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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

 

Review: The Epyx Games – Sports Collection on Nintendo Switch

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Nostalgia-Powered Sporting Fun! Wish we could use our Suncom TAC-2!

Dust off your retro gaming gear—in spirit, at least—because The Epyx Games – Sports Collection is here to transport you back to the glory days of 8-bit and 16-bit gaming. Released by Pixel Games UK for the Nintendo Switch, this compilation revives eight iconic titles from the legendary Epyx Games series. These games defined multiplayer sports mini-games for an entire generation, and now they’re ready to captivate a whole new audience. Whether you’re a long-time fan who spent countless hours on a Commodore 64 or a curious newcomer, this collection delivers a playful punch of nostalgia wrapped in modern conveniences.

Speaking of modern updates, The Epyx Games – Sports Collection comes with a treasure trove of features: customisable display filters (including retro CRT), flexible scaling options, and save-anywhere functionality. You can rotate beautifully recreated game boxes for a close-up look and even browse fully integrated instruction manuals, ensuring you’re always ready to dive in. Let’s not forget the new right- and left-handed control presets—a thoughtful touch that gamers back in the day could only dream of. Now, let’s dive into each game that makes this collection shine.

Summer Games (1984)

The original Summer Games set the gold standard for sports compilations. Featuring iconic events like pole vaulting, swimming, and diving, this title excels in delivering heart-pounding competition. With its straightforward mechanics and satisfying learning curve, Summer Games perfectly captures the excitement of a global sporting event. Relive the thrill of going for the gold, whether solo or with friends.

Summer Games II (1985)

Building on its predecessor’s success, Summer Games II ups the ante with new events like fencing and cycling. The improved visuals and more dynamic gameplay make this sequel a standout. It’s an ideal way to settle old rivalries or create new ones, as the competitive spirit of Epyx shines brightly here.

Winter Games (1985)

Take to the snowy slopes of Canada in Winter Games, a collection of events that capture the magic of winter sports. From figure skating to ski jumping, the variety ensures there’s something for everyone. The pixelated charm of snowy backdrops and precise gameplay mechanics make this a highlight for retro sports fans.

World Games (1986)

Spanning the globe, World Games brings cultural diversity to the sports genre with unique events like log rolling, cliff diving, bull riding, and caber tossing. The quirky yet skillful challenges deliver a distinctly global flavour that’s as engaging today as it was in the ‘80s. It’s a delightful break from traditional sporting fare. Weightlifting and barrel jumping are the stand out events!

Championship Wrestling (1986)

Is wrestling a sport or dramatised entertainment? Either way, it’s time to grapple your way to victory in Championship Wrestling! This game captures the over-the-top energy of ‘80s wrestling, complete with dramatic moves and crowd-pleasing flair. Perfect for couch multiplayer, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll have you shouting for a rematch.

California Games (1987)

Radical, dude! California Games encapsulates the laid-back vibes of the Golden State with events like surfing, BMX, and frisbee. The sunny aesthetics and carefree gameplay are the perfect antidote to any dull afternoon. It’s endlessly replayable, especially with friends, making it a must-play in this collection.

The Games – Winter Edition (1988)

The Games – Winter Edition builds on the snowy success of Winter Games, adding more variety and depth to its events. Whether you’re skiing down treacherous slopes or competing in the biathlon, this title combines challenge and charm in equal measure. It’s a winter wonderland for retro enthusiasts.

The Games – Summer Edition (1988)

Rounding out the collection is The Games – Summer Edition, the ultimate test of athletic prowess. With its polished graphics and expanded event list, this title elevates the classic summer sports formula. The precision required in these events ensures satisfying gameplay for competitors of all skill levels.

Final Thoughts

Diving into The Epyx Games – Sports Collection felt like reuniting with an old friend—a joyous return to the classics that shaped a generation. Each game in the compilation retains its charm, standing the test of time with flying colours. As a lifelong fan who spent countless hours on my Commodore 64, I’m thrilled by how lovingly these titles have been preserved. Epyx’s knack for creating engaging, high-quality games shines through once more, and the added modern features enhance the experience without overshadowing its nostalgic roots.

This collection is a treasure trove of sporting events, especially when shared with friends. While there’s no online multiplayer, the in-person fun more than makes up for it. The integrated instruction manuals are a godsend, ensuring you can quickly pick up any event. Whether you’re revisiting childhood favourites or discovering these gems for the first time, this collection is an absolute win. Grab your controllers, rally your friends, and let the games begin!

