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Review: Chip’s Challenge – Nintendo Switch

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Want to join the Bit Busters Computer Club?

One of the first games I bought for my Atari Lynx (back in the day, and which I still have!) was Chip’s Challenge. For the record, the first game I bought for the Lynx was California Games, but this review isn’t about that game!

Just like Tetris on the Game Boy, I love coming back to Chip’s Challenge on the Lynx, it’s just a great game that suits the Lynx to a tee. To now have this great game on the Switch, I honestly couldn’t stop smiling! Chip’s Challenge on the Switch is exactly how I remember it on the Lynx, but with better controls and a luscious screen (if played on the OLED Switch).

For those of you that have no idea who or what Chip’s Challenge is, let us school ya a bit! Schoolboy Chip desperately wants to join the exclusive Bit Busters Computer Club, but to prove his worthiness he must complete a series of brain-twisting challenges set by the club’s owner Melinda the Mental Marvel – darn you Melinda!

You have to help Chip solve over 140 challenging grid-based puzzles, finding and using tools and devices such as keys, switches, pushable blocks and more, all while avoiding enemy creatures, and collecting computer chips to exit the level, all against the clock! Sounds easy aye 😉

Chip’s Challenge on the Switch has brought back a lot of nostalgia. For those coming in fresh to this game, please don’t be put off by the “blocky” graphics – it’s just all part of the charm! The game shines with its mind-bending puzzles to solve. At the end of the day, for the price of the game (less than a take away coffee), Chip’s Challenge is well worth it on the Switch. It may look quite blocky when docked, but this game shines when playing it on the go!

Chip’s Challenge will be released worldwide on Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop on January 25th 2024.



Disclaimer: Chip’s Challenge Switch review code supplied by Pixel Games UK

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.

Review: TAITO’s Ray’z Arcade Chronology – Nintendo Switch

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Pew, pew, pew, we review Taito’s Ray’z Arcade Chronology on the Nintendo Switch

When it comes to shoot’em ups (shmups), we can’t get enough of them – the more the merrier! Luckily for us, ININ Games has delivered a delicious serving of shmup action on the Switch, or have they?

Ray’z Arcade Chronology for the Nintendo Switch delivers a nostalgic blast from the past, presenting three superb shoot ’em up classics (plus 2 x HD remasters), each with its own unique charm and engaging gameplay mechanics. Published by Taito for the Switch and PlayStation 4, this European release by ININ Games is a fine package, showcasing the expertise of seasoned gaming port-masters, M2. However, the presence of multiple editions and some missing features leave the overall experience feeling slightly incomplete.

The lineup includes three revered arcade titles: RayForce (also known as Layer Section and Galactic Attack), RayStorm, and RayCrisis. RayForce, a 2D pixel-drawn masterpiece from 1994, captivates players with contiguous stages and an outstanding Zuntata soundtrack. The gameplay, operating on two planes of battle, encourages strategic scoring through lock-on chains, delivering an immersive and satisfying experience. The presentation is top-notch, and M2’s Gadgets enhance the user interface, allowing players to customize the display to their liking.

RayStorm, Taito’s 1996 sequel, blends 2D action with 3D polygon visuals, creating a cinematic space battle with breathtaking aesthetics. Offering multiple ships with unique properties, RayStorm challenges players to anticipate incoming attacks and utilize the regenerating special attack with precision. The soundtrack consistently impresses, complementing the awe-inspiring visuals and intense gameplay. Although slightly more challenging than RayForce, RayStorm remains a thrilling experience, worth every moment spent mining for a one-credit clear.

RayCrisis, serving as a prequel to the first game, takes a more eccentric narrative approach while maintaining straightforward shoot ’em up gameplay. The vertical 2D plane with 3D graphics sets the stage for nuanced scoring mechanics, beyond mere lock-on chaining. The Encroachment system adds depth to the gameplay, offering a form of rank that keeps players engaged in strategic decision-making. RayCrisis stands out as the most involving of the three titles, boasting a wealth of content and scoring potential.

M2’s work on these arcade ports is commendable, delivering accurate and polished adaptations of the original games. The HD upscaling adds visual splendor to these classics, and the minimal lag ensures a smooth and responsive gameplay experience. The ‘no burn-in’ screen option is a thoughtful touch for players seeking a more authentic feel on older tech.

