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Book Review: 50 Indie Games that Changed the World

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🎮  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.

PixelCrib Giveaway – Win an Analogue Pocket!

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Another PixelCrib Giveaway – you could win the OpenFPGA beauty, the Analogue Pocket!

After their incredible response to last month’s Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle giveaway, we knew PixelCrib would keep the good vibes rolling. For this month, PixleCrib is giving away something truly special: the Analogue Pocket!

🕹️ Why the Analogue Pocket?
Because it’s a retro gaming dream come true! This sleek handheld plays Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance cartridges (and many, many more!) with pixel-perfect accuracy thanks to its powerful FPGA hardware. If you’re a fan of classic gaming, this is the ultimate collector’s piece. The Analogue Pocket is indeed the best thing since sliced bread!

📦 How to Enter:
From 16–31 August 2025, every order of an in-stock item gets you an automatic entry into the draw.
✅ Shop online or visit PixelCrib in-store
✅ Each order = one entry (yep, multiple orders = multiple chances!)
🚫 Pre-orders aren’t eligible, so make sure your item is ready to ship!

🌍 This giveaway is open to everyone — whether you’re in Australia or anywhere else in the world!

Have we told you how much we love our Analogue Pockets?!

 

📅 Winner Announcement:
PixelCrib will randomly draw the winner on Monday, 1 September 2025 and reach out via email or phone.

🎮 Ready to win the ultimate retro handheld?
Head to PixelCrib.com.au, grab something awesome, and you’re in the running. Good luck, gamers — may the pixels be ever in your favour!

 

PixelCrib Giveaway – Win a Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle!

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If you’ve been dreaming of getting your hands on the next generation of Nintendo magic, now’s your chance—PixelCrib is making July very exciting for Aussie retro and modern gamers alike!

To celebrate their amazing community, PixelCrib is running an exclusive giveaway for Australian customers throughout July 2025. And the prize? Oh, just a little something called the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle! 🏎️💨

🎮 What You Could Win

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 paired with Mario Kart World—a combo that promises countless hours of fun whether you’re gaming solo, with mates, or going head-to-head online. If you’re a Nintendo fan, this is the holy grail.

🛒 How to Enter

Getting in on this giveaway is as simple as placing an order:

  • 📅 Order any in-stock item between July 1 and July 31, 2025

  • 🛍️ Purchase online via PixelCrib’s website or in person at their store

  • ✅ Each eligible order = one entry (the more orders, the more entries!)

  • 🚫 Pre-order items are not eligible

  • 🌏 Entry is open to Australian residents only

No forms to fill out. No codes to enter. Just shop and you’re in!

🎯 Winner Announcement

  • 🗓️ The draw takes place on Monday, August 4th, 2025

  • 📧 The lucky winner will be contacted via email and/or phone (don’t forget to check your spam folder!)

Full terms and conditions will be available on the PixelCrib website closer to the draw date.

So whether you’re adding to your retro setup, grabbing that gaming book you’ve had your eye on, or just browsing for gaming (and all other matter of pop culture geekery) goodness—now’s the perfect time to make a purchase.

Big shoutout to PixelCrib for continuing to support the local gaming scene with awesome giveaways like this. Best of luck, and may the odds (and red shells) be ever in your favour! 🍄

Let us know if you enter—or better yet, if you win! 👀

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

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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?

Review: The Unofficial GBA Pixel Book

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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

 

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

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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

Pocket-Sized Nostalgia: The Super Pocket Atari Edition Review

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The Super Pocket Atari Edition delivers a pocketful of retro magic, perfect for gaming on the go and giving your thumbs the ultimate blast from the past!

The Super Pocket Atari Edition is a delightful fusion of retro gaming and modern convenience, packing a treasure trove of Atari classics into a handheld system that fits snugly in your pocket. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the golden age of gaming or a newcomer eager to explore the legends of the past, this little handheld promises hours of fun with an impressive lineup of pre-installed games—and even more if you have an Evercade cartridge collection!

Design & Ergonomics:
Right off the bat, you’ll notice how perfectly the Super Pocket sits in your hands. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on comfort. The ergonomic design means you can game for extended periods without feeling strain, even during those intense moments of “Centipede” or “Asteroids.” The buttons and D-pad are highly responsive and pleasantly tactile, offering a satisfying click with each press, whether you’re navigating menus or dodging enemies in “Missile Command.” And speaking of the D-pad, it’s as smooth as butter—giving you that precision control you need for those tricky maneuvers.

The Screen:
Let’s not forget the vibrant, crisp screen! For a device this compact, the Super Pocket Atari Edition’s display is surprisingly sharp, with bright colors that bring the iconic Atari titles to life. Every pixel of those vintage graphics pops with a modern twist, making the classics feel fresh without losing their retro charm. The screen size is just right for handheld gaming, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your favorite Atari adventures without feeling cramped.

