Category Archives: Metal Jesus Likes

I’ve got a pile of broken C64s, let’s fix a couple!

Who doesn’t love a good C64 repair session? These machines are both easy to fix and also can be tricky sometimes. So let’s break out the schematics and oscilloscope and fix a couple of these machines!

The Commodore 64, introduced in 1982, stands as one of the most iconic and beloved home computers of its era. Featuring an impressive array of hardware specifications for its time, the C64 boasted a MOS Technology 6510 microprocessor running at 1 MHz, 64 kilobytes of RAM, and advanced graphics and sound capabilities. Its graphical capabilities, including sprites and a wide color palette, allowed for visually impressive games and applications. Additionally, the SID (Sound Interface Device) chip provided the Commodore 64 with rich and distinct audio capabilities, enabling it to produce music and sound effects that were far ahead of its competitors.

Beyond its technical specifications, the Commodore 64 had a massive software library, ranging from games to productivity software and educational programs. Its affordability and widespread availability made it a staple in households and schools, contributing to its popularity and longevity. The C64 also served as a platform for budding programmers and hobbyists, offering accessible programming languages like BASIC and assembly, empowering users to create their own software and games. Its robust hardware and extensive software support cemented the Commodore 64’s status as a legendary computing platform, leaving an indelible mark on the history of personal computing.

A NEW Neo Geo Console! The ORTHROS MCS-01 First Look!

First look at the Orthros Kit available here: https://www.orthros.fr/

The Neo Geo MVS (Multi Video System) stands as a legendary arcade platform renowned for its unparalleled graphics and arcade-perfect ports of popular arcade games during the 1990s. It was developed by SNK (Shin Nihon Kikaku) and released in 1990. The Neo Geo MVS was distinct in its design, offering a modular system where arcade operators could interchange game cartridges, allowing for multiple games to be played on a single cabinet. This innovation provided significant cost savings for arcade owners and ensured a diverse range of games were available to players.

One of the standout features of the Neo Geo MVS was its powerful hardware, which boasted advanced graphics and sound capabilities for its time. The system utilized custom-made hardware capable of producing colorful and detailed 2D graphics, making it a favorite among arcade enthusiasts. Additionally, the Neo Geo MVS was known for its robust and durable build quality, ensuring reliability in the often demanding arcade environment. Its library of games included many iconic titles such as “Metal Slug,” “The King of Fighters,” and “Samurai Shodown,” cementing its legacy as one of the most beloved arcade platforms of all time.

Full Length Movies Playing on the 2600? It is Now Possible!

I have a fun video today showing a new product that has been in development for many years. The MovieCart allows full-length videos to run on stock 2600 hardware.

Order here: https://www.tindie.com/products/lodefmode/moviecart-atari-2600/

The Atari 2600, while groundbreaking in its time, posed significant challenges for programmers due to its hardware limitations and unconventional architecture. One major obstacle was the system’s limited memory, consisting of only 128 bytes of RAM. This scarcity meant that programmers had to be incredibly efficient in their use of memory, often resorting to creative techniques such as reusing memory locations for multiple purposes or employing complex algorithms to squeeze the most out of the available resources. Additionally, the system lacked hardware support for features commonly found in modern consoles, such as sprites or tile-based graphics, forcing developers to manually manipulate the display using the system’s limited capabilities.

Another significant challenge was the Atari 2600’s lack of dedicated video memory. Unlike later consoles that featured separate memory for graphics data, the 2600 required programmers to generate the video signal in real-time, synchronizing their code with the television’s electron beam to draw each scanline and pixel. This “playfield” approach meant that developers had to carefully orchestrate their code to render graphics and update game logic within the tight constraints of the system’s vertical blank interrupt. Consequently, programming for the Atari 2600 demanded a deep understanding of both the hardware’s limitations and its idiosyncratic design, requiring developers to employ innovative programming techniques and optimizations to achieve their desired gameplay experience.

Ken and Roberta Williams Interview w/ Matt Barton (New for 2024)

Ken and Roberta Williams are the founders of Sierra On-Line, one of the most influential computer game developers and publishers of all time. Recently, the couple returned to their gaming roots with a 3D, AR-enabled version of the classic text adventure Colossal Cave.

Sierra On-Line was a powerhouse in the gaming industry throughout the 1980s and 1990s, known for producing some of the most iconic and influential adventure games of the era. One of their standout titles from the 1980s was “King’s Quest” (1984), a groundbreaking adventure game that introduced players to the fantastical world of Daventry and the daring adventures of King Graham. With its innovative use of graphics and text-based commands, “King’s Quest” offered players unprecedented freedom to explore its richly detailed environments and solve puzzles, setting a new standard for the adventure game genre. Its success spawned numerous sequels, each building upon the legacy of the original and further cementing Sierra’s reputation as a leader in interactive storytelling.

