Category: Retro Gaming

  • How to Start Commodore 64 Game

    How to Start Commodore 64 Game

    Have those old retro games been on your mind recently? Are you reimagining your childhood and all those hours spent playing retro games on your C64 computer? Why not relive those moments by playing those games today, in modern times?

    You can still play old games from the 80s, even if you don’t have a C64 computer anymore. Developers have made sure to create special software that allows you to play these retro hits easily, and I will tell you how to start Commodore 64 Game. By the end of the article, I will also give you a full list of Commodore 64 games.

    How to Start Commodore 64 Game

    How to Start Commodore 64 Game

    The process of starting a Commodore 64 game is similar on all supported devices, and it mainly depends on the type of device you’re using to play the game. 

    A game can be started and played on a still working Commodore 64 home computer system or using an emulator software for other operating systems.

    In the following sections, I will cover all the methods of how to start a Commodore 64 game, regardless if you have the original 1982 home computer system or simply want to use a software emulator and play games on your modern PC. So, let’s take a look!

    Read more: How Much Was a Commodore 64 New

    Different Methods

    Using the original C64 home computer

    Starting a game on the C64 system required using the “LOAD” command to boot it up. Unlike other computers and consoles, the C64 didn’t automatically boot up games or programs from a disk or Datasette. Here’s how to start Commodore 64 game using the original system:

    Connect the device and its peripherals

    Before starting the game, ensure the C64 is properly connected to the TV and that all the peripherals are attached. 

    Multiple peripherals are available for the C64, but the disk drive is the most important for this purpose. Connect the disk drive to the serial port of the C64 of the back, and also insert a fast-load cartridge (if you have one) before powering on the device. 

    Power the device and insert the disk

    After you ensure everything is properly attached, power on the C64 first, then insert the game disk. 

    It is also a better practice to insert and remove the disk with the drive powered on and not to leave the disk inside. Powering the device off with the disk still in the drive may result in corrupted files.

    Loading a disk with only one game

    Since the C64 doesn’t boot up games automatically, you will need to manually load and start the game from the disk. Here’s how:

    1. After putting the disc in the drive, it will be registered by the system with the number 8.
    2. In the C64 Basic command prompt, type LOAD”*”,8, and hit “Enter” to confirm.
    3. You will see several prompts telling you the game is “LOADING”, and when it is done, it will read “READY”.
    4. Now type “RUN” and hit “Enter” to confirm; the game will now start.

    Loading a disk with multiple games

    The process to start a particular game from a disk with multiple ones stored uses a different set of input commands. Here’s how to do it:

    1. After inserting the multiple games disk, type the LOAD”$”,8 commands in the command prompt, and hit “Enter”.
    2. When the disk files load, type the “LIST” command and hit “Enter”.
    3. A list of all the games will appear on the screen.
    4. To load a specific game, type LOAD “filename”,8, and press “Enter”. Under “filename”, you should type the game name you select from the list.
    5. Once the game loads, type “RUN” and hit “Enter” to start the game.

    Using a software emulator

    Thanks to the creative capabilities of developers, software emulators have been created for operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux, which can emulate retro games such as those played on Nintendo, Sega, and Commodore 64.

    Some of the most popular Commodore 64 emulator programs are VICE, CCS64, C64 Forever, Gamebase, etc. I have picked VICE as the emulator of choice for this article.

    Using VICE

    VICE is short for “Versatile Commodore Emulator”, and it provides emulation for different Commodore computer models. As the name suggests, it is one of the most versatile C64 emulators, with many customization options. 

    When you download the program, the package may contain several different .exe files, depending on the Commodore model and version, but the one you need should be named x64.exe (for Windows). On a Mac, it should be called x64.app. Here’s how to use it to run C64 games:

    1. Start the program by double-clicking on the x64.exe file.
    2. Once the program starts and the main window opens, you can drag and drop downloaded game files directly onto it to start them.
    3. You can also start a game by opening the “File” tab and selecting the “Smart attach Disk/Tape” option.

    The most important thing to do before running a game with VICE is to make sure you download the correct and full game files, as corrupt files will not start. 

    C64 game libraries for emulators can easily be found online, and the Internet Archive is a great place to start. You can also check the full list of games.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRjoJqcuOfc&ab_channel=ScobyTech

    Conclusion

    Now that you know how to start Commodore 64 game on both the original C64 computer and on any other device using an emulator software, I am sure you will have a lot of fun playing those retro games that you used to love and with which you grew up.

    The CS64 was a very versatile machine for its day, and the manufacturer introduced the idea that anyone could have a personal home computer in their home, regardless of social status. 

    Its release meant a revolutionary step forward and an initial step toward the computer technology we have available today. 

  • How Much Was a Commodore 64 New

    How Much Was a Commodore 64 New

    The year is 2023, and when it comes to gaming and consoles, it feels like not every week but every day, there is a new piece of hardware that you can buy and enhance the experience. But gaming has become quite a luxury with many game remakes and huge prices. 

    It is not easy to become popular on a social media platform and earn an income from gaming. Therefore, the real players, who always enjoyed a single-player narrative, started going back on memory lane and popping out the consoles from their childhood. 

    This mini console allowed gamers to have a blast from the past. The C64 came out in 1982 and was the first system with a working keyboard. So, how much was a Commodore 64 new? Keep reading to learn more! 

    How Much Was a Commodore 64 New

    How Much Was a Commodore 64 New

    In 1982, during its release, the first initial price of the Commodore 64 was $595, which in today’s economy is about $1,650. 

    The C64 was the first console with a cost of less than $600. People were amazed after learning how many games can be played on the system and its remarkable features. 

    The price of the C64 revolutionized the entire industry because the computer was the first to offer 64k. One year before the release of the Commodore 64, Atari 800 appeared on the market; it had 32K of RAM and a prize of $1,000

    On top of everything, the cost of the Commodore dropped very aggressively. This happened because the console manufacturers were speculating that other Japanese firms would enter the market and undercut all prices. 

    What was included in it?

    To better understand how much was a Commodore 64 new and its true value, one must be aware of the console’s features. For the initial price, the box contained CPU memory, integrated video and audio, ROM operating system, and that it is. 

    Unfortunately, the console did not have a storage room and could only run games and other pieces of software from a cartridge. 

    Many people only purchased the computer, which made dealers love the Commodore 64 even more. People used to buy disk drives or tape drives to run data without a cartridge. 

    Some gamers were able to purchase an additional small TV or a monitor so that they would not hijack the family TV. Let’s face it, a household back in the 80s or 90s was lucky to have one TV. Not long after that, the customers who bought the C64 longed for a fast-load cartridge or a printer. 

    Experiencing the revolution of gaming was expensive, none the least. To be a proud owner of a C64 console, you had to be wealthy or just willing to adjust your lifestyle and save money on the side for a long period to afford it. 

    Commodore 64 – When 1982 Meets 2020 

    When it was initially released in 1982, the C64 sold over 12 million units, making it one of the best-selling computers of all time. 

    The previous model was VIC-20. In 2020, both consoles were brought back to life and came as a package known as “The C64”. 

    Because the Commodore 64 is more than just a retro mini-console, the fans’ reaction was faithful, and everyone was pleased with the release. The bright-colored box brought a lot of joy to old-time gamers. 

    The console had some modern incarnations and was created with the current technology. The C64 was powered by micro USB, had additional USB ports for hooking up initial hardware like a joystick, and an outpost at 720 of up to 64Hz over HDMI. 

    The console does not pack a giant disk drive like the original model; however, with the power of external drives and USB ports. Games could be played neatly, and no hacks or tricks were involved. Having this option is pretty awesome. The C64 package was available for $125. 

    Read more: How to Use a Commodore 64

    Commodore 64 - The Price Over Time

    Commodore 64 – The Price Over Time 

    As I mentioned, the retail price of the C64 in August 1982 was $595. The next summer, the console could be purchased for around $390. 

    Also, in 1983, the company that created the Commodore offered a $100 rebate to anyone who sent a computer or a game system. Many individuals enjoyed the console by simply buying a $50 Timex computer, Gemini system, Odyssey, or Coleco and sending it in. 

    By the time Christmas came around the same year, people could order the C64 for $229. After that, the price of C64 experienced some serious cuts in 1984. 

    In the Christmas catalog of the same year, the Commodore 64 was priced at $219. If you bought an additional disk drive, monitor, modem, or printer, the initial price of the console was $199.

    In 1985, the C64 was priced at $149 in the Christmas catalog with additional discounts of $25 to $100 with other peripherals. The rest of the decade was pretty much all of the same. 

    Public Response 

    The C64 was the first 8-bit singular computer that made a great sale and got such a positive public response that it revolutionized the entire industry. 

    During the 80s, the first quarter’s sales were 49 million, making the C64 one of the largest-selling computers for home usage. 

    Compared to other one-system wonders brands, the price of the C64 was initially lower. The developers could do that and cut the cost of production because they created their chips. 

    The less than $600 price of the Commodore 64 allowed the system to acquire some amazing achievements and sell approximately 17 million units in one year.

    In 1994, CBM 64 announced bankruptcy. This initially happened because there was a lack of business planning and the Amiga operation. 

    Also read: Why Was the Commodore 64 So Popular?

    Conclusion 

    After reading my article, I am confident that you know how much was a Commodore 64 new and how it revolutionized the industry. 

