r/retrogameofthemonth

What can you say about NBA Jam that hasn't already been said. This game is IMO one of the greatest games of all time. For over 30 years this franchise has never fell off once. Spawning countless ports, Arcade 1ups, and a cult following, NBA Jam still plays as good as it did in 1993.

I'm playing the Genesis version, out of the many ports of this game, I prefer this one. While not exactly the Arcade experience, the game really feels close, and delivers the high flying dunks you'd expect. I always liked the Bulls, and Pheonix. The hidden characters were awesome, and Big Head Mode was a must. I just can't say enough, gaming perfection.

Is the Genesis version you favorite port? Who was your favorite team?

Mega Man 2 (NES) is undoubtedly one of the best NES games ever made.  We have discussed this game in numerous posts, and the love is overwhelming for this classic hit.  Building from the first installment in the Series, this game went above and beyond to improve the franchise, with additions like E-tanks for health restoration, and a password system to save your progress.Selling over 1.5 million copies, Mega Man 2 is at the pinnacle of platformer gaming.

This was my introduction to the Mega Man series, and I picked a great one.  The intro to the game and start screen, in the video above, is absolutely iconic.  I appreciated the story explanation in the beginning, and going up the building to the amazing Mega Man gives me chills.  The music pops, the slow build up into the fast paced ending is perfect for the visual effects.  It just gets you excited to play this amazing game.  I spent hours perfecting these levels and techniques to defeat the 8 bosses, and Dr. Wily. The game is challenging, yet equally rewarding. A great NES play for all gamers.

Did you like this Iconic Intro? Was this your favorite Mega man Game?  Was it your favorite NES Game?

Akumajou Dracula (FDS) level 2-4: the NES Castlevania, when I had first contact with this great Konami game, I usually got crushed by these chandeliers.

Splatterhouse (PCE) level 6: I could pass every level without losing a Rick in this great Namco game, except for this very hard level 6 as it needs not only skill but also luck.

City Connection (ARC) level 1: I admit that I am bad at this great Jaleco game, I just couldn't even pass level 1...

Truxton (GEN) level 1: I usually got killed by the mini boss in level 1 in the great Toaplan game, while I had little problems with other levels' mini bosses.

Street Fighter 2010 (NES) planet 3: I spent more extra practice time in this hard sand level than other levels in this great Capcom game.

The NES Classic Edition, released in 2016, was a hard little mini NES console to find. Upon its release, this 30 game filled powerhouse sold out almost over night. Retailing at $60, this was a bargain for any nostalgic gamer. With multiple viewing modes, HDMI plug ins, and save slots for each game, this console was a dream come true. Although more rare and expensive now, I can't recommend this mini console enough.

Mine, pictured above, has been a constant in my living room for 10 years. It always catches guests eyes, and starts many nostalgic gaming conversations. I love all 3 Mario Bros., plus Mega Man 2, Super C, and Dr. Mario on the system. And that's just a taste of the hits on here. My only complaint was the controller cable length, but that was an easy fix with an extension. Just a great console that pays homage to a generation.

Did you get a NES Classic Edition? What's your favorite game on the console?

Few things in the world make an impact that affect generations.  In gaming we have witnessed our fair share of these things.  None probably bigger in gaming than the release of the Game Boy.  In 1989, this $89.95 bundle got you a Game Boy, Tetris, Stereo Headphones, AC Adapter, and 4 AA batteries. What an amazing deal, and of how they sold.  This handheld would become a powerhouse globally, leaving all other handhelds in the dust.

I had one growing up, and