Disclaimer: The EPYX Games Sports Collection was kindly provided by Pixel Games UK for this review.

Review: TAITO Milestones 3 – Nintendo Switch

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A Nostalgic Arcade Adventure Awaits!

Prepare to embark on a whirlwind journey through gaming history with TAITO Milestones 3, a compilation that celebrates the timeless charm of classic arcade games. Released by ININ Games, this collection features ten titles that defined an era, each bringing a unique gameplay experience to the table. Whether you’re reliving fond memories or diving into these gems for the first time, TAITO Milestones 3 is your ticket to arcade paradise. And here’s the cherry on top: pre-order before December 11 to snag an exclusive discount! Let’s dive into each game in the collection.

Bubble Bobble (1986)

Few games capture the whimsy of the arcade scene quite like Bubble Bobble. This two-player co-op classic stars Bub and Bob, two bubble-blowing dinosaurs on a quest to rescue their kidnapped girlfriends. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, the challenge lies in navigating 100 increasingly tricky floors filled with enemies. Each stage offers a satisfying mix of strategy and reflexes as you trap foes in bubbles and burst them for points. The delightful music and cheerful visuals ensure that Bubble Bobble remains a timeless masterpiece.

Rainbow Islands: The Story of Bubble Bobble 2 (1987)

Trading bubbles for rainbows, Rainbow Islands evolves the original’s formula with vertical platforming and inventive level design. Playing as Bubby and Bobby in their human forms, you’ll ascend through colorful stages, using rainbows as both weapons and platforms. The game’s vibrant art style and imaginative enemies make every moment a joy. With an engaging narrative about saving the inhabitants of Rainbow Islands, it’s a sequel that truly shines.

Cadash (1989)

I loved Cadash on the PC-Engine, so this was a pleasant surprise! For fans of action RPGs, Cadash delivers a cooperative adventure filled with sword-swinging action and spellcasting. Choose from four distinct characters—fighter, mage, priest, or ninja—and journey through the land of Deezar to rescue Princess Sarasa. The blend of exploration, combat, and character progression is impressively deep for an arcade game, offering a satisfying quest that’s perfect for two players.

Rastan Saga (1987)

Channel your inner barbarian in Rastan Saga, a side-scrolling action game where you battle monsters and navigate treacherous terrain. As Rastan, the legendary warrior, you’ll wield weapons like fire swords and hammers to vanquish foes and protect the kingdom of Ceim. With its atmospheric soundtrack and challenging gameplay, Rastan Saga stands tall as a quintessential arcade experience.

Rastan Saga 2 (1988)

This sequel takes the action up a notch, but not in a good way – tasking Rastan with defending the holy city of Rastania. Rastan Saga 2 introduces new enemies, traps, and stages, while retaining the series’ signature swordplay. Although the visuals received a notable upgrade, some may find the pacing slower than the original. Nonetheless, it’s a worthy continuation of the barbarian’s saga.

Champion Wrestler (1989)

Step into the ring with Champion Wrestler, a competitive brawler that captures the drama and excitement of professional wrestling. With a roster of unique fighters and moves ranging from aerial techniques to submission holds, the game offers depth and variety. Whether you’re playing solo, head-to-head, or in tag-team mode, Champion Wrestler guarantees hours of couch co-op fun.

Runark (aka: Growl) (1990)

Animal lovers, rejoice! Runark pits you against evil poachers in a thrilling beat-em-up adventure. Armed with everything from fists to rocket launchers, you’ll save endangered animals across wild and colorful stages. The game’s four-player co-op mode makes it an absolute blast for friends, combining chaotic combat with a surprisingly heartfelt premise.

Warrior Blade (1991)

The Rastan series reaches new heights with Warrior Blade, a dual-screen epic that introduces three playable characters. Set in the perilous kingdom of Depon, this co-op adventure blends intense combat with rich storytelling. The expanded screen space and diverse character abilities make this entry a standout, even among its illustrious predecessors.

Thunder Fox (1990)

Action fans will relish the explosive thrills of Thunder Fox, a run-and-gun game where you battle terrorists with tanks, autogyros, and marine jets. The fast-paced gameplay and cinematic set pieces deliver an adrenaline rush, while the varied environments keep things fresh. It’s an arcade classic that’s perfect for quick bursts of excitement.

Dead Connection (1992)

Rounding out the collection is Dead Connection, a noir-inspired action shooter set in 1950s America. As detectives taking on the mafia, you’ll engage in frantic gunfights across stylishly designed stages. The game’s destructible environments and dynamic combat add depth, while its gritty aesthetic provides a unique contrast to the rest of the collection.