    Ultimately, the C64 is a retro console that offers a joyful experience and a heavy dosage of nostalgia. The attention to detail is unmatched, and you are getting a full-sized machine with a keyboard makes the Commodore 64 one of the best technological inventions. 

  • How to Use a Commodore 64

    How to Use a Commodore 64

    So, you suddenly remember your old Commodore 64 or C64, as people used to call it, and are eager to play on it? But you don’t remember how to use a Commodore 64? That’s nothing strange, considering how fast technology is developing.

    And if you’ve never used a Commodore 64, this is not your usual device. C64 is a computer built inside the keyboard, and even though you might need some time to get used to it, soon enough, you’ll see how simple it is. We gathered all the information you’ll need to properly use this device, so keep reading.

    How to Use a Commodore 64

    How to Use a Commodore 64

    Commodore 64 is a retro computer, one of the most popular, so using this device is slightly different from other devices. And even though the first time this computer was introduced was in 1982, some people still have it and want to play on it. And if you’re interested in its history, you can learn more about it here.

    So, to be able to use this best-selling computer of all time, first, you must properly connect it to a monitor or a TV. Secondly, you need to use an emulator that will allow you to find all the games you want. To be able to play, you should also need to connect a joystick. You can even connect two and play with a friend.

    As with any other device, Commodore 64 has a user guide, and you can find many books explaining how to use it, but who has time to read them all? That’s why I have made this guide, covering the most important things, so let’s start.

    Connection

    So, before learning how to use a Commodore 64, you must first connect the computer. To do that properly, you’ll need a 4.3 amp power supply. Try to find one because if you use something else, you might damage the Commodore 64.

    Plug the power supply into the port located next to the power button. You can find that on the right side of the computer, and then you’re all set.

    Turning your PC into a Commodore 64

    To play the Commodore 64 games, you’ll need to use an emulator. VICE is the most popular one because it’s suitable for many operating systems. We recommend you download the VICE emulator, but also, there are plenty of others. So, for example, you can use Hoxs64, C64 Forever, CCS64, or Gamebase. They are all similar.

    Finding the C64 games

    If you decide to go with VICE, you must download and install it. Then download the game you want to play. www.c64.com is the website from which you can download many games for your Commodore; however, you can also find many other websites.

    California Games, Armalyte, Defender Of The Crown, and The Bard’s Tale are just a few of the many Commodore 64 games. Once you dive into this gaming world, you’ll want to open and play every game.

    So choose your favorite, drop it into the VICE main window, and start playing.

    Finding the Commodore 64 Games

    Connecting joysticks

    Commodore 64 has two Control ports that allow two players to connect: Control port 1 and Control port 2. They’re located on the right side of the keyboard. You can use Controls 1 and 2 for joysticks or mice and connect a light pen. As long as the device comes with a female connector, you won’t have any problems attaching it to this computer.

    You’ll need to enter into the VICE settings, then click on the Joystick settings, through which you can easily connect two joysticks.

    Cursor keys

    As you’ll immediately notice, the keys on the Commodore 64 keyboard aren’t quite the same as those on your usual keyboard. For example, the cursor keys are a bit different.

    You have one cursor key with two arrows pointing up and down, and this key is meant for vertical navigation through your games. Then next to it, you have a key with two arrows pointing left and right, which is meant for horizontal navigation.

    So this is a bit unusual compared to the keyboard we use today, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it, and navigating through the games will come naturally to you.

    Other important ports for beginners

    If you’re a newbie regarding the C64, let’s take a quick look at the ports, so there won’t be any confusion when using them.

    Because C64 is a computer built inside the keyboard, the ports are placed on the sides of the keyboard. So, on its right side, you can find two Control ports which we’ve explained above, an on/off switch, and a power port.

    On the back of the Commodore 64, you’ll notice seven ports. There’s an expansion port, channel selector, RF audio/video jack, video port, IEC serial port, cassette port, and user port.

    Expansion port

    You can use the expansion port to upgrade your computer; for example, you can plug in games, cartridges, etc.

    Channel selector and RF audio/video jack

    You probably won’t need The Channel selector and RF audio/video jack. They were critical years ago because they made connecting the C64 with an antenna connector or the TV’s RF very easy. You can try to do the same, but you’ll get a low-quality video even if you succeed.

    Video port and IEC serial port

    The video port will provide you with better video quality than the RF output, and you can use the IEC serial port to connect printers or disk drives.

    Cassette port and user port

    Datassette is a cassette tape recorder, and that’s the device you can connect to your C64 using the cassette port. You can use the User port as a parallel port.

    Also read: Why Was the Commodore 64 So Popular?

    Conclusion

    So, now that you know how to use a Commodore 64, you’ll have lots of fun with this device. There are many more things to learn, but once you start using the C64, you’ll discover everything slowly. You’ll undoubtedly find the device entertaining and be delighted by the simplicity and practicality of the Commodore 64, so enjoy!

  • Why Was the Commodore 64 So Popular?

    Why Was the Commodore 64 So Popular?

    In 1982, a new computer appeared on the market called Commodore 64 or C64. The 1980s were a big era for technology, and personal computers were growing exponentially. 

    However, not everyone could afford to get a computer for games and all sorts of entertainment. Therefore, people had to carefully choose which release or computer would be a great Christmas present and an amazing addition to their living room. 

    Having a computer at home in the 80s was a privilege, and everyone who decided on the Commodore 64, never regretted their choice. 

    In fact, many people still keep the computer and feel nostalgic every time they open the box in the attic. But why was the Commodore 64 so popular, and why did people love everything about it? You can find the answer in my article! 

    Why Was the Commodore 64 So Popular

    Why Was the Commodore 64 So Popular?

    The success of the computer came shortly after its release. The Commodore 64 is widely popular because it was the first massively produced PC. Many people had this console as their friend in their young and teenage years. The C64 helped launch the computer revolution that we know and love today. This is specifically true when it comes to research and education. 

    Like other early home computers, the Commodore 64 was primarily used for playing games and some additional leisure apps. People did use it for business purposes but on very rare occasions. 

    The computer has a BASIC interpreter built-in and immediately runs any writing programs. In addition, it has a tape drive that is also built-in and allows people to back up their data and create backed storage media. The computer’s design is also something gamers enjoy and highly praise. The C64 has an integrated keyboard and 8-bit microprocessors. 

    Features that made Commodore 64 so popular 

    Manufactured by CBM or Commodore Business machine in August 1982, the Commodore 64’s initial price was $595, which in today’s economy is equivalent to $1,600.

    This 8-bit home computer acquired remarkable success on the market, and in just 3 years, the company sold over 17 million units making the C64 the best-selling personal computer of that era. 

    With more than 2 million units sold over a year, the Commodore 64 took the cake and outsold the IBM PC clones, Atari, and Apple Computer. Plus, compared to other computers, the C64 was sold in retail stores, not just in electronic stores. 

    On top, the specifications of the computer are excellent. The Commodore 64 could easily be plugged into the television set and bring the whole family together for a joyful night. 

    Facts about Commodore 64 

    The computer was named after the 64 kilobytes of Ram that it has. The computer dominated the market with more than 17 million units sold over three years. The Commodore 64 was mostly used by people who like to game or learn how to program. The C64 can be found in The Guinness Book of Records as the highest-selling computer model of all time. The production of the Commodore 64 was stopped in April 1994. 

    Also read: Where to Buy Commodore 64?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7YdEgZOYfM

    Popular Commodore 64 Games

    The games for this computer were similar to arcade games. This means that you had to push commands until you won or lost a game constantly; there were no breaks. The only difference was that, contrary to arcade games that were played with a joystick, the C64 used a command-line interface. 

    Every gamer had to start the game from a tape and could customize the controls for running, walking, dropping, shooting, and picking up things. Are you still interested in why was the Commodore 64 so popular? Keep in mind this was in the 80s. 

    Many great games were created for the C64 computer and to name all of them is an impossible task. A study has shown that games from the 80s and 90s had a large impact on Multimedia Cartography. Commodore 64 best games is a topic that deserves a whole new article. But here are some of the most popular titles.

    • The Last Ninja
    • Impossible Mission
    • Paradroid
    • Wizball
    • The Sentinel
    • Laser Squad
    • Bruce Lee
    • Bubble Bobble
    • MicroProse Soccer
    • Ghostbusters

    Conclusion 

    After learning what the C64 did to the industry and how far ahead of time its specifications were, we are confident that you know why was the Commodore 64 so popular!

    If we made you feel too nostalgic, you could purchase the console on eBay or Amazon for about $100. You can travel back into your childhood and have Pac-Man or Donkey Kong bring a smile to your face!

  • Where to Buy Commodore 64?

    Where to Buy Commodore 64?

    If you have been recently thinking about past-century technology and came across the Commodore 64, you’re not the only one. As these computers broke all the records and were the trendiest on the market, people were going crazy about buying and owning one. But, as it was hard to get your hands on one back then, this process is a little bit easier today.

    With technological advancement and smartphones, people have forgotten about the Commodore 64 and what this brand represented. So if you still like to own a vintage computer and are curious to know where to buy Commodore 64, you have come to the right place.

    Where to Buy Commodore 64

    Where to Buy Commodore 64?

