AUSRETROGAMER

The Pop-Culture E-Zine

You are here: Home / Archives for ausretrogamer

ausretrogamer

Castlevania: Nocturne – Coming to Netflix this September

By

The rise of Richter Belmont. Premieres only on Netflix, September 28.

Discover the enthralling world of Castlevania as it ventures into new territory with “Nocturne,” an exciting series focusing on the origin story of Richter Belmont, a gaming icon and one of the franchise’s most beloved characters. Set amidst the backdrop of the French Revolution, this gory and gothic adventure takes fans on an unforgettable journey through a time of vampires and high stakes.

Led by showrunner Kevin Kolde and Creator/Writer Clive Bradley, “Nocturne” promises a gripping narrative filled with love, loss, and thrilling encounters. As an evolution of the original fan-favorite Castlevania Netflix Series, the show delves into never-before-seen aspects of Richter Belmont’s past, adding depth to this iconic character.

Produced by Project 51 Productions, with animations provided by Powerhouse Animation, “Nocturne” guarantees top-notch quality and a visually stunning experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Castlevania fan or new to the franchise, this series serves as the perfect starting point for an exciting journey into a world of gaming adaptations, anime, and captivating storytelling.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the epic tale of “Nocturne”!


image & video source: Netflix



Review: TAITO’s Ray’z Arcade Chronology – Nintendo Switch

By

Pew, pew, pew, we review Taito’s Ray’z Arcade Chronology on the Nintendo Switch

When it comes to shoot’em ups (shmups), we can’t get enough of them – the more the merrier! Luckily for us, ININ Games has delivered a delicious serving of shmup action on the Switch, or have they?

Ray’z Arcade Chronology for the Nintendo Switch delivers a nostalgic blast from the past, presenting three superb shoot ’em up classics (plus 2 x HD remasters), each with its own unique charm and engaging gameplay mechanics. Published by Taito for the Switch and PlayStation 4, this European release by ININ Games is a fine package, showcasing the expertise of seasoned gaming port-masters, M2. However, the presence of multiple editions and some missing features leave the overall experience feeling slightly incomplete.

The lineup includes three revered arcade titles: RayForce (also known as Layer Section and Galactic Attack), RayStorm, and RayCrisis. RayForce, a 2D pixel-drawn masterpiece from 1994, captivates players with contiguous stages and an outstanding Zuntata soundtrack. The gameplay, operating on two planes of battle, encourages strategic scoring through lock-on chains, delivering an immersive and satisfying experience. The presentation is top-notch, and M2’s Gadgets enhance the user interface, allowing players to customize the display to their liking.

RayStorm, Taito’s 1996 sequel, blends 2D action with 3D polygon visuals, creating a cinematic space battle with breathtaking aesthetics. Offering multiple ships with unique properties, RayStorm challenges players to anticipate incoming attacks and utilize the regenerating special attack with precision. The soundtrack consistently impresses, complementing the awe-inspiring visuals and intense gameplay. Although slightly more challenging than RayForce, RayStorm remains a thrilling experience, worth every moment spent mining for a one-credit clear.

RayCrisis, serving as a prequel to the first game, takes a more eccentric narrative approach while maintaining straightforward shoot ’em up gameplay. The vertical 2D plane with 3D graphics sets the stage for nuanced scoring mechanics, beyond mere lock-on chaining. The Encroachment system adds depth to the gameplay, offering a form of rank that keeps players engaged in strategic decision-making. RayCrisis stands out as the most involving of the three titles, boasting a wealth of content and scoring potential.

M2’s work on these arcade ports is commendable, delivering accurate and polished adaptations of the original games. The HD upscaling adds visual splendor to these classics, and the minimal lag ensures a smooth and responsive gameplay experience. The ‘no burn-in’ screen option is a thoughtful touch for players seeking a more authentic feel on older tech.

While the Ray’z Arcade Chronology offers a strong selection of arcade shoot ’em ups, the review points out some areas of disappointment. The fragmented release strategy and the omission of R-Gear leave collectors and fans puzzled about which edition to choose. Additionally, the absence of bonuses such as art galleries and historical tidbits dampens the overall package’s appeal, and the lack of training modes and slow/rewind features feels like a missed opportunity to enhance the gaming experience.

