This blog puts all our YouTube videos in one place and gives you news on games and other stuff. If we see it online and think its interesting then I'll put it on here, or our Facebook page (Links to the right).
343 Industries, the studio behind the iconic Halo franchise, has been known for its in-house engine Slipspace, which has been in use for the past two decades. However, according to a recent Bloomberg report, the studio has decided to part ways with Slipspace and move to Epic Games' Unreal Engine for its latest project, code named Tatanka. This decision marks a significant shift for the studio and is sure to have a major impact on the future of the Halo franchise.
For years, 343 Industries has been using Slipspace, an engine built on '90s and early 2000s code, to power its games. While Slipspace has served the studio well for many years, the technology has become outdated, and the studio has been looking for a more modern solution. The move to Unreal Engine is seen as a logical step forward for the studio, as it will allow it to take advantage of the latest advancements in gaming technology.
While little is known about Tatanka, the game is said to have started off as a battle royale, but it may pivot to other game modes as development continues. This is an exciting development for fans of the Halo franchise, who have been eagerly anticipating the next installment for years. The choice to finally switch to Unreal Engine was reportedly a long-debated one by management at 343 Industries, and the move was made following the departure of studio head Bonnie Ross and engine lead David Berger, and the takeover by Pierre Hintze.
Tatanka was leaked early last year on the Gaming Leaks and Rumors subreddit by yutuyo20, who found internal code from Certain Affinity hinting at a new Halo Infinite project. The leaked code shared a name with WWE wrestler Tatanka, who won a 40-man battle royale in 1992, lining up with the report that Tatanka began as a battle royale. This has led fans to speculate that the next Halo game will feature a battle royale mode, which would be a first for the franchise.
In conclusion, the move to Unreal Engine by 343 Industries for its upcoming project Tatanka is a major step forward for the studio and the Halo franchise. The adoption of this modern engine will allow the studio to create more advanced and immersive games, and fans of the franchise are eagerly anticipating the next installment. While little is known about Tatanka at this time, the early leak has already sparked excitement and speculation among fans, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for the Halo franchise.
Back to Skool is a classic video game that was released in 1985 for the ZX Spectrum by Microsphere. The game was created by David Reidy, whose wife Helen was a school teacher at the time, and the graphics were done by Keith Warrington. It is the sequel to the popular Skool Daze, and it incorporates most of the same characters, gameplay elements, and graphics as its predecessor.
The game is ranked 19th in the "Your Sinclair official top 100" Spectrum games of all time, and it is considered a cult classic among retro gamers. The game differs from its predecessor by an increase in the size of the play area (including a neighboring girls' school) and a number of gameplay changes.
Tree in the School Yard
The girls' school in Back to Skool introduces new characters, including undistinguished girls with hockey sticks, Hayley (girlfriend of the main character Eric) and Miss Take (the headmistress). Only at break time and lunch times are the girls allowed to mingle with the boys, in the central grassy playground, separated at other times by a high gate. The opening and closing of the gate is controlled by the school caretaker Albert, a new character to the game. It is also possible for Eric to sneak over the gate into the girls' school during lesson times, either using the bicycle (after completing the challenge of finding its lock's combination and then performing a tricky manoeuvre on it), by watering the flower beside the gate and then jumping on it, or by kissing Hayley through the gate. When the girls and boys are allowed to mingle, and when Eric gains access to the girls' school, he can kiss Hayley, who will then agree to do 1000 of his lines for him. This reduction method can be used up to six times before Hayley refuses to help Eric any more.
The Girls School
Elements added in Back to Skool include stink bombs (used to trigger the opening of windows), water pistols, mice that can be released in the girls' school causing widespread panic, and sherry (which can be squirted into cups and used to "intoxicate" teachers by splashing it on them with correct timing). These new elements add an extra level of mischief and mischief-making to the game, making it even more fun and challenging.
One of the most interesting features of Back to Skool is the ability to commit suicide by opening the top-storey window and making Eric jump out. This might seem like a strange feature, but it is actually necessary to sneak into the girls' school, as only the first floor windows can be opened and jumped out of - not the second. When this happens, Eric will lie incapacitated on the ground outside the boys' school until Mr Wacker approaches and tells him "You are not a bird, Eric. You're expelled", and the game ends.
Stink Bombs and Water Pistols in the Science Lab
There are also a few bugs in the game that can be exploited to gain an advantage. For example, there is a bug that enables you to see what goes on in the girls' school without leaving the boys' school. To do this, go as far left as possible in the Blue Room, then face right and press the key that would have Eric pick up a mouse or frog (C), or K (kiss). The whole screen will scroll if you press any button until it goes all the way to the girls' school. Once the scrolling is complete, Eric can move around as usual, unseen, and will not pick up any lines. You can, through trial and error, get to the girls' school upon which the game will go back to normal. This is best attempted at playtime, (so the gate between the two schools is open,) and really isn't that difficult to do provided you know your way around the boys' school.
Another bug exists whereby it is possible to make a teacher completely disappear from the blue room. Once a lesson in that room has started, position yourself so that the lesson starts properly but the teacher is out of sight to the left. Leave the room just enough to let Einstein start reporting "Please Sir... Eric is not here." If you re-enter the room before Einstein has finished his sentence, still keeping the teacher out of sight, the teacher will - instead of issuing lines - turn around, start cleaning the blackboard, continuing to wipe the wall, then will walk through the wall on the far left-hand side. After a while, the teacher eventually re-emerges through the wall at the right of Miss Take's office in the girls' school, then makes his way back to the boys' school and continues as normal.