    As Commodore 64 is no longer for official sale in computer stores, one has to try hard to find where to buy Commodore 64 in decent condition. That’s why we decided to do a little research and see which places you can find this vintage computer. Although it was not easy, and the process took longer than expected, we are happy to share with you the best places to buy Commodore 64 for a reasonable price and without too much hassle.

    eBay

    The first and foremost place where to buy Commodore 64 is on eBay. While looking through this site, we noticed many people offering and selling their Commodore 64 computers for fairly good prices. Besides the computer itself, on eBay, you can find many Commodore 64 parts that were also sold separately back in the day, such as joysticks, chips, flash carts, floppy disks, games, datasette, SID carts, software packages, etc.

    Since on eBay, you can find almost every piece of Commodore 64 equipment you need, you can make your own complete set and enjoy this old-school computer again. All you must do is open the eBay website and type the model of Commodore 64 you are looking for or the exact piece of equipment you need. 

    Additionally, suppose you are unsure what you would like to buy. In that case, you can simply type in Commodore 64, and you will see a palette of various offers regarding hardware and software connected to the Commodore 64 computer.

    AliExpress

    Although the chances of finding Commodore 64 on AliExpress are small, they are not non-existent. By doing extensive research and being persistent, you might be able to find some smaller pieces of equipment for the Commodore 64 computer on this website as well. 

    The only thing you need to remember before buying is to ensure that the product is legitimate and is exactly what you are looking for. You can do this by checking the comments and reviews or contacting the seller directly and asking them for the specifics of the Commodore 64 product you are considering purchasing.

    Read more: Best Atari 7800 Games Review

    Places to Buy Commodore 64

    Amazon

    Another website with decent offers where you can buy Commodore 64 is Amazon. Even though the offers and product options are not as extensive as on eBay, you can still find some useful and well-preserved Commodore 64 computers and computer parts for acceptable and affordable prices. 

    The most common Commodore 64-related product you can usually find on Amazon is the programming guide on how to code on this computer. So if you are specifically looking for this, ensure to check the Amazon site.

    Local thrift shops

    As many thrift shops are now selling and offering more than just clothes, they are great places to buy Commodore 64. 

    You can start by looking around and going to your local thrift shops. If you can not find the Commodore 64 anywhere near you, you can look online for thrift shops that might be selling the Commodore computers or the specific parts or games you are looking for. You might have to travel a little further, but you will probably be able to get your Commodore 64 in good condition for a decent price without having to pay for shipping.

    Auction sites

    If you are ready to fight for your Commodore 64 and pay whatever it takes, the best and safest way to do that is through authorized auction sites. As these sites only auction verified and original items, you can be sure that the price you will pay for your Commodore 64 computer will pay off because you will be auctioning for the real thing, 20+ years old.

    Besides the auction sites, you can even search for actual auctioning events where the chances of finding the Commodore 64 are high. 

    Garage or yard sale

    One of the places where to buy Commodore 64 for a lower price is garage or yard sales. As on these sales, people want to get rid of their old things, they will be willing to sell you their Commodore 64 computer or equipment for a relatively low price, or sometimes even give it to you for free.

    Therefore, all you need to do is ask around your neighborhood or talk to as many people as possible to give you information on a potential garage or yard sale where there might be a Commodore 64 computer.

    Also read: Best Neo Geo Games Review

    Through an advertisement on the internet

    If you have not found a Commodore 64 yet, you can always place an online advertisement or even an ad in newspapers or magazines related to this stuff. You never know. Someone might see your ad and sell their Commodore 64 for a great price.

    Social media

    If you regularly utilize social media, you can also use it to find the Commodore 64 you are looking for. You can create an entire post about it and ask your friends to share it. You can even open a page dedicated to this.

    Another thing you can try is to look for pre-existing Commodore 64 sale pages where people offer their Commodore 64 computers, games, and equipment.

  • How Much Is a Used Nintendo 64 Worth?

    How Much Is a Used Nintendo 64 Worth?

    Are you experiencing childhood nostalgia for those retro games and game consoles? Have you spent countless hours playing on a Nintendo 64 console, or want to start collecting old retro consoles? 

    If that’s so, then you probably found this article to discover how much is a used Nintendo 64 worth so that you will know if it’s worth spending the money on or not. Let us tell you how much the different Nintendo 64 consoles are priced and what to expect. 

    How Much Is a Used Nintendo 64 Worth

    How Much Is a Used Nintendo 64 Worth?

    The prices of used Nintendo 64 on the market mainly depend on the condition of the console, whether or not it is in working order, and whether or not the entire package is in mint condition. Prices can range anywhere between $99.99 to $499.99 and above.

    Different editions of the Nintendo 64 were also manufactured, like the Jungle Green, Watermelon Red, Grape Purple, and the Pikachu edition. These have higher values because they are rare and harder to find in working or mint conditions.

    Different Versions of the Nintendo 64 and Their Current Prices

    As mentioned in the previous section, the Nintendo company manufactured different versions of the Nintendo 64 console. They probably did this to add uniqueness to the console design and encourage collectors to collect these consoles. 

    How much is a used Nintendo 64 worth is greatly determined by the different edition consoles released over the years. 

    Let’s look at some of the packages and prices of different versions of the Nintendo 64 consoles.

    Standard Charcoal Edition Console

    This is the original version of the Nintendo 64 console, launched in June of 1996 in Japan. It was later released in America and Europe as well. 

    The Standard Nintendo 64 edition comes in a solid charcoal-colored body with gray accents to the disk cover and joystick plugs. It had impressive technical characteristics at the time. The controllers’ color is also gray. 

    When it first came out in 1996, the Standard Edition of the Nintendo 64 was priced at around $199.99. Today, a used and working console is priced at around $99.99-$149.99, depending on the package and contents. 

    Funtastic Series consoles with 6 different console colors

    The Funtastic Series consoles were released as a set of 6 different Nintendo 64 colors:

    • The Jungle Green – $119.99 to $199.99
    • The Ice Blue – $119.99 to $249.99
    • The Grape Purple – $199.99 to $299.99
    • The Fire Orange – $199.99 to $399.99
    • The Smoke/Clear Black – $199.99 to $699.99
    • The Watermelon Red – $199.99 to $999.99

    These Funtastic Series consoles were released in Europe, Canada, Australia, South America, and the USA. 

    Jungle Green and Ice Blue are the most common of all the 6 color variants. The Grape Purple and Fire Orange are the rarer editions, while the Smoke/Clear Black and Watermelon Red editions are the rarest ones you can find today.

    Note that the prices above are the lowest and highest we could find online. They are meant to give you a general idea of the cost of used but working Nintendo 64 consoles. Broken ones have lower prices, while original packaging and mint condition ones are expensive.

    Read more: Best N64 Emulators for PC

    Clear Series Console Variations

    Clear Series consoles with 2 distinct color variants

    Nintendo produced the Clear Series consoles in two color variants: the Clear White/Blue and the Clear White/Red.

    Both variants had transparent body casings, through which you can see the inside parts of the console.

    The Clear White/Blue edition was released in Japan and Europe, and the European models were bundled and sold together with the Super Mario 64 game. 

    The Clear White/Red edition was only released in Japan, and its design is similar to the Watermelon Red Nintendo 64 edition. 

    Depending on the working condition and package contents, these consoles are priced between $99.99 and $399.99.

    Pikachu Edition Console

    The Pikachu Edition Consoles were released in Europe, the USA, Japan, and South America and were among the most popular at the time. The versions released in Japan had a lighter blue color, while the rest were made in a darker blue variant.

    This console edition had a unique design, as Pikachu’s left foot acted as a reset button, while the console’s power button was made to look like a Pokeball. Nintendo also made Pikachu’s cheeks light red when the console was powered on.

    Used Nintendo 64 Pikachu edition consoles range from $249.99 to $499.99 in prices, but we also came across a brand new console in an unopened package which sold for an incredible $6.500. 

    Read more: Best TurboGrafx-16 Games Review

    Pikachu Edition

    Gold Edition Console

    This version of the Nintendo 64 console was released in Japan and USA with intentions to be an exclusive Toys R Us model. Toys R Us is an American clothing, toy, and baby products retailer founded in 1957. The brand sold the Gold Edition of the Nintendo 64 console exclusively at its retail shops across the USA. The model also came with two gold controllers instead of one. 

    The prices of a used Nintendo 64 Gold Edition vary, ranging between $124.99 to $499.99, depending on the condition. We’ve also found a new and unopened Gold Edition console for $2.075. 

    Hyundai Comboy Console

    The Nintendo 64 console, released exclusively in South Korea, was also called Hyundai Comboy. 

    Due to the import ban between Japan and South Korea at the time, the Hyundai company made a deal with Nintendo to distribute the Nintendo 64 console under a different name. 

    This edition is one of the rarest today since it was only released a short while before being substituted with the standard charcoal version once the import ban was lifted.

    The body and controller were almost the same as the standard Nintendo 64 edition, the only difference being the name, which makes this console very rare and valuable. 

    As far as prices for a used Hyundai Comboy are concerned, they may vary from as low as $299.99 to as high as $1.299.99. Because of their rarity, mint condition boxes have even been priced at thousands of dollars.

  • Will Nintendo 64 Increase in Value?

    Will Nintendo 64 Increase in Value?

    If you are a gaming enthusiast, you have probably heard about the Nintendo 64, a classic video game console released in 1996 in Japan. 

    The console gained a lot of popularity in a short period of time, providing a unique gaming experience for every enthusiastic gamer who enjoyed playing various entertaining games.