Game Library:
Now, let’s talk about the games! The system comes loaded with an excellent selection of classic Atari games. Whether you’re a fan of “Breakout,” “Adventure,” or “Yars’ Revenge,” there’s something here for every retro gaming enthusiast. The sheer variety keeps the experience exciting, and revisiting these iconic titles is like stepping into a time machine that fits in your pocket. But what truly sets the Super Pocket Atari Edition apart is its compatibility with Evercade cartridges. If you’ve got a stash of Evercade games, you can expand your library beyond the pre-installed gems, making this handheld a versatile addition to any gamer’s collection.

Specifications:

  • Preloaded Games: 50 Atari Classics including Centipede, Asteroids, Missile Command and Pong (plus many, many more!)
  • USB-C Charging: For fast charging. Cable included
  • Compatibility: Evercade Compatible with over 60 cartridges with 500+ games
  • Battery: 4+ hours of battery life
  • Display: High Quality 2.8” IPS Screen 320×240
  • Features: Easy Mode activates the lowest difficulty for each game

Final Thoughts:
The Super Pocket Atari Edition is a perfect mix of nostalgia, portability, and playability. Its ergonomic design, excellent button layout, crisp display, and extensive game library make it a must-have for retro gaming fans. Plus, the ability to use Evercade cartridges adds a whole new level of replayability and customization. Whether you’re on the go or just lounging at home, this pocket-sized powerhouse will keep you entertained for hours!

Where to buy:

Disclaimer: The Super Pocket Atari Edition console was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.

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

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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:

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

Introducing Evercade Alpha – The First Evercade-Compatible Bartop Arcade

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It’s time to change the game – literally.

Attention all gamers and retro enthusiasts: the Evercade Alpha is coming later this year, and it’s going to revolutionise your home arcade experience! This sleek, bartop-sized arcade machine is the latest addition to the Evercade family and is packed with features that will transport you back to the golden age of gaming. The standout feature? Full compatibility with the extensive Evercade cartridge ecosystem.

Endless Gaming Fun with Evercade Cartridges

The Evercade Alpha doesn’t just come with a few built-in games—it opens the door to over 50 physical Evercade cartridge collections, offering a staggering 500+ games. From legendary arcade hits to home console classics and vintage home computer gems, the Evercade Alpha ensures your gaming adventures will be never-ending.

Special Pre-Order Pricing

Starting June 4th, the Evercade Alpha will be available for pre-order at a special price of £199.99 / $229.99 / €229.99, a significant discount from its regular retail price of £229.99 / $249.99 / €249.99. This offer is valid until November 2024, so act fast to secure this deal from any Evercade retailer worldwide.

Choose Your Adventure: Street Fighter or Mega Man Editions

The Evercade Alpha comes in two exciting versions, each featuring unique built-in games and officially licensed designs from the legendary Japanese publisher Capcom:

Evercade Alpha Street Fighter Arcade

Features six iconic titles from the Street Fighter™ franchise, including the never-before-released Street Fighter™ Alpha series.

– Street Fighter™ II’ Champion Edition
– Super Street Fighter™ II Turbo
– Street Fighter™ Alpha: Warriors’ Dreams
– Street Fighter™ Alpha 2
– Street Fighter™ Alpha 3
– Super Puzzle Fighter™ II Turbo

Evercade Alpha Mega Man Arcade

Boasts two arcade-exclusive games from the famous Mega Man™ franchise, alongside a selection of Capcom’s classic arcade titles.

– Mega Man™: The Power Battle
– Mega Man™ 2: The Power Fighters
– Final Fight™
– Knights of the Round™
– Carrier Air Wing™
– Strider™

Premium Features and Design

Each Evercade Alpha unit is pre-assembled and packed with top-notch features for an unparalleled gaming experience:

  • Dual Evercade Cartridge Slots: Designed to mimic a coin tray, these slots support the entire Evercade cartridge ecosystem.
  • Authentic Arcade Controls: Competition-grade controls ensure you get the response and feel of a real arcade machine.
  • High-Resolution Screen: An 8″ IPS screen with a 4:3 aspect ratio delivers sharp, vibrant visuals.
  • Light-Up Marquee: Includes three interchangeable backlit marquee panels, with more available for purchase.
  • Additional Ports and Controls: Volume control, stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack, and two USB ports for external controllers.
  • Power and Connectivity: Powered by a USB-C connector, with an international mains plug included.

Expand Your Gaming Library

One of the most exciting features of the Evercade Alpha is its dual Evercade cartridge slots. This means you’re not limited to the pre-installed games. You can expand your game library with any physical Evercade cartridge collection, encompassing games from five decades of gaming history. Whether you prefer indie games, classic Japanese titles, or hidden gems, the Evercade Alpha has something for everyone.

Instant Access to Over 500 Games

With Evercade cartridges, there are no downloads, no setup, and no fuss—just plug in and play! Enjoy a seamless gaming experience with physical cartridges that include a box and manual, just like the good old days. Plus, your save games are supported across all Evercade devices.

Don’t miss out on the chance to bring the arcade experience home with Evercade Alpha. Pre-order now and get ready to dive into a world of classic gaming fun!

Book Review: The Unofficial N64: A Visual Compendium

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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.