Category Archives: System Reviews

Featured, System Reviews

Top Racer (Top Gear) Mini Arcade & Collection REVIEW

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My review of the Top Racer (Top Gear) Mini Arcade & game Collection. These are classic 90s arcade racing games being released as a mini arcade and 4 game collection on modern platforms like PC, Switch, PS4/5 and Xbox. More info: https://www.pikointeractive.com

Gremlin Interactive was a prominent British video game developer and publisher that made its mark during the 1980s and 1990s. Founded in Sheffield, England, in 1984 by Ian Stewart and Kevin Norburn, the studio gained recognition for its innovative and diverse range of games across various platforms, including home computers and consoles. Gremlin’s portfolio spanned multiple genres, from platformers like “Zool” to racing games like “Lotus Turbo Challenge” and “Top Gear.” One of its standout successes was the iconic “Premier Manager” series, which established Gremlin as a leader in sports management simulations.

Throughout its existence, Gremlin Interactive demonstrated a commitment to pushing boundaries in game development, often incorporating cutting-edge technology and creative gameplay mechanics into its titles. The studio was known for fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment that encouraged experimentation and risk-taking. Despite facing financial challenges in the late 1990s, Gremlin continued to produce memorable games until its eventual closure in 2003, after being acquired by Infogrames Entertainment. Despite its closure, Gremlin’s legacy lives on through the fond memories of gamers who grew up playing its innovative and entertaining titles.

Featured, System Reviews, Atari (Hidden Gems), Vintage

The ATARI 400 mini review – Is it worth $120?!

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The 400 Mini is a small version of the classic Atari 8bit computer and includes support for 400/800, XL and XE computer series, and the 5200 home console. It comes pre-installed with 25+ classic Atari games, the ability to play your own games and a new THECXSTICK joystick. Check out my review! More info: https://retrogames.biz/products/the400-mini/

The Atari line of 8-bit computers, introduced in the late 1970s and early 1980s, played a crucial role in shaping the personal computing landscape. The series began with the Atari 400 and Atari 800 in 1979, featuring a custom-made 6502-based chipset designed by Jay Miner. These machines boasted impressive graphics and sound capabilities for their time, making them popular for both gaming and productivity tasks. The computers were renowned for their distinctive industrial design, featuring a sleek, wedge-shaped casing with a membrane keyboard. Additionally, the Atari 400 and 800 were among the first home computers to include custom hardware for graphics and sound, which allowed for more advanced gaming experiences compared to other contemporary systems.

The Atari 8-bit line continued to evolve with subsequent models such as the Atari 600XL, 800XL, and 130XE, offering improvements in memory capacity, peripheral support, and compatibility with software and hardware expansions. These machines gained a dedicated following among hobbyists, educators, and gamers, with a wide range of software titles available, including popular games like “Pac-Man,” “Donkey Kong,” and “Star Raiders.” Despite facing stiff competition from other home computer manufacturers such as Commodore and Apple, the Atari 8-bit line remained relevant well into the mid-1980s, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of personal computing.

Featured, System Reviews

* NEW * Retro Shooter Light Gun – New Version Review

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Review of the new Retro Shooter light gun package for the Pandora Box. MORE INFO: https://retroshooter.com

Light gun arcade games have had a significant impact on gaming culture. Here are five of the most popular and influential ones:

  1. Duck Hunt (1984): One of the earliest and most iconic light gun games, bundled with the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Players used the NES Zapper to shoot ducks on the screen.
  2. Time Crisis series (1995 – present): Known for its pedal system allowing players to take cover, this series revolutionized light gun gameplay. It introduced the cover mechanic, adding depth to arcade shooters.
  3. House of the Dead series (1996 – present): This franchise brought horror-themed arcade shooting to the forefront. Players faced hordes of zombies and creatures in various installments, using light guns to survive.
  4. Point Blank series (1994 – 2017): Offering a different experience from traditional shooters, Point Blank focused on mini-games and challenges requiring precise shooting skills. It stood out for its variety and humor.
  5. Lethal Enforcers (1992): This game utilized digitized graphics and realistic settings, setting itself apart during its time. Players took on the role of a law enforcement officer, taking down criminals.

These games have left a lasting impact on the arcade gaming landscape and continue to influence modern gaming experiences.

Featured, System Reviews, Atari (Hidden Gems)

Atari 2600+ vs Atari GameStation Pro – Which is BETTER?

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I’m comparing the new Atari 2600+ vs Atari GameStation Pro. Two very different systems but yet both are pretty cool in their own right!
Atari 2600+: https://atari.com
Atari GameStation Pro: https://amzn.to/3NsqUz2 (affiliate link)

Atari holds an iconic status in gaming history, particularly due to its foundational role in popularizing home gaming consoles. The release of the Atari 2600 in 1977 marked a monumental shift, bringing gaming from arcade halls into households worldwide. This console introduced a range of games, from the simple yet addictive “Pong” to the diverse library that included “Space Invaders,” “Pac-Man,” and “Asteroids.” Its accessible design and innovative use of interchangeable cartridges revolutionized how people engaged with games, laying the groundwork for the modern gaming industry.

Moreover, the Atari era cultivated an entire generation’s love for gaming, shaping the very essence of what we now understand as gaming culture. It wasn’t merely about entertainment; it was a transformative social experience. Friends and families gathered around TVs, engrossed in these pixelated worlds, fostering a communal bond through shared gaming experiences. The success and impact of Atari transcended its time, serving as a cornerstone that paved the way for subsequent gaming consoles and influencing game design, technology, and the burgeoning gaming community that continues to thrive today.