    As one of the top-selling gaming consoles of all time, it influenced the evolution of our gaming technology. But will Nintendo 64 increase in value in the following years? Let’s get into more detail in this article. 

    Will Nintendo 64 Increase in Value

    Will Nintendo 64 Increase in Value?

    According to the online market, Nintendo 64 has been in high demand and will likely remain so in the following years. That said, the consoles increase in demand, resulting in a supply shortage, and the prices continue to grow. 

    While there is no guarantee that this gaming console will increase in value, the chances are very high, so it is an excellent time to invest in it. 

    Nintendo 64 Increasing in Value

    The Nintendo 64 is considered a retro gaming console; hence it is an excellent investment, especially if it is in good condition. 

    However, the console needs to be purchased and sold at the right time to make a profit, as is the case with stocks, shares, and other investments. 

    Since gaming consoles now have different requirements, the Nintendo 64 system has provided an authentic gaming experience. 

    For this reason, many gamers are nostalgic and passionate about receiving a collection of games they used to enjoy playing in their childhood. 

    This probably doesn’t come as a surprise, as this home video gaming console was sold in millions of units worldwide upon its release.

    Also read: Best Atari 5200 Games

    Nintendo 64 Value

    Nintendo 64 Cost

    The lifespan of Nintendo 64

    When the gaming console was first released in the United States, it had a retail price of $199,99 in September but was offered at $600 by the end of December. The Nintendo 64 was a huge success after it was released. 

    However, it was discontinued in 2002, and the last production run ended in 2003. Still, Nintendo 64 remains one of the most popular best-selling video game consoles of all time. 

    Is the Nintendo 64 worth purchasing and selling nowadays?

    The games on Nintendo 64, which was the company’s first 3D gaming platform, had an impact on platforms released afterward. So, will Nintendo 64 increase in value? 

    There is plenty of interest in this gaming console, and chances are it will remain the same in the future. Nintendo 64 has also secured the second spot on eBay’s top-selling gaming list. 

    If the gaming console is a limited edition and comes with its original parts, including the box, label, and receipt, it will significantly impact the price.

    Generally, the prices range between $30 and $300, depending on the condition of the console and the accessories it comes with. The new complete in-the-box gaming consoles can sell for significantly more money, and in some cases, sellers ask for thousands of dollars.

    More about the value of the Nintendo 64

    As is the case with any market, the prices go constantly up and down, so if you are planning on getting your hands on this classic game console, make sure that you do so at the right time. 

    This retro gaming technology was innovative with the Nintendo 64 features, including game console design, realistic character movements, and incredible graphics for that time. The games made for N64 had a huge impact on modern gaming. 

    Aside from the console, the games you could play on this gaming system also come at an incredible price. Games in a factory-sealed box are much more expensive than used ones, and even a small dent in the box can reduce the game’s price. 

    Some of the most expensive games are Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber, Paper Mario, Vigilante 8, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Mischief Makers, and others. 

    Among the highest-selling games is Super Mario 64, one of the most popular video games worldwide. 

    Also read: Best N64 Emulators for PC

    Why Will Gaming Consoles Increase in Value Over Time?

    There are a couple of reasons your gaming console may increase in value. The main reason is that it helps gamers relive their childhood by playing the games they used to enjoy. 

    Particularly Nintendo 64 had some of the most popular games, so many adults like to reminisce about the experience of playing them and refresh their memories. 

    Nintendo 64 has an advantage over other gaming consoles because it was the last one that used cartridges as storage for games.

    Additionally, many collectors like to collect retro games and consoles. Hence, gaming consoles can be sold at a very high price if they are well-maintained. They are also very hard to find, so their demand is very high. 

    The fact that the consoles and the controllers come in several rare color variants also greatly impacts the prices. 

    Where to Find Nintendo 64 Retro Gaming Console and Games

    If you have decided to invest in the N64 gaming system, a good starting point is visiting online auction sites. There are also online retro game shops that cater to games and collectors, so you might find what you want. 

    However, you must ensure that the shop is reliable and established to avoid fake seals and scams. 

    Read more: Best DOS Games of All Time

    Conclusion

    Will Nintendo 64 increase in value? If you found yourself wondering, now you know how valuable this gaming console can be. 

    The price for this retro gaming system has been consistently on the rise in recent years, and it will likely continue to do so in the future. 

    Due to the low supply but high demand for such gaming consoles, many people opt for this type of investment as they would like to obtain them.

  • Best 32x Games Review

    Best 32x Games Review

    Sega 32X was a poorly marketed console, regarded as a low-cost alternative to other new-generation consoles. Sega Genesis’s second major upgrade failed to reach a wide enough customer base. Blame their underwhelming efforts. However, it did release some catchy titles for the console. Here is a list of the best 32x games you should know about.

    [lwptoc]

    Best 32x Games Review

    Best 32x Games Review

    Knuckles Chaotix

    The first look of the game will remind you of the sonic game series. But the gameplay is entirely different.  Though you may still find similarities like springboards to leap off and loops to run around, but a unique addition is that you can control two characters at the same time.

    Both of these characters are tethered to one other throughout the game, and you can pick from five of them, each with a unique ability. The learning curve for Knuckle Chaotix is a bit steeper than the sonic games, but once you get the knack of it, it’s much more fun. The pseudo 3D stages are also quite captivating to the gamers.

    Knuckles Chaotix

    Star Wars Arcade

    The game is based on the events from the original Star Wars trilogy. The game features a polygonal representation of the star wars films. Beyond the original arcade stages, it lets you play some enhanced stages that were designed for the 32x version.

    This Sega 32x game challenges you to intercept and face TIE Fighters amidst an asteroid field. You’re gonna fight Super Star Destroyer, but eventually, the game gets a bit repetitive. The game doesn’t have much depth to it, but it’s pretty addictive for those who like the fast, don’t-think-just-shoot type of games.

    The Amazing Spider-Man: Web of Fire

    If you can manage to ignore the fugly, c-tier villains and the wonky scaling effects, this is quite a satisfying game. The game is a blend of The Amazing Spider-Man and The Kingpin and Vectorman. The gameplay is fantastic and you will really have fun while web-slinging and hand-to-hand combating in the game. If you are a fan of this gaming style, this one definitely deserves a second look.

    Best 32x Games Review - The Amazing Spider-Man Web of Fire

    Mortal Kombat II

    We also do have some addictive 2D combat titles in our list of best 32x games. You can say that the 1990s were all about fighting games. Mortal Kombat did stand out in this genre with its digitized graphics and splendid animation effects.

    The developers doubled the character roster in this version and added some more finishing moves. The expanded move sets and the responsive controls made this one of the best home versions of this game. Relative to other combat games of the time, this one was considered more violent with all the copious amounts of blood flying around when a character is hit. Related: Best SEGA CD Games of All Time

    WWF Wrestlemania: The Arcade Game

    If you love the realistic nature of wrestling matches, this isn’t the game for you. However, if you like the exaggerated nature of some games, this is a fun, comic game that will keep you entertained. Though, the digitized characters in the game will make you think that this is an imitation of WWF style wrestling, this is far from the truth.

    It doesn’t emulate the original fighting, instead, it adds several fun elements in the game like setting opponents ablaze, wrestlers can electrocute each other, and the limbs may grow longer, and so on. This fast-paced game emphasizes comedy more than reality. It kind of captures the cartoon nature of the wrestling world pretty well!

    Best 32x Games Review - WWF Wrestlemania The Arcade Game

    Blackthorne

    If you loved playing ‘Prince of Persia’, ‘Flashback’, or the ‘Out of this world’, this cinematic platform will enchant you like no other game. The graphics are pretty crisp and define the game’s universe pretty well. The storyline isn’t the best but the detailed environments, the puzzle elements, and the overall gameplay are outstanding.

    The game involves activating bridges to move forward, using gadgets like levitators and remote-controlled bombs. The main weapon is a shotgun. But to make the gameplay a little strategic, the developers added the ability to reload fun, dodge enemy fire or hide in the shadows. The enemies have a personality and they will mock you if you make a mistake!

    We couldn’t help but add this to our list of the best 32x games, despite the fact that it didn’t rise to the level it deserved.

    Virtua Racing Deluxe

    Did you really think we were going to skip racing games from adding to this list? Well, Virtua Racing Deluxe is too good to be excluded. This version clearly outdoes the Genesis and the Saturn versions. The “stock car” mode is an exclusive game-mode to this console, which many find to be more fun than the “formula” mode.

    Multi-camera setup and the two-player mode guarantee that you don’t ever get bored. This version includes some exclusive tracks to keep you interested.

    Doom

    Doom is one of the games that has inspired many later “first-person shooter” games. This popular game features mazes, demons on Mars, plasma rifles, chainsaws and several objects that appealed to gamers. You must fight your way through nasty demons from hell and the possessed humans; your quest is to survive the attack.

    The game features a comprehensive storyline involving an invasion from demons on Mars and eventually on earth in the second version of the game. The gameplay involves re-spawning dead enemies who become harder to deal with every time they come back.

    The monsters will either move towards you biting and clawing at you, or they will throw fireballs. You start the game with just a pistol and have to face the wrath of the demons alone. This was one of the earliest most successful FPS games.

    Doom 32x Game

    Conclusion

    Sega 32x didn’t fare so well in the market. But many of these games left their marks in the history of the gaming world. Some of these games are so unique that you will find them fascinating even today.

