AUSRETROGAMER

The Pop-Culture E-Zine

You are here: Home / Archives for Retrogamer

Retrogamer

Pocket-Sized Nostalgia: The Super Pocket Atari Edition Review

By

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.

Our Thrilling Retro Adventure at Netherworld

By

“A drinking hole, diner and collection of gaming relics from decades past”

If you’re looking for a time warp with a side of adrenaline, then grab your mates, lace up your sneakers, and head down to Netherworld in Fortitude Valley. This quirky, neon-lit arcade haven is the perfect blend of retro gaming nostalgia and modern-day fun. With an atmosphere that feels like stepping into an alternate dimension, Netherworld is an absolute must for anyone with a love for pinball, classic arcade games, and good times.

Somewhere, over the rainbow, is Netherworld!

The Arcade Wonderland Awaits

Upon walking into Netherworld, you’re instantly transported into a world where video game cabinets hum with excitement, and the ping of pinball machines echoes through the air. The vibe here is part classic arcade, part dive bar, and 100% pure entertainment. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just here for the ride, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The centerpiece, of course, is the massive arcade collection. From the legendary Pac-Man to the adrenaline-pumping Street Fighter II Hyper, and even more obscure cult favorites like Puzzle Bobble or Gyruss, the nostalgia will hit you hard. And let’s not forget about the pinball section! A kaleidoscope of flashing lights and metallic clinks, the lineup includes everything from Fun House to the ultra-competitive Foo Fighters pinball. Each game has its own unique vibe, with ramps, bumpers, and challenges that will have you flipping for hours.

Top Games You Can’t Miss:

  • The Addams Family Pinball: With creepy, kooky vibes and plenty of spooky surprises, this machine is a fan favorite. The challenge? Master the multi-ball madness!
  • Donkey Kong: Can you guide Mario up the barrels and rescue the princess? This iconic game will test your old-school platforming skills.
  • Rick & Morty Pinabll: Go on an interdimensional adventure packed with hilarious animations, wild gameplay, and all the zany mischief you’d expect from the infamous duo!
  • Mortal Kombat II: Show off your fighter skills with this ultimate test of reflexes and strategy. It’s “Finish Him” time!
  • Time Crisis II: Team up with a friend and take on the bad guys in this classic shooter game. The foot pedal and recoil action add to the immersive fun!

Not Just Games – A Whole Experience

Netherworld isn’t just about the games, though. It’s a place where pop culture and craft beers come together in harmony. The bar serves up an impressive selection of local brews and specialty cocktails themed after your favorite games. Ever sipped on a “Hadouken” cocktail after a heated round of Street Fighter? Now’s your chance! Pair your drinks with tasty food offerings, from vegan-friendly snacks to juicy burgers. Trust me, their bowls of loaded fries are the ultimate fuel for a gaming marathon.

There’s also a calendar packed with exciting events. Think arcade tournaments, pinball competitions, pub trivia, and even the occasional live gig. Want to test your skills in a more competitive setting? Join one of the pinball leagues or enter a high-stakes showdown for a chance at fame and glory (or at least bragging rights).

The Community Vibes

One of the best parts of Netherworld is its welcoming community. Whether you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or a complete newbie, everyone’s here to have fun. The staff is friendly and helpful, always willing to give tips if you’re stuck on a tricky game or need advice on the best machine for your skill level.

They also host board game nights for those who want to take the action to the tables. From Dungeons & Dragons to party games like Codenames, the variety is as broad as the arcade lineup.

Ready, Set, Play!

Visiting Netherworld is like pressing “start” on an adventure you didn’t know you needed. It’s more than just a venue—it’s an experience. A place where grown-ups can be kids again, and where the spirit of classic gaming lives on in all its pixelated glory.

Whether you’re chasing high scores, discovering the magic of pinball for the first time, or simply enjoying the electric energy of this retro haven, Netherworld promises a day (or night) of unforgettable fun. So, gather your crew, grab some tokens, and prepare for an epic gaming session.

Game over? Not a chance—Netherworld will keep you coming back for more!

‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ on Game Boy

By

By: D.C. Cutler, U.S.A.

One of my favorite video games to play on my Nintendo Game Boy was 1992’s “Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.” The game was based on the Francis Ford Coppola film that came out that year.