Overall, Back to Skool is a fun and challenging game that takes the best elements of its predecessor, Skool Daze, and expands upon them in new and exciting ways. The addition of the girls' school and the new gameplay elements make it a unique and entertaining experience that is sure to keep players engaged for hours on end. The game's bugs and glitches may be frustrating at times, but they also add an extra level of challenge and exploration to the game, making it even more fun. If you're a fan of retro gaming and are looking for a fun and challenging game to play, Back to Skool is definitely worth checking out.
If you want to play the original Skool Daze on modern hardware you can download the remake called Klass on 99 here.
Atic Atac. Developed and published by Ultimate Play the Game in 1983, this arcade-adventure game was released for the ZX Spectrum and the BBC Micro.
Spectrum Box Art
Atic Atac is set inside a labyrinth of a complex castle and the player is trapped inside. The objective of the game is to collect three pieces of the "Golden Key of ACG" in order to escape. One of the unique features of the game is the player's ability to choose from three different characters - a Wizard, Knight or Serf. Each character has different ground friction, a different weapon to kill common enemies and access to a secret passage unique to them. This means that navigating the castle is different for each character, and players can enjoy the game in multiple ways.
The game is presented in a top-down perspective, and players must explore the castle to find the pieces of the key. The castle is filled with a variety of rooms, and each room is filled with enemies that the player must avoid. The game also features a variety of items that players can find and collect. These items include differently-coloured keys which will unlock their respective doors, the three pieces of the ACG key, and other items that affect certain enemies or are mere red herrings. The game's design is such that players must explore the castle to find the key pieces and other items, and the game becomes more challenging as the player progresses.
Start Menu
The game also features common enemies that appear in each room upon entering and will attack the player on sight. Collision with these enemies destroys them but drains a portion of the player's health. There are also stationary poisonous fungi which will drain health constantly if the player is in contact with them, and enemies that require special items in order to either distract, repel or kill them, otherwise they remain in the room, invulnerable to conventional attacks, and rapidly drain the player's health if touched. The player has three lives upon starting the game, and should they die a gravestone will appear at their location and stay in place for the remainder of the current game. Health can be replenished by collecting food scattered throughout the castle, however, it will constantly drop the more the player moves, thus the player may eventually lose a life from starvation if they have not escaped the castle in time.
In Game
Atic Atac received a positive critical reception upon release. Critics praised the game for its graphics and gameplay, and it was later included in the 2015 release by Rare on the Xbox One retrospective compilation, Rare Replay. The game served as inspiration for the critically acclaimed adventure game show Knightmare. The game was Ultimate's third consecutive number one in the UK Spectrum sales chart, following Lunar Jetman and Tranz Am. In 1991, Atic Atac was ranked as the 79th best ZX Spectrum game of all time by Your Sinclair, and was voted the 8th best game of all time by the readers of Retro Gamer Magazine for an article that was scheduled to be in a special Your Sinclair Tribute issue. In 2007, Eurogamer described it as a prime example of "what passion can do when properly digitized."
Overall, Atic Atac is a retro gaming classic that is definitely worth revisiting. Its intricate gameplay, challenging levels, and unique characters make it a must-play for any retro gaming fan. Whether you're a fan of arcade-adventure games or just enjoy a good retro gaming experience, Atic Atac is sure to be a hit. So, dust off your old ZX Spectrum or BBC Micro and give it a try!
When it comes to retro gaming, the Sega Genesis (also known as the Mega Drive in Europe) has a plethora of classic titles to choose from. One of the lesser-known gems of the system is Burning Force, a third-person shooter developed and published by Namco in 1990.
Japan Box Art
In Burning Force, players take control of the 21-year-old space cadet Hiromi Tengenji, a pilot training to become a member of the Space Force, who must complete each level by shooting down enemies with her airbike, and avoiding projectiles. The game features six worlds divided into four areas, with the first two sections of each world having Hiromi control her airbike, which can move to the left and right, brake and accelerate, and fire bullets and missiles at enemies. The third area of every world is a boss battle, and the airbike will be transformed into a flying ship, which can move in all directions. The fourth area of each world, however, is a bonus stage and the player has to collect as many spheres as possible for bonus points.
Day One
One of the standout features of Burning Force is its smooth and well detailed graphics. The game runs at a fast pace with plenty of action, making it a thrilling experience. Additionally, the game's soundtrack is noteworthy and adds to the excitement and immerses players in the futuristic world.
In conclusion, Burning Force is a solid choice for fans of the genre and especially for those who appreciate a good soundtrack in their games. It's a shame it's not as well known as other titles on the Sega Genesis, but it's definitely worth giving a try for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Skool Daze is a classic title that holds a special place in our hearts. Originally released for the ZX Spectrum in 1984, this 2D platform game takes players on a journey through the ups and downs of a typical school day, all while trying to retrieve a terrible report card from the headmaster's safe.
One of the key features of "Skool Daze" is its level of customization. Players are able to rename the main characters, including the protagonist Eric and the teachers and pupils. This adds an extra layer of personalization to the gameplay experience, as players can give the characters names that are meaningful to them.
The gameplay of "Skool Daze" is challenging but not impossible. Players take control of Eric, navigating through the various challenges and obstacles of school life, such as going to class on time, avoiding detention, and dealing with other students who may try to block the player's progress. The objective of the game is to steal the report card by obtaining every piece of the pass-code from the teachers, by hitting each of the shields with your catapult.
One of the challenges of the game is that if Eric is caught out of class or otherwise misbehaving, the teacher characters will pursue him and issue lines. If Eric accumulates 10,000 lines or more, the game ends with his expulsion. This adds an extra layer of realism and challenge to the gameplay experience, as the player must be careful to avoid getting caught or getting into trouble. The game can be controlled using both a joystick and a keyboard, which allows players to use the method of control that they are most comfortable with.