In the 1990s, Sierra continued to push the boundaries of gaming with titles like “Space Quest” (1986) and “Quest for Glory” (1989). “Space Quest” combined humor, science fiction, and adventure in a series of games following the hapless space janitor Roger Wilco as he stumbled his way through various interstellar misadventures. The series was known for its witty writing, colorful characters, and imaginative settings, earning it a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. “Quest for Glory,” on the other hand, blended elements of traditional adventure games with role-playing mechanics, allowing players to create and develop their own character as they embarked on epic quests in the fantasy world of Gloriana. With its innovative approach to gameplay and rich narrative, “Quest for Glory” left a lasting impression on the gaming landscape and remains beloved by fans to this day. Overall, Sierra On-Line’s catalog of games from the 1980s and 1990s showcased the company’s pioneering spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the history of gaming.

I Beat Every Single 2D Mario Game…

Josie Woah completes every 2D Mario game in anticipation of Super Mario Wonder on Switch.

The first three Super Mario games—Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, and Super Mario Bros. 3—were pivotal in shaping the landscape of video gaming on the original NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) for several reasons. Firstly, Super Mario Bros., released in 1985, revolutionized the platformer genre by introducing tight controls, imaginative level design, and a memorable protagonist in Mario. It set the standard for side-scrolling action games, establishing many conventions still used in the genre today. Its accessible yet challenging gameplay appealed to players of all ages and skill levels, helping to popularize gaming as a mainstream form of entertainment and cementing Nintendo’s position as a dominant force in the industry.

Following the success of the original Super Mario Bros., its sequels—Super Mario Bros. 2 and Super Mario Bros. 3—further solidified Mario’s status as a cultural icon and Nintendo’s flagship franchise. Super Mario Bros. 2 introduced innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to play as multiple characters with unique abilities, and showcased Nintendo’s willingness to experiment with new ideas. Meanwhile, Super Mario Bros. 3 pushed the NES hardware to its limits with its expansive world map, diverse environments, and plethora of power-ups and secrets, offering players an even deeper and more immersive gaming experience. These games not only helped drive sales of the NES console but also fostered a sense of community and shared experiences among players, laying the foundation for the enduring legacy of the Super Mario series and its impact on the gaming industry as a whole.

Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection Official Announcement Trailer

Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection is coming to Xbox, Playstation, Switch and PC.

The appeal of the first two Star Wars Battlefront games lies in their immersive and action-packed gameplay set within the beloved Star Wars universe. Developed by Pandemic Studios and published by LucasArts, these games allowed players to engage in epic battles across iconic locations from the Star Wars films. Whether fighting on the forest moon of Endor, storming the beaches of Kashyyyk, or engaging in dogfights above the Death Star, the games captured the essence of the Star Wars saga and allowed fans to experience the thrill of being a part of the galactic conflict firsthand. The seamless integration of ground and space combat, along with the ability to play as various iconic characters and vehicles from the franchise, offered players a diverse and dynamic gameplay experience that kept them coming back for more.

Moreover, the first two Star Wars Battlefront games excelled in their attention to detail and faithful recreation of the Star Wars universe. From the authentic sound effects of blaster fire and lightsabers to the visually stunning landscapes and meticulously designed character models, the games immersed players in a galaxy far, far away like never before. The inclusion of single-player campaigns, multiplayer modes, and cooperative gameplay options ensured that there was something for every type of player, whether they wanted to embark on solo missions as a hero of the Rebellion or team up with friends to conquer the galaxy together. With its combination of thrilling gameplay, faithful representation of the source material, and ample content for fans to enjoy, the first two Star Wars Battlefront games remain beloved classics in the realm of Star Wars gaming.

Dune: Part 2 Movie Review

Dune: Part 2, movie reviewed by Tom Jorgensen

The appeal of the Dune books lies in their richly crafted universe, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. Frank Herbert’s masterful storytelling transports readers to a distant future where political intrigue, religious fervor, and ecological concerns intertwine on the desert planet of Arrakis. The intricate world-building, with its detailed history, diverse cultures, and unique technology, captivates readers and invites them to immerse themselves in a universe both familiar and alien. From the power struggles of noble houses to the mystical abilities of the Bene Gesserit sisterhood and the enigmatic sandworms that shape the planet’s destiny, Dune offers a tapestry of narratives that continually intrigue and surprise.

Furthermore, the characters in the Dune series are multi-dimensional and morally ambiguous, adding depth and complexity to the story. Protagonists like Paul Atreides grapple with questions of destiny and the consequences of power, while antagonists such as Baron Vladimir Harkonnen embody the dangers of unchecked ambition. Themes of ecology, religion, politics, and the human condition resonate throughout the series, inviting readers to ponder timeless questions about the nature of power, the fragility of ecosystems, and the limits of knowledge. The combination of gripping storytelling, philosophical depth, and imaginative world-building has made the Dune books enduring classics that continue to captivate readers across generations.