Final Thoughts

TAITO Milestones 3 is a treasure trove for arcade enthusiasts, offering a diverse lineup of titles that showcase the creativity and innovation of TAITO’s golden era. Each game brims with nostalgia and charm, and the addition of modern conveniences, like save states, ensures accessibility for new and returning players alike. Don’t miss your chance to own this slice of gaming history—pre-order now and enjoy a discount before the December 11 release!

  • Where to buy: Nintendo Switch eShop
  • Release date: December 11, 2024 (Australia)
  • Price: $53.99 (10% discount prior to release date)

Disclaimer: TAITO Milestones 2 was kindly provided by PR Hound for this review.

Ausretrogamer’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide

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The joy of giving (and receiving) awesome geeky gifts!

It’s that time of year folks, time to get hunting for some cool gifts for your loved ones and/or for yourself – you deserve it!

To help out, we have curated a list of gift ideas that will get hearts racing with excitement on Christmas morning. If we had to pick our top 3 from this list, they would be, the Atari 2600+ Console and Games Bundle which is 42% off, priced at $110.45 (Amazon AU), the must-have The Game Console 2.0: A Photographic History from Atari to Xbox book, which is now $53.77 (Amazon AU), and just in time for the Steam Deck release in Australia, the UGREEN Steam Deck dock at $48.96 (Amazon AU).

PS: As these prices are correct as at the published date of this post, don’t forget to take advantage of the Black Friday deals!

8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard – C64 Edition ($159.96 via Amazon AU)

Super Pocket Atari Edition ($109.99 at PixelCrib)

LEGO® Super Mario™ Super Mario World™: Mario & Yoshi 71438 ($170 at Amazon AU)

Nintendo Switch OLED Model White Super Mario Bros. Wonder + NSO 12 Months Hardware Bundle ($499 at Amazon AU)

God of War Notebook – Collector’s Edition ($119.99 via PixelCrib)

Atari 2600+ & 10 Games in 1 Bundle ($110.45 via Amazon AU)

The400 Mini ($128.22 at Amazon AU)

8Bitdo Pocket-Sized Mini Controller Micro Bluetooth Gamepad ($35.26 via Amazon AU)

SEGA: Sonic Gaming Accessories Holder & Phone Holder for Most Controller (Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch) & Phone ($60.00 at Amazon AU)

Star Wars Mandalorian The Child Gaming Accessories Holder & Phone Holder for Most Controller (Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch) & Phone ($45.00 via Amazon AU)

Intecgaming Carrying Case for Atari 2600 plus, Large Capacity Storage Case ($116.62 via Amazon AU)

C64 Collection 2 – Evercade Cartridge ($35.99 via PixelCrib)

PAC-MAN 7″ PVC Statue ($129.99 via PixelCrib)

figma No. SP-162 Dead Space: Isaac Clarke ($144.55 via PlayAsia)

Samsung 256GB PRO Plus microSD ($34.00 at Amazon AU)

MINISFORUM Mini PC NAB6 ($539.98 via Amazon AU)

UGREEN Steam Deck Dock ($48.96 at Amazon AU)

The Game Console 2.0: A Photographic History from Atari to Xbox ($53.77 via Amazon AU)

NOTE: Prices correct as at publishing date!

Saying Goodbye to SEGA Classics: Delisting Marks the End of an Era for Retro Gamers

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Ending the day with some news we did not want to hear from SEGA

SEGA’s decision to delist a selection of its classic games from online stores (from December 6, 2024) has saddened fans (us included!) who treasure these beloved titles as part of gaming history.

For many, these retro games were more than just entertainment—they were formative experiences that brought joy, challenge, and nostalgia. With their removal, future generations may lose access to these cultural touchstones. While some versions may still exist in compilations or through remakes, the original versions’ disappearance marks the end of an era for devoted SEGA fans and retro game lovers alike.

 

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.

Stepping Back in Time: PAX Aus 2024’s Classic Gaming Area Celebrated the Golden Era of Gaming

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Reliving the magic of retro gaming with arcade classics, vintage consoles, and amazing pinball machines at PAX Aus 2024’s ultimate nostalgia-filled showcase!