Ray’z Arcade Chronology is a solid compilation of classic shoot ’em ups, remastered with care and attention by M2. Fans of the genre will find plenty to enjoy in the nostalgic gameplay, captivating visuals, and fantastic soundtracks. However, the absence of certain features and the confusion caused by multiple editions prevent it from being the ultimate package. Nevertheless, for enthusiasts seeking an authentic arcade experience on the Nintendo Switch, Ray’z Arcade Chronology is a worthy addition to their gaming library.



Disclaimer: Ray’z Arcade Chronology Switch review code was kindly provided by PR Hound.

The Sony HB-F5 MSX2 Computer – The Gaming System That Came Before the PlayStation

By

On a recent hunt for retro gaming systems we came across the Sony HB-F5, Sony’s first MSX2 based computer gaming system that was released in Japan in 1985.

There were two HB-F5 variants that were released – grey and back. Both of these colour variants are quite rare and difficult to find in working condition (and with working game carts).

These aren’t cheap, but if you are after this oddity, there is one currently available (at the time of publishing) on Facebook Marketplace for $1,050 – and you thought the PlayStation 5 was expensive!

PS: Don’t mistake that RGB21 output for SCART – they look similar, but the pinouts have differing designations!

image source: Facebook Marketplace



Introducing The AVI-8 X Capcom 1942 Flyboy Automatic LE Watches

By

Pew pew pew, watch out for the new AVI-8 x Capcom 1942 Flyboys!

For anyone that has been following us for a while, you’ll know that we also love watches, especially the ones that reference classic arcade games!

Trawling through one of our fave watch sites, AVI-8, we noticed their latest watch, the AVI-8 X Capcom 1942 Flyboy Automatic Limited Edition (300 per colour variant) will be available this coming Friday, July 28 (US time). So mark your calendars or better yet, sign up to get notified as soon as these watches go live. We bet they won’t last long!

How awesome are these watches?! The fact that they are mechanical (instead of digital) and have a military aviation styling, they fit the 1942 arcade game aesthetic perfectly! Oh yeah, they are both automatics (self-winding), so no need to worry about batteries on these Flyboys. The nostalgia that these two timepieces induce is off the charts.

To say we are jonesing for the AVI-8 X Capcom 1942 Flyboy Automatic Limited Edition watches (we’d love both!), would be a gross understatement! C’mon July 28!

image source: AVI-8 Timepieces



MS Excel In 1990 – It’s Oh So Cheesy!

By

Oh wow, the cheesiness of this long-form 1990 Microsoft Excel commercial is absolutely dripping!

The cringe factor is off the charts too. It’s like a slow-moving train-wreck, you can’t keep your eyes off it!


source: Wall Street Oasis



Shop Till You Drop At PixelCrib

By

If you are after some cool gaming related products, including memorabilia and collectibles, then you must check out PixelCrib!

Our good friends at PixelCrib have been wonderful supporters of Ausretrogamer for a long while now, which we are always very thankful for.

For those of you in Oz (and beyond!), PixelCrib is really your one stop shop for video game related products, including rare, high-quality video game memorabilia and collectibles – they are after all, the gaming culture specialists! The best bit is, you can shop from the comfort of your own home.

With a plethora of amazing items in their store, here are some of our fave picks (Ed: this list was really really hard to whittle down):

  • Nintendo Switch – Physical Games

You know those Nintendo Switch games that you thought you could only download from the Nintendo eShop? Well, those awesome games, like Celeste and Cuphead (amongst many others) are available in their physical form!

  • Books, books, books as far as the eye can see

If you have bookshelves that need filling (or a coffee table!), then you have come to the right place! PixelCrib has tons of books, here are some of our picks:

A Guide to Japanese Role-Playing Games

Artcade

Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-UpsPC Engine: The Box Art Collection

  • Do you like playing tunes on vinyl?

We sure do. If you like gaming related soundtracks / music, then the vinyl section is where you need to be at:

Gamer Boy Disappearing Lines: Chiptune Music of Tetris EP

Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3: Music From The Arcade Games LP

Mother 2 Original Video Game Soundtrack 2xLP

Oh how we wish we could have them all……

Shovel Knight Shadowbox Art

Hyrule Field (Legend of Zelda) A3 Art Print

Dead Cells Shadowbox Art

  • But wait, there is more! Did someone say, where are the retro gaming systems at?

PixelCrib has an array of amazing retro consoles for you to choose from, from the Evercade (VS/EXP), Retron and Sega Astro City Mini systems, to the Quarter Size and RepliCade mini arcade machines:

Oh yeah, in case you missed the news, you can now pre-order Hyper Mega Tech’s Super Pocket (Capcom / Taito) handheld systems on PixelCrib! The best part is, these are compatible with your Evercade cartridges!

