Retro Gaming Culture

The Epyx Collection Handheld Landing on XBox and PC

April 1, 2025 By ausretrogamer

Seven Classic Lynx Games Arrive on Xbox and PC April 9th in ‘The Epyx Collection: Handheld’

Retro gaming fans, rejoice! Pixel Games UK and Imagine Software are making history with their first-ever release on Xbox consoles. Set to launch on April 9th for both Xbox and PC, ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ brings seven legendary Atari Lynx games to a new generation of players.

Priced at £11.99 / US$14.99/ ~AU$23.99 / €14.49, this collection delivers a dose of late ‘80s and early ‘90s nostalgia with beloved classics, including:

California Games (1989): Experience extreme sports like skateboarding, BMX biking, surfing, and more in a vibrant, sun-soaked West Coast setting.
ElectroCop (1989): Step into the cybernetic boots of a futuristic police officer and battle crime in a dystopian cityscape.
Blue Lightning (1989): Engage in high-octane aerial combat and prove your piloting prowess in this arcade-style flight adventure.
Gates of Zendocon (1989): Navigate alien worlds, battle hostile creatures, and take down the sinister Zendocon in an intergalactic space odyssey.
Chip’s Challenge (1989): Solve over 140 mind-bending puzzles in this brain-twisting classic, now with additional Sega Mega Drive and SNES ports.
Todd’s Adventures in Slime World (1990): Explore a hazardous alien world filled with monstrous creatures and slimy traps.
Zarlor Mercenary (1990): Pilot a customisable spacecraft and defend the galaxy from waves of alien invaders in this action-packed shooter.

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source: Imagine Software

Modern Enhancements for a Timeless Experience

Bringing these iconic titles to modern platforms isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about elevating the experience. ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ includes:

Customisable Display Filters – Choose from a variety of filters, including an authentic 80s-style CRT mode.
Suspend Points – Save and restore up to four game states per title, ensuring you can pick up where you left off.
Live Rewind – Rewind up to five seconds of gameplay instantly to correct mistakes or retry difficult sections.

Additionally, the collection features an overhauled user interface, with interactive 3D-rendered box art and cartridges based on the original releases. Fans can also enjoy fully remastered instruction manuals, bringing even more historical detail to these retro gems.

A New Era for Pixel Games UK on Xbox

This marks the first retro release on Xbox for Pixel Games UK and Imagine Software, but it’s only the beginning. “We’re excited to bring the first collection of classic games to Xbox and PC,” says Nick Tiseo, Director of Imagine Software. “It’s been a goal of ours for a long time.”

As the world of retro gaming continues to thrive, ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ is a must-have for both longtime fans and newcomers eager to discover these classic adventures. Don’t miss its worldwide release on April 9th via the Microsoft Store!

TerrorBytes: The Evolution of Horror Gaming – A Spine-Chilling Journey into Gaming’s Darkest Corners

March 21, 2025 By ausretrogamer

If you’ve ever felt your pulse quicken while creeping through the foggy streets of Silent Hill, or if you still get shivers remembering the first time a zombie turned its head in Resident Evil, then brace yourself—because TerrorBytes: The Evolution of Horror Gaming is about to take you on a deep dive into the genre’s terrifying history.

A Love Letter to Horror Gaming

Horror in gaming has always been about more than just jump scares. It’s an art form—one that thrives on tension, atmosphere, and a creeping sense of dread that lingers long after you put down the controller. TerrorBytes is a five-episode documentary series that explores this unique world, shining a light on the creators, innovations, and eerie legends that have shaped horror gaming into what it is today.

With a stacked cast of over 50 industry legends, including Silent Hill composer Akira Yamaoka, DOOM co-creator John Romero, and Deadly Premonition director Swery65, this is no ordinary gaming retrospective. Even horror movie icon John Carpenter joins the fray, proving that the love of horror knows no boundaries between mediums.

What’s Lurking in the Shadows?

Each episode of TerrorBytes dissects a different aspect of horror gaming’s evolution:

Survival Horror – The genre that made you count every bullet and check every shadow.
Licensed Horror Games – From Friday the 13th to Alien: Isolation, the best (and worst) horror adaptations.
FMV & Interactive Horror – A look at the eerie rise of full-motion video and cinematic storytelling in horror.
The Indie Horror Revolution – How small teams and solo developers are redefining terror.
Cursed & Controversial Games – The legends, mysteries, and moral panics that have haunted the genre.

