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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.

A Classic Is Reborn – The Atari 7800+

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Play Like It’s 1986!

Just in case you have been away on Mars or off grid somewhere on Earth, you may have missed the news that (the new) Atari are at it again, mining their legacy IP to create a contemporary product that tugs on retro gamers’ hearts!

This time around, it’s the Atari 7800+, which is based (on looks) on the 7800 console that was released in 1986. The beauty about the 7800 was that it could play both original VCS/2600 and native 7800 game cartridges, and thank heavens, the 7800+ will be able to do the same. However, the 7800+ will have an added advantage by being able to play the newer 2600+ and 7800+ carts as well – how cool is that?!

So fetch your old 2600 and 7800 game carts and get them ready for some action!


source: IGN

Join Shigeru Miyamoto In A Tour Of The Nintendo Museum

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Get Your Bucket List Ready!

Whoa, gotta set aside about 14 minutes and watch this brief tour of the Nintendo Museum with none other than Shigeru Miyamoto!

The Nintendo Museum is scheduled to open on October 2nd, 2024, in Kyoto, Japan! This is one item we definitely want to cross off the bucket list!


source: Nintendo Of America

2024 4KB Craptastic Game Competition Preview

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The Reset64 Magazine 2024 Craptastic Game Dev Spectacular Preview

Development for the 2024 4KB Craptastic Game Competition is in full swing. With the deadline fast approaching (August 31st), we thought we’d give you all a quick look at what some of the very talented devs are up to for this coding competition.

Best of luck to all the competitors and we can’t wait to try all of your craptastic creations!

As always, thank-you to our competition sponsors and supporters:

Bitmap Books

 

Protovision

 

Ausretrogamer – retrogaming and pinball

Title: Weights and Crates

Author: TND Games

Status: In Progress

Synopsis: You are a worker at an explosives factory. You have been sent outside to the water logged shipping yard, where you are operating a conveyor belt, with crates on board. For every crate that passes points are scored. Yellow crates give 100 points and red crates award 200 points. Landing on yellow crates will stun you for a bit. If you are pushed to the central point of the red rollers, a fault occurs on the belt, resulting in you falling into the water. If you land on red crates or getting hit by falling 10 ton weights will result in instant death.

Title: Shark Under The Sea 4K

Author: SkyBerron

Status: In progress

Synopsis: You take on the role of a hungry shark. Eat small fish, avoid depth charges and don’t let yourself be hunted by the hunter divers.

Title: MoruBOOST

Author: Alexander Martinelle, Cogitare Computing

Status: Submitted

Synopsis: Speed across the alien planet dodging your alien captors!

MoruBOOST is a game of timing and luck. Use the robotic guinea pigs speed to dodge enemies and reach the end of the level as fast as possible to gain as many points as possible.

Title: Nightmare 4k

Author: PATAGONIA – Juan Castiñeira

Status: Submitted

Synopsis: Ghosts will take over your dark and scary house, you must escape from them. Your only safe zone is to stay under the light, that’s when the ghosts disappear. Take the key and find the exit door.

Title: Hydrogen

Author: Chris Stanley / Megastyle

Status: Submitted

Synopsis: Taking the form of a traditional ‘brick breaker’, Hydrogen is a game in which you must battle your way through twelve chambers of an alien space station to achieve victory. Use your effector and power spheres in order to decimate all the defence cubes. Liberate canisters containing one of four isotopes of hydrogen fuel, each providing the player with a different and useful ability to help win the day!

Title: Escape from the Metaverse

Author: Space Moguls / Carl-Henrik Skårstedt

Status: In progress

Synopsis: You’re trapped in the metaverse! Escape a fractured universe where gravity is not a constant and try to get the fastest time possible.

Title: Geom4K

Author: Oziphantom

Status: In progress (hopefully I make it)

Synopsis: It’s a twin stick shooter with geometric shapes that hunt you.. Needs two joysticks to play or two mapped to a good enough keyboard in an emulator. Currently supports 3 different enemy types. Hunter, Boxer and Kamikaze! Can currently handle 32 enemies at 25fps, but I will either add “superior hardware” support that hopefully gets it locked 50 or make a new version for the better platform.

Title: Drone Zone

Author: Code/Design: Carleton Handley, GFX/Music: Saul Cross

Status: Submitted

Synopsis: A racing game with a drone. Fly around six tight, small courses inside caves for the fastest time. Whilst you can fly around slowly the game is designed as a time attack game. All courses can be completed in under 20 seconds with practice, I’m hoping somebody can finish the easier course in under 10 seconds after release.

Title: The Revenge of the Blobby Thingies

Author: Martin Piper

Status: Completed

Synopsis: This is you, the other monsters are jealous of your light green colour. Find freedom from the monster factory! Shoot the monsters. There are 65536 types of monsters in this game. Each has their own characteristics and animations.

Title: Jerry Kavinsky versus Space Goblins

Author: Bago Zonde / Commocore

Status: In progress

Synopsis: “Jerry Kavinsky versus Space Goblins ” is going to be a loose tribute to the game “Jim Power”. In the game we play the role of Jerry Kavinsky, a time warp hero whose mission is to rescue the kidnapped President’s daughter from the hands of mutants. Mutant goblins and mutant plant spikes will do everything in their power to stop Kavinsky. On top of that, Kavinsky must be careful not to fall into the abyss. Otherwise he will be forgotten forever. Not mentioning the President’s daughter!

Title: Cavern Drone Race

Author: Geir Straume

Status: In progress

Synopsis: This is a drone racing game, in which you compete against two AI controlled drones. The race takes place in a large cavern, and you have to successfully fly through some checkpoints before completing the race, or you will be disqualified.

<SURPRISE, no screenshot>

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.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Gets an 8-Bit Makeover

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CineFix is back with another nostalgia bomb! This time, they’ve turned the 1986 classic, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, into a retro 8-bit animated video game.

Picture Ferris dodging Principal Rooney in pixelated glory! This hilarious blast from the past was crafted by David Dutton of Dutton Films, with toe-tapping tunes by Henry Dutton. It’s like your childhood got a major upgrade—game on!