While the Ray’z Arcade Chronology offers a strong selection of arcade shoot ’em ups, the review points out some areas of disappointment. The fragmented release strategy and the omission of R-Gear leave collectors and fans puzzled about which edition to choose. Additionally, the absence of bonuses such as art galleries and historical tidbits dampens the overall package’s appeal, and the lack of training modes and slow/rewind features feels like a missed opportunity to enhance the gaming experience.

Ray’z Arcade Chronology is a solid compilation of classic shoot ’em ups, remastered with care and attention by M2. Fans of the genre will find plenty to enjoy in the nostalgic gameplay, captivating visuals, and fantastic soundtracks. However, the absence of certain features and the confusion caused by multiple editions prevent it from being the ultimate package. Nevertheless, for enthusiasts seeking an authentic arcade experience on the Nintendo Switch, Ray’z Arcade Chronology is a worthy addition to their gaming library.



Disclaimer: Ray’z Arcade Chronology Switch review code was kindly provided by PR Hound.

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.

Review: Replikator on Xbox Series X|S

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Replikator: A Retro-Inspired Space Adventure with a Formidable Challenge

Ahhhhh, Ratalaika Games have been impressing gamers with its recent releases, offering low-budget indie games and nostalgic favorites. Among its collection, Replikator, developed in collaboration with R-Games and Meridian4, stands out as an affordable gem. This procedurally generated adventure challenges players to overcome a world dominated by artificial intelligence (AI) through sheer force. With intense action, customizable gameplay, and a retro vibe, Replikator offers an engaging experience for space shooter enthusiasts. Let’s delve into the thrilling amalgamation of exploration, combat, and survival in this throwback-style game.

Unleashing the Mercenary:

In Replikator, players assume the role of Khan, a skilled mercenary, tasked with investigating a fatal accident at a space research facility. As part of a team, Khan must uncover the cause behind the tragedy that claimed the lives of all personnel. The game sets the stage with a semi-animated cut scene and introduces the main character in a meeting hall, where interactions with other members of the team are possible. This initial area serves as a training ground, allowing players to become familiar with the controls and mechanics.

Challenging Gameplay and Intense Action:

Replikator offers a unique control scheme that combines movement and aiming mechanics. The left analog stick enables character navigation, while the right analog stick facilitates aiming from both close and long distances. With enemies relentlessly attacking, players must utilize ZR (on the Nintendo Switch) to open fire strategically, mindful of conserving ammunition. Careful resource management becomes crucial, as running out of ammo necessitates scavenging for supplies or seeking out terminals to make purchases. The L button provides a punch attack, enabling destruction of the environment to uncover hidden rooms and potential rewards.

Immersive Retro Graphics and Atmospheric Sound:

Embracing its retro-inspired roots, Replikator showcases visually detailed graphics that evoke a sense of nostalgia. The game employs a top-down perspective, effectively conveying the claustrophobic sensation of navigating confined spaces within a vessel. The enemies vary from flying drones and laser-firing poles to grotesque creatures reminiscent of the facehuggers from the Alien film series. Notably, only the current area is visible, while adjoining sections remain concealed in darkness, unveiling themselves as players enter. The atmospheric soundtrack enhances the immersive experience, transitioning between silent moments and intense action sequences. Accompanied by well-executed sound effects, such as laser guns, explosions, and opening doors, the audio complements the game’s overall ambiance.

Strategic Exploration and Resource Management:

Replikator encourages strategic exploration through its zoom-out feature, accessible by pressing the Y button. This function unveils a map highlighting item locations, aiding players in their quest to gather essential resources. However, the map does not reveal the positions of enemies, adding an element of surprise and tension. Noteworthy icons within rooms indicate collectible items, fostering an engaging gameplay loop of risk versus reward. Throughout the game, players encounter ammo packs, additional energy reserves, and blueprints for superior weapons that can be acquired later. Collectible cubes and in-game currency enable interactions with terminals, providing opportunities to recharge energy or replenish ammunition.

Perseverance and Progression:

Replikator’s challenging nature demands perseverance and adaptation. Frequent deaths are to be expected, but each defeat provides valuable lessons. Upon dying, players return to the main staging area, where collected cubes can be utilized for upgrades. Additionally, one or two free upgrades are available per life, enhancing the effectiveness of current gameplay. The sense of progression and the desire to overcome obstacles motivate players to keep pushing forward. Completing a level rewards access to a store, where cubes can be exchanged for credits to purchase health and ammo.