From classic franchises like Resident Evil and Clock Tower to modern indie nightmares like Iron Lung and FAITH: The Unholy Trinity, TerrorBytes doesn’t just explore games—it dissects them like a mad scientist in a horror flick.

How to Get Your Hands on TerrorBytes

Ahead of its April release, TerrorBytes has launched a final pre-sale campaign, giving horror fans the chance to score exclusive perks. Pre-ordering grants early digital access to the first two episodes, your name in the credits, a digital copy of FPS: First Person Shooter, and access to the Darkness Unlimited streaming service—a must-have for horror aficionados.

A Documentary Born from Fear and Passion

Richard Moss, writer and director of TerrorBytes, sums it up best: “Horror games provide an incredible breadth of experience, emotion, and catharsis away from the conventional gaming power fantasy.” Producer Daniel Richardson adds, “It has been a dream come true shooting all over the globe with the people that shaped horror gaming history.”

For those brave enough to delve into gaming’s darkest corners, TerrorBytes is shaping up to be an essential watch. Don’t miss out—secure your copy now at terrorbytesdoc.com and prepare to confront the evolution of horror gaming like never before.

image source: TerrorBytes

‘Ninja Gaiden Shadow’ on Game Boy

February 21, 2025 By David Cutler

By: D.C. Cutler, U.S.A.

When I was a kid, I was obsessed with ninjas. They just seemed cool to me. I wasn’t a huge fan of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” but they were alright. For about two years, they seemed everywhere for a while. There was some oversaturation of the Ninja Turtles. The game I enjoyed the most involving ninjas was 1991’s “Ninja Gaiden Shadow” for Nintendo Game Boy.

I’ve always wondered why ninjas haven’t been used more in video games. I know there’s “Ghost of Tsushima,” one of the biggest and most beautifully designed games out there. But there’s not as many games that feature ninjas as you’d think.

When you’re playing a ninja game on your Game Boy, it takes a great deal of concentration, and the Game Boy’s screen is so tiny anyway. It took a little effort to get through the different acts with Ryu Hayabusa, the protagonist of “Ninja Garden Shadow.” You’re trying to save New York City from the forces of Emperor Garuda.

“Ninja Gaiden Shadow” featured basic play workings compared to what you used in the NES trilogy. I still found the gameplay thrilling. I enjoyed using the grappling hook that allowed Ryu to latch onto the difficult-to-reach railings. It took some getting used to but once I was able to grapple better, it became easy to use, even on the Game Boy. The Fire Wheel attack that Ryu could only use five times seemed like a waste to me. It did damage, but very little. And I thought it looked sort of ridiculous.

My friends all thought that “Ninja Gaiden Shadow” was very similar to classic NES games like “Double Dragon” and “Kung Fu.” I disagreed, immensely. All three are unique in their own ways. “Ninja Gaiden Shadow” was originally planned to be a Game Boy adaptation of “Shadow of the Ninja,” the NES game. I never played it, but I heard it was fun.

image source: retrovania-vgjunk.blogspot.com

“Kill Bill” is one of my favorite movies. I’ve watched the Crazy 88 scene dozens of times. The Crazy 88 aren’t exactly ninjas, but they fight like it, and Uma Thurman’s The Bride takes them on like they are. That extended fight scene took me back to my fascination with ninjas when I was younger. “Kill Bill” could’ve been an incredible property to adapt into a video game. I’ve heard that they did a prototype for an Xbox game, but nothing came of it.

X-Out: Resurfaced Review – A Deep-Sea Shoot’em Up That Makes Waves

February 20, 2025 By ausretrogamer

Now this is literally a blast from the past! Fabulously reborn from the Rainbow Arts Amiga classic, X-Out will give your Nintendo Switch a nice jolt of nostalgia.

This revitalised classic takes the beloved 1989 Commodore 64 shoot’em-up and plunges it into modern waters, offering both nostalgia for seasoned gamers and fresh excitement for newcomers.

A Deep-Sea Adventure Awaits

Set beneath the ocean’s surface, X-Out: Resurfaced stands out in the shoot’em-up genre with its unique underwater setting. As the pilot of a formidable submarine, you’re tasked with thwarting an alien invasion brewing in the ocean’s depths. The game’s horizontal scrolling action challenges you to navigate treacherous terrains, dodge relentless enemies, and unleash a barrage of firepower to restore peace beneath the waves.