The game starts with several easy levels like “Scene 1: A Journey Through Transylvania.” The game is like the classic Nintendo game “Ghosts N’ Goblins.” Ghouls rise from the ground suddenly and you must leap over obstacles that will kill you. There are boxes with rewards that have question marks on them, like in the original “Super Mario Bros.,” which I always found strange. It’s one of the first games that I remember where you could walk through walls to get around.

One of the main ghouls that you must defeat, a large, black ghost that floats over you, sort of looks like the Marvel character Venom. The graphics of the ghosts at the time were exceptional. They’re like something out of a modern horror movie. The fun game doesn’t have much to do with the iconic film. The game’s sets are pretty generic and similar as you get further into the game. There are skeletons that just explode when you approach them; I don’t recall any exploding skeletons in the film.

source: supplied

In “Scene 7: Return to Castle Dracula,” you finally see Count Dracula. It looks like Gary Oldman’s Dracula, too. The ending is cool, but I wish there was more Dracula throughout the game. They should’ve had Oldman’s narration throughout the game, to make players feel a stronger connected to the film.

I remember seeing “Bram Stoker’s Dracula” with friends when I was little. It’s still one of my favorite horror films. And it’s one of Gary Oldman’s best performances. The film has such a unique look. I loved the big battle that opens the film that used puppets and creative sets. You never know what’s practical and what are special effects. Coppola used mostly in-camera effects, but you can’t tell. The Oscar winning director is a master at using cinematic trickery.

 

 

The Nintendo Power Glove: A Blast from the Past

By

I love the Power Glove. It’s so bad

Ah, the 1980s. A time of big hair, neon colors, and the birth of some of the most iconic video games and gadgets. Among these was the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), which captured the hearts of gamers everywhere. But let’s not forget one of the quirkiest and most ambitious peripherals of its time: the Power Glove.

A Revolution in Gaming

In 1989, the Power Glove hit the market, promising to revolutionize the way we played games. It was a bold statement in the gaming world, offering players a taste of the future with its motion-sensing technology. This wasn’t just a controller; it was a way to physically interact with your favorite games.

The design was straight out of a sci-fi movie, with its sleek black and grey exterior, and buttons spread across the forearm. Strapping on the Power Glove felt like gearing up for an epic adventure. The idea was simple: wear the glove, move your hand, and your in-game character would mimic your movements. It was the stuff of dreams for any young gamer.

The Reality Check

However, the reality didn’t quite match the hype. The Power Glove’s motion controls were far from perfect, often leading to frustration rather than seamless gameplay. The calibration process was complicated, and the games that were compatible with the glove didn’t always provide the best experience.

Despite its shortcomings, the Power Glove became a cult classic. Its appearance in the 1989 film “The Wizard” cemented its place in pop culture history. The scene where the character Lucas Barton declares, “I love the Power Glove. It’s so bad,” is iconic and resonates with fans to this day.

Why the Power Glove Matters

The Power Glove might not have been the game-changing device it set out to be, but its impact on the gaming world is undeniable. It paved the way for future innovations in motion-sensing technology, inspiring the development of devices like the Nintendo Wii Remote and VR controllers.

Looking back, the Power Glove represents a time of experimentation and bold ideas in the gaming industry. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how important it is to dream big and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

A Collector’s Treasure

Today, the Power Glove is a sought-after collector’s item. Its legacy lives on as a symbol of innovation and the 80s’ fearless approach to new technology. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or just a lover of all things nostalgic, the Power Glove is a fascinating piece of gaming history.

So, next time you’re reminiscing about the good old days of gaming, don’t forget to give a nod to the Power Glove. It’s quirky, it’s iconic, and it’s a testament to the imaginative spirit that continues to drive the gaming industry forward.

The Power Glove: it may not have been perfect, but it was undeniably cool. And sometimes, that’s all that matters.

“Go ahead, make my day”

Introducing the Wooden Game Boy – No Injection Moulding Here

By

What does one do when they acquire a CNC router? Well, they put it to good use and create a wooden Game Boy, based on the OG case!

Physicist, coder and creative, Sebastian Staacks did exactly that with his newly procured machine, making a Game Boy out of walnut wood – thank fully based on the OG Game Boy from 1989. Sebastian has painstakingly documented the entire process on his site here and has also provided links to design files on Github – so if you have the itch to create something cool, then hop to it!

We gotta say it, this is one darn cool creation that we are in absolute awe of! Take a bow Dr. Sebastian Staacks.