Conclusion:

Replikator successfully channels the spirit of classic retro space shooters while offering a formidable challenge and an engaging gameplay loop. The fusion of exploration, combat, and resource management keeps players immersed in an intriguing sci-fi world dominated by AI. With its visually appealing retro graphics, atmospheric soundtrack, and intense action sequences, Replikator captures the essence of the genre. Despite its occasional frustrations and shorter gameplay duration, the game’s affordable price tag and wealth of hidden goodies make it a worthwhile experience for space shooter enthusiasts and those seeking a nostalgic gaming journey. Embark on a daring adventure in Replikator, where survival hinges on your combat prowess and strategic decision-making.



Disclaimer: The Xbox review code for Replikator was provided by PR Hound.

Book Review – Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups

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If there ever was a book made for us, then Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups is it! As massive fans of side-scrolling beat’em ups (Ed: Double Dragon and Final Fight are still two of our all time faves), this book screamed for us to read it!

Relishing each turn of the page and soaking in all that beat’em up content found in this book, the adrenaline rush we felt was off the charts.

Back in the late 80s going to the local arcade involved checking out the latest and greatest beat’em up games. When the first 2-player co-op beat’em up, Double Dragon, showed up at our local arcade in 1987, we were smitten. We pumped so many 20c pieces in that machine (each credit was 40c), the coin box must have been quite heavy when taking them to the bank! Double Dragon felt fresh, with an amazing array of weapons to use on baddies (we loved swinging the baseball bat!), plus the punching, kicking, backward elbowing and our fave, the knee to the head, all felt visceral at the time.

It was a pleasant surprise to read my hero, Yoshihisa Kishimoto’s foreword! For those that don’t know, Yoshihisa-san was the original creator of Double Dragon – he was only 26 years old when he created the groundbreaking game. Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups is one heavy tome, so you’d be forgiven to think that it could also double up as a weapon in real life! Of course we jest about the weapon part, but we are dead serious about the weight of the book.

Packed with delicious beat’em up content (there are over 450 pages!), Go Straight covers all the major eras of the beat’em up genre, including the golden age from the mid 80s to the early 90s. Each decade from the 1980s onwards, has its own section, documenting all the games that were released during that period. The book documents every beat’em up that has ever graced a video game system (arcade and console) from 1980 all the way up to 2021 – that’s over 200 games!

There has been no stone left unturned in Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups. Dave Cook and the team at Bitmap Books has created a tome for all fans of beat’em ups, and if you aren’t a fan of this genre, we urge you to check this book out, as it is a great guide for first timers wanting to dip their toes in playing some iconic and fun side-scrolling beat’em ups! GO and read it now!!

  • Price: $79.99 AUD / Where to buy: PixelCrib

Specifications

  • 456 pages.
  • 210mm × 297mm. Hardback.
  • Gatefold pages.
  • Spot-varnished cover.
  • Edge-to-edge high quality lithographic print.
  • Sewn binding for enduring quality and the ability to lay flat for ideal double-page image viewing.



Disclaimer: Go Straight: The Ultimate Guide to Side-Scrolling Beat-’Em-Ups book was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.

Xeric NASA Voyager Automatic Watch – Review

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As a homage to the rich history & the farthest human-made object in space, the Xeric NASA Voyager Automatic 100ATM Diver, is a limited edition timepiece that reminds us of the value of exploration.

Ever since I could remember I’ve been fascinated by space and space travel. All I wanted to be was a NASA astronaut, but alas, that never eventuated.

My love of the cosmos hasn’t diminished over the years, if anything, it has gotten stronger, with streaming services making a myriad of astronomy based documentaries available on demand – which I consume with wild abandonment.

That unrestrained impulsiveness and enthusiasm for all things space related has now permeated other stuff I like, wristwatches! When I first gazed at the Xeric NASA Voyager Automatic watch on Kickstarter, I didn’t need much convincing to put in my pledge and snag one of only 1977 watches that pay homage to the rich history and the farthest human-made object in space, NASA’s Voyager 1 and 2, launched almost 46 years ago (in 1977). As Xeric offered (and still offers) nine variations of the NASA Voyager, all named after celestial bodies, my only problem was which one to choose?!

The lume is out of this solar system!