Customise Your Submarine

One of the standout features is the extensive submarine customisation. Before diving into each mission, you’re allotted a budget to outfit your vessel. Choose from a variety of submarines—like the agile Trilobyte or the robust Shark—and equip them with an arsenal of weapons, including heat shots, flamethrowers, and smart bombs. This strategic layer adds depth, allowing you to tailor your loadout to your playstyle and the challenges ahead.

Stunning Visuals and Sound

The developers have done a commendable job updating the game’s visuals. The underwater environments are richly detailed, immersing players in a world teeming with aquatic life and hidden dangers. Complementing the visuals is a captivating soundtrack that evokes a sense of mystery and urgency, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Challenge and Replayability

X-Out: Resurfaced is not for the faint-hearted. Its challenging gameplay demands precision and strategy, especially with its no-continue system—losing all your health means starting over. However, this difficulty is part of the game’s charm, offering a rewarding experience for those who master its mechanics. For added fun, team up with a friend in the two-player mode and tackle the alien menace together.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a fan of the original X-Out or a newcomer seeking a fresh and challenging shoot’em-up, X-Out: Resurfaced delivers on all fronts. Its blend of classic gameplay with modern enhancements makes it a must-have for your Nintendo Switch library. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure!

Details:

Platforms: XB/SW/PS5/PC
Genre: Shooter
Price: €19.99 / £17.99 / AU$29.99
Release date: 20th February 2025
Developer: Ziggurat
Publisher: ININ Games

Disclaimer: X-Out: Resurfaced NS code was kindly provided by PR Hound for this review.

Celebrating 45 Years of PAC-MAN: The CASIO x PAC-MAN Collection

January 31, 2025 By ausretrogamer

Game On! Casio Celebrates 45 Years of PAC-MAN with a Retro-Chic Watch Collection

It’s time to press start on nostalgia! In a thrilling tribute to one of the most iconic video games of all time, Casio has unveiled the Casio x PAC-MAN Collection to celebrate PAC-MAN’s 45th anniversary. This limited-edition collection fuses retro arcade charm with Casio’s timeless digital watch design, creating a must-have accessory for gamers and watch enthusiasts alike.

A Classic Collaboration

PAC-MAN first hit arcades in 1980, revolutionising the gaming world with its simple yet addictive gameplay. Now, in 2025, Casio pays homage to this cultural phenomenon with a collection that captures the pixelated magic of the original game.

Casio’s Vintage series, known for its nostalgic charm, serves as the perfect canvas for this tribute. The collection features four distinct models—all adorned with PAC-MAN’s signature 8-bit graphics, classic maze motifs, and beloved characters, including Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde. The designs evoke memories of dodging ghosts and gobbling up pellets, all while keeping track of time in true retro style.

Design Details: A Trip Down Arcade Lane

Each watch in the Casio x PAC-MAN Collection is a statement piece, seamlessly blending vintage aesthetics with modern craftsmanship:

ABL100WEPC-1B – Combining retro aesthetics with modern technology, this watch offers Bluetooth® connectivity for smartphone pairing, step tracking, and automatic time correction. It’s the perfect blend of PAC-MAN charm and advanced features for daily convenience.

A168WEPC-7A – For a sleek yet playful option, this model combines a silver vapour-deposited dial with PAC-MAN graphics and neon accents. Fun details like “WAKA WAKA” on the clasp and LCD backlight elevate the nostalgia factor, while its polished finish makes it a versatile accessory.

CA53WPC-1B – This design pays homage to the original PAC-MAN maze, with the game stage featured prominently on the watch face. A yellow bezel mimics the classic arcade machine, while the band is made from bio-based resin, ensuring style and sustainability go hand in hand.

F91WPC-1A – Packed with personality, this watch features vivid neon colours and graphics of PAC-MAN and his ghostly foes, Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde. Adding to its charm, “WAKA WAKA,” PAC-MAN’s signature sound, is printed on the band loop.

All models feature Casio’s hallmark digital display, LED backlighting and an unmistakable throwback to the ‘80s era of digital watches.

Why This Collection Is a Must-Have

For fans of PAC-MAN and retro gaming, these watches aren’t just timepieces—they’re wearable nostalgia. Whether you spent your childhood at the arcade or you’re a modern gamer who appreciates the classics, this collection is a perfect blend of gaming heritage and everyday functionality.

The Casio x PAC-MAN Collection is a limited-edition release, making it an exciting collectible for enthusiasts of both horology and gaming. With PAC-MAN turning 45, now is the perfect time to celebrate this legendary game in style.

Final Thoughts: Ready, Set, Collect!

