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You are here: Home / Archives for Bitmap Books

Bitmap Books

Book Review: 50 Indie Games that Changed the World

September 11, 2025 By ausretrogamer

🎮  Pixel-Powered Love Letter to Indie Greatness!

Bitmap Books has done it again, folks! If you thought their previous tomes were retro gold, wait till you get your hands on 50 Indie Games That Changed the World. This isn’t just a book — it’s a celebration, a tribute, and a beautifully bound time capsule of the indie gaming revolution that reshaped the industry.

From the moment you crack open the cover, you’re greeted with Bitmap’s signature high-quality design: hardcover, vibrant full-colour pages, and that oh-so-satisfying tactile feel that makes you want to flick through every page like it’s a collectible card deck. But this isn’t just eye candy — it’s brain candy too.

🕹️ Indie Games: The Unsung Heroes of Gaming

Curated by Kirk McKeand, the book dives deep into 50 indie titles that didn’t just entertain — they changed the game. We’re talking about the likes of Braid, Undertale, Celeste, Papers, Please, and Stardew Valley — each one a testament to creativity, risk-taking, and the power of small teams with big dreams.

Each entry is packed with:

  • Insightful commentary on the game’s impact
  • Behind-the-scenes stories of development struggles and triumphs
  • Gorgeous visuals that make you want to replay every title
  • And yes, that warm fuzzy feeling of “I remember playing this!”

🧠 More Than Just a List — It’s a Cultural Chronicle

What sets this book apart is its thoughtful curation. It’s not just about popularity — it’s about influence. These games pushed boundaries, challenged norms, and gave voice to new ideas. Whether it’s Gone Home redefining narrative storytelling or Superhot bending time and perception, each game is a milestone in its own right.

And let’s not forget the diversity of genres and styles — from pixel art platformers to experimental puzzlers, the book showcases the sheer breadth of what indie devs have brought to the table.

📚 A Must-Have for Gamers, Collectors, and Dreamers

Whether you’re a retro aficionado, a modern indie fan, or just someone who appreciates the artistry of game design, 50 Indie Games That Changed the World is a must-have. It’s the kind of book you leave on your coffee table and end up discussing with friends for hours.

Bitmap Books continues to prove that gaming history deserves to be preserved with style, substance, and a whole lot of love. This book is a celebration of the underdogs — the games that dared to be different and ended up changing everything.


Final Verdict: A pixel-perfect tribute to the indie spirit.

So go on, grab a copy, fire up your favourite indie title, and bask in the glory of gaming’s most revolutionary gems. And remember — sometimes the smallest games make the biggest impact.

Disclosure: 50 Indie Games that Changed the World was provided by PixelCrib for this review.

Filed Under: Modern Gaming, Retro Gaming Culture, Reviews Tagged With: 50 Indie Games that Changed the World, Bitmap Books, Book, Book Review, Book Review: 50 Indie Games that Changed the World, Books, gamer, gamers, gaming, gaming book, PixelCrib, Video Games

Book Review: Hurt Me Plenty – A Glorious Reload of FPS History (2003–2010)

June 12, 2025 By ausretrogamer

Strap in, load up, and check those corners—Bitmap Books’ “Hurt Me Plenty: The Ultimate Guide to First-Person Shooters 2003–2010” is a pixel-perfect deep dive into one of gaming’s most explosive and transformative eras. If you’ve ever reloaded a shotgun with a flick of the mouse, cowered in a duct waiting for your shields to recharge, or yelled “headshot!” at your screen in triumph, this book is your new bible.

Following the much-lauded I’m Too Young to Die, which chronicled the rise of the FPS genre from 1992 to 2002, Hurt Me Plenty picks up the story right where your LAN cable left off—covering the genre’s maturing years. From the raw adrenaline of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare to the haunting chill of Cryostasis, this 464-page beast charts the golden (and sometimes glitchy) era when shooters burst through the mainstream and embedded themselves in gaming’s DNA.

First things first: the book is gorgeous. Bitmap Books has once again gone all-in on production values. The hardback tome uses high-grade paper, vivid Pantone inks, and a cover by artist Ian Pestridge that absolutely slaps. It’s the kind of book you leave out on your coffee table just to start conversations—and then suddenly lose three hours to reading.

