat their opponents.

Characters

Fatal Fury Special features a roster of 15 characters, each with their own unique fighting style and special moves. The characters include:

  • Terry Bogard: The main protagonist of the Fatal Fury series, Terry is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of Kyokugenryu karate techniques.
  • Andy Bogard: Terry’s younger brother, Andy is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of Koppokenryu karate techniques.
  • Joe Higashi: A former Muay Thai champion, Joe is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of devastating strikes.
  • Billy Kane: A former member of the Southtown Gang, Billy is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of dirty tactics.
  • Axel Hawk: A professional wrestler, Axel is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of grappling techniques.
  • Laurence Blood: A mysterious vampire, Laurence is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of dark magic attacks.
  • Wolfgang Krauser: The main antagonist of the game, Wolfgang is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of German suplex techniques.
  • Geese Howard: The final boss of the game, Geese is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of Kyokugenryu karate techniques.

Development

Fatal Fury Special was developed by SNK, a Japanese video game company. The game was directed by Takashi Nishiyama, who had previously directed the original Fatal Fury game. The game was developed using the Neo Geo MVS arcade system, which was known for its powerful hardware and high-quality graphics.

Fatal Fury Special was released in arcades in Japan in 1993. The game was later ported to the Neo Geo home console in 1994. The game has also been released on a variety of other platforms, including the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and Nintendo Switch.

Reception

Fatal Fury Special was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its stunning graphics, innovative gameplay, and iconic characters. It was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Fatal Fury Special has been ranked as one of the greatest fighting games of all time by a variety of publications, including IGN, GameSpot, and Edge. The game has also been inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame.

Legacy

Fatal Fury Special is considered to be one of the most influential fighting games of all time. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics and iconic characters have been imitated by a variety of other fighting games. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the Neo Geo arcade system.

Fatal Fury Special is still considered to be a classic fighting game today. The game is still played by a dedicated community of fans, and it is still considered to be one of the best fighting games ever made.

Review Score

9/10

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Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair (1988)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair (1988)

Introduction:

Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair is a side-scrolling action-adventure game developed by Westone Bit Entertainment and published by Sega for the Sega Master System in 1988. It is the third installment in the Wonder Boy series, following Wonder Boy (1986) and Wonder Boy in Monster Land (1987). The game was ported to various home computers and consoles, including the Atari ST, Commodore Amiga, and NEC PC Engine.

Story:

The game takes place in the peaceful town of Xenobia, which is under attack by monsters. The player takes control of either Leo, the protagonist of the previous games, or Priscilla, a new character introduced in this installment. Both characters are tasked with finding the Legendary Weapons and using them to defeat the monsters and their leader, the evil Mecha Dragon.

Gameplay:

Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair is a side-scrolling action-adventure game similar to its predecessors. The player controls Leo or Priscilla as they explore various levels, fighting enemies, collecting items, and solving puzzles. The game features a variety of weapons and power-ups, including swords, axes, and magic spells.

One of the unique features of Wonder Boy III is the ability to transform into different animals. By collecting animal orbs, Leo and Priscilla can transform into animals such as lions, birds, and fish, each with their own unique abilities. For example, the lion can breathe fire, the bird can fly, and the fish can swim underwater.

Levels:

The game consists of six levels, each with its own unique theme and enemies. The levels include a forest, a cave, a volcano, an underwater level, and a final castle level. Each level is filled with puzzles, traps, and boss battles.

Characters:

  • Leo: The protagonist of the previous Wonder Boy games, Leo is a young adventurer who wields a sword and shield.
  • Priscilla: A new character introduced in Wonder Boy III, Priscilla is a princess who uses magic spells to fight enemies.
  • Mecha Dragon: The main antagonist of the game, Mecha Dragon is a giant mechanical dragon who terrorizes the town of Xenobia.

Reception:

Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and music. The game was also a hit in arcades, where it was released as a coin-operated arcade game.

Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair has been included in several lists of the best Sega Master System games. In 1989, it was ranked number 12 on IGN’s list of the top 100 Sega Master System games. In 2017, it was ranked number 24 on USgamer’s list of the 150 best Sega Master System games.