I must admit, I would have loved every singe variation of the watch, but alas, my lotto numbers never came up! I chose the ‘Ganymede’ NASA Voyager watch purely based on the fact that it represented the biggest moon in our solar system and that the metallic look reminded me of the Voyager vessel, complete with the awesome orange accents on the second, hour and minute hand – if you look closely, it does strike a resemblance to NASA’s interstellar traveler. Oh yeah, the NASA ‘worm’ logo on the dial and amazing lume (Super LumiNova) just top off a very robust diver’s watch. But wait, there is more! The caseback features an inlaid replica of “the Golden Record” cover which is found on the outside of the Voyager spacecraft, intended to communicate a story of our world to any intelligent life it could encounter in its journey – the detail is next level cool.

The watch is powered by the self-winding Seiko NH38 automatic movement. As you wear it, the rotor winds the mainspring, creating stored mechanical energy that powers the watch. The movement is housed in a robust stainless steel case complete with a tactile 120-click rotating bezel fit for divers. The watch may look hefty, but it honestly sit quite nice and comfortable on my 7″ wrist. Since this is a divers watch, it has a 1,000 metre depth rating, with an integrated helium escape valve built into the side casing, preventing a pressure differential that can occur during deep dives.

Caseback shot! The inlaid replica of “the Golden Record”, just like the one Voyager is carrying!

Wearing this watch is such a pleasure, thanks to the custom two-tone ribbed silicone strap – it just feels really good on the wrist without a sweat in sight. If you are clumsy, then rest assured that the 4mm thick sapphire glass (with anti-reflective coating) can withstand every day knocks.

The Xeric NASA Voyager Automatic is a special watch, not only due to its limited release (1977 pcs) but the fact that its unique design fuses and celebrates two things many of us love, space and watches. If you have the means and would like something different and something special, then I highly recommend you check out the Xeric NASA Voyager Automatic watch range.



Citizen Promaster Titanium BJ7115-85 Limited Edition ‘Brave Blossoms’ – Review

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This watch review first appeared on Zeitaku 贅沢 on January 25, 2023.

The limited edition diver’s watch by Citizen that celebrates the Japanese national rugby team and their national flower, the Sakura (cherry blossom)

Likes:

  • The complete package – love the striking look!
  • Super Titanium build makes this watch very comfortable to wear.

Dislikes:

  • The push pins and sleeves Citizen uses on their bracelets make it difficult to alter the length as they are easy to lose.
  • Tri-fold push-type clasp feels a tad flimsy, but I am nitpicking.

I have a few vices that can consume my time, and indeed my finances. One of those vices is watches. Yeah, I shouldn’t call watches a vice, but when you have more in your collection than there are days in the week, then yeah, they become a vice. I am sucker for limited edition watches, and I’m an even bigger sucker for good looking functional timepieces. Luckily for me, the Citizen Promaster Limited Edition ‘Brave Blossoms’ (Model BJ7115-85E) ticks both boxes & then some.

Celebrating Japan’s national rugby team, affectionately known as the Brave Blossoms, and the colours of the Sakura, Japan’s national flower (the cherry blossom), this Citizen watch oozes appeal from its impressive super titanium case and bracelet to its sapphire crystal glass, antimagnetic build and very useful GMT complication. The solar quartz movement powered by Citizen’s amazing Eco-Drive is coupled with the B877 caliber, which on full charge provides 6 months of continuous operation, even if left in the dark – another feather in this impressive watch’s hat.

If you are one to take your watch for a swim, then you won’t have to worry getting this Promaster wet, as it is rated at 20bar (200 metres water resistance) and has a screw-down crown for maximum water resistance. The gorgeous bezel rotates anti-clockwise with a satisfying 120 clicks.

The overall look of this JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) only Citizen is simply stunning. The super titanium makes the watch light on the wrist, and the 43mm wide case size with a thickness of 13.8mm is perfect for 6.75″ to 7″ wrists!  The burned-out charcoal colour looks amazing when coupled with the rose gold bezel trim, screw-down crown and the outline on the lumed markers and hands. The colouring on the outer rim on the dial represents the colours of the Japanese national flower (the cherry blossom), which against the black face, is an absolute beautiful contrast. The cyclops over the date at 3 is under the sapphire crystal, which means there is no bulge protruding above it, thus making it easier to clean the crystal. The caseback is just as gorgeous, with the engraving of the Japanese rugby team’s cherry blossom symbol.