But it’s not just about good looks. The content is deep, lovingly detailed, and gleefully geeky. With nearly 220 games featured—from juggernauts like Half-Life 2, DOOM 3, Halo 2, and BioShock, to cult classics (The Ball, Zeno Clash) and beautiful disasters (Kwari, anyone?)—this is a love letter to the FPS in all its chaotic glory. Each entry is packed with sharp commentary, development tidbits, and screenshots that hit you right in the nostalgia gland.

There’s also a real reverence here for the evolution of the genre. Hurt Me Plenty doesn’t just list games; it contextualizes them. It examines the industry’s shift from World War II fatigue to modern warfare spectacle. It digs into the rise of multiplayer-only titles, the impact of digital distribution, and even FPS oddities that never made it past the alpha stage. You’ll find yourself thinking, “Oh yeah! I remember that game!”—or better yet, “How did I miss this?”

Interviews with legends like Ken Levine (BioShock), Minh Le (Counter-Strike), and Tim Willits (DOOM 3) offer rare behind-the-scenes insight that elevates this from mere catalogue to oral history. Harvey Smith’s foreword sets the tone with thoughtful reflections on design, agency, and the enduring power of the first-person perspective.

If there’s a flaw here, it’s simply that you’ll wish there were even more. You’ll be tempted to fire up a dozen Steam wishlists and blow your weekend revisiting forgotten gems like Breakdown, NecroVision, or Urban Chaos: Riot Response.

Whether you were bunny-hopping through Quake Live, creeping through the nuclear shadows of S.T.A.L.K.E.R., or modding your way through Garry’s Mod, this book hits you with wave after wave of “oh wow” moments. It’s part time capsule, part celebration, and 100% essential reading for anyone who ever peered down the barrel of an AK-47 in search of pixels and glory.

Final verdict: Hurt Me Plenty is a masterfully crafted tribute to the games that shaped a generation—and to the players who lived, fragged, and respawned through them. Buy it, read it, and then boot up an old favourite and relive the magic.

Score: 10/10 — One shot, one thrill.

Where to buy and how much?

  • Store: PixelCrib
  • Price: AU$89.99

Filed Under: Retro Gaming Culture, Reviews Tagged With: BioShock, Bitmap Books, Call of Duty, Doom, FPS, game design, gaming nostalgia, Half-Life, Halo, PC gaming, PixelCrib, Retro Gaming, shooter games, video game history

Review: The Unofficial GBA Pixel Book

December 9, 2024 By ausretrogamer

It’s not too late to gift this awesome book to yourself for Christmas!

Bitmap Books has outdone itself with The Unofficial GBA Pixel Book, a lavish celebration of the Game Boy Advance that will delight retro gaming enthusiasts. This 300-page tome dives into an impressive lineup of 240 games, showcasing them with over 4,000 high-quality images that capture the vibrant pixel art and charm of this beloved handheld console.

Each page exudes passion and meticulous care, presenting not just the iconic games but also lesser-known gems. The book’s layout seamlessly blends visuals with insightful commentary, offering a deep dive into the GBA’s rich gaming library. Whether you’re revisiting childhood favourites or discovering new titles, this book is a treasure trove of nostalgia and discovery.

The hardcover edition features Bitmap’s trademark high production values, including premium paper and eye-catching design. It’s not just a book; it’s a work of art that stands proudly on any shelf. Perfect for collectors, gamers, and pixel art aficionados, The Unofficial GBA Pixel Book is a must-have addition to any gaming library.

Explore the details and grab your copy at PixelCrib. Don’t miss this vibrant homage to one of gaming’s most cherished platforms!

Publication Details:

  • Title: THE UNOFFICIAL GBA PIXEL BOOK
  • Authors: Robert Bannert, Thomas Nickel, Martin Nagel
  • Released: November 2024
  • Pages: 300 pages
  • Price / where to buy: AU$79.99 from PixelCrib

Disclaimer: The Unofficial GBA Pixel Book was kindly supplied by PixelCrib for this review

 

Filed Under: Retro Gaming Culture, Reviews Tagged With: Art, Bitmap Books, Book, Book Review, Books, Game Boy Advance, gamer, gamers, gaming, GBA, PixelCrib, Retrogamer, retrogaming, The Unofficial GBA Pixel Book, Video Games

PSA: The PixelCrib Pop-Up Store Opens This Week!

November 18, 2024 By ausretrogamer

Level Up Your Collection at PixelCrib’s Epic Pop-Up Adventure! 🎮✨

Hey pop culture geeks and gaming aficionados! Ready to hit IRL level 99 in awesomeness? PixelCrib is bringing the ultimate treasure trove of gaming culture straight to South Melbourne!