    If you feel like you have had enough of the modern games, give these retro classics a try. There is a strange addictive element to the Sega classics. If not the graphics, the comedy factor would certainly get to you!

  • Best TurboGrafx-16 Games Review

    Best TurboGrafx-16 Games Review

    TurboGrafx-16 was first launched in Japan, jointly by NEC and Hudson Soft. The Japanese version of this game was called ‘PC Engine’ and it became a huge hit in the Japanese gaming market. However, it failed to achieve the same fame in the US. Its 16-bit computing power allowed it to release some of the best TurboGrafx-16 games.

    We understand how eager retro gamers are to find out more about these old school classics. Besides some amazing action games and shoot ‘em up titles, this console also got a steady flow of erotic games and RPGs.

    For the unfortunate American gamers who couldn’t get their hands on these titles, and for every retro fan, we have compiled a list of the top TurboGrafx-16 games. Let’s see if you can resist playing these on your PC emulators.

    [lwptoc]

    Best TurboGrafx-16 Games Review

    Best TurboGrafx-16 Games

    Ninja Spirit

    With Ninja Spirit, the developers proved how efficient they could be with the “kill ‘em all” subgenre. You get to play with a scary-looking Ninja Spirit that has four types of weapons at its disposal, all of which can be upgraded. You will also acquire more abilities as you make progress in the game.

    One of the impressive features in the game is the ability to call multiple shadow clones that will help you fight the enemies. The smooth controls, detailed characters and the fight moves were all so cool that it received enormous praise from those who played it, but it wasn’t a big hit overall, being shadowed by Ninja Gaiden and Shinobi.

    Street Fighter II: Champion Edition

    Street Fighter is no doubt one of the best fighting games of all times. The champion edition on TurboGrafx-16 did an excellent job of matching the original arcade graphics. The expanded roster of characters and some of the technical improvements made it stand out from the SNES and Genesis versions.

    This version refined some of the fighting technique to make the competition more balanced. The Shadaloo bosses, who are the final four opponents that you face, were also introduced in this edition. The restriction of not being able to choose the same character again, in the original game, was also eliminated in this version of the Street Fighter.

    In Japan, this game outperformed the previous bestseller Aero Fighters, to become the most successful table arcade unit of the year. It is by all means one of the best TurboGrafx-16 games.

    Best TurboGrafx-16 Games - Street Fighter II Champion Edition

    Dragon’s Curse

    The game turned out to be a boon for the company rather than a curse. The game is a 2-D platformer and was also released for the Master System and the Game Gear by the name Wonder Boy III.

    The game follows the events immediately after the Wonder Boy in Monster Land. Wonder Boy enters the Mecha Dragon’s lair in order to slay him. But in doing so, he is placed under a curse that transforms him into “Lizard-Man”. The only way to undo the curse is to acquire the ‘Salamander Cross’.

    You use the directional pad to move your player. There is a primary and secondary attack that you can use. Through the course of the game, you will take the form of a lion, a mouse, a tiger, a piranha, and even a hawk. Each of this form gives you a unique ability to progress in the game. Read more: Best SEGA CD Games of All Time

    Bomberman ‘94

    Bomberman has been a hit since its earlier arrival. The concept was loved by a massive number of gamers. This version of the game supports five-player multiplayer-battle feature which was missing in the original game. This allowed the players to bomb each other instead of just bombing the mindless creatures in the game.

    The rideable kangaroos were a fantastic addition to the game. Based on their color, these animals could increase your pace, overcome obstacles, kick bombs away and taunt your opponents with their dances.

    It is such an addictive classic that we couldn’t skip it from our TurboGrafx-16 mini games list for the most addictive games. The new features make it a perfect game for friends to play together.

    Devil’s Crush

    Devil’s Crush belongs to the same series as the Alien Crush. It’s a pinball video game with many twists to make it more interesting. In a regular pinball game, the aim is to keep the ball moving. However, Devil’s crush also offers points for hitting your enemies with the ball.

    So, it’s like a blend of pinball game and a shooting game. It’s quite a good looking game with smooth animation. The haunting music track and the demonic theme fit well together.

    The game features three pairs of flippers. You can also nudge or bump the table to influence the path the ball follows. But if you use the tilt button too much, the flippers will no longer work and you will have a lost ball. Read also: Best N64 Emulators for PC

    Devil’s Crush - Best TurboGrafx-16 Games Review

    R-Type

    R-Type is a side-scrolling shooter with several unique features that make it memorable for retro gamers. In this game, you control a starship called the R-9 Arrowhead. The main purpose is to destroy a nasty alien race that is set out to wipe out the entire mankind.

    The gameplay is quite interesting as compared to other horizontal shooting games. It’s visually appealing and has intense-looking enemy characters. Unlike other games in the genre, you don’t just shoot everything as fast as you can. Instead, the game has room for strategy building. You can charge up your shot and also take advantage of a companionship. Read more: Best SNES RPGs

    Bloody Wolf

    Looking for a contra-like retro classic? If you haven’t played Bloody Wolf before, you may be missing on to a very interesting game. The Turbografx-16 version was, in fact, way better than its arcade original.

    The game features a bandanna-sporting army man, who runs through a war zone region, blasting away enemies to win the levels. The levels are longer and more detailed than the arcade version. If you are a fan of side-scrolling run-n-shoot style of games, this may appeal to you.

    Conclusion

    Every new console release tried its best to lure gamers with exciting titles packed with new features and classy characters. TurboGrafx did an excellent job of creating addictive titles for gamers.

    It challenged some of the repetitive old concepts in various genres and introduced new features. If you like to explore some top classic games, TurboGrafx has plenty of good ones in almost every genre. Our list of the best TurboGrafx-16 games only consists of the top selling retro classics.

  • Best Atari 7800 Games Review

    Best Atari 7800 Games Review

    Are you an 80s kid? If you are then, you have stumbled upon the right page, which is going to take you on a nostalgic ride today. If you are from the world of PlayStation and Xbox and of course not an 80s kid, you sure are about to learn about the cool Atari 7800 games that blew the market in the 80s.

    For those of you who don’t know, Atari 7800 is an 8 bit home video gaming console launched by Atari Corporation in 1986 after the failure of its predecessor, Atari 5200. Its introductory cost was around US140$ (equivalent to $327 today). It had many interesting games and in this article, we will read about the best Atari 7800 games.

    [lwptoc]

    Best Atari 7800 Games

    Atari 7800 didn’t have a long commercial life, so Atari Corporation could only officially release a total of 59 games. Let’s jump in and cherish about best Atari 7800 games.

    Ms. Pac-Man

    The 7800 version of Ms. Pac-Man would make a fine addition for anyone to add to their 7800 libraries, especially if they are fans of the Pac-Man games. All the elements of the arcade classic have been recreated truly for the 7800 consoles. There are mazes, fruits, sound, intermissions, and even the blinking marquee for the title screen. This is as close as you can get to the arcade version to play at home on your Atari 7800.

    Joust

    Players in Joust saddle up on a floating space ostrich. They test their valor upon evil alien knights who sit atop giant birds. To defeat their opponents, players must collide with them while being at a higher altitude. After defeating your rivals, the player has to quickly recover eggs that drop before they hatch more dangerous foes. 

    Even a second player(riding on an emu) can play this game to help you out if things get difficult. It also gives you points for killing human players, which makes the cooperative gameplay extremely competitive. It’s all about your understanding of how to use your bird’s momentum to your advantage, which requires real skill.

    The standard 7800 controller is not the very best for arcade-based gameplay, but as an alternative, you can always use a 2600 joystick. Overall, Joust helped explain what multiplayer gaming was all about.

    Joust - Best Atari 7800 Games

    Galaga

    Galaga’s name is identical to space shoot-em-ups. The Atari 7800 version of Galaga absolutely looks wonderful, and after a few minutes in the game, I was ready to claim it as the greatest game on the system. Sadly, critical slowdown in succeeding stages hinders the game. It’s not instantly noticeable in the beginning. It becomes frequently visible as the game proceeds. Conclusively, this slowdown limits Galaga from being the “killer app” that it could have been. Read more: Best N64 Emulators for PC

    Centipede

    Centipede requires you to save the garden against the swarms of insects. Players may get jumped at by spiders while scorpions poisoning the mushrooms simultaneously. The centipedes here can attack in 12 different ways. Plus, if you shoot them, they get sectioned and make everything more challenging and exciting.

     They are the showstopper of the game. The best thing about the 7800 version of this game is the availability of a two-player mode, and who isn’t playing online these days? Friends just make the whole experience more fun.

    Both options of competing and playing together as a team are available, which are not even offered by XBOX and PS2. How cool is that!

    Centipede - Best Atari 7800 Games

    Donkey Kong Junior

    Donkey Kong Jr is the sequel of the Donkey King game, which offers good and tight controls along with multiplicity and variety in its levels. The junior version is widely acclaimed for its single-screen platform. The game is like its original version in the sense of its basic game plot and players. There are new and interesting characters though, along with the old ones with improved abilities. 

    For instance; Donkey King Jr’s who replaces the earlier lead Jumpman has an amazing ability to climb as opposed to the cliche walk and jump pattern. Our lead can climb and swing vertically too, which takes the game to the next level.