Casio has once again proven its ability to merge technology with pop culture in a way that resonates across generations. The Casio x PAC-MAN Collection is more than just a watch—it’s a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of gaming.

Don’t miss your chance to grab a piece of arcade history. Whether you’re a gamer, a watch aficionado, or simply someone who loves a great throwback, this collection is a high-score-worthy addition to any wrist!

image source: Casio Australia

DOOM II Strafing On A Stern Pinball Machine

January 18, 2025 By ausretrogamer

Is there anything DOOM II won’t run and play on?!

We’ve seen this 1994 classic videogame run on lawn mowers, ATMs and now, it can run on a real pinball machine! How darn awesome is this!

We reckon Keith Elwin will be quite impressed, we just hope he can now return the favour by creating a real DOOM II pinball machine**!

** check out the DOOM homebrew pinball machine here.

source: bdash on YouTube

Tekken 4 and Exams

January 13, 2025 By David Cutler

By: D.C. Cutler, U.S.A.

My brother plays a lot of Legend of Zelda when he gets home from work. He told me it helps him relax. Video games don’t help me relax all that much, with all the fighting and shooting of arrows. It takes his mind off things, and it takes a great deal of concentration, and he enjoys that. He said, “It makes me sharper.” I understood that.

I recall hearing someone talk about a fascinating study that suggested surgeons make fewer mistakes if they play video games. While I’m not sure about the accuracy of that data, it makes sense. Playing any game—like golf, for instance—could enhance focus and steadiness.

Before a large test in college, I would study for a few hours and then I would play an intense video game. Tekken 4 on PlayStation 2 was usually my go-to game before a test. Any Tekken game is extreme, and it takes a great deal of concentration. So much so that it was a bit of a release before doing something that could be stressful. The Bandai Namco Studios developed game was extremely popular at the time. My roommates and I would play against each other on lunch breaks and slow evenings. They played Tekken 4 before exams as well.

Tekken 4 channeled my concentration to something different than all the information that I had been studying. That short aversion of Tekken 4 probably helped me get a better grade on my exams and quizzes. I just didn’t want to overdue the video game playing at university.

Day 1 Impressions: Evercade Alpha – Mega Man Edition Bartop Arcade

December 18, 2024 By ausretrogamer

Spoiler Alert: We are smitten with the Evercade Alpha!

After eagerly unboxing the Evercade Alpha – Mega Man Edition Bartop Arcade, we spent the first few hours getting it set up and diving into what it offers. Right out of the box, the unit itself looks fantastic – the Mega Man theme is vibrant, retro, and instantly nostalgic.

Setup & Updates
Before jumping into gameplay, there was a need to update the firmware (and also swap over the marquee artwork!). The update process was straightforward, and it didn’t take long to get the system running the latest version. Along the way, we also unlocked the 9 secret games, which was a fun bonus! (Pro tip: definitely take a moment to check out those extra titles – they’re a great addition to the already strong lineup.)

First order of business, swap the light up marquee

Gribbly’s Day Out is one of the 9 secret games that can be unlocked

Initial Gameplay
The six built-in Capcom classics play beautifully, and the controls feel solid and responsive – perfect for an arcade experience. The games, particularly Final Fight and Strider, immediately brought back memories of classic Capcom arcades. We also briefly explored other games like Mega Man The Power Battle and The Power Fighters, which ran seamlessly.

Of course Final Fight was going to be the first game we played!

First Impressions
Overall, our initial impression of the Evercade Alpha is very positive. It nails the nostalgia factor while delivering a modern, reliable experience. The build quality feels sturdy, the screen is sharp, and the game selection is excellent – especially with those unlockable games.

We’re looking forward to spending more time with the Alpha and exploring the rest of its capabilities (and that massive Evercade cart library compatibility). This is shaping up to be a must-have for retro gaming fans!

PS: This is an Arcade1Up killer!

The control panel is better than expected

The inbuilt games are right up our alley – shmups and beat’em ups!

Unlocked the 9 secret games, bringing the total to 15 games on the Alpha

Can’t wait to explore all the Evercade carts on the Alpha

SNES Super Soccer and FC25

December 17, 2024 By David Cutler

By: D.C. Cutler, U.S.A.

After I bought “FC25,” I played about ten matches in a row, and it made me miss a game I played on my Super Nintendo called “Super Soccer.”