🗓 When: November 20 – December 5 (It’s a speedrun, so don’t lag!)
📍 Where: 155 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne, VIC
⏰ Hours: Tue-Fri 10am-5pm | Sat 11am-4pm

From exclusive collectibles to retro gems and modern gaming artistry, this pop-up is a boss battle of coolness you don’t want to miss. Gather your party, grab your coins, and get here before it’s Game Over!

Need a quick respawn? Hit up the team at PixelCrib via [email protected] or call them on (03) 9041 5243.

TL;DR: A gamer’s paradise is popping up, but it’s gone faster than Mario on a star. Don’t wait—your ultimate loot awaits! 🎮🕹️

image source: PixelCrib

Filed Under: Announcements, Retro Gaming Culture Tagged With: Bitmap Books, board games, Books, Collectibles, Cosplay, Evercade, gamers, gaming, Geek, nerd, PixelCrib, PixelCrib Pop-Up Store, Pop Culture store, Super Pocket, videogames, viny

Book Review: Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters

August 2, 2024 By ausretrogamer

Don’t miss out on this explosive journey through gaming history. Grab your copy of Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters today and relive the glory days of on-foot shooters!

If you’ve ever felt the adrenaline rush of dodging bullets in Contra (it’ll always be Gryzor to us!), or the intense thrill of blasting through waves of enemies in Metal Slug, then Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters by Bitmap Books is the ultimate nostalgic treasure trove you’ve been waiting for. This book isn’t just a collection of game titles; it’s a vivid journey through the explosive history of one of gaming’s most beloved genres.

Opening with forewords by Mega Man’s legendary producer, Keiji Inafune, and Cuphead creators Chad and Jared Moldenhauer, you know you’re in for a treat. Their insights set the stage for an epic journey that starts with 1975’s Gun Fight, widely considered the birth of the run ’n’ gun genre, and marches through over 300 iconic games spanning decades.

Written by award-winning video game journalist and comic book author Dave Cook, Run ’n’ Gun brings to life 40 years of gaming history with flair and expertise. Cook’s engaging narrative is peppered with incredible behind-the-scenes stories, fascinating quotes, and mind-blowing trivia that will captivate both veteran gamers and newcomers alike. The expert gameplay tips scattered throughout the book offer an added bonus, giving readers a chance to revisit their favorite games with a fresh perspective.

The visual appeal of this book is nothing short of stunning. Lithographically printed to the highest standards, each page bursts with vibrant colours and high-quality screenshots that almost leap off the page. The luxurious feel of the hardback edition, with its spot-varnished fascia featuring artwork by the talented Jorge M. Velez, makes it a beautiful addition to any coffee table or bookshelf.

One of the standout features of Run ’n’ Gun is its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while also providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of the genre. From the pixelated charm of early arcade games to the sophisticated graphics of modern shooters, this book covers it all with meticulous detail and passion.

Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters is more than just a book; it’s a celebration of a genre that has given gamers countless hours of excitement and adventure. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of run ’n’ gun games or simply love video game history, this book is a must-have. Dive in, and let the memories and discoveries unfold!

Specs:

  • Title: Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters
  • Editions: Standard and Collector’s Edition
  • Pages: 496
  • Price: AUD $79.99 (Standard Edition) / AUD $119.99 (Collector’s Edition)
  • Available from: PixelCrib

Disclaimer: Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters book was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.

Filed Under: Retro Gaming Culture, Reviews Tagged With: Arcade, Art, Bitmap Books, Book Review, Contra, Cuphead, Dave Cook, gamers, Geek, Gryzor, Gun Fight, Jorge M. Velez, Keiji Inafune, Mega Man, PixelCrib, Retro Games, retrogaming, Review, Run and Gun games, Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters, Run ’n’ Gun: A History of On-Foot Shooters book review, Video Games

Book Review: The Unofficial N64: A Visual Compendium

May 10, 2024 By ausretrogamer

We’ll be honest with you all, prior to the Nintendo Switch, the N64 was by far our favourite (and most played) Nintendo gaming system in the late 90s. The N64 had an amazing array of games, some which we still play to this day on a regular basis, including Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64, GoldenEye 007 and Wave Race 64 to name just a few.

Books like this Bitmap Books published “The Unofficial N64: A Visual Compendium” serve as a reminder how awesome the Nintendo 64 console was, and of course, it also induces a lot of nostalgia.