 

I still can’t believe this watch bypassed me when it was released in 2019. Being a limited edition means that you’d be hard pressed to find a new one at a stockist, so your best bet would be to hit the second-hand market online – but be prepared to pay over its original retail price. The Citizen Promaster BJ7115-85E is truly a lovely built watch which would give watches 10 times its price a run for their money. This watch is so good, that if you look closely, Breitling’s new Superocean Automatic range of watches have an uncanny resemblance to it.

If you have the means or are in need of a titanium watch, then I highly recommend you check this one out.

 

Special thanks to The Gnomonist for kindly supplying this Citizen watch for the review.



CASIO EDIFICE ECB-2000MFG: MF Ghost & Initial D Watch – Review

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This review first appeared on Zeitaku 贅沢 on December 14, 2022. This repost is with permission from Zeitaku.

In the world of wristwatches, there are many brands that successfully collaborate with superstars from movie franchises and well known sports people, just ask the famous MI6 secret agent, 007, what he prefers to wear on his wrist – well, he’ll say Omega, of course.

When it comes to motor racing collaborations, our minds go straight to Formula 1. With timing playing a huge part in racing, from lap times to pit-stops, there is bound to be some big watch manufacturers clamoring for racing driver’s car and wrist real estate. These watch collaborations with big F1 teams and drivers usually come with eye-watering prices which are out of reach for mere mortals.

Luckily for us and for those of you that are into motosports, there are brands like Casio’s EDIFICE. I’ll spare you the history of Casio’s sub-brand in this review, but if you do want to read about it, go here.

Casio’s G-SHOCK range is their premier and most popular product line, but when it comes to stylish analogue and motorsport-inspired design, with an array of functions as their value proposition, then look no further than their EDIFICE collection.

For a more wallet friendly price, you can acquire an EDIFICE timepiece that suits your style and taste. EDIFICE watches come with an abundance of features and functions, from steel-cased, resin, ion plating, chronograph-equipped timepieces, to eye-catching carbon fiber dials with cleverly cut-out subdials to allow light to penetrate the tiny solar panel and the battery behind it.

The latest collaboration between EDIFICE and two landmark works of motorsport-themed manga penned by Shuichi Shigeno has resulted in a striking watch based on the original ECB-2000, which was designed to convey the motorsport worldview. The all-new collaborative design captures the dynamic realism of the street-racing world depicted in the two manga series, Initial D and MF Ghost. The watch pays homage to the two Toyota models that feature in the manga — the AE86 and the TOYOTA GT86, which share the nickname “Hachi-Roku” (Japanese for “Eight-Six”).

So what is so good about the EDIFICE ECB-2000MFG (aka: EDIFICE Initial D & MF Ghost) watch? Let’s start with its striking looks which demand eyes to gaze upon it.

The Build Quality & Watch Face

Let’s be straight – the watch face (aka: dial) is the most important part of any watch. If it’s not striking in looks, then no matter what other bells and whistles the watch may have, it will be bypassed and forgotten. Luckily for us, the ECB-2000MFG is gorgeous! Being part of the EDIFICE Sospensione range, the watch face takes its inspiration from a formula car suspension (the cross brace X) which cleverly separates the sub-dials into quadrants – including the function hand and two mini LCDs. The ECB-2000MFG is also 10BAR / 100-meter water resistant, so you don’t have to worry about water splashing on it when washing your hands or being caught out in the rain. Being 10BAR also means you could go swimming with it and also do some skin diving.

Paired with the Casio 5698 module (think caliber), the ECB-2000MFG offers a range of features on the main face and sub-dials, like seconds display, 24-hour displays, hour time, the date, and an indicator for the battery life, in addition to a reading of the time that’s accurate to +/- 20 seconds (per month).

The first thing that was noticed was the weight of the ECB-2000MFG — this thing is light (65g)! But don’t be fooled into thinking light means cheap quality, this could not be further from the truth. Being used to wearing hefty watches, this one almost felt like a feather on the wrist. Just like a racing car shedding weight to go faster, the lightweight of the ECB-2000MFG is attributed to its resin case, which has been uniquely designed with the lugs in a four-arm configuration – another striking feature.

The gorgeous metallic red bezel, black and red dial are inspired by the front grille of the Toyota GT86 that stars in the manga series MF GHOST. It’s these little details that truly make this a one of a kind watch.

The neobrite (luminosity) on the hands and sapphire crystal with glare-resistant coating are the cherries on top of an already delicious looking cake!