“Super Soccer’s” graphics were crude, but it was almost as entertaining as any current EA Sports soccer game. The view of the pitch was goal line to goal line, from behind the goal. It was a curious angle that I never understood. You could lose track of the action if players played exceptional defense. Dribbling was harder than it is in current soccer games like “FC25.” The tiny, early-1990s shorts that the players wore were comical.

I’m an avid Premier League viewer. I’m an Arsenal and Manchester City fan; but I’ll pretty much watch any Premier League match that is on. The crude graphics of “Super Soccer” don’t compare to what the game looks like now by light-years, although, the crudeness doesn’t get in the way of how fast paced action the game has. Anytime you dribble down the sideline, an opposing player, like clockwork, would kick the ball out of bounds. It was frustrating. The more you played the easier it got to break down the sideline. I found the numbering of the players distracting. I get why they did it, but the numbering sometimes got in the way of the speedy play.

The corner kicks were odd because you were seeing the pitch from behind the goal. You couldn’t put the soccer ball where you wanted it when you kicked it. You would kick it and merely hope that it somehow landed by one of your teammates and not an opposing player. I also found it difficult to control my goalie. They would often leap on the oncoming ball when I wasn’t ready, and the ball would skirt by and into the goal.

If I have one complaint about soccer video games over the years, it’s why doesn’t the game covers have more female stars of the sport? When I play “FC25,” I often play with the women’s Manchester City team and Lauren Hemp and Khadija Shaw are stars on the squad. Why aren’t they on the cover of any new releases. How about the cover of “FC26”? There are dozens of female soccer stars around the world; has one of them ever been considered for a game cover?

image source(s): supplied

Over The Moon With Our Stellar Pinball Moon Shot Supernova Edition

December 13, 2024 By ausretrogamer

Stellar Pinball Moon Shot Supernova Edition: A Miniature Masterpiece for Nintendo Switch Enthusiasts

To think we were super impressed with Far East’s Digital Pinball Cabinet and SakuraRetroModding’s PinSwitch, which are both darn cool, however Stellar Pinball’s Moon Shot mini-pinball machines for the Nintendo Switch OLED console are on another level, which have totally blown our minds to smithereens! These are an absolute masterpiece – yep, and we stand by that!

Even though you can only pre-order these amazing creations within the USA (Ed: we were lucky to have friends in the US that shipped this out to us), Stellar Pinball is looking into international shipping, which we hope happens in the near future, as more folks need to experience these miniature beauties!

Pre-orders sell out quite quickly (for good reason), so get on the list!

Of course we were going to opt for the top-of-the-line Stellar Pinball Moon Shot Supernova Edition, as we like our little mini-pinball machines to have all the bells and whistles. Honestly, this is an absolute gem for pinball enthusiasts and Nintendo Switch OLED owners. This 1/5th scale replica combines the charm of classic pinball with modern gaming technology, making it both a collectible and a functional marvel.

Attention to Detail

From its mind-blowing packaging, which looks identical to a real NIB (New In Box) pinball machine, to its illuminated cabinet and backglass, its high-quality vinyl cabinet graphics protected by a matte laminate, the Moon Shot Supernova is a showcase of craftsmanship. Handmade in the U.S., it boasts meticulous assembly, ensuring precision and durability. Every aspect, from the coin return buttons to the long-lasting LED lighting powered by AA batteries, highlights an exceptional dedication to detail.

The packaging is just as impressive as the actual product!

With 4 x AA batteries, the; start & extra ball buttons, coin-slots, backbox and playfield light up.

Engaging Mechanics

What truly sets this machine apart is its interactive functionality. The working flipper buttons, plunger, and nudge bar integrate seamlessly with the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers, delivering a tactile and immersive experience. Designed with the Switch OLED in mind, it accommodates both active gameplay and passive display modes. It’s compatible with top-tier pinball games like Pinball FX, Pinball FX3 and Star Wars Pinball, to name just a few, which maximise its features.

A Treat for Gamers

The Moon Shot Supernova’s compact size makes it ideal for enthusiasts who love pinball but might not have the space for a full-sized machine. Its visual appeal is matched by its gameplay mechanics, creating an unforgettable hybrid experience that bridges the gap between nostalgia and modern gaming.

In short, this pinball machine isn’t just a novelty—it’s a testament to what happens when retro design meets cutting-edge tech. Whether you’re chasing high scores or simply admiring its artistry, the Moon Shot Supernova Edition is worth every cent for fans of pinball and Nintendo Switch gaming. Get on the pre-order list ASAP, as these sell-out quite quickly (for good reason)!

The attention to detail, including the packaging and contents is superb!