From the moment you crack open this book, you’re greeted with a feast for the eyes. Each page is meticulously crafted, featuring vibrant artwork, rare concept sketches, and behind-the-scenes insights that will transport you back to the days of cartridge-based gaming. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer who grew up with the N64 or a newcomer eager to explore its rich history, there’s something here for everyone.

One of the most captivating aspects of this book is its visual presentation. Every aspect of the N64’s iconic games and hardware is lovingly showcased, from the sleek design of the console itself to the stunning landscapes of beloved titles like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The high-quality printing and attention to detail truly bring these games to life in a way that’s both nostalgic and inspiring.

But ‘The Unofficial N64: A Visual Compendium‘ is more than just a collection of pretty pictures. It’s also a treasure trove of information for fans and collectors alike. Each game is accompanied by fascinating tidbits of trivia, developer interviews, and historical context that shed light on the creative process behind some of the N64’s most beloved titles. Whether you’re interested in learning about the development of a particular game or simply want to appreciate the artistry that went into its creation, you’ll find plenty to sink your teeth into here.

Overall, ‘The Unofficial N64: A Visual Compendium‘ is a must-have for any fan of retro gaming. Its stunning visuals, insightful commentary, and nostalgic charm make it a true masterpiece that belongs on the shelf of every gaming enthusiast. Whether you’re reliving cherished memories or discovering new favourites, this book is sure to delight and inspire for years to come.

Where to buy/pre-order:
  • Title: The Unofficial N64: A Visual Compendium
  • Store: PixelCrib
  • Price: AU$69.99

image source: Alex Boz for ausretrogamer


Disclaimer: The Unofficial N64: A Visual Compendium book was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.

Filed Under: Retro Gaming Culture, Reviews Tagged With: Bitmap Books, Book, Book Review, N64, N64 book, N64: A Visual Compendium, N64: A Visual Compendium book review, Nintendo 64, PixelCrib, Review, The Unofficial N64: A Visual Compendium

Book Review – From Ants to Zombies: Six Decades of Video Game Horror

November 2, 2023 By Alex Boz

Maniac killers? Vengeful ghosts? Science gone wrong? Discover the most gruesome, grueling and downright scary horror games from the 1970s till now in this horror-themed book!

Just in time for Halloween, Bitmap Books has unleashed their latest and scariest video gaming based book, From Ants to Zombies: Six Decades of Video Game Horror.

Let us introduce you to From Ants to Zombies, a spine-tingling journey through the captivating world of horror games that spans over six decades, from the funky 1970s to the heart-pounding 2020s. This book is definitely a thrilling rollercoaster ride across more than 70 different gaming platforms, from the vintage ZX Spectrum to the monstrous Xbox Series X.

From Ants to Zombies (FAtZ) has dug up the crypt and unearthed over 130 hair-raising horror video game titles that dissects and puts them into context for the reader. In this monstrous tome, the games are divided into thirteen delightfully eerie chapters, each with its own twisted theme. Whether you’re into rail shooters or open-world RPGs, whether you fancy exploring haunted mansions or venturing into infested space stations, or whether you prefer a slow, creeping existential dread or stomach-churning bursts of violence, FAtZ has you covered!

But that’s not all. FAtZ sprinkles some spine-chilling, exclusive commentary from legendary horror game developers like Keiichiro Toyama (the mastermind behind Silent Hill), Jane Jensen (the brains behind Gabriel Knight), Ken Levine (the genius behind System Shock 2), Sandy White (creator of Ant Attack), David Riordan (the spooky mind behind It Came from the Desert), Paul Norman (the man behind Forbidden Forest), Graeme Devine (the wicked genius behind The 7th Guest), and many more! These legends will give you a peek behind the curtain and share their sinister secrets (no spoilers here!).

From Ants to Zombies spans a whopping 600+ gorgeously illustrated pages, with a lovingly crafted hardback edition with a unique glow-in-the-dark logo and text – perfect for those late-night reading sessions. All the ghastly images are printed lithographically on high-quality paper to showcase the breathtaking visuals these games deserve. Plus, Bitmap Books has used thread-sewn binding for extra durability, so you can lay the book open flat while you dive into the darkest corners of gaming history.

For those of you that want your cake and eat it too, the book’s cover features a one-of-a-kind artwork created by the incredibly talented artist Vasilis Zikos – it’s an unholy marriage of art and horror, just like the games within.