With its sense of humour and challenging gameplay, "Skool Daze" was well-received upon its release and is considered a classic of the early days of gaming. It still has a cult following today and is a must-play for fans of retro gaming and platform games. Its customization options make it even more enjoyable.
If you want to play this game on modern hardware there is a remake called Klass of '99 available here.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is one of the most popular first-person shooters in the gaming industry. The game has been around for over a decade, but it still manages to attract a large player base. The game developers, Infinity Ward, are now introducing changes to the perks system in the game, which will give players an even more exciting experience.
For those who are not familiar with the game, the perks system in Modern Warfare 2 allows players to select four perks for a match. However, only two are active at the beginning of the game, as players will earn the third and fourth perks over the course of the match. The ones active at the start are known as base perks, followed by bonus, and then finally the ultimate perk for late-game combat encounters. The development team is now updating how these perks are earned, but they aren’t changing the core ideas of the system.
One of the biggest changes coming to the perks system in Modern Warfare 2 is the reduction of the cost of bonus and ultimate perks. The developer, Infinity Ward, announced that they will be reducing the cost of bonus perks by 50%, with ultimate ones getting a 25% reduction. This will make it much easier for players to earn the higher-tier perks during matches. The developer specifically names Ghost, an ultimate perk in Modern Warfare 2, and mentions receiving a lot of feedback around the time at which it unlocks. The team considered changing its position in the new perks system but concluded that this would create a massive balance issue.
Another change coming to Modern Warfare 2 multiplayer in Season 2 is the return of the hardcore playlist. This playlist is designed for players who want a more realistic and intense experience. The hardcore playlist will feature more realistic bullet damage, no killstreak rewards, and no minimap. Additionally, the developer is also making tweaks to weapon balance, which will make the game more fair and balanced for all players.
The post also gives an overview of the improvements coming to Call of Duty: Warzone 2 in Season 2, such as the Gulag going back to 1v1 encounters. Furthermore, Activision will make massive changes to the way cash and store prices work in Warzone 2, as players will now be able to collect more cash during matches. It’ll also feature an update to the way armour plates work, confirming that each player will now start the game with a 3-plate vest and different-sized vests will be removed from the game.
In conclusion, the changes coming to the perks system in Modern Warfare 2 will give players a more exciting and balanced experience. The reduction of the cost of bonus and ultimate perks will make it much easier for players to earn these perks during matches. Additionally, the return of the hardcore playlist and tweaks to weapon balance will give players a more realistic and intense experience. The developer, Infinity Ward, is also making changes to Warzone 2, which will make the game more fair and balanced for all players. We can't wait to see how these changes will affect the gameplay experience and we are looking forward to the full patch notes.
Jetpac is a classic arcade-style game that was developed and published by Ultimate Play the Game for the ZX Spectrum in May 1983. As a fan of retro gaming, I recently had the opportunity to revisit this classic title, as well as its 2007 remake, Jetpac Refuelled, and I wanted to share my thoughts on it with others.
First and foremost, Jetpac features simple, colourful graphics that are true to the era in which it was developed. The game's protagonist, Jetman, is a charming and likable character, and the various alien creatures that he must contend with are also well-designed and visually interesting. The game's background is also nicely detailed and gives a good sense of the game's setting.
ZX Spectrum Gameplay
The gameplay of Jetpac is fast-paced and engaging. Players control Jetman as he must assemble and fuel his spaceship while avoiding alien creatures and collecting valuable resources. The controls are responsive and easy to learn, making the game accessible to players of all skill levels. The game's increasing difficulty level also provides a good challenge as players progress through the levels.
One of the things that I particularly enjoyed about Jetpac was the sense of progression that it provided. As players collect resources and assemble their spaceship, they are able to access new levels and unlock new challenges. This sense of progression is something that is often missing from modern arcade-style games, and it was refreshing to experience it again in Jetpac.
JetPac Refuelled Xbox Live Arcade
It's worth mentioning that in 2007, Rare, the studio that created the original game released a remake of Jetpac for Xbox Live Arcade, named Jetpac Refuelled. The game features updated graphics, new gameplay elements and levels, and online leader boards, which are a nice addition for those who want to compete with other players.
Overall, Jetpac is a fun and entertaining game that is well worth checking out for fans of retro gaming and the ZX Spectrum. The game's simple but engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and sense of progression make it a classic title that is sure to provide hours of entertainment. If you're a fan of arcade-style games, or if you're just looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, Jetpac is definitely worth adding to your collection.
The Sega Dreamcast was released in 1999, and it's hard to believe that it's been over 20 years since its launch. Despite the console being deemed a commercial failure and leading to Sega's transition into a third-party game publisher, the Dreamcast still has a dedicated fanbase in the retro gaming community. Recently, a fan of the Dreamcast stumbled upon a display kiosk for the console while browsing a store, and the image they shared on Reddit serves as a reminder of the Dreamcast's impact on gaming.
Game kiosks have been a long-standing way to demonstrate game consoles in stores, with some replicating playing games in a comfortable setting while many others being little more than a screen to stand in front of with controllers connected to the console inside. For those who grew up during the Dreamcast's era, these kiosks can be a source of nostalgia, evoking memories of when the console was relevant and being displayed in stores carrying the system.
This is likely what Reddit user TheKlaxMaster felt when they stumbled upon a Dreamcast kiosk in a store and posted a picture of it, stating that they were tempted to pick it up but had no place to keep it. The picture shows the kiosk in fantastic condition, although it lacks the Dreamcast console and the unique controllers whose features and design still stand out. When asked about where this was found, TheKlaxMaster specified that this was in Las Vegas and that it was also being sold for $1500 which they believed was too much, and an eagle-eyed commenter agreed, stating that given the missing pieces, it should cost far less than what it currently sits at.