Legacy:

Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair is considered one of the best games in the Wonder Boy series. It is also one of the most popular and well-regarded Sega Master System games. The game has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers.

Conclusion:

Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair is a classic side-scrolling action-adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. With its charming graphics, addictive gameplay, and memorable characters, it is a must-play for fans of the Wonder Boy series and retro gaming in general.

Review Score

8/10

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Faceball 2000 (1991)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Faceball 2000: The Cutting-Edge VR Shooter That Defined a Genre

Released in 1991, Faceball 2000 was a groundbreaking virtual reality shooter that set the standard for immersive first-person combat. Developed by Virtuality, the game transported players into a futuristic world where they could team up or compete against friends and computer-controlled opponents in intense firefights.

Immersive 3D Graphics and First-Person Perspective

Faceball 2000 was one of the first games to feature true 3D graphics and a first-person perspective. This gave players an unprecedented sense of immersion, making them feel like they were actually inside the game world. The game’s environments were rendered in detail, with realistic textures and lighting effects. The character models were also well-animated, giving them a lifelike appearance.

360-Degree Maneuverability

Another groundbreaking feature of Faceball 2000 was its 360-degree maneuverability. Players could move freely through the game world, look up, down, and all around them. This gave them a much greater sense of control and allowed them to engage in more dynamic combat.

Two Thrilling Game Modes

Faceball 2000 featured two distinct game modes: CyberZone and Arena. CyberZone was a single-player or cooperative mode in which players fought their way through a series of treacherous mazes, battling against waves of computer-controlled enemies. Arena mode was a competitive multiplayer mode in which players could face off against each other in fast-paced rounds of high-tech combat.

CyberZone: A Maze of Menacing Enemies

In CyberZone, players took on the role of a lone operative tasked with infiltrating a heavily guarded enemy base. The game’s levels were designed as a series of interconnected mazes, filled with menacing enemies lurking in the shadows. Players had to use their wits and combat skills to navigate the mazes, avoid enemy fire, and complete their objectives.

Arena: Fast-Paced Multiplayer Combat

Arena mode was all about fast-paced, competitive multiplayer combat. Players could choose from a variety of weapons and power-ups, and then face off against each other in a variety of arenas. The goal was to be the last player standing, and the action was intense and unforgiving.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy

Faceball 2000 was a critical and commercial success, winning praise for its groundbreaking graphics, immersive gameplay, and innovative control scheme. The game was also a pioneer in the field of virtual reality gaming, and it helped to pave the way for future VR shooters.

Today, Faceball 2000 is considered a classic of the VR gaming genre. It is still enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts and serves as a reminder of the early days of VR technology. The game’s legacy can be seen in many modern VR shooters, which continue to build on the foundation that Faceball 2000 laid down.

Conclusion

Faceball 2000 was a groundbreaking VR shooter that defined a genre. Its immersive 3D graphics, first-person perspective, and 360-degree maneuverability gave players an unprecedented sense of presence and control. The game’s two distinct game modes, CyberZone and Arena, offered a variety of gameplay experiences, from cooperative maze exploration to competitive multiplayer combat. Faceball 2000 was a critical and commercial success, and it remains a classic of the VR gaming genre today.

Review Score

8/10

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Ai Chou Aniki (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Ai Chou Aniki (1995): A Hilarious and Chaotic Shoot ‘Em Up Extravaganza

Prepare yourself for a side-splitting journey through the wacky and wonderful world of Ai Chou Aniki, a horizontally-scrolling Shoot ’em Up released in 1995 for the PC-Engine CD by Masaya. This outrageous game marked the debut of the Ai Cho Aniki series, renowned for its over-the-top humor and chaotic gameplay.

A Campy Tale of Love and Revenge

Ai Chou Aniki follows the misadventures of Ankokuji Zenigata, a self-proclaimed “super handsome” detective, and his loyal companion, the ever-reliable Baban the Elephant. Together, this unlikely duo embarks on a quest to rescue Zenigata’s beloved, Miki, from the clutches of the evil Dr. Manhole.