    One has to liberate Donkey King from the shackles of Mario through four stages. While doing this, you face many challenges such as birds hitting you, sparks and lightning that you need to be careful about, and much more.

    Atari vs. NES

    Atari 7800 was launched as a competitor to the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Since then, Atari 7800 vs NES has always been a debate. It was the Nintendo Entertainment System that was a mega-hit and sold loads and loads of consoles. It felt like everyone and their dogs had an NES.

    The real power of the NES was the MMC chips, which increased its aptitudes exponentially. More complex games with better graphics and sound were all built into the cartridge itself. Read: Best SNES RPGs

    NES - Best Atari 7800 Games

    Comparison between Atari and NES

    • 7800 had better hardware
    • 7800 had a better design (can’t really that classic console design and the simple carts)
    • NES had better software
    • NES also had a better controller
    • NES had finer sound

    Atari 7800 vs. 5200

    Atari 7800 was launched as a successor of the Atari 5200. Which one is better? Definitely a tough choice. Both the systems, 5200 and 7800, have excellent variants of the masterworks like Ms. Pacman, Galaxian or Galaga, Donkey Kong, Centipede, etc.

    Best Atari 7800 Games

    Comparison between Atari 7800 and 5200

    • Controllers on the 5200 were better than those on 7800
    • The sound on the 5200 was better
    • 7800 had better graphics
    • Arcade Port that appeared on both the platforms were better on 7800

    Atari 7800 ROMs had almost all the games from Atari 5200. The games on Atari 5200 take better advantage of the abilities of the system than most of Atari 7800 games. Because of the cheapness of the Tramiel approach in the era of 7800. The biggest benefits of the 7800 are that it was available in a later era, so it has some better games than the 5200, and also it is backward-compatible with 2600 so you can play its complete library on the 7800.

  • Best Neo Geo Games Review

    Best Neo Geo Games Review

    If you have ever lived through the craze of retro gaming, the early 20th century Neo Geo consoles wouldn’t have skipped your mind. Hardcore lovers of retro gaming can still list some of the best Neo Geo games that were hugely popular back then. If not, we would help jog your memory to help you recall at-least the top 10 classic titles.

    It is quite amazing how the limitations of graphics and CPU didn’t stop the game developers in the 20th century from coming up with such addictive classics. You could play them for hours at end, and still not get bored. The Neo-Geo game was first presented only as arcade machine cabinets. But the rising popularity soon made it available as home consoles with Neo Geo CD and Neo Geo AES.

    [lwptoc]

    Best Neo Geo Games Review

    Best Neo Geo Games

    Metal Slug

    A reminiscent of Contra, Metal Slug is a 2D run and gun game with a total of 6 missions across snowy mountain valleys, canyons, military bases, forests, and garrisoned cities. At the end of every mission, you encounter a boss which is relatively difficult to kill. 

    You can shoot your enemies or carry out melee attacks. Through the game, you will acquire a variety of guns with different capabilities. You will also encounter innocent villagers that you can free to gain bonus objects. Again, it’s very similar to Contra which was released a few years back and was a major hit. 

    Neo Turf Masters

    This golf game may appeal to sports game lovers with its serene music, beautiful courses, and slick presentation. Well, golf is not a game that everyone gets to play. But Neo Turf Masters made it as real as possible with the graphics and technology of the time. They did a good job with the gameplay, the characters, and of course the tight controls. 

    Neo Turf Masters can be fun even to those who have no special interest in the sports genre. It has beautiful visuals and a relaxing soundtrack that can be good for de-stressing.

    Neo Turf Masters - Best Neo Geo Games

    Garou: Mark of the Wolves

    There aren’t many retro game lovers who haven’t heard of this game. It’s easily one of the best Neo Geo games in the 2D fighter genre. What made it stand out among the brawling games of the time were the innovative features like customizing the health bar and the superb graphics that were rare among the classics. 

    Replacing the simple 2-plane system, this game introduced Tactical Offense Position (TOP). When the life gauge or the health bar reaches the TOP region then the player could use a special T.O.P attack, life recovery, and enhanced damage. 

    Succeeding to score at least an AAA rank would let you the chance to fight the boss Kain R. Heinlein. Winning this fight would unlock a special unending. Failing this would result in a fight with a mid-boss and then ‘Grant’ as the final boss. Must check: Best N64 Emulators for PC

    Aero Fighters 2

    Aero Fighters 2 had become a must-have for the Neo Geo CD system owners. This top-down style shoot’em up was a flawless rendition of the original arcade version. Contrary to other similar style games, Aero Fighters 2 offered plenty of choices to keep the game interesting. You could choose from 8 different pilots and play through 10 levels as you progress. 

    You could maintain a steady rate of fire with the triple burst with a single press of the fire button. At the end of every level, you encounter the boss ship that you must defeat to pass the level. Once you have defeated the game by winning all the 10 levels, the game will repeat itself from the first level but with increased difficulty. 

    The game also lets you control your firepower of power projectiles, so you can choose for it to cause more damage for a short while or whether for it to last longer at lower firepower shots. You can also throw bombs from a limited stockpile. The tight controls and various shooting options also contributed to the extraordinary success of this game. 

    Aero Fighters 2 - Best Neo Geo Games Review

    Samurai Shodown II

    Back in the day, the Japanese Samurai piqued a lot of interest. Samurai Shodown was another one of those 2D combat games, but instead of focusing on endless combos, this game rewarded the players for throwing the right hit and their impeccable timing. 

    Though this series consisted of several parts, the 2nd one was the most acclaimed. The beautiful graphics, silky animation, and the broad range of characters all lead to it soon becoming a huge successful arcade remake for the Neo Geo console

    Pulstar

    If you are tired of the unending list of 2D fighter games that Neo Geo CD seems to be choked full of, right on cue we bring you a space monster shoot’em up game. Okay, so Neo Geo is abundant in such games, but that’s because all of them were so good and came up with unique elements to allure the players. 

    Many developers had attempted to create best-sellers in this genre of gaming, but looking back at those games; Pulstar has managed to land a top position in this area. The game had a difficulty level that measured up as hard enough, even for the seasoned gamers. 

    The pre-rendered 3D like graphics went well with the gamers, and the need for strategically advancing in the game all made this an addictive space shooting game of the time. Read more: Best SEGA Master System Games

    Pulstar - Best Neo Geo Games Review

    Windjammers

    If you look at the top 50 Neo Geo games, you will come across plenty of sports games along with 2D combat, and space-shooting games. 

    We confess that they did a fine job of creating these sports games like Windjammers, which did fairly well despite the graphical limitations of the time. The Windjammers is essentially an air hockey game, but it rather gives the feel of a fighter game. 

    The game features two muscular players who must try their best to get past the other to reach the opponent’s goal. The super-throws from the top-down angle and the impressive graphics and sound quality made this a personal favorite for many gamers at the time.  

    Conclusion

    Several game titles in the late 20th century had made it big in the arcade gaming systems, but consoles like Neo Geo AES and Neo Geo CD paved the way for the recreation of such arcade classics to enter every gamer’s home.

    Today, we can look back at the impressive collection of such games that have been the love of everyone’s childhood, who had had a Neo Geo system. Each of these classics introduced a unique element into the gaming genres and helped the industry evolve.

  • Best N64 Emulators for PC

    Best N64 Emulators for PC

    N64 or Nintendo 64 was the pioneer of 64-bit computing in gaming consoles. This successor of Super Nintendo (SNES) released some of the most successful titles you would ever see in the world of retro games. It was Nintendo’s response to the next-gen console wars at that time. Sadly, you cannot buy N64 today to revisit or experience the classics. However, don’t lose hope too soon. We have compiled a list of best N64 emulators for PC to play the unforgettable N64 classics, anytime we want.

    [lwptoc]

    Brief Intro of N64

    Of course, the up-gradation to 64-bit computing was a major improvement for the console, but in addition, the inclusion of analog joystick, vibration function, and the trigger button made the game play much more fun than it had ever been. The memorable classics like the Legend of Zelda, Super Mario 64, Ocarina of Time, etc were thus made possible with this new gaming machine.

    Thanks to the introduction of emulators, gamers of today cannot complain that they didn’t get to play the best game classics of all time. If you are a retro gamer, install the best N64 emulator for PC and enter the world of old school gaming right away!

    Best N64 Emulator for PC

    Best N64 Emulators for PC

    Mupen64plus

    If you are looking for an emulator that is compatible with all kinds of devices, has impressive audio quality, and wide plug-in support, this one it is. It isn’t the easiest emulator to use, but once you get the knack of it you will start seeing how fun it is.

    It doesn’t have a user-interface of its own; however, the amazing plug-in support solves the problem. Downloading a plug-in like M64Py will provide a user-interface specifically designed for Mupen64plus. Some other important features of Mupen64plus are listed below.

    • Dynamic recompilers for ARM and Intel CPUs
    • Easily integrate into other systems with shared library support
    • Speed adjustment with good sound output
    • Infrared Remote Control (LIRC) is supported
    • Two Open GL Video plug-ins are supported

    Mupen64plus - Best N64 Emulator for PC

    Project 64

    It’s safe to say that Project64 is the master of N64 emulation. At least for windows, it is the best N64 emulator for PC.  It’s popular because of the great community support and the easy to use user-interface. Overall, it’s an excellent emulator but the audio can be inconsistent.