Many comments on the post joked about the kiosk's appearance, with one commenter comparing it to a Dalek from Doctor Who and another who claims to have displays for other systems stating that this one was one of the few they passed on because of how ugly it was. However, there were also positive reactions to it, with one user commenting that if they lived in a bathroom, they would sleep around it.
Despite the mixed reaction, the post does show how the Dreamcast still has a special place for some. Its legacy is notable enough that even Sega has caught on to its impact and is potentially reviving a title from the Dreamcast's era. At the very least, TheKlaxMaster's discovery is a cool reminder of a bygone time in gaming when Sega was a competitor to Nintendo and Sony, and that these reminders can be preserved in great condition despite the Dreamcast itself being discontinued decades ago.
The Dreamcast was ahead of its time and offered features that were not seen in other consoles of its era, such as online gaming and a built-in modem. It also had a strong lineup of games that included titles like "Sonic Adventure," "Soulcalibur," and "Crazy Taxi." Even though the console was not a commercial success, it has left a lasting impression on the gaming community. The Dreamcast's legacy lives on through its dedicated fanbase, emulation, and even the potential for a revival of a title from its era.
In conclusion, the Dreamcast may have been Sega's last console, but its impact on gaming will not be forgotten. The discovery of this well-preserved kiosk serves as a reminder of the Dreamcast's legacy and the nostalgia it evokes for a bygone era in gaming. It's a testament to the console's staying power and the impact it had on the industry.
Are you a retro gaming enthusiast looking for a thrilling and visually stunning shoot 'em up game? Look no further than Sol-Feace, developed by Wolf Team and released on the Sega Mega CD in 1992. This hidden gem is sure to provide hours of entertainment and nostalgia for any fan of the genre. Set in the year 2112, humanity is locked in a fierce battle against GCS-WT, a self-aware supercomputer that has gained sentience by taking in information at an alarming rate. GCS-WT, seeing itself as superior to humanity, gave them an ultimatum: be ruled or be destroyed. As the pilot of the Sol-Feace, a state-of-the-art spaceship, it's up to you to save humanity and restore peace to the galaxy.
Stage One Boss
One of the things that sets Sol-Feace apart from other shoot 'em ups of its time is its mesmerizing visuals. The Mega CD's ability to display more colours and animation than the standard Sega Genesis allows for incredibly detailed and vibrant backgrounds and enemies. But it's not just about the visuals, the gameplay is fast-paced, action-packed and will put your reflexes to the test. Players must navigate through waves of enemy ships, dodging bullets, collect powerups and unleash fury.
Let's not forget about the bosses, each with their own unique attack patterns and weaknesses, that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Terrible USA Box Art
The soundtrack of the game is one of the key features that makes the game even more immersive. The music tracks are composed by Motoi Sakuraba and features a combination of rock and electronic elements that perfectly complement the fast-paced action of the game. Each level has its unique soundtrack that sets the tone for the level and enhances the overall experience. Don't let this hidden gem pass you by, Sol-Feace on the Sega Mega CD is a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast looking for an out-of-this-world experience. So, dust off your Sega Mega CD, put on your headphones and get ready to blast off and shut down GCS-WT with the powerful Sol-Feace spaceship!"
The Sega Dreamcast, first released in 1999, was a ground-breaking gaming console that left a lasting impression on the gaming community. With the release of mini versions of classic consoles like the SNES and NES, many fans of the Dreamcast have been left wondering when a mini version of their favourite console will be released. In this post, we will explore why a Sega Dreamcast Mini would be a great addition to the gaming market.
One of the biggest advantages of a Sega Dreamcast Mini would be its size. The original Dreamcast was a bulky console, but a mini version would be much more portable and easier to fit into a home entertainment setup. This would make it perfect for gaming on the go or for taking to a friend's house for a gaming session.
Another great feature of a Sega Dreamcast Mini would be the variety of games it would come with. The console would be pre-installed with a selection of classic Dreamcast games, providing hours of entertainment for fans of the original console. These games would be a mix of fan-favourites and lesser-known titles, giving both dedicated fans and newcomers a chance to experience the Dreamcast's library.
Additionally, a Sega Dreamcast Mini would also include some modern features that were not available in the original console, such as revamped online multiplayer and save states. This would make the gaming experience even more enjoyable and accessible for players of all skill levels.
In conclusion, a Sega Dreamcast Mini would be a great addition to the gaming market. It would offer a nostalgic look back at one of the most innovative consoles of all time, as well as modern features that would make it even more enjoyable to play. It would be a must-have for any fan of the original Dreamcast and would be a great way to relive the glory days of gaming. Fans of the Dreamcast can only hope that Sega will consider releasing a mini version of their beloved console in the future.
Pinball Fantasies is a 1992 pinball video game originally developed by Digital Illusions and published by 21st Century Entertainment in Europe for the Amiga home computers. It is the sequel to Pinball Dreams, which was released earlier in the same year on multiple platforms. In the game, players can choose between any of the four available playfields, both of which have their own thematic and main objectives in order to obtain the highest score possible.
Pinball Fantasies was created by the same team who previously developed Pinball Dreams and although it was initially released for the Amiga computers, the title was later ported to other computers and consoles including the Amiga CD32, Atari Jaguar, Game Boy, MS-DOS, PlayStation and Super Nintendo Entertainment System, with each one featuring several changes and additions compared to the original version.
Upon its release on the Amiga, Pinball Fantasies was met with critical acclaim from video game magazines and garnered praise for several aspects such as the presentation, visuals, audio, gameplay and overall improvements from its predecessor. Other versions of the game were met with a mostly similar positive response from reviewers, with some publications like PC Gamer regarding it as one of the best video games of all time. A follow-up, Pinball Illusions, was released in 1995.