The game’s plot is a rollercoaster of absurdity, filled with bizarre characters, slapstick humor, and tongue-in-cheek references to Japanese pop culture. From fighting giant hamburgers to dodging flying fish, Ai Chou Aniki never fails to deliver a chuckle.

Intense Shoot ‘Em Up Action with a Twist

Beneath its comedic exterior, Ai Chou Aniki is a surprisingly challenging Shoot ’em Up. Players control Zenigata, who can fire an array of wacky weapons, including energy blasts, homing missiles, and even giant carrots. Baban, perched on Zenigata’s shoulder, provides additional firepower with his trunk-mounted machine gun.

The game features a variety of colorful and imaginative stages, each filled with hordes of quirky enemies and massive bosses. From battling sumo wrestlers in a sushi restaurant to dodging kamikaze planes over a busy highway, Ai Chou Aniki’s levels are a constant barrage of visual and comedic chaos.

Unique and Unforgettable Characters

Ai Chou Aniki’s charm lies not only in its over-the-top humor but also in its cast of unforgettable characters. Zenigata, with his ridiculous pompadour and spandex suit, is an endearingly narcissistic hero. Baban, despite his diminutive size, is a surprisingly capable sidekick, offering both firepower and comic relief.

The game’s villains are equally memorable, from the flamboyant Dr. Manhole to the fish-obsessed Henkan Kozo. Each character brings their own unique brand of absurdity to the proceedings, making Ai Chou Aniki’s world a truly bizarre and hilarious place.

Legacy and Impact

Ai Chou Aniki was a critical and commercial success, spawning several sequels and spin-offs over the years. The series has become synonymous with campy humor and over-the-top action in the Shoot ’em Up genre.

The game’s influence can be seen in numerous other titles, including Cave’s manic shooters and Compile’s Puyo Puyo series. Ai Chou Aniki’s unique blend of humor and intensity has left a lasting mark on the gaming landscape.

Conclusion

Ai Chou Aniki (1995) is a true gem of the Shoot ’em Up genre. Its hilarious premise, chaotic gameplay, and unforgettable characters make it a must-play for fans of both retro gaming and offbeat humor. Whether you’re dodging flying hamburgers or battling giant fish, Ai Chou Aniki is guaranteed to provide hours of side-splitting entertainment.

Review Score

8/10

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Beyond Shadowgate (1993)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Beyond Shadowgate: A Classic Adventure Game That Still Holds Up Today

Beyond Shadowgate is a classic adventure game that was released in 1993. It is the sequel to the popular 1989 game Shadowgate, and it features many of the same gameplay elements, such as point-and-click controls, a text parser, and a variety of puzzles to solve. However, Beyond Shadowgate also introduces some new features, such as a more detailed and immersive world, a more complex story, and a more challenging set of puzzles.

The story of Beyond Shadowgate begins with Prince Erik, the last descendant of the “Line of Kings”, being summoned home to regain his rightful place on his father’s throne. However, Prince Erik is accused of his father’s murder by the evil Royal Advisor Belezaar, and is thrown into the dungeon to be executed at dawn. The player must take control of Prince Erik and help him escape from the dungeon and start his long journey toward the land deep within Castle Shadowgate.

Along the way, the player will encounter a variety of challenges, including treacherous traps, dangerous creatures, and cunning puzzles. The player will also need to make use of all the resources they can find, such as weapons, armor, and items. The ultimate goal of the game is to defeat the Warlock Lord and free the kingdom from his evil grip.

Beyond Shadowgate is a challenging and rewarding adventure game that offers hours of gameplay. The game’s graphics are detailed and immersive, the story is complex and engaging, and the puzzles are challenging but fair. If you are a fan of adventure games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Beyond Shadowgate.

Gameplay

Beyond Shadowgate is a point-and-click adventure game. The player uses the mouse to interact with the game world, such as clicking on objects to examine them or pick them up, and clicking on doors to open them. The player can also use the keyboard to type commands, such as “get” to pick up an object or “use” to use an item.