From Ants to Zombies: Six Decades of Video Game Horror is your golden ticket to revisit the classics you love and discover hidden horror gems you may have overlooked. It’s a deep dive into the inexhaustible well of terror that six decades of video game history has to offer.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of horror gaming like never before and prepare for sleepless nights, heart-pounding scares, and the thrill of a lifetime!

From Ants to Zombies is a showcase for the remarkable range horror gaming has achieved across six decades, from the 1970s to the 2020s, on 70+ gaming platforms, from the ZX Spectrum to the Xbox Series X!

Book Specs:

  • Hardback
  • 664 pages
  • Edge-to-edge high quality lithographic print
  • Sewn binding – for enduring quality and the ability to lay flat for ideal double-page image viewing
  • Glow-in-the-dark logo and text on cover
  • Coloured bookmark ribbon
  • Weight: 2.5kg – it’s hefty!
  • Price: AU$79.99
  • Store: PixelCrib




Disclaimer: From Ants to Zombies: Six Decades of Video Game Horror book was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.

Filed Under: Retro Gaming Culture, Reviews Tagged With: Bitmap Books, Book Review, From Ants to Zombies: Six Decades of Video Game Horror, From Ants to Zombies: Six Decades of Video Game Horror book, game book, gamers, gaming, halloween, horror games, horror videogames, PixelCrib, Resident Evil, Retro Gamers, retrogaming, Review, scary games, zombie games

Shop Till You Drop At PixelCrib

July 20, 2023 By ausretrogamer

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

  • Artworks are aplenty at PixelCrib!

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!




Filed Under: Retro Gaming Culture Tagged With: Bitmap Books, Books, Celebrating Gaming Culture, collectables, Collectibles, Evercade, gaming, Gaming Books, gaming memorabilia, mario, Neo Geo, Pixel Crib, PixelCrib, Pop Culture store, Retro Gaming, vinyl, Zelda

Review: PC-Engine – The Box Art Collection

June 30, 2023 By ausretrogamer

We are still of the opinion that NEC’s PC-Engine could’ve easily competed with Sega and Nintendo on the world video game stage! The little beast was actually quite popular in the late 80s in its homeland of Japan, but beyond that, NEC made an absolute mess of the western release, including the renamed and hulking piece of plastic, the North American TurboGrafx-16.

If you were anything like us, you would have drooled at NEC’s console and its cute game cards called HuCards back in the late 1980s. With a heap of coverage in all the major gaming magazines at the time, we seriously considered buying a grey import, but once we factored in the foreign exchange, fees and the ridiculous shipping costs, it became nothing but a dream console to own one day.

With the resurgence of classic gaming a decade and half ago, we managed to finally procure not one, but several PC-Engine console variants, including the original (white system), CoreGrafx I and II, the Duo (CD-ROM based console) and the spectacular PC-Engine GT (aka: TurboExpress) handheld. The number of HuCards we bought from Japan along the way made up for the lost time we had in the late 80s and early 90s with NEC’s gaming console.

As per usual, the PC-Engine’s HuCards came in CD-type cases with amazing art, which still bring a smile to our faces. Thanks to Bitmap Books, their new box art collection tome, PC-Engine: The Box Art Collection immortalises these amazing games and their artworks!

Journey back to the late 1980s, when Japan gave birth to a bold new aesthetic that would soon sweep across the globe. The PC Engine stood at the forefront of this artistic revolution, showcasing a diverse range of styles and approaches that celebrated the country’s games, movies, music, design, and fashion. And at the heart of this revolution was the remarkable box art that adorned the PC Engine’s extraordinary library.

The PC Engine: The Box Art Collection book is a  tribute to the vibrant, sophisticated, and personality-packed covers that graced the best and most intriguing Japanese releases for NEC’s undersized powerhouse. Within the pages of this meticulously curated collection, you’ll discover masterpieces like Adventure Island, Darius Plus, Bomberman ’93, YS I & II, Soldier Blade, PC Denjin (Air Zonk), Akumajō Dracula X: Chi no Rondo (Castlevania: Rondo of Blood), Devil Crash, and Street Fighter II: Champion Edition.

Overflowing with creativity and passion, PC Engine: The Box Art Collection spans an impressive 372 pages. Immerse yourself in more than 300 professionally shot pieces of box art, accompanied by carefully reproduced screenshots. Every page has been crafted with the same design-led approach that made the PC Engine’s game covers so exhilarating, ensuring an experience that is both thoughtful and exciting. To enhance your journey even further, each featured game is accompanied by an insightful review and expert summary.