Gameplay
Like Pinball Dreams, Pinball Fantasies is an arcade-style pinball game featuring four types of pinball tables and each one has their own main objective, gameplay mechanics and thematic. The game has various levels of difficulty and the player can set the number of balls for play, among other gameplay options. In certain versions of the game, high-scores and other settings made by the player are automatically kept via the cartridge's internal EEPROM, as well as reset the internal memory of the cartridge to erase saved high-scores and personal settings.
Tables
Amiga Version
"Party Land", the table included in the shareware release, is oriented around an amusement park where the letters of either "PARTY" or "CRAZY" must be lit to start a high-scoring event. "Speed Devils" is focused on car racing and the players must overtake cars to take the lead position. "Billion Dollar Gameshow" is a game show-style table where players attempt to win prizes by achieving certain combinations of ramps. "Stones 'N Bones" is based on a haunted house, where players must light eight successively more rewarding modes by completing a bank of targets marked "STONE-BONE" and then cycle continuously through the modes.
All four tables award one extra ball at the instant the highest score on the list is exceeded, and when the match at the end succeeds. Each table also has one special ramp (Speed Devils has two), which keeps track of the number of hits as a running total of Cyclones (Party Land), Miles (Speed Devils), Skills (Billion Dollar Gameshow) or Screams (Stones 'N Bones). The first shot counts for two. Each of these shots is worth 100,000 points in the bonus. With the exception of Party Land, the tables also award special awards at specific numbers. Each of the four tables has one or two high-scoring rounds that can be started by achieving certain objectives. Specific numbers of Miles and Skills trigger their respective tables' rounds. The scores for these modes, excluding "Tower Hunt", are awarded as part of the bonus though not multiplied and can be lost if the game is tilted.
Development and Release
Amiga Version
Pinball Fantasies was created by the original team who previously developed Pinball Dreams at Digital Illusions. Producer Barry Simpson led the project's development process, with Fredrik Liljegren acting as manager and chief. Andreas Axelsson and Ulf Mandorff served as programmers, while Olof Gustafsson composed the soundtrack and created the sound effects. Markus Nyström acted as the game's sole artist. The game was first released for the Amiga by 21st Century Entertainment in Europe in October 1992. In September 1993, an Amiga CD32 conversion was released, based upon the improved Amiga Advanced Graphics Architecture (AGA) version for the Amiga 1200 and Amiga 4000. It was later ported to MS-DOS computers by FrontLine Design, offering multiple audio options. The DOS port was digitally re-released by Rebellion Developments on 22 February 2011 on Good Old Games with support for Microsoft Windows. It received an OS X build on 23 April 2013 and a Linux build on 19 August 2014 respectively. A compilation including the tables from Pinball Mania was released for DOS as Pinball Fantasies Deluxe.
GB Version
In February 1995, versions for both the Game Boy and Super Nintendo Entertainment System were developed by Spidersoft and released in North America and Europe by GameTek. The Super NES port contains all four tables and the same music as the Amiga version, but suffers from a limited colour palette. The SNES version was also published in Brazil by Playtronic in February 1996. In June 1995, an Atari Jaguar conversion by Spidersoft with extra colours was co-published by 21st Century Entertainment and Computer West in North America and Europe. The Jaguar port was also distributed in Japan by Messe Sansao. A PlayStation compilation created by Spidersoft titled Pinball Fantasies Deluxe was published exclusively in Japan by VAP on 25 October 1996, which also includes the Pinball Mania tables but these have to be unlocked first.
A Game Boy Advance version of the game, under the title Pinball Challenge Deluxe, with tables added from Pinball Dreams, was released only in Europe by Ubi Soft. On 20 July 2009, an iOS version was released by Cowboy Rodeo. Between October and December of the same year, a PlayStation Network version was released by Cowboy Rodeo for PlayStation Portable and PlayStation 3. A Nokia N9 version was released 20 July 2011 by Cowboy Rodeo in the Nokia Store. In 2012, a 3D/HD rendition was released for iOS by Cowboy Rodeo.
Reception
SNES CART
Pinball Fantasies was a major commercial success, and among its era's highest-selling games GamePro panned the Super NES version. The reviewer remarked that though there is a large number of tables, the scrolling is so jerky that the game is almost unplayable. He further criticized that the graphics are dull and fail to make the ramps and obstacles of the tables stand out from the backgrounds. Next Generation also found the fact that the Super NES version displays less than half of the table at a time to be a problem, in part because of the poor scrolling, but also because "Since a lot of the scoring devices are near the top of the table, it means that most of the time you're shooting blind."
GamePro gave the Jaguar version an only slightly more positive assessment. The reviewer praised the graphics but assessed the game to be completely lacking in fun due to the limited gameplay, stating that "anybody who thinks a $60 video game should offer some imaginative surprises will be severely disappointed."
In 1994, PC Gamer US named Pinball Fantasies the 33rd best computer game ever. The editors hailed it as "the best and most realistic pinball action ever seen on a PC screen". That same year, PC Gamer UK named it the 19th best computer game of all time. The editors wrote, "If Pinball's your thing, there's currently nothing on the PC (or any home system, for that matter) better than this". In 1995, PC Gamer US presented Pinball Fantasies with its 1994 "Best Arcade Game" award.
The four reviewers of Electronic Gaming Monthly gave the Game Boy version a 4 out of 10, citing a lack of excitement in any of the tables, overly simplistic graphics, and annoying sound effects.
Pinball Dreams is a pinball simulation video game developed by Digital Illusions and originally released for the Amiga in 1992. It spawned several sequels, including Pinball Fantasies and Pinball Illusions. The MS-DOS port was digitally released by Rebellion Developments along with its sequel and Pinball Mania on February 22, 2011 on GOG.com with support for Microsoft Windows. It received an OS X build on April 23, 2013 and a Linux build on August 19, 2014.