The game world is divided into a series of screens, which the player can navigate by clicking on the arrows at the bottom of the screen. Each screen contains a variety of objects and puzzles that the player must interact with in order to progress.

The puzzles in Beyond Shadowgate are varied and challenging. Some puzzles require the player to use logic and problem-solving skills, while others require the player to have a good understanding of the game world and its inhabitants. The game also features a number of timed puzzles, which add an extra layer of challenge.

Story

The story of Beyond Shadowgate is complex and engaging. The player takes on the role of Prince Erik, the last descendant of the “Line of Kings”. Prince Erik is accused of his father’s murder and thrown into the dungeon to be executed at dawn. However, the player must help Prince Erik escape from the dungeon and start his long journey toward the land deep within Castle Shadowgate.

Along the way, the player will encounter a variety of characters, both friendly and hostile. The player will also learn more about the history of Castle Shadowgate and the evil Warlock Lord who threatens the kingdom.

The story of Beyond Shadowgate is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The cutscenes are well-animated and the dialogue is well-written. The story is engaging and keeps the player guessing until the very end.

Graphics

The graphics in Beyond Shadowgate are detailed and immersive. The game world is rendered in a 2D style, but the backgrounds are rich and detailed. The characters are also well-animated and expressive.

The game’s art style is a mix of fantasy and horror. The backgrounds are often dark and foreboding, and the creatures that inhabit the game world are often grotesque and frightening. However, the game also features some beautiful and serene locations, such as the forest of Shadowgate and the castle gardens.

Sound

The sound in Beyond Shadowgate is excellent. The game’s music is atmospheric and immersive, and the sound effects are realistic and well-done. The voice acting is also top-notch, with the actors delivering believable and engaging performances.

The game’s sound design helps to create a truly immersive experience. The player can hear the wind howling through the trees, the creaking of the floorboards in the dungeon, and the growling of the creatures that inhabit the game world. The sound design also helps to build tension and suspense, especially during the game’s many timed puzzles.

Overall

Beyond Shadowgate is a classic adventure game that still holds up today. The game’s graphics are detailed and immersive, the story is complex and engaging, and the puzzles are challenging but fair. If you are a fan of adventure games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Beyond Shadowgate.

Score: 8/10

Review Score

8/10

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Castlevania: Rondo of Blood (1993)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Castlevania: Rondo of Blood is a classic action-adventure game released in 1993, where players control Richter Belmont to battle Dracula and his minions. The game is known for its challenging gameplay, atmospheric music, and the ability to play as Maria Renard.

Introduction

Castlevania: Rondo of Blood is a celebrated entry in the Castlevania series, known for its engaging gameplay, captivating storyline, and memorable soundtrack. It follows Richter Belmont’s quest to vanquish Dracula and his evil horde.

Synopsis

“Castlevania: Rondo of Blood”, originally released in Japan as “Akumajō Dracula X: Chi no Rondo”, is a platform-adventure video game developed by Konami for the PC Engine’s Super CD-ROM² System. The game was first released exclusively in Japan on October 29, 1993.

The game is set in the year 1792, in the fictional universe of the Castlevania series. The story centers around the eternal conflict between the vampire hunters of the Belmont clan and the immortal vampire Dracula. The protagonist of the game is Richter Belmont, a 19-year-old vampire hunter who is also the heir to the Vampire Killer whip and the direct descendant of Simon Belmont.

Richter’s mission is to defeat Dracula and Shaft, and rescue four girls – Tera, Iris, Annette, and Maria Renard. Annette is Richter’s beloved, who was abducted by Dracula. The game takes the player through nine stages, with four alternate routes1, as Richter searches for Annette and ultimately confronts Dracula in his castle.

Richter makes use of a whip as his main weapon and one of six sub-weapons: an axe, a dagger, holy water, a bible, a pocket watch, and a cross. While exploring the castle, Richter can rescue the four maidens. One of them is his distant relative, Maria Renard, who then becomes a playable character. Maria attacks using her doves and one of six sub-weapons: a white tiger kitten, dragon whelp, baby phoenix, turtle, egg or musical notes. She is more agile, can do a double jump, and can do twice the amount of damage that Richter does in each normal attack.