The standard edition of PC Engine: The Box Art Collection boasts a show-stopping metallic red foil logo on its hardback cover, reflecting the console’s bold and daring spirit. As with all Bitmap’s publications, the collection is printed lithographically on high-quality paper, allowing the gorgeous visuals to shine as they deserve. With thread sewn binding, this book is built to last, ensuring you can lay it open flat and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking world of the PC Engine.

So, unleash your inner gamer and embark on a visually stunning adventure. PC Engine: The Box Art Collection invites you to witness the magic that unfolded when video games collided with art, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. Get ready to be inspired, mesmerized, and transported to a world where creativity knows no bounds. We can’t recommend this tome highly enough!

Specifications

  • Title: PC Engine: The Box Art Collection
  • Publisher: Bitmap Books
  • Available From: PixelCrib
  • Price: AU$69.99
  • Pages & Weight: 372 pages. 250mm × 250mm; 2.5kg
  • Cover: Hardcover with textured cover with metallic red foil blocked logo and text
  • Print: Edge-to-edge high quality lithographic print
  • Binding: Sewn binding for enduring quality and the ability to lay flat for ideal double-page image viewing




Disclaimer: PC-Engine: The Box Art Collection book was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.

Filed Under: Retro Gaming Culture, Reviews Tagged With: Art, art collection, Bitmap Books, Book, CoreGrafx, HuCards, NEC PC-Engine, PC Engine: The Box Art Collection, pc-engine, PC-Engine Duo, PixelCrib, retrogaming, Review, TurboChips, TurboExpress, TurboGrafx-16

Book Review – Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups

March 24, 2023 By ausretrogamer

If there ever was a book made for us, then Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups is it! As massive fans of side-scrolling beat’em ups (Ed: Double Dragon and Final Fight are still two of our all time faves), this book screamed for us to read it!

Relishing each turn of the page and soaking in all that beat’em up content found in this book, the adrenaline rush we felt was off the charts.

Back in the late 80s going to the local arcade involved checking out the latest and greatest beat’em up games. When the first 2-player co-op beat’em up, Double Dragon, showed up at our local arcade in 1987, we were smitten. We pumped so many 20c pieces in that machine (each credit was 40c), the coin box must have been quite heavy when taking them to the bank! Double Dragon felt fresh, with an amazing array of weapons to use on baddies (we loved swinging the baseball bat!), plus the punching, kicking, backward elbowing and our fave, the knee to the head, all felt visceral at the time.

It was a pleasant surprise to read my hero, Yoshihisa Kishimoto’s foreword! For those that don’t know, Yoshihisa-san was the original creator of Double Dragon – he was only 26 years old when he created the groundbreaking game. Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups is one heavy tome, so you’d be forgiven to think that it could also double up as a weapon in real life! Of course we jest about the weapon part, but we are dead serious about the weight of the book.

Packed with delicious beat’em up content (there are over 450 pages!), Go Straight covers all the major eras of the beat’em up genre, including the golden age from the mid 80s to the early 90s. Each decade from the 1980s onwards, has its own section, documenting all the games that were released during that period. The book documents every beat’em up that has ever graced a video game system (arcade and console) from 1980 all the way up to 2021 – that’s over 200 games!

There has been no stone left unturned in Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups. Dave Cook and the team at Bitmap Books has created a tome for all fans of beat’em ups, and if you aren’t a fan of this genre, we urge you to check this book out, as it is a great guide for first timers wanting to dip their toes in playing some iconic and fun side-scrolling beat’em ups! GO and read it now!!

  • Price: $79.99 AUD / Where to buy: PixelCrib

Specifications

  • 456 pages.
  • 210mm × 297mm. Hardback.
  • Gatefold pages.
  • Spot-varnished cover.
  • Edge-to-edge high quality lithographic print.
  • Sewn binding for enduring quality and the ability to lay flat for ideal double-page image viewing.




Disclaimer: Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups book was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.

Filed Under: Retro Gaming Culture, Reviews Tagged With: 80s, Arcade, Bad Dudes, beat'em ups, Bitmap Books, Book, Book Review, Double Dragon, DragonNinja, Final Fight, Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups, PixelCrib, Review, Streets Of Rage, TMNT

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