GamePlay
The game's four tables each had a theme, as do most real-life pinball & Panchinko machines. The version of Pinball Dreams bundled with the Amiga 1200 had a bug which rendered most of Beat Box's advanced features non-functional.
"Ignition", themed around a rocket launch, planets, and space exploration. The Expert Software's Pinball 2000 port of the game renamed this table "Rocket".
"Steel Wheel", themed around steam trains and the Old West.
"Beat Box", themed around the music industry, charts, bands and tours.
"Nightmare", themed around a graveyard, ghosts, demons, nightmares and generally evil things. Unlike the other tables in the game, the name of the table in the menu did not reflect the name displayed on the table itself—"Graveyard". Some ports of the game (notably the GameTek port to the Game Boy) name this table "Graveyard" in the menu as well.
Development
The ball moves according to reasonably realistic physics, and the game was restricted to using table elements which would also be possible to build in reality. Sound and music were realized with Module files, with this technology several music tracks could be included on the limited space of floppy disks.
Ports:
Commodore Amiga (THE BEST VERSION)
Atari Falcon
Commodore 64: A preview was released at the Breakpoint demo party in April 2006.[5]
Game Boy
Game Gear
Game Boy Advance: Under the title Pinball Challenge Deluxe, with tables added from Pinball Fantasies.
GP32: Released in October 2002.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System: A mostly accurate conversion, including all four tables and near-perfect sound. However, the red "blood" under the top bumper in the "Nightmare" table has been changed to blue and the crosses were removed.
PC: A conversion for DOS based systems by Spidersoft.
iPhone/iPod Touch: Released in January 2009 by Cowboy Rodeo as Pinball Dreaming: Pinball Dreams.
PlayStation Network: Released in November 2009 by Cowboy Rodeo.
iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad: Released in July 2011 by Cowboy Rodeo as Pinball Dreams HD.
OS X: Released in August 2011 by Cowboy Rodeo as Pinball Dreams HD.
Amstrad CPC: Released in October 2019 by BG GAMES.
Reception
Pinball Dreams was a commercial success, selling more than 650,000 copies in its debut year.
Pinball Dreams was overall received positive by press reviews. Electronic Gaming Monthly gave the Game Gear version a 5.8 out of 10, commenting that "Pinball never really worked well on portable systems and Pinball Dreams is no exception. The boards are huge, but the game is a little slow."
In 1993 Computer Gaming World criticized the PC version of Pinball Dreams as having "the worst physical model" of four reviewed games, and disliked the "jerk[y]" scrolling. The magazine said in June 1994 that Pinball 2000 "is an average title at a better than average price". In 1996 the magazine ranked Pinball Dreams as the 119th best game of all time, stating, "Smooth scrolling and great ball physics made this Amiga game a wizard's choice." In 2011, Wirtualna Polska ranked it as the fourth best Amiga game.
Hold and modify RAM, or H&M RAM, is a type of memory used in electronic systems to temporarily store data while it is being processed. This type of RAM is often used in systems that require a high level of data integrity, such as in industrial control systems and other mission-critical applications.
The Commodore Amiga computer is one example of a system that utilized H&M RAM. The Amiga's custom chips, known as the Agnus and Denise chips, included a feature called "hold-and-modify" mode which allowed for more efficient use of the system's memory.
In H&M mode, the Agnus chip would hold the values of certain colours in its own internal registers, and then modify those colours as needed for displaying on screen, instead of having to read the values from the main memory all the time. This allowed the Agnus chip to work more efficiently and allowed for more colours to be displayed on screen at once. This feature allowed the Amiga to display more colours on screen than other computers of the time, which had a limited colour palette.
This H&M mode was not a feature of the RAM itself, but rather a feature of the custom chips that the Amiga used. The Agnus and Denise chips were specifically designed to work with the Amiga's memory architecture, and the H&M mode was one of the ways that the custom chips utilized the system's memory to its fullest potential.
The Amiga's H&M mode was one of the many innovations that set the Amiga apart from other computers of the time. It allowed the Amiga to display more colours, and allowed for more efficient use of the system's memory. This, along with other features such as the Amiga's custom graphics and sound chips, made the Amiga a popular choice for gamers and multimedia enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Hold and modify RAM is a feature that allows a system to work efficiently by holding and modifying the data in its internal registers instead of reading it all the time from the main memory. It has been used in mission-critical systems, and was a feature in the Commodore Amiga computer, which allowed it to display more colors on screen and use memory efficiently.
It's been a long time coming, but Call of Duty fans can finally rejoice as Infinity Ward has announced that Hardcore mode will be part of the new season 2 updates for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. The developer took to Twitter to confirm that the highly-anticipated mode will arrive with Season 2, which is set to release on February 15, following a delay.
For those unfamiliar with Hardcore mode, it is an alternative to the regular Call of Duty playlist, offering players a more challenging and realistic fighting experience. The mode has been a staple in every Call of Duty game since Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare in 2007, so its absence from Modern Warfare 2 at launch was disappointing for many fans. Infinity Ward did release a ‘Tier 1’ playlist in November 2022, as part of Modern Warfare 2’s Season 1 update, which offered elements of Hardcore mode, but this hasn’t stopped players from hoping for a fully-fledged Hardcore mode to make a return.
So, what exactly is Hardcore mode and why is it so popular among Call of Duty fans? In this mode, health is reduced to 30, meaning that any weapon can kill you in around one or two hits. This matters more now as friendly fire is also enabled, so players must be extra careful and watch out for their friends, as they could easily put a bullet in the back of their head just because they happen to look like the enemy.