    Project 64 supports majority of the N64 games. You can play games with USB controllers, save states to avoid losing your progress, and enjoy games in high-resolution textures. The bugs are consistently fixed and the emulator has evolved to be a reliable and feature packed solution for playing those N64 classics even today. Learn more: Best Commodore 64 Games that Became Bestsellers

    RetroArch

    While most other emulators focus on one platform and on a single console, RetroArch is for those who love to play all the top retro games and are such big fans of old school gaming that it doesn’t matter to what console the game title belongs.

    This emulator works on almost any device you can imagine. MacOS, Linux, PSP, PS3, Wii, Switch, Windows, Raspberry Pi, it works on them all!

    It supports joysticks and gamepads. Customization options are also plenty with this emulator. High-resolution visuals are another advantage of this emulator. The only drawback with RetroArch is that it requires time to learn. It may seem quite complex at first.

    RetroArch - Best N64 Emulator for PC

    Nemu64

    If you are looking for a lightweight and easy solution to playing N64 games on your PC, Nemu64 looks quite good for the purpose. It doesn’t consume much memory and you don’t need to install the games in order to play them. It even provides offline support for multiplayer gaming.

    So, if you are in a rush to get started playing N64 titles and don’t want to burden your machine with excessive load, just go with Nemu64 and you are done!

    BizHawk

    This one is a special type of emulator as it’s built for Tool Assisted Speedruns. In other words, the purpose of this emulator is not just to get back to playing retro masterpieces, but it also lets you cheat a little and discover ways to beat the game.

    So, if you are one of those impatient types and like to finish the game in shortest about of time, do check BizHawk. Besides N64, it also offers support for emulating NES, SNES, Playstation, as well as all the popular Atari and Sega systems.

    It is an easy to use emulator if you are into casual gaming. Frankly, it’s not one of the best N64 emulators for PC, but it does offer a wide array of features to play games for different systems. Read: Best Atari 5200 Games

    Some Other Names to Consider

    We have mentioned most of the best N64 emulators for PC. If you are fanatical about N64 games and need a high quality emulator that offers massive support for N64 games, this list is more than enough to find you the perfect solution. However, there are some other emulators that you may want to look into.

    UltraHLE

    The UltraHLE used to be a phenomenal emulator for N64 games. Unfortunately if hasn’t been updated for a long time.

    UltraHLE - Best N64 Emulator for PC

    1964

    Oh, it’s the name of the emulator. You might confuse it with a date but it’s the actual name. It’s a great emulator for playing N64 games on your PC. It’s also worth checking out if you are a retro fan.

    Daedalus

    If you are really into old school gaming and are upset about not being able to play again those N64 classics like you used to, Daedalus may solve your problem. It does have some issues but it gets the job done. Check out: Best SEGA CD Games of All Time

    Conclusion

    With all the hard work put into developing these retro-games emulators, time-travel finally seems real. You can just play any of the games that you used to play when you were young, and the music and the game-play would transport you back to those earlier times.

    If you used to play these retro classics in the evening with your friends, the experience with these N64 emulators would be something very close to that. With all the advanced graphics of today, the magic of the old school gaming cannot be recreated. But hey! You can go back in time to play the best N64 games now!

  • Best SNES RPGs

    Best SNES RPGs

    SNES or Super Nintendo had to face intense competition due to its relatively late release. However, the 16-bit console allowed the SNES to craft more immersive worlds and vivid characters in their games. In fact, developers created some of the best SNES RPGs that are difficult to overlook for any retro gamer today.

    The rivalry with SEGA’s genesis was tough and it kind of compelled Nintendo to come up with ingenious styles and excel at the genres. The evolution in RPGs is clearly evident in the list of best SNES games in this genre.

    [lwptoc]

    Best SNES RPGs

    Action RPG is a genre many gamers tend to be crazy about. It’s so addictive to kick the enemies’ ass in a surreal setting with creatively crafted characters. The newer more potent hardware in the console let the developers come up with some brand new exciting titles. Let’s have a look.

    Final Fantasy V

    Almost all retro gamers would probably know this name. It has many sequels but this is the one that played a vital role in the rise of SNES.

    The game features a jobs system, which means that you will play with different characters simultaneously following a turn-based command. To make it further interesting, each of your characters can pick over 20 different job classes. It gives you a chance to develop a winning strategy in the game.

    The villain is really challenging, you can travel the world in a variety of ways using different transportation, and the sound effects are also above average. All these traits combined, the game lets you flex your mental muscles and is one of the most engaging RPGs ever designed. Read more: Best SEGA Master System Games

    Final Fantasy V - Best SNES RPGs

    Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars

    Most adults have grown up playing the Super Mario game. It was one of the first platformers that had mastered the mechanics of its type and had a huge role in making Nintendo popular. So, it shouldn’t be a surprise if you feel one of the two emotions; apprehension or excitement when hearing about this new RPG style of Mario.

    However, once you try this game and come to see Mario and Bowser as allies, it’s definitely worth playing. Of course, Mario and Bowser may not be your first choice of characters in an RPG, but this is actually quite funny and entertaining. If you just like to have a good time while playing and prefer shorter gameplay sometimes, this is made for you.

    Secret of Mana

    If by any chance you missed to try this action RPG, this may be the best SNES RPGs you never played. In fact this game proved the importance of real-time action RPGs as an alternative to turn-based games.

    You get to play this one with three characters but you only control one character at a time. The visuals are truly gorgeous and the multiplayer option elevates the status of this game even higher among the gamers. It’s also incredible that other players can enter and leave in the middle of the game.

    It has a fun storyline but it only starts making complete sense in the second half of the game.  The story revolves around the legendary Mana sword that three boys accidentally discover as one of them falls into a lake. As a consequence, several monsters are also unleashed into the villages. The game involves a lot of travelling, elements of surprises, and crisp graphics. Read: Best Commodore 64 Games that Became Bestsellers

    Secret of Mana - Best SNES RPGs

    Breath of Fire II

    With this RPG title, it can easily be said that the artists put some real work in creating the backgrounds and animations. The turn-based battles, quirky characters, and the character interactions are what make this game extremely fun to play.

    It’s a story-driven RPG where your character must navigate top-down, venture through several dungeons, and defend against your enemy attacks. The dialogues and hints in the message box at the bottom help you solve challenges and progress in the game.

    Considering the age of this game, the storyline is pretty good. However, today we have other games with similar concepts. Anyway, overall it’s a pretty good game to kill time.

    Earthbound

    Amidst several SNES RPGs that focused on fantasy worlds, this one kept it simple and featured a more realistic setting. Even the characters look like ordinary children rather than ancient warriors or strange animals.

    Earthbound could be one of the most expensive of the SNES ROMs. The game is quite fun and invokes the spirit of the 90s fairly well. The graphics aren’t the best you would see in SNES titles, but the fantastic soundtrack makes up for it. The game mechanics are also interesting and keep you glued.

    The game tries to reflect the western culture in a plot with a young boy who investigates a nearby meteorite crash. Your character gradually discovers that an alien race has consumed the world and turned people and objects into malicious creatures. You must travel to different towns and ultimately eradicate the alien from existence. Read more: Best DOS Games of All Time

    Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen

    Despite generic storyline and ordinary graphics, this game really managed to create its place in the RPG gaming world. Focusing predominantly on gameplay and combat, this game became a personal favorite of many in that period.

    The retro gamers must at least once give it a look as they might love the tactical battles, plenty of character choices to recruit, and solid music also gives it a high entertainment value. For these reasons, we couldn’t miss it from our list of the best SNES RPGs.

    Ogre Battle The March of the Black Queen - Best SNES RPGs

    Conclusion

    When you are talking about old school gaming, the list really never seems to end. There are plenty of best SNES RPGs with extremely unique characters and settings. The rivalry between the contemporary console brands ensured that every new release promised an entirely new exciting experience.

    Our criteria for picking the best ones is centered on the storyline, gameplay, interactive elements, colors, as well as the crispness of graphics. But we sure didn’t skip the ones that are addictive to many despite some subpar elements and features.

  • Best SEGA Master System Games

    Best SEGA Master System Games

    Any true retro lover would instantly recall having played or known these best SEGA master system games. It’s not hard to remember how much the gamers were fascinated by these top titles released for SEGA master systems.

    Brace yourself for the overwhelming nostalgia as we begin to list the most popular game titles for this console. We bet it would instantly teleport you to your childhood if you had ever played any of these SEGA master system games.

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    Best SEGA Master System Games

    Best SEGA Master System Games

    Fantasy Star

    You get into random battles as you walk around in an overworld. The RPGs which is a common genre now was pretty fresh around that time. The plot of the game is about revenge and the players are taken to different plants where they come across various races and learn about the lore of the series

    This is a strategy based, feature-packed game, with 3D tunnel effects that made it different from the generic fantasy world prevalent in the rival consoles.

    You must defeat the bad guys but you are not alone. You will group with a warrior and a wizard on your quest to defeat the dark forces. The game was such a huge hit that we later come to see many more subsequent parts of the game.

    Sonic the Hedgehog 2

    If there is one game series that can be credit for cementing Sega’s success in the gaming world across the globe, it’s Sonic.

    This horizontal scrolling platform game features Sonic as the main character but this new part of the game marks the debut of Tails as a character who Sonic must rescue. Through the game, you must collect rings, save animals and kill the evil bots to defeat the evil Dr. Robotniks.