These are just the tip of the iceberg of products available on PixelCrib. We implore you to get on the PixelCrib site and take a good look, as there is bound to be gaming related products that will tickle your fancy.

Happy shopping everyone!



Stern Pinball and Marvel Unleash Venom Pinball!

By

Choose Your Host,
Change The Game

There will be carnage at this year’s Comic-Con as Marvel and Stern Pinball debut an all-new line of pinball games featuring one of the most enigmatic, complex, and iconic characters, Venom!

Venom pinball will be available in (from L to R): Pro, Premium & Limited Edition (LE) models

Get ready for a thrilling adventure into the mayhem of the Marvel Universe with the one and only Venom! This alien symbiote, famous for bonding with the likes of Eddie Brock and wreaking havoc, has now made its way into the world of pinball. That’s right, Venom is taking over game rooms and entertainment locations worldwide in a visually striking and action-packed pinball game brought to you by Stern.

For those who aren’t familiar, Venom burst onto the scene in The Amazing Spider-Man comic book series back in the ’80s. With its dark and unique appearance, Venom quickly became one of Marvel’s most iconic and beloved characters. From action figures to apparel, collectibles to now pinball, Venom’s influence on popular culture knows no bounds.

Stern’s Venom pinball game is a thrilling journey into the world of this antihero, featuring a lineup of over 20 characters from the Marvel Universe. You’ll encounter familiar faces like Eddie Brock, Flash Thompson, Gwen Stacy, and even the legendary Peter Parker himself. But it doesn’t stop there! Black Suit Spider-Man, Miles Morales, Riot, Agony, Lasher, Phage, Doppelganger, Venomized Hulk, Venomized Wolverine, and Venomized Captain America are all part of the action. Brace yourself, because Venom’s arch enemy, Carnage, is on a mission to awaken Knull, the God of the symbiotes. It’s up to Venom to stop him and his army of symbiotes from taking over the world.

Venom Pinball – Official Game Trailer

source: Stern Pinball

In the game, you’ll take on the role of Venom and select a host to bond with at the start of each thrilling adventure. This choice will not only affect your digital experience but also alter the physical gameplay itself. Prepare for constant frenetic action as balls are released from vertical pinball lock symbiote containment vessels on both sides of the playfield. You’ll explore shots through mechanically changing pathways, like the Agro-Lab and Life Foundation, and bash an interactive Carnage captive ball back into Ravencroft Institute for the Criminally Insane. But beware! A surprise Doppelganger attack could happen at any moment, causing chaos and unveiling three uplift targets for you to conquer.

The visual experience of the Venom pinball game is a work of art. Renowned artist Jeremy Packer, better known as Zombie Yeti, has created stunning hand-drawn comic book style artwork that immerses you in the dark and gritty world of Venom. And to make the experience even more intense, GRAMMY Award-winning musician Mark Tremonti has contributed over a dozen music tracks that change depending on the host you choose. Get ready for a soundtrack that perfectly matches the adrenaline-pumping gameplay.

Venom Pinball by Stern Pinball, featuring Seth Davis

source: Stern Pinball

But wait, there’s more! Stern’s award-winning Insider Connected™ system takes the Venom pinball game to the next level. With this feature, you can interact with the game and a global network of players in various exciting ways. You’ll be able to save your game progress through connectivity persistence, so you can continue your journey as Venom no matter how many attempts it takes to reach the final wizard mode. Plus, you can track your progress, earn game-specific achievements, engage with the player community, and participate in promotions and Challenge Quests. It’s an all-encompassing experience that brings pinball to the modern era.

The Venom LE will most definitely sell out quickly!

And for the collectors out there, you don’t want to miss the Limited Edition model of the Venom pinball game. With only 1,000 games available worldwide, this highly collectible version features a Venom vs. Carnage inspired full-color mirrored backglass, stunning high definition reflective foil decal cabinet artwork, custom high gloss Venom-inspired “goo” powder-coated pinball armor, and so much more. Each Limited Edition game comes with a sequentially numbered plaque and a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Stern’s President & CEO, Seth Davis. It’s a piece of pinball history that you’ll want to add to your collection.

So, get ready to unleash the power of Venom and dive headfirst into an unforgettable pinball experience. Stern’s Venom pinball game will transport you into the heart of the Marvel Universe, where you’ll battle against Carnage, save the world, and become the ultimate (anti)hero. Don’t miss your chance to join the action and make your mark on the global leaderboard. Get your hands on Venom pinball and let the symbiote take control!