In addition to the reduced health, Hardcore mode also has less HUD (heads-up display), which usually gives players a ton of information about map layout, health, ammunition, etc. There’s no longer a mini-map in this playlist, and players won’t be able to see the capture markers or objectives come up on their screen. They don’t even get color-coded allies and enemies, as friends had their names in green above their heads, and enemies were bathed in blood red. Now, these are gone; it seems like Infinity Ward really wants players to shoot their allies.
For casual players, it may be difficult to understand why someone would prefer this headache of a playlist. But the truth is that Hardcore mode isn't for casual players. This complex mode challenges those who want to progress competitively while giving more depth to the FPS. The introduction of Hardcore mode to Modern Warfare 2 is only one of the important changes coming to Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone 2 in Season 2, according to Activision.
In a Twitter post published earlier this month, Activision stated that it delayed the release of Season 2 to make “several changes based on what we have heard from our player community”. The tweet also revealed that some of the other major changes coming in Season 2 include the return of Resurgence to Warzone 2, and updates to the Gulag, while ranked play and new maps will be added to Modern Warfare 2. This delay meant something special for Call of Duty as the lack of content for Modern Warfare 2 compared to its free-to-play battle royale sibling, Warzone, was painfully noticeable – and it looks like that’s the case.
The addition of Hardcore not only provides the depth and challenge that competitive players crave, but it also goes towards solving the issue of lack of content that many were worried about. With the release of Season 2, Modern Warfare 2's playlists will finally include the highly-anticipated Hardcore mode, offering players a more intense and challenging experience. Whether you're a hardcore fan or just looking for a new way to play, the arrival of Hardcore mode in Modern Warfare 2 is definitely something to look forward to.
The Amiga computer system, which was released in 1985 by Commodore, was known for its advanced multimedia capabilities and its ability to run multiple tasks simultaneously. One of the key features of the Amiga system was the use of the Interchange File Format, or IFF, for storing various types of data.
IFF files were designed to be a generic container format that could be used for storing different types of data, such as images, audio, and animations. This made it easy to transfer data between different applications and to open and read IFF files with a wide range of software programs.
Amiga Deluxe Paint III
One of the most common types of IFF files is the ILBM (InterLeaved BitMap) file, which is used for storing images. ILBM files are bitmap images that are compressed using run-length encoding, which makes them smaller in size and faster to load. They support multiple resolutions, and also support indexed colour and even HAM colour mode (Hold And Modify) which allowed the Amiga to display 4096 colours on screen.
Another common type of IFF file is the 8SVX file, which is used for storing audio. 8SVX files are 8-bit, sampled sound files that can be played back on the Amiga's built-in sound hardware. These files also support looping and also multiple voices.
And last but not least, ANIM file is a format for storing animations. These files contain multiple frames of images that are played back in sequence to create the animation. The Amiga's powerful hardware and software made it possible to create smooth animations with high frame rates and detailed graphics.
The Amiga's use of the IFF file format was a major part of what made the system so popular among users, and the IFF file format is still used today in some retro-gaming communities. The ability to easily transfer data between different applications and the wide range of software programs that could open and read IFF files made it easy for users to create and share multimedia content.
In conclusion, the IFF file format was an important part of the Amiga computer system, and it played a major role in the system's popularity and success. Its ability to store various types of data, such as images, audio, and animations, made it a versatile and powerful tool for creating and sharing multimedia content. Even today, the IFF file format is still remembered as one of the key features that made the Amiga computer system stand out.
The Amiga Kickstart chips are an integral part of the Amiga computer system, responsible for managing the system's hardware and software resources. The Kickstart chips, known as the "exec" and "kickstart ROM" chips, are located on the Amiga's motherboard and contain the firmware that controls the system's basic functions.
The Kickstart ROM chip contains the Amiga's operating system, or "Kickstart" software, which is responsible for managing the system's memory, input/output, and other basic functions. The Kickstart software is loaded into the computer's memory when the system is powered on and is responsible for initializing the system's hardware, such as the keyboard, mouse, and display.
The exec chip, on the other hand, is responsible for managing the system's memory and handling tasks such as multitasking and memory management. The exec chip is responsible for creating and managing the system's "tasks," which are essentially the individual programs running on the Amiga. The exec chip is also responsible for managing the system's memory, ensuring that each task has the memory it needs to function properly.
The Kickstart chips are also responsible for managing the Amiga's custom chips, such as the Agnus, Denise, and Paula chips. These custom chips are responsible for handling specific tasks, such as graphics and sound, and are controlled by the Kickstart firmware.
The Amiga's Kickstart chips were a major part of what made the Amiga such a revolutionary computer system. The combination of the Kickstart firmware and the custom chips allowed the Amiga to perform tasks that were previously impossible on other home computers of the time. The Amiga's advanced multitasking capabilities, in particular, set it apart from other systems and made it a popular choice for creative professionals.
Modern Kickstart ROM chip by Cloanto Amiga Forever
As technology progressed, newer versions of the Kickstart firmware were released, adding new features and capabilities to the Amiga. This allowed Amiga users to take advantage of new hardware and software as it became available.
Overall, the Amiga Kickstart chips are an essential part of the Amiga computer system, responsible for managing the system's hardware and software resources and enabling the Amiga's advanced features. They were a major part of what made the Amiga such a groundbreaking computer system and helped set it apart from other computers of the time.
Beyond Oasis, known in Europe and Japan as The Story of Thor Successor of the Light is a 1994 action-adventure game developed by Ancient and published by Sega for the Sega Genesis. The game has also been re-released in various emulated collections. A prequel to the game, The Legend of Oasis, was released for the Sega Saturn in 1996.