PAX Aus 2024’s Classic Gaming Area was a nostalgic paradise for retro gamers (as it always has been!), offering a thrilling dive into gaming history. The area featured a stunning lineup of vintage arcade cabinets, classic consoles, and pinball machines that transported attendees straight back to the golden age of gaming. From old-school favourites like Rampage and Popeye to lesser-known gems, the collection was a dream for retro enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

This year, the focus on pinball was a highlight, with rare and new machines on display and freeplay sessions for anyone to enjoy. The Australian Pinball Museum’s exhibit was back, showcasing unique memorabilia. Another major attraction was the collaboration between Weird and Retro, Press Play On Tape, and other contributors, who created a vibrant, interactive space full of classic gaming and amazing displays!

Attendees could also explore the console freeplay section, where systems like the Atari VCS and Atari 400, NES, Sega Mega Drive, iMac, G4 Cube and the original PlayStation – which were the tip of the nostalgic iceberg of system to play, let gamers relive their childhoods or discover these iconic machines for the first time. The event wasn’t just about playing games but celebrating gaming culture, with a strong sense of community and inclusivity in the air​.

A personal favourite of mine was checking out the amazing array of old school machines that Octamed (aka: Cameron Bonde) had brought to the area for attendees to enjoy. Oh yeah, the museum display cabinets were also full of droolworthy retro goodness! I honestly had to pick my jaw off the floor. But the absolute highlight for us (as always) was catching up with our many wonderful friends, all whom work extraordinarily hard to bring the Classic Gaming Area to life – they all rock!

All in all, the Classic Gaming Area at PAX Aus 2024 was a delightful tribute to the games and systems that shaped the industry, ensuring that retro gaming remains a beloved part of PAX’s annual offerings.

Our Thrilling Retro Adventure at Netherworld

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“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!

Forgotten Worlds Magazine Issue 4: A Nostalgic Dive into the Classics of Gaming Journalism

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Press Start To Play!

Get ready to be transported back to the golden age of gaming magazines with Forgotten Worlds Issue 4! This edition is a true love letter to the legendary publications that defined gaming journalism in the ‘90s and early 2000s, from Mean Machines to EGM, Super Play, GamePro, Hyper, and CVG. With over 100 full-color, perfect-bound pages, Issue 4 is packed with stories that will hit the nostalgia sweet spot for any retro gaming fan.

What’s Inside?
This issue takes you behind the scenes of the most iconic gaming magazines ever printed. Through exclusive interviews with the editors, writers, and artists who crafted these classics, you’ll get a rare look at what it was like to be on the frontlines of video game journalism. Daniel Wilks from Hyper magazine, for example, shares fascinating anecdotes about the highs and lows of capturing the magic of gaming culture for print. And that’s just the start—there’s something for every fan, from the console wars to the rise of imports and RPGs!

A Kickstarter for the Ages
To make Issue 4 happen, the Forgotten Worlds team has launched a Kickstarter campaign that is well worth checking out. Fans of retro gaming history can grab their copy through the campaign, as well as enjoy exclusive perks and rewards. Whether you’re a collector, a historian, or just someone who loves a good deep dive into the evolution of gaming, this Kickstarter is your ticket to securing this limited-edition treasure.

So why wait? Join the campaign, snag yourself a copy, and get ready to relive the glory days of gaming journalism with Forgotten Worlds Issue 4!

Hold Onto Your Skorts – PAX Aus Has Just Dropped Their Exhibitor 2024 Line-Up

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PAX Aus Announces 2024 Exhibitor Line-Up

Go AFK, mute Discord, and pay attention! PAX Aus has confirmed that this year’s event is even bigger with more developers, more publishers, more Indie Games, the biggest Tabletop area ever and a jam-packed schedule. And don’t forget, the Classic Gaming area for your retro gaming and pinball fix!

PAX Aus 2024 will welcome back some of your favourite publisher brands and new friends, including Bethesda Softworks ANZ, Blizzard Entertainment, Devolver, FINAL FANTASY XIV Online, PC Game Pass, Playside Studios, SEGA, Steam, The Sims and Ubisoft.

Some of the biggest and best hardware brands will satisfy the appetite of gaming gear connoisseurs, with AFTERSHOCK PC, ASUS – Republic of Gamers, Bluemouth Interactive, Cooler Master, Govee by Clever Gear, Intel, Keychron, LG Electronics Australia, MSI Gaming, Samsung and Secretlab joining the line-up.

Bringing the love to PAX Aus this year, Devolver and Massive Monster will host the first-ever PAX weddings. Two loved-up couples will walk down the aisle on Sunday October 13 at 11am and 3pm in a faithful, life-size replica of the Cult of the Lamb Temple featured in the popular game. For any pilgrims willing to take the plunge, check out the schedule for more sinful activations over the PAX weekend!