Visit the official Venom Pinball game page at sternpinball.com for all information on this game changing pinball experience.
PS: For Venom/pinball fans in Australia, contact either AMD Coin-Op or Zax Amusements to secure your Venon pinball machine!
Australian Price List ($AUD):
  • Venom – Pro $11,950
  • Venom – Premium $15,500
  • Venom – LE – contact AMD or Zax Amusements

Stern Pinball – Venom LE in all its glory!

image source: Stern Pinball

 

The Making of Karateka – The Interactive Documentary Coming Soon From Digital Eclipse

By

Before The Last Express… before Prince of Persia… there was Karateka

Famed game designer Jordan Mechner was an 18-year-old college student when he started making the martial arts adventure that would become one of the most influential games of the Apple II era.

Four decades later, the story behind this groundbreaking game has been meticulously reconstructed into an innovative interactive documentary by Digital Eclipse, the team behind acclaimed collections including the Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection.

Unveiled minutes ago during Microsoft’s ID@Xbox showcase, The Making of Karateka will be available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S as well as Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC (Steam, GOG, and Epic Store). A simultaneous release on all platforms is expected later this northern hemisphere summer.

MORE DETAILS:



Retro Gamers Screening in Melbourne

By

Not even a global pandemic could stop the Michael Naim Film Retro Gamers film being completed! It may have been delayed (like everything else was during COVID times), but we are rapt to see this Australian made and produced short film completed and ready for screening!

Featuring our good friend and fellow PAXAus Classic Gaming exhibitor, Cameron Bonde (aka: @octamed on Twitter) , Retro Gamers delves into the retro gaming community and explores its culture and nostalgic stranglehold.

Mark yourself busy on Sunday, July 23rd, as Retro Gamers will be screening at Cinema Nova. To purchase tickets to the screening, please head over to the Cinema Nova website here!

PS: For our friends in the US, you can also get tickets to the Retro Gamers screening at Gen Con 2023!


image & video source: Michael Naim



The Silverball Planet 2023 Walkthrough with Alex Kidman

By

Our good friend and Australia’s preeminent tech journalist, Alex Kidman, always heads to the coolest place when he visits Japan!

We were so glad Alex took time to go to The Silverball Planet in the Amerikamura district of Osaka, while traveling around Japan.

This is Alex’s take on one of the best pinball amusement centres in the world:

It’s been a few years since I’ve been back to Osaka (for rather obvious reasons) and I was keen to check out The Silverball Planet again. I was last here in very early 2020, and it’s one of my favourite places in Osaka to wind down and spend a few yen.

It didn’t disappoint. One big plus with The Silverball Planet is that it’s nicely affordable even if you are on a budget, with all games costing ¥100 (or less for some older games) a go; compared to the regular Australian price that’s quite a bargain that’ll definitely keep me playing for longer periods. Like any classic arcade it is bright and a touch chaotically noisy — not great for those sensitive to such things — though it is markedly quieter if you visit earlier in the day.

Aside from the machines specifically noted as being out of order, everything’s very well kept and in great condition, allowing me to check out a range of machines I’d not played before, including Stern’s James Bond 007 Pro (loved the theme, couldn’t quite get on with the layout), Elvira’s House of Horrors (very nicely done!) and Spooky Pinball’s Halloween (only so-so in my opinion) .

Plus, well, because I’m me (and I’m in Japan, it would be impolite not to) more than a few games of Godzilla. The new Stern one, not the older Sega one, mind. Yes, I have something of a fan bias here, but I do honestly think it’s one of the best machines Stern’s put out for some time. I just wish I could find the space for one at home — and the funds!

Some quick tips for getting there: Google Maps is your friend, and it’s quite walkable if you’re already visiting the Namba area or dining in Dotonbori. Be aware that while it’s listed as being on the 3rd floor, the standard in Japan is that the street level is counted as the first floor — so it’s actually only two floors above what you might consider ground level.

Can’t make it there? I shot this walkthrough video (and completely forgot to throw in the near obligatory “please like and subscribe” bit at the start and end, I hope I don’t get thrown out of the YouTube fraternity for that. Speaking of which…)


source: Alex Kidman

Ahhhhh, for now, we will keep living vicariously through Alex’s walkthrough of the myriad of amazing machines. We have our bib on, as we can’t stop drooling!