Wolfenstein-inspired BioFury: The Epic New 3DO Game

Today I unbox a BioFury Collector’s Edition (Number 39 of 100) that I purchased from World of Games and share with you this wonderful new release for the 3DO! You can still pick up the standard release here: https://worldofgamespublishing.com/shop

The 3DO Interactive Multiplayer, released in 1993, was a pioneering gaming console developed by The 3DO Company. Marketed as a high-end multimedia system, the 3DO was unique in that it was not manufactured by a single company but rather licensed to various manufacturers such as Panasonic, GoldStar (now LG), and Sanyo. It boasted impressive specifications for its time, including a 32-bit RISC CPU, which offered significantly better performance compared to other consoles of the era like the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The 3DO also featured advanced graphics capabilities and CD-ROM technology, allowing for more immersive gaming experiences with full-motion video and CD-quality audio.

Despite its powerful hardware and innovative features, the 3DO struggled to gain widespread adoption due to its high price point, which was initially set at $699 in the United States. This made it one of the most expensive gaming consoles on the market at the time, limiting its appeal to a niche audience of early adopters and enthusiasts. Additionally, the lack of exclusive titles and strong third-party support further hindered its success, as many developers were hesitant to invest in the platform given its relatively small user base. Despite these challenges, the 3DO did have a library of notable games such as “Star Control II,” “Road Rash,” and “The Need for Speed,” which showcased the console’s capabilities and contributed to its legacy as a groundbreaking but ultimately commercially unsuccessful gaming platform.

Ken & Roberta Williams Sends a Message to Adventure Game Fans

Ken and Roberta Williams will be one of the guests that you will get to visit with at the Adventure Game Fan Fair.

https://adventuregamehotspot.com/

The Adventure Game Fan Fair will be the first annual convention to bring together adventure developers, artists, creators and fans in the United States. We’ll be honoring the people who have shaped the genre’s past and present with the first official Adventure Game Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony. This specialty event will feature exciting panels, interactive exhibits, exclusive prizes and, most importantly, the opportunity to meet face-to-face with gaming legends!

The inaugural Fan Fair will be held the weekend of July 27th and 28th at the University of Washington in Tacoma, WA. Space is limited! The Kickstarter is already underway, so be sure to support if you want to secure your passes. VIP tickets are available exclusively to backers, as well as many other exciting perks. And with your help, should we exceed our initial funding goal, we have many more plans in store, including a third day! We look forward to seeing you there!

Sierra On-Line, founded in 1979 by husband and wife team Ken and Roberta Williams, played a pivotal role in shaping the early landscape of computer gaming. Initially focusing on graphical adventure games, Sierra On-Line quickly gained renown for titles like “King’s Quest,” which introduced players to immersive storytelling and groundbreaking visuals. The company’s commitment to innovation extended beyond gameplay mechanics; Sierra also pioneered the use of voice acting in games, enhancing the narrative experience for players.

As Sierra On-Line grew, it expanded its portfolio to include a diverse range of genres, from simulation and strategy games to role-playing adventures. With hits like “Space Quest,” “Police Quest,” and “Leisure Suit Larry,” Sierra solidified its status as a leading developer and publisher in the gaming industry. Despite facing challenges in the late 1990s and eventually being acquired by various companies, Sierra’s legacy endures through its groundbreaking contributions to gaming culture and its lasting impact on the evolution of interactive entertainment.

Raspberry Pi 5 Review : Is it still a viable low cost general PC?

I finally got my hands on a Raspberry Pi 5 – With cost of Intel and AMD based mini PCs continuing to drop are the Pi’s still good for general computing purposes? We’ll explore that question in this review.

The Raspberry Pi line of computers, launched in 2012 by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, has become synonymous with affordable and versatile computing solutions. These small, single-board computers are designed to promote computer science education and facilitate DIY projects in various fields such as robotics, home automation, and digital media. The Raspberry Pi boards typically feature a low-power ARM-based CPU, along with GPU capabilities, RAM, USB ports, HDMI output, and GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins for interfacing with external devices. Despite their compact size and modest hardware specifications, Raspberry Pi computers offer impressive performance for a wide range of applications, from basic programming tasks to multimedia playback and even lightweight server hosting.

One of the key strengths of the Raspberry Pi line is its accessibility and community support. With a relatively low price point starting at around $35 for the basic model, Raspberry Pi computers have democratized access to computing resources, particularly in developing countries and educational institutions. The Raspberry Pi Foundation actively promotes learning and innovation through its extensive online resources, including tutorials, forums, and a vibrant community of enthusiasts and developers. This ecosystem has led to the creation of thousands of projects and applications, ranging from simple electronics experiments to complex IoT (Internet of Things) solutions. As a result, the Raspberry Pi has become a symbol of the maker movement and a versatile tool for empowering individuals to explore and create with technology.