The player takes the role of Prince Ali, who has discovered a buried gold "armlet" which once belonged to a wizard who waged a long war against the evil wielder of a silver armlet. The silver armlet was used to create chaos and destruction, while the gold armlet had the power to summon four spirits: the water spirit, "Dytto"; the fire spirit, "Efreet"; the shadow spirit, "Shade"; and the plant spirit, "Bow". Ali travels the land of Oasis, gradually acquiring the ability to summon all these spirits, in an attempt to stop the person who has discovered the ancient silver armlet and is once again using it for evil.
The game has action adventure elements similar to The Legend of Zelda series. The player controls Prince Ali and control him across the map to fulfil his quest. Along the way the player picks up special items to restore health and mana, special weapons to help defeat enemies, and four magic spirits found in shrines to aid Prince Ali in his mission.
Prince Ali's default weapon is his knife, which can perform special attacks and has unlimited usage, but during the course of the game the player can equip Prince Ali with special weapons such as swords, crossbows, and bombs. Some crossbows (and a sword) can ignite their targets on fire. However, unlike the knife, these weapons do not have unlimited usage and will break after a set number of uses.
Overall, the game is good, a solid RPG. Check it out for yourself.
It's not often that you come across a gamer who can beat a game using a controller that's not typically associated with traditional gaming. But that's exactly what RealKittyRawr, a well-known Twitch streamer, recently accomplished. RealKittyRawr announced on Twitter that they had beaten the stealth game Metal Gear Solid 2 using nothing but a dance pad. This feat of rather impressive gamesmanship required about nine hours of time in total, well under the average playtime according to the statistics gathered on the platform How Long to Beat.
"Yo, I completed Metal Gear Solid 2 on a dance pad, something that I thought would be impossible,” RealKittyRawr posted on the social media platform Twitter. “Metal Gear Solid 3 next?" The streamer went on to say “sub-nine hours, I’ll take it!”
yoo I completed Metal Gear Solid 2 on a Dance Pad!!! something that I thought would be impossible...3 next?👀 pic.twitter.com/gLs3yMV1RA
RealKittyRawr is no stranger to beating video games on a dance pad, having already completed several entries in the Resident Evil series on this particular type of device. Metal Gear Solid 3 seems to be "definitely next,” but the streamer currently has Bayonetta 3, Persona 3, and Silent Hill 3 speed runs on their schedule.
It's not just RealKittyRawr who is pushing the boundaries of gaming with unconventional controllers. Several other streamers have recently risen to notoriety for beating bosses while using a dance pad, most notably the notoriously difficult Malenia in the roleplaying game Elden Ring. MissMikkaa managed exactly this only a couple of weeks ago, noting on Twitter that “Malenia has been defeated! After three days and 199 tries, Malenia is dead in the Ultimate Challenge Run where I play Elden Ring twice simultaneously with a dance pad and a controller. In the beginning, I was not even sure if this run was possible.”
This comes in the wake of news that soldiers have been fooling an artificial intelligence targeting system using a tactic straight out of the Metal Gear Solid franchise, hiding under a cardboard box. "You could hear them giggling the whole time like Bugs Bunny in a Looney Tunes cartoon, sneaking up on Elmer Fudd in a cardboard box," researcher Paul Scharre pointed out in the recently released book Four Battlegrounds: Power in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.
It's exciting to see gamers like RealKittyRawr and MissMikkaa pushing the boundaries of what's possible with unconventional controllers and challenging themselves in new ways. It's also a reminder that gaming is not just about the controller or device you use, but about the skill and creativity of the player. Who knows what other feats of gaming mastery we'll see in the future?
In conclusion, RealKittyRawr's accomplishment of beating Metal Gear Solid 2 on a dance pad is a testament to the dedication, skill and creativity of gamers, and it's exciting to see what other unconventional ways they will find to beat their favourite games.
The Amiga MOD file is a piece of digital audio history that has managed to stand the test of time. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Commodore Amiga computer was a popular home computer, and it was also a popular platform for creating and listening to digital music. The Amiga MOD file format was developed during this period and it quickly gained popularity among the Amiga community.
The Amiga A500
The format is based on the concept of "modules," which are essentially collections of digital samples that can be played back in different ways to create music. The Amiga MOD file format uses a custom file format that stores the samples and instructions for playing them in a specific way. This allows for a high degree of flexibility and creativity in terms of creating and arranging music. The Amiga MOD files were not based on traditional audio formats like WAV or MP3, this was a very unique feature at the time.
One of the key features of Amiga MOD files is that they are relatively small in size, this was especially important in the days before high-speed internet and large storage devices. The small size of the Amiga MOD files made them easy to share and distribute among the Amiga community. This was very important in the days before high-speed internet and large storage devices. The Amiga MOD files could be easily shared via floppy disks or even through the early days of online bulletin board systems (BBS).
The Amiga MOD files was not only a way to create and listen to music but also a way for the Amiga community to show off their skills and creativity. The Amiga MOD files were used in many demoscene productions, which were essentially computer-generated visual and audio shows. The Amiga demoscene was a vibrant and active community that helped to promote the Amiga and the Amiga MOD files.
Despite the popularity of Amiga MOD files in the past, the format is now considered largely obsolete. However, many music enthusiasts still enjoy listening to and creating Amiga MOD files as a form of nostalgia. The Amiga MOD files have a unique sound and feel that is hard to replicate with modern digital audio formats. There are also many software programs available that can convert MOD files to more modern formats like MP3 or WAV, which makes it easier for people to enjoy Amiga MOD files on modern devices.
I REMIXED A MOD FILE
In conclusion, the Amiga MOD file is an important piece of digital audio history that has managed to stand the test of time. The Amiga MOD files were a unique and innovative way to create and listen to music on the Commodore Amiga computer. The Amiga MOD files were also a way for the Amiga community to show off their skills and creativity. Even though the Amiga MOD files are considered obsolete, they are still enjoyed by music enthusiasts today as a form of nostalgia.
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