The packaging must get a special mention too – as you can see from the below images, it is in keeping with the theme (and you should keep it in a safe place once you take the watch out!).

The Band

How the watch attaches to your arm is a make or break deal. The ECB-2000MFG comes with a very comfortable Cordura® band, with my only gripe being that it feels a tad rigid. Nevertheless, once the watch is on, the band’s leather underside feels quite nice on the skin.

The red Cordura band also carries over features from the Manga series, with tracks and their round numbering on the top. But wait, there is more! The underside of the band has the Japanese Gyaaa characters stamped on it which were lifted straight from the pages of both Initial D and MF GHOST. Wait, there is more – the underside of the band also features “Fujiwara Tofu Shop (Private Use),” the familiar lettering on the side of the Toyota AE86 driven by Takumi Fujiwara, the protagonist in Initial D. Like I said, it’s the little details that make this special.

On The Wrist

This is a big watch, measuring 47.8mm in width – so it takes up a lot of wrist real estate. When viewed from the top, it could seem like you are wearing a dinner plate if your wrists are on the smaller side (< 7”). However, the watch is quite thin at a smidgen over 11mm, so it doesn’t wear big, like a TW Steel watch would. As already mentioned, the lightweight of the building materials make the ECB-2000MFG very comfortable to wear – you may even forget that you have it on!

On a wrist that is 7” or bigger, this watch demands attention wherever it is worn.

Features & Technology

The ECB-2000MFG comes with a plethora of features, functions and tech – see below. Coupled with smartphone link (iOS or Android app) for effortless watch operation via Bluetooth®, and Tough Solar charging for power, this high-performance chronograph frees you to focus on the road ahead.

  • World time 38 time zones (38 cities + coordinated universal time)
  • City code display, city name display
  • Daylight saving on/off, Auto summer time (DST) switching
  • Home city/World time city swapping
  • 1/100-second stopwatch
  • Measuring capacity: 00’00”00~59’59”99 (for the first 60 minutes) 1:00’00~23:59’59 (after 60 minutes)
  • Measuring unit: 1/100 second (for the first 60 minutes) 1 second (after 60 minutes)
  • Measuring modes: Elapsed time, lap/split time
  • Countdown timer
  • Measuring unit: 1 second
  • Countdown range: 60 minutes
  • Countdown start time setting range: 1 second to 60 minutes (1-second increments and 1-minute increments)
  • Other: Progress beeper
  • 5 daily alarms (with progress beeper)
  • Hourly time signal
  • Double LED light
  • LED light for the face (Super illuminator, selectable illumination duration (1.5 seconds or 3 seconds), afterglow)
  • LED backlight for the digital display (Super illuminator, selectable illumination duration (1.5 seconds or 3 seconds), afterglow)
  • LED:White
  • Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)
  • Mute feature: Button operation tone on/off
  • Power Saving (display goes blank to save power when the watch is left in the dark)
  • Battery level indicator
  • Approx. battery operating time:
  • 7 months on rechargeable battery (operation period with normal use without exposure to light after charge)
  • 18 months on rechargeable battery (operation period when stored in total darkness with the power save function on after full charge)
  • Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month (with no mobile link function)
  • 12/24-hour format
  • Day display (days of the week selectable in six languages)
  • Hand shift feature (Hands move out of the way to provide an unobstructed view of digital display contents.)
  • Regular timekeeping:
  • Analog: 2 hands (Hour, minute (hand moves every 20 seconds))
  • 1 dial (countdown alert)
  • Digital: Hour, minute, second, pm, date, day
  • Progress beeper on/off

Specifications & Price

  • Case size (L× W× H): 51 × 47.8 × 11.4 mm
  • Weight: 65 g
  • Case / bezel material: Resin / Stainless steel / Aluminum
  • CORDURA® Band
  • 100-meter water resistance
  • Tough Solar (Solar powered)
  • Price: AU$899.00

Is The Casio EDIFICE ECB-2000MFG Any Good?

I’ll be honest with you all, I am not a big fan of reviews — by their very nature they are subjective. My tastes and likes may not be your cup of tea, and vice-versa. The Casio EDIFICE MF Ghost / Initial D (ECB-2000MFG) watch is one of those timepieces that you’ll either like or totally dislike, there’s no middle ground. For the record, I LOVE it!