While on the topic of love, PAX Aus welcomes Steam for the first time ever. More on that when the show opens, you’re not going to want to miss it!

Red Bull Gameball Royale is the ultimate face-off at PAX Australia 2024. Four teams of Australian creators, led by captains Lachlan, Iamfallfromgrace, Muselk, and Loserfruit will go head-to-head in an interactive dodgeball tournament. This high-impact sport has been digitally levelled up with gamified mechanics delivered through an impressive LED court. Players will need to dip, dive, duck and dodge to advance towards being Australia’s first Red Bull Gameball Royale Champions.

Bethesda Softworks ANZ is excited to unveil an epic fan event at PAX Aus, offering attendees a deep dive into the captivating universes of The Elder Scrolls and Fallout. Step into the heart of Tamriel at the carefully crafted Elder Scrolls Online Tavern at the PAX Pub, and then escape the hustle at The Fallout 76 Skyline Valley C.A.M.P.site Handheld Lounge.

Ubisoft will be showcasing Assassin’s Creed Shadows on their booth with a playable demo and Assassin’s Creed Shadows Game Director, Charles Benoit, will also be making an appearance to present Bringing Assassin’s Creed Shadows to Life with Ubisoft Quebec (watch this space!). Esports fans will be able to enjoy Ubisoft’s Rainbow 6 Siege showcase at the PAX Arena from 6-10pm on Friday night in the queue hall. The Arena will feature top of the line equipment from Razer, ZOWIE and Centre Com.

The Sims is coming to PAX Aus to give Simmers a Plumbob photo zone and free tarot readings with the one and only Grim. With their newest expansion Life and Death coming soon, Grim will be ready for 3 full days of posing, reaping lost souls, and giveaways.

Blizzard Entertainment will be celebrating the launch of Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred at PAX Aus, offering an activation space featuring incredible bespoke artwork from @JazzaStudios and a life-sized glaive weapon for Diablo fans to get up close and personal with! Every day of PAX Aus, two lucky winners will take home a customised Vessel of Hatred kit that introduces them to the new Spiritborn class and its Spirit Guardians.

PlaySide Studios will be featuring multiple playable titles on their booth, including KILL KNIGHT, Thrive: Heavy Lies The Crown, Age of Darkness: Final Stand and a currently unannounced Dumb Ways to Die title, in addition to an interactive experience for the upcoming MOUSE: PI for Hire by Fumi Games. You can also catch the MOUSE: P.I. For Hire – First Look: Developer Playthrough panel, which will feature a global exclusive live playthrough of the game with Game Director, Mateusz Michalak, and Producer, Maciej Krzemien.

SEGA‘s stand at PAX Australia will feature three of its highly anticipated titles to play; Sonic X Shadow Generations, Metaphor: ReFantazio and Two Point Museum. There’ll be a dedicated streaming area where attendees may catch some of their favourite content creators streaming the latest SEGA games live, and the chance to meet movie Sonic in person, as he’ll make multiple appearances throughout the weekend.

FINAL FANTASY™ XIV Online are inviting seasoned adventurers to battle against the fearsome Valigarmanda, newcomers to challenge an early primal battle and encouraging everyone to snap a picture in their special photo spot and get their hands on some goodies! Additionally, don’t miss the panel with Senior Story Designer Natsuko Ishikawa and Quest Designer Saki Takayanagi.

Speaking of getting hands-on with some special stuff, the Bandai Namco team will be bringing Dragon Ball Z: Sparking! ZERO for visitors to play. Square Enix will also be bringing a Life is Strange: Double Exposure photo activation, with the opportunity to win some amazing prizes throughout the duration of the event.

Other exhibitors include BlackMilk Clothing, Crunchyroll, Aussie Broadband, and the New Zealand Centre of Digital Excellence, who will be bringing 18 of New Zealand’s newest indie games.

Also on the showfloor, PAX Aus’ biggest Tabletop area ever featuring Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game; hosting ‘learn to play’ sessions inviting you on your first adventure as an Illumineer, a photo op in the Great Illuminary, questing in the Starter Deck challenge zone, and Disney Lorcana artist Matt Chapman, available for signings.

And the recently announced schedule features the very best of local and international gaming talent with panels, firesides and entertainment, kicking off with Storytime with Massive Monster’s, Julian Wilton; the first ever PAX Aus Australian Keynote.