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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 sales@pixelcrib.com 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.

Highlights From The 2023 Oz Comic-Con Xmas Edition

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As another year comes to pass, it was awesome to have one last pop culture event in Melbourne!

The 2023 Oz Comic-Con Xmas Edition was a welcome and fun event that surprised many, one – due to the time of year (December is frenetic with last minute Chrissy shopping), and two – the big  turnout with attendees having as much fun they could squeeze into this two day event.

We are gonna call it now, we hope the Oz Comic-Con Xmas Edition remains as an ongoing annual event! The reason for this is that this time of year we find that people are more relaxed (perhaps due to the impending festive season) and it is also awesome to be able to pickup a few geeky items as Christmas gifts for yourself (or perhaps family and friends).

Our fellow Ausretrogamer team member, Dr Brant Raven and I had a thoroughly good time and we’ll be back in 2024! Without further ado, here are some pictorial highlights from this year’s event.

Melbourne’s weather was predictably miserable, but that didn’t stop us having fun and getting a bite to refuel!



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

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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.

Shop Till You Drop At PixelCrib

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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!



Review: PC-Engine – The Box Art Collection

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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.