The game incorporates elements from the earlier Castlevania games which typically featured linear gameplay and a member of the Belmont clan as the protagonist, and the later entries which emphasized untimed exploration of the environment.

“Castlevania: Rondo of Blood” is a significant entry in the Castlevania series. It was followed by a direct sequel, “Castlevania: Symphony of the Night”, which was released worldwide in 1997. The game was remade for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System as “Castlevania: Dracula X” in 1995, and the PlayStation Portable as “Castlevania: The Dracula X Chronicles” in 2007. In 2008, the original game was released for the Wii’s Virtual Console service in Japan and for the North American and PAL regions in 2010. In 2018, the game was included along with “Symphony of the Night” within the “Castlevania Requiem” collection for the PlayStation 4.

Characters

Key characters include Richter Belmont, the protagonist and vampire hunter; Maria Renard, a young girl with magical abilities who becomes playable after being rescued; Dracula, the immortal vampire lord and main antagonist; and various other creatures and bosses that inhabit Dracula’s castle.

Gameplay

Rondo of Blood features side-scrolling action with platforming elements. Players use Richter’s whip to attack enemies and navigate through levels. The game introduces Item Crash attacks, which are powerful moves using sub-weapons like holy water and crosses. Players can also discover secrets and alternate routes throughout the game.

Conclusion

Castlevania: Rondo of Blood stands as a timeless classic in the realm of action-adventure games. Its blend of challenging gameplay, engaging story, and memorable music continues to captivate players, solidifying its place in gaming history.

Review Score

8.5/10

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It Came from the Desert (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

It Came from the Desert combines action-adventure gameplay with the thematic and aesthetic elements of 1950s and 1960s horror B-Movies. Set in the small town of Lizard Breath, players, as Dr. Greg Bradley, uncover and combat a giant ant menace. Through its homage to classic cinema and innovative gameplay, the game remains a beloved title among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Introduction

It Came from the Desert (1989) stands as a hallmark in the action-adventure genre, drawing heavily from the campy horror films of the 1950s and 1960s. As players step into the shoes of Dr. Greg Bradley, they are not only exploring the aftermath of a meteorite crash but also uncovering a much larger, more menacing threat to the town of Lizard Breath and potentially, the world.

Synopsis

“It Came from the Desert” is a classic action-adventure video game released in 1989 by Cinemaware. The game draws inspiration from 1950s monster movies, particularly the 1954 mutant-ant classic “Them!” and the 1953 horror film “It Came from Outer Space”.

The game begins with the arrival of Dr. Greg Bradley, a geologist, in the small town of Lizard Breath, California, on June 1, 1951. His initial objective is to study a meteor crash site located in the desert southwest of the town. However, he soon discovers that the radiation from the meteor has caused a local ant population to grow to an enormous size.

Despite his observations, few in the town take his warnings seriously. As the ants begin to multiply and spread, Dr. Bradley finds himself racing against time to devise a plan to stop the ants from terrorizing the world.

The gameplay in “It Came from the Desert” is a non-linear combination of dialogue boxes and several types of action scenes. It is mostly based around detective work, with less puzzle-based mechanics and more of a time-based exploration mechanic. The player must visit various locations, including mines, farms, a pub, an airfield, a local radio station, and others, to find evidence of the ants.

Simultaneously, the player must convince the townsfolk and authorities of the impending doom and contain the ant infestation. Only by utilizing every resource available, from workers to the tanks and fighter jets of the National Guard, can the player take the fight to the giant ants.

The game operates in real-time, with waiting, sleeping, and driving around consuming time. The player has a fixed amount of in-game days (15 days, ending with June 15) to succeed. If Bradley fails by this date, the ants will spread, resulting in a gloomy ending. To reach a good ending, the player must locate the ant colony and kill the queen ant.

“It Came from the Desert” was originally released for the Amiga in 1989 and then was ported to several other popular systems of the era. An expansion set, “Antheads: It Came from the Desert II,” was released in 1990.