** DISCLAIMER: Both of these Atari consoles were sent to me for review, but nobody reviewed the video and all of the opinions are my own **

Featured, System Reviews

Analogue Duo Review – is this $250 TurboGrafx-16 clone worth it?!

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Review of the Analogue Duo, a TurboGrafx-16 / PC Engine FPGA based clone system. But is it worth the $250?
Info: https://www.analogue.co

The TurboGrafx-16, released by NEC in 1987, was a pioneering 16-bit video game console that brought about significant advancements in gaming technology. Known as the PC Engine in Japan, it boasted a sleek design and was notably smaller than its contemporaries. Its defining feature was its graphics and sound capabilities, offering impressive performance for its time. The console introduced a range of colorful and visually engaging games, showcasing the power of its hardware, especially in the realm of 2D gaming. It also had a unique add-on called the TurboGrafx-CD, one of the earliest CD-ROM peripheral attachments for a console, expanding its library with CD-based games and enhanced audio.

Despite its technical advancements and innovative add-ons, the TurboGrafx-16 faced tough competition in the gaming market, primarily from Nintendo and Sega. Limited third-party support and a smaller game library compared to its rivals hindered its widespread success. However, it garnered a cult following due to its unique games, such as “Bonk’s Adventure” and “Ys Book I & II,” which remain fondly remembered by retro gaming enthusiasts. While it didn’t dominate the market, the TurboGrafx-16 remains an essential piece of gaming history, remembered for its technological innovations and contributions to the evolution of gaming consoles.

Featured, System Reviews

The IBM WorkPad z50 was a quirky $1,000 PC for CEOs

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Today I’m unboxing a IBM WorkPad z50 which was a quirky $1,000 PC for CEOs. There are a ton of quirks and features built into this little handheld PC! ++ WATCH >> https://youtu.be/y1nHgkcj-Q8

The IBM WorkPad series of PCs, also known as the IBM WorkPad PC Companion, was a line of portable computing devices introduced by IBM in the late 1990s. These devices were designed with the aim of providing professionals with a compact and lightweight computing solution for on-the-go productivity. The WorkPad series was particularly notable for its sleek and ergonomic design, making it highly portable and easy to carry.

The WorkPad PCs were powered by various iterations of the Palm operating system, a precursor to modern mobile operating systems like iOS and Android. They featured monochrome displays and stylus-based input, emphasizing pen-based computing. This made them well-suited for tasks such as note-taking, calendar management, and basic document editing. Despite their limited processing power compared to full-fledged laptops of the time, the WorkPad series offered a convenient and efficient means of managing personal information and performing essential computing tasks while away from the office or home.

Though the WorkPad series was eventually discontinued, it played a significant role in the early development of portable computing technology. Its emphasis on mobility and productivity paved the way for later generations of mobile devices, influencing the design and functionality of modern smartphones and tablets. The legacy of the IBM WorkPad series can still be seen in the portable computing devices we use today.

Featured, System Reviews, Special Episodes

FOUND: Rare SEGA Dreamcast Dev Kit & Prototype Software!

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A Sega Dreamcast Development Kit was dropped off at RE-PC in the Seattle area for recycling. Thankfully they saved it and got it running along with prototype and development software plus design documents. It’s a cool piece of Sega Dreamcast history and is now on display at the Tukwila store! Check it out: http://www.repc.com

I should add that the museum parts of RE-PC are completely FREE, so swing by if you are in the area and check out their cool stuff!

Featured, System Reviews, PC Games

**All-New** AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS Mini-PC is CRAZY FAST!

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Review of the latest mini-pc from Minisforum the UM790 Pro (Venus Series) which rocks a AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS Processor w/ Radeon 780M integrated GPU that CHEWS UP 1080p game play with ease. But can it do 4K?! Let’s find out : https://youtu.be/ovMunxHTnm4

Mini-PCs have gained immense popularity due to their compact size and versatile functionality. Their appeal lies in their ability to offer powerful computing capabilities in a small form factor, making them ideal for users who value space efficiency or require a portable solution. Mini-PCs are highly customizable, allowing users to tailor the specifications to their specific needs, whether it be for gaming, media consumption, or productivity tasks. Additionally, they often boast energy efficiency and quiet operation, making them suitable for a variety of environments. With their sleek designs and robust performance, mini-PCs provide a convenient and efficient computing experience without sacrificing power or aesthetics.

Buying Guides, Featured, System Reviews

Sega Genesis Buying Guide + Best Games & Hidden Gems!

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The Immortal John Hancock is back w/ a brand new Sega Genesis (Mega Drive) BUYING GUIDE: Main Consoles, Clone systems, Accessories + Best Games & HIDDEN GEMS!

The Sega Genesis holds a special appeal for gaming enthusiasts and nostalgia seekers alike. Launched in the late 1980s, the Genesis captured the hearts of gamers with its impressive library of games and advanced hardware capabilities. It offered a vibrant and diverse range of titles, including iconic franchises like Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage, and Golden Axe, delivering fast-paced action, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay. The Genesis’s 16-bit graphics and sound were revolutionary for their time, providing a visually striking and immersive gaming experience. The console’s competitive edge against its rival, the Super Nintendo, fueled a spirited console war, with fans passionately defending their preferred system. The Sega Genesis continues to evoke fond memories of gaming’s golden era, making it an enduring symbol of nostalgia and an important chapter in video game history.