    To make it further interesting, you could ride in a minecart, glide on gliders, skim across waters and float in bubbles, what else could one need in a platform game?

    Sonic the Hedgehog 2 - Best SEGA Master System Games

    Asterix

    Asterix is a side-scrolling platformer that partly reminds you of Mario but with plenty of original scenes and much more puzzle elements. Also, it has two characters Asterix and Obelix in the sequel. Both have different abilities which give you two different approaches to clear a level.

    Your characters must travel all over the world to protect druid Getafix from a dreadful fate in Rome. Though the characters were created from a comic book, the developers have done an excellent job at it. This adventure is really fun to play with all the rich colors, expressive characters and the storyline. No wonder why it is still one of the favorites for many retro lovers. Read more: Best Commodore 64 Games that Became Bestsellers

    Alex Kidd in Shinobi World

    The forgotten hero of the gaming world, Alex Kidd was, at one point of time, almost as popular as Sonic, Donald, and Mickey. In this game, Alex Kidd is informed by the ancient warrior about the Dark Ninja’s escape, and his plan with Alex’s kidnapped girlfriend. He fuses itself with Alex to boost his strength and skills. Now, like Alex, you must save your girlfriend as well as stop the evil Ninja.

    This side-scrolling platformer game has everything to make it addictive, challenging, and visually pleasing. The diverse changing scenarios, the variety of weapons with the sword as default, rolling as a fireball move, the background music, and the storyline, it all makes the game one of the most memorable of the time.

    Vampire: Master of Darkness

    Perhaps the developers thought that SEGA’s master system was lacking in a horror-thriller and decided to come up with this dark action-platformer. SEGA had to do something to tackle Nintendo that had a lion’s share in the market when it came to horror.

    With the master of darkness, developers introduced plenty of unique elements to make it feel fresh for the gamers despite some similarities with other games of the time. Your character is a psychologist who is tasked with vanquishing the vampires ultimately facing Dracula himself.

    Vampire Master of Darkness - Best SEGA Master System Games

    Psycho Fox

    It’s one of the best looking master system games with surprisingly crisp graphics. But that’s not what makes it addictive. It’s another one of those horizontal scrolling games but the abundance of fun elements, special abilities, and unique challenges make it one of the best games of the time. The psycho fox can use its magical stick to change into three different animals.

    Another factor why this game achieved so much love was that it managed to offer the best elements of the three popular games Mario, Yoshi’s Island, and Sonic. It didn’t just copy them but realized the best aspects of these platformers and ingeniously incorporated them. This is undoubtedly one of the best SEGA master system games. Learn more: Best DOS Games of All Time

    Golden Axe Warrior

    This title never fails to enter any list about the best SEGA master system RPGs. The concept of the game wasn’t entirely unique but it was executed with such excellence that it became a huge success.

    You are a Spartan-inspired warrior who must avenge his parent’s death. Your character enters a set of labyrinths, collect crystals, defend against some automatic attacks, fight a variety of enemies while figuring out the way to find and defeat the wicked villain Death Adder.

    Many compare it to Zelda game, which makes sense because of the similarity in the basic concept of the two games. However, there are plenty of unique elements in the game so it doesn’t matter if you have played Zelda before.

    Golden Axe Warrior - Best SEGA Master System Games

    Wonder Boy in Monster Land

    If there is one thing that is safe to say for the majority of game lovers, it’s that the platform games never get boring. To ensure this, developers keep creating new ones adding some unique features to them. We have several platformers that make the list of best SEGA master system games.

    Wonder Boy is an ARPG(Action Role-Playing game) where your warrior character must accrue gold to upgrade armor and weapons, and progress through 12 levels of monsters to finally defeat the final boss, Mecha Dragon. The colorful graphics, addictive soundtrack, and the immersive design are what make this game unforgettable for retro fans. Read more: Best SEGA CD Games of All Time

    Conclusion

    It’s quite fun to see 8-bit video consoles having created such ingenious games with attractive designs despite the technological limitations. Some of these games are so addictive that they are even played today.

    So, these are SEGA master system games worth playing if you do find retro games to be special. Sadly, these games had something that is missing in some of the games that we play today. By going into the past, you will realize that graphics isn’t the only criteria for creating a wonderful game. They no longer make it how they used to! Go play and find out for yourself.

  • Best DOS Games of All Time

    Best DOS Games of All Time

    For every game lover, there are some PC games that are truly timeless and mark the golden age of PC gaming. Doesn’t matter how old you are, going down the memory lane to remember or learn about the best DOS games of all time can be elating.

    Looking back to the times when DOS or MS-DOS was the only operating system for PC, that was the period when the foundations of PC gaming were laid. If you belong to the older generation and have lived the period of top DOS games, it may be a good idea to introduce your kids, nieces, or nephews to the world of the classic DOS games.

    [lwptoc]

    Best DOS Games of All Time

    We have compiled a list of the best selling classic DOS games in various genres. The list of such games is unending, to be frank, but we did our best to select the most memorable and distinctive titles, for you.

    Prince of Persia

    It is one of those game titles which were eventually made into a movie. You are probably familiar with the modern version of this game, but it was first brought into existence by Jordan Mechner in 1989. The game features a prince from medieval Iran who must escape from the prison, run, jump, and indulge in sword fights to save the princess from the spiteful villain Grand Vizier Jaffar.

    The game influenced a sub-genre called cinematic platformer. The sprawling levels, fluid animation, and the control style marked this new genre. Unlike the ordinary jump and run mechanics, this introduced several new factors in the gameplay. It introduced complex levels, making survival more challenging. The simple jump was replaced by more difficult jumping and environmental puzzles.

    Every time your character dies you must start again from the beginning. Your character begins with three health units that can be replenished with health potions discovered during the game. Large jars of potions would give a permanent boost to Prince’s health. Though you will have infinite lives, the game must be finished within an hour to achieve victory.

    Prince of Persia - Best DOS Games of All Time

    Wolfenstein 3D

    Wolfenstein 3D is one of the first FPS(First Person Shooter) games. You are stuck in a 3-dimensional maze where your mission is to defeat the Nazis in each level, one boss at a time. There is a storyline to the game. You are an American spy of Polish Jewish descent.

    The game lets you live through an alternative history. In the beginning, you have been captured but you manage to escape with the help of a concealed knife. There are a total of six episodes each having nine levels. Through the first nine levels, you must search for an escape from Wolfenstein which is heavily guarded. In the final mission, you must terminate Hitler!

    The player has a limited number of lives but he can win extra lives by achieving certain milestones. You will be equipped with four kinds of weapons with knife and piston given at the very start, rest acquired through the course of the game. Read more: Best Atari 5200 Games

    Wolfenstein 3D - Best DOS Games of All Time

    SimCity

    Let’s be honest. Most of us don’t have the slightest idea about the intricacies of running a city. This game lets you mess around with that very idea of building and maintaining an entire city. What are some of the essential components of building a city? These are housing, transport, schools, shops, factories, and other similar elements, right? As the Mayor of a new municipality, these will be your responsibility in the game.

    You must raise taxes, prepare for emergencies, decide what the most suitable sites for any establishment are; your choices will determine the fate of the city. You will face economical, environmental, and other challenges in time-limited scenarios.

    The Sims series eventually evolved into much more advanced formats. Now you have so many different versions of the game. Electronic Arts game publisher has released the latest SimCity game with more real-life situations and advanced graphics. But let’s not forget that it all began with the DOS version of SimCity.

    SimCity - Best DOS Games of All Time

    Street Fighter II

    It’s one of the first head-to-head combat games which were recreated from the arcade version to be introduced to in-home gaming. It became one of the best DOS games of all time. Retro game lovers still remember all the characters of the game and it won’t surprise me if some of them still play it.

    The game had a significant impact on popular cultures like films and music. The characters like Ryu, Ken, E Honda, Chun-Li all became quite memorable.

    The character could jump, crouch, move, defend, and cast a combination of kicks and punches. In fact, it was this game that popularized the use of combo attacks in 2D combat games. Grabbing and throwing attacks were also a part of the Street Fighter 2 which was missing in the original version.

    Street Fighter II - Best DOS Games of All Time

    DOOM

    Doom is a 3D FPS(First Person Shooter) developed by the same company that created Wolfenstein 3D. So of course there are similarities, but the plot and the complexity of the levels are entirely different.

    At the beginning of the game, you find yourself in a futuristic setting on a military base located on Mars’ moon Phobos. The story goes that a squad of Marines were sent to Phobos, but were slaughtered by demonic creatures. Only one of them survived and you being that person must strike back as you find your way out of the place.

    It’s a full-on action game where you are equipped with a varied arsenal. Like Wolfenstein, it has different episodes that can be played in any order. You can equip yourself with a varied arsenal that you will need to fight the demons and the humans that have now turned. The theme is that of the space but it gradually starts to resemble hell with hung-up corpses, horned demons, and distorted faces. Read more: Best Commodore 64 Games that Became Bestsellers

    DOOM - Best DOS Games of All Time

    Conclusion

    These are just a few of the top DOS games that classic-game lovers would definitely love to revisit. The more you learn about these classics, the more you realize how they have been a huge part of the evolution of PC gaming.

    You may be surprised to learn that some of the best DOS strategy games belong to this time period. There are of course plenty more best-selling DOS games in almost every genre. We hoped that this tiny list would rekindle the spirit of a retro gamer in you.