Characters

Dr. Greg Bradley – The protagonist, a geologist and the newest resident of Lizard Breath. Other notable characters include townsfolk who assist or hinder the player’s progress and the giant ants themselves, which serve as the primary antagonists.

Gameplay

The gameplay is a rich mix of genres, including adventure and action sequences. Players will find themselves navigating through a linear narrative that guides them from one action-packed scenario to the next. Whether it’s battling giant ants in a first-person shooter format, racing through the desert in a chase sequence, or strategizing in overhead shooting segments, the game delivers a varied and engaging experience.

Conclusion

It Came from the Desert is a cult classic that not only pays homage to a bygone era of cinema but also carves its own niche within the video game industry. With its engaging mix of action, adventure, and horror elements, it offers a memorable experience that stands the test of time.

Review Score

8/10

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Art of Fighting (1992)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Art of Fighting (1992): The Fighting Game That Revolutionized the Genre

Released in 1992 by SNK, Art of Fighting is a groundbreaking fighting game that introduced a number of innovative gameplay elements that would become industry standards. With its fast-paced combat, unique character designs, and emphasis on strategy, Art of Fighting quickly became a hit with arcade-goers and home console players alike.

Story

The story of Art of Fighting revolves around the Sakazaki family and their friend, Robert Garcia. Yuri Sakazaki, the daughter of renowned martial artist Takuma Sakazaki, has been kidnapped by Mr. Big, a ruthless crime lord. To rescue her, Ryo Sakazaki and Robert must travel to South Town and defeat Mr. Big’s henchmen.

Along the way, Ryo and Robert encounter a variety of colorful characters, including the mysterious Mr. Karate, a powerful fighter who seems to be connected to Yuri’s disappearance. As they progress through the game, Ryo and Robert learn more about Mr. Big’s evil plans and the dark secrets of South Town.

Gameplay

Art of Fighting is a 2D fighting game that features a unique blend of speed, strategy, and technique. The game’s controls are simple and intuitive, making it easy for players of all skill levels to pick up and play. However, mastering the game’s many nuances and techniques takes time and practice.

One of the most innovative aspects of Art of Fighting is its energy gauge system. Every time a player uses a special move, their energy gauge is depleted. This forces players to use their special moves wisely, as they cannot simply spam them without running out of energy.

Another unique feature of Art of Fighting is its Desperation Attacks. These powerful attacks can only be used when a player’s health is low. Desperation Attacks are extremely damaging, but they also leave the player vulnerable to counterattacks.

Art of Fighting also features a dynamic camera system that zooms in and out as the fighters move around the stage. This helps to create a sense of excitement and urgency, and it also allows players to see the action from a variety of angles.

Characters

Art of Fighting features a cast of 10 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting style and personality. The main characters are Ryo Sakazaki, Robert Garcia, and Yuri Sakazaki. Ryo is a skilled karateka who is known for his powerful punches and kicks. Robert is a boxer who is known for his speed and agility. Yuri is a judoka who is known for her grappling skills.

In addition to the main characters, Art of Fighting also features a number of memorable boss characters, including Mr. Big, Mr. Karate, and Wolfgang Krauser. Mr. Big is a ruthless crime lord who is known for his immense strength and durability. Mr. Karate is a mysterious fighter who is known for his powerful karate techniques. Wolfgang Krauser is a German count who is known for his fencing skills and his cruel personality.

Legacy

Art of Fighting was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the most important fighting games of all time. The game’s innovative gameplay elements helped to revolutionize the genre, and its characters and story have become iconic in the world of video games.

Art of Fighting has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, the Sega Genesis, and the PlayStation Portable. The game has also been included in several SNK compilation games.

In 2012, SNK released a sequel to Art of Fighting, titled Art of Fighting 2. Art of Fighting 2 features updated graphics and gameplay, as well as a new story and characters.

Conclusion

Art of Fighting is a classic fighting game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative gameplay, memorable characters, and exciting story make it a must-play for any fan of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to fighting games, Art of Fighting is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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