The ECB-2000MFG is a fun watch that demands attention with its striking looks – the metallic red band around the bezel, and the red accents on the dial are exquisite and really pop when out in sunlight. My geeky intuition tells me that this unique watch will be quite sought after in the future.

This new and limited Casio EDIFICE ECB-2000MFG watch is a must-have edition for fans of cars, racing, and of course — these manga masterworks.

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I’m Too Young To Die: The Ultimate Guide to First-Person Shooters 1992–2002 – Book Review

By

Just in time for Christmas comes Bitmap Books’ I’m Too Young To Die: The Ultimate Guide to First-Person Shooters 1992–2002 book, making the perfect gift for those that are into video games history of the First Person Shooter variety.

There is no doubt the 1990s laid the foundation of one of the most enduring gaming genres, the First Person Shooter, or as we lovingly call it these days, FPS. We recall in high school getting a 3.5″ floppy with the shareware version of Wolfenstein 3D. To say the game blew our mind, would be the understatement of the century! Even with our humble low-spec PC, the game ran at a phenomenal speed. DOOM and DOOM II (and their many many community made WAD files) kept us very busy during the mid 90s, which almost cost us a few exam results at college! Once Quake hit our computers, followed by GoldenEye 007 on the Nintendo 64, the FPS genre had embedded itself in gaming folklore, with many fans around the world enjoying the gaming experience. Ah, those were the days.

I’m Too Young To Die: The Ultimate Guide to First-Person Shooters 1992–2002 by Stuart Maine captures the fledgling days of FPS during its experimental and formative years, from 1992 till 2002. The book captures everything there is from the FPS golden age, covering some 180+ titles, from 007: Agent Under Fire through to Zero Tolerance and ZPC!

For the uninitiated, the book has a great intro by the author, Stuart Maine and a Foreword from one of the pioneers of the genre, John Romero. It then breaks down the genre in its constituent parts, so if you had never played an FPS, you most probably will after reading the overview and breakdown. Whether obscure oddities or genre-defining behemoths, first-person shooters transported players to alien worlds, alternate universes and the shores of Hell itself, and in doing so helped to trigger the 3D-graphics arms race.

The meat of this heavy book is the coverage of 180+ FPS titles, containing in-depth research and hundreds of eye popping screenshots. I’m Too Young To Die covers it all, from the classics that defined the genre, including DOOM and Quake, Half-Life, Deus Ex, GoldenEye 007 and Halo; multiplayer-only games such as Starsiege: Tribes, Unreal Tournament and Quake III, along with mods like Counter-Strike and Team Fortress; experimental games that pushed the genre in new directions, including Gun Buster, Codename Eagle, Assassin 2015 and Trespasser; forgotten games like ZPC and ReVOLUTION; and hidden gems like Dust, Wrath of Earth and Azrael’s Tear.

But wait, there is more! Even though the focus of this book is from 1992 to 2002, it acknowledges the precursors to first-person shooters, by charting the genre’s inception and evolution through maze and role-playing games, from Maze War, Spectre and 3-D Monster Chase, through to MIDI Maze, The Colony and Corporation to name just a few.

The in-depth interviews with industry legends such as Ian and Chris Andrew (the Freescape games), Scott Miller (Apogee and 3D Realms), David Doak (GoldenEye 007 and TimeSplitters), Randy Pitchford (Gearbox Software), Karl Deckard (Metroid Prime and Valve’s Prospero), plus many more is a huge highlight of what is an outstanding book. There is always something new that we learn in interview from people that were there at the time.

As we mentioned from the top, this book would be a great Christmas gift for yourself or someone that is into first-person shooters. We’ve read lots of gaming related books over the years – all being quite good, but this one is our current favourite – it’s brilliant!

Specifications & Where To Buy:

  • Title: I’m Too Young To Die: The Ultimate Guide to First-Person Shooters 1992–2002
  • Publisher: Bitmap Books
  • Pages: 424 pages
  • Size: 210mm × 297mm
  • Print: Edge-to-edge high quality lithographic print.
  • Cover: Hardback. Sewn binding for enduring quality and the ability to lay flat for ideal double-page image viewing. Spot varnished cover and dust jacket highlighting key elements against a matte background.
  • Price: AU$69.99
  • Buy from: PixelCrib – the gaming culture specialists and purveyors of rare, high-quality video game memorabilia and collectibles



Disclaimer: I’m Too Young To Die: The Ultimate Guide to First-Person Shooters 1992–2002 book was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.