Parasol Stars Is Coming To Modern Consoles

By

🌈The Iconic Sequel To Rainbow Islands Is Coming To Modern Consoles on July 11th!

In 1991, TAITO released the third entry in its enduring Bubble Bobble series: Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III. Originally released on the PC Engine, the game followed the success of its predecessors, building on the foundations Bubble Bobble and Rainbow Islands laid down and continuing the story from where they left off. It quickly became a hit, later being ported to Atari ST, Amiga, Game Boy, and even NES, gaining huge popularity and its own dedicated fandom.

Some thirty-three years later, this iconic platformer is ready to land on modern consoles on July 11th for only €9.99 and can be pre-ordered for Nintendo Switch as of now. Xbox pre-orders will start on 19.06.2024. Both offers an additional 10% pre-order bonus until release! Hurry up! PlayStation®4/PlayStation®5 versions will also be out on the 11th of July 2024.

Game Features:

  • An enigmatic ensemble of enemies, each with unique abilities (and charm);
  • 2-player mode: double the fun with Bubby and Bobby!
  • Dazzling parasols with magical powers;
  • Power-ups galore;
  • 8 worlds to save, plus 2 unlockable ones!

And some quality-of-life options, such as save states and the ability to rewind gameplay – woohoo!

 

Introducing Evercade Alpha – The First Evercade-Compatible Bartop Arcade

By

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!

JAPAN: Retro Arcade Gaming In Osaka

By

👾Retro arcade gaming at Retro Games Zarigani!👾

Ausretrogamer’s intrepid traveller, Brant Raven, found himself in Japan last month during the ever-popular Cherry Blossom season.

But Dr. Raven wasn’t there just to admire the Sakura, nosiree, he also found time to seek out some old school Japanese arcade parlours. He did find one in Osaka, the Retro Game Center Zarigani, located at the foot of Tsutenkaku Tower in Shinsekai.

What Brant found was a treasure trove of classic arcade machines, including the Yu Suzuki designed SEGA favourites, OutRun and Afterburner – both in their Deluxe cabinets. To say we wish we were all there would be a gross understatement.

Check out all these precious machines!!!

image source: (c) Brant Raven for ausretrogamer.com

Comedy Central Announces Golden Axe Animated Series

By

In an exciting development for fans of animated entertainment and old school video games, Comedy Central has unveiled plans for a brand-new animated series based on Sega’s 1989 seminal side-scrolling beat’em up / hack’n slash video game, Golden Axe. Set to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor and adventure, the announcement has already sparked widespread anticipation among viewers eager to witness the comedic prowess of the show’s talented cast and crew.

Led by the Emmy-winning actor Matthew Rhys, known for his remarkable performances in “The Americans” and “Perry Mason,” alongside the beloved actor Danny Pudi, recognised for his role in the hit series “Community,” Golden Axe promises to deliver a fresh and entertaining experience for audiences of all ages.

Just like the video game, Golden Axe is set in the medieval fantasy world, Yuria, filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests, with the animated series following the exploits of Ax Battler, Tyris Flare and Gilius Thunderhead, a group of unlikely heroes as they embark on an adventure battling the evil giant Death Adder and his minions. With Rhys and Pudi at the helm, viewers can expect a delightful blend of wit, charm, and comedic timing as the characters navigate the perils of their quest with hilarity and heart.

Speaking about his involvement in the project, Matthew Rhys expressed his excitement, stating,

“I am thrilled to be part of such a fun and imaginative series. Golden Axe is a truly unique and exciting project, and I can’t wait for audiences to join us on this epic journey.”

Equally enthusiastic about the upcoming series, Danny Pudi shared,

“As a longtime fan of animation, I am honored to be working alongside such a talented team to bring ‘Golden Axe’ to life. The world we are creating is full of humor, adventure, and heart, and I can’t wait for viewers to experience it.”

With Comedy Central’s reputation for delivering groundbreaking comedy and innovative storytelling, Golden Axe is poised to become a standout addition to the network’s lineup. As viewers eagerly await its premiere, the animated series is already generating buzz and anticipation, promising an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, excitement, and plenty of golden moments.

‘The Epyx Collection: Handheld’ Brings 6 Classic Lynx Games to Nintendo Switch

By

Six Classic Lynx Games Arrive on Nintendo Switch this April in ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’

Releasing April 25th 2024.

Pixel Games UK is pleased to announce ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ — a collection of six classic Atari Lynx games coming to Nintendo Switch™ on April 25th. The collection includes fond favourites ‘California Games’, ‘ElectroCop’, ‘Blue Lightning’, ‘Gates of Zendocon’, ‘Todd’s Adventures in Slime World’, and ‘Zarlor Mercenary’.

Developed by Imagine Software, these six retro classics are packed with late 80s / early 90s nostalgia and are just as fun and challenging to play today as they were when they were first released — each of them available on Nintendo Switch for the first time.

‘California Games’ (1989)

Experience the laid-back vibe of the West Coast through a series of extreme sports challenges including surfing, skateboarding, BMX biking, roller skating, flying disc (frisbee), and footbag (hacky sack). With its vibrant graphics and dynamic gameplay, ‘California Games’ captures the essence of the 1980s beach culture, offering a fun and nostalgic trip to the sunny shores of California.

‘ElectroCop’ (1989)

Control a cybernetic police officer, step into the world of futuristic law enforcement, and restore order to a crime-ridden city. Armed with advanced weaponry and gadgets, players must navigate through hazardous environments, battle against ruthless criminals, and ultimately confront the nefarious mastermind behind all the chaos. With its combination of action-packed gameplay and sci-fi atmosphere, ‘ElectroCop’ delivers an adrenaline-fueled journey through a dystopian urban landscape.

‘Blue Lightning’ (1989)

‘Blue Lightning’ thrusts players into the cockpit of an advanced fighter jet as they engage in high-stakes aerial combat across a variety of landscapes. With fast-paced gameplay and a standout graphical style, players must navigate through enemy territory, dodge incoming fire, and unleash devastating firepower upon enemy targets. As they progress through increasingly challenging missions, players must showcase their piloting skills and strategic prowess to emerge victorious in this adrenaline-pumping arcade flight experience.

‘Gates of Zendocon’ (1989)

Embark on an intergalactic journey through perilous alien worlds and face off against a horde of deadly adversaries controlled by the sinister Zendocon. Armed with an array of powerful weapons and upgrades, players must navigate through treacherous terrain, blast through waves of hostile creatures, and ultimately confront the formidable bosses guarding the gates to the heart of the Zendocon empire. With its engaging gameplay and sci-fi atmosphere, ‘Gates of the Zendocon’ delivers an epic space-faring adventure that will test players’ skills and courage.

‘Todd’s Adventures in Slime World’ (1990)

In ‘Todd’s Adventures in Slime World,’ players take on the role of Todd, an intrepid explorer navigating through the hazardous depths of Slime World, a sprawling and treacherous alien landscape filled with deadly traps and monstrous creatures. Equipped with an assortment of weapons and gadgets, Todd must traverse through slime-infested caverns, solve puzzles, and fend off hostile slime creatures to uncover the secrets of this mysterious world. With its challenging gameplay and quirky charm, ‘Todd’s Adventures in Slime World’ is a unique platforming adventure that will put players’ skills and wits to the test.

‘Zarlor Mercenary’ (1990)

Step into the boots of a skilled intergalactic mercenary tasked with defending the galaxy from the relentless onslaught of alien invaders. With a powerful arsenal of weapons and piloting a customisable spacecraft, players must navigate through waves of enemy ships, asteroids, and other hazards across various planetary environments. With its fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and intense boss battles, ‘Zarlor Mercenary’ is an exhilarating arcade-style shooter that will challenge players to prove their worth as the galaxy’s ultimate protector.


source: Imagine Software

‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ for Nintendo Switch allows players to experience these classic games once again, or dive into them for the first time. ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ adds:

  • Display Filters — including an 80s-style CRT filter
  • Suspend Points – save and restore up to 4 suspend points per game
  • Live Rewind – rewind up to 5 seconds of live gameplay with the push of a button

‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ also features an improved user interface, featuring interactive, 3D-rendered, box art and cartridges for each game based on the original releases. Plus, fully remastered versions of each game’s instruction manual. These additions come following fan feedback, and a desire to preserve even more of the incredible history of these games.

‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ is the fourth retro release on Nintendo Switch for Pixel Games UK, having previously published ‘Chip’s Challenge’, ‘The Monty Mole Collection’ and ‘Hidden — a collection of classic games from the Commodore 64.

‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ will be released worldwide on Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop on April 25th 2024 for £11.99 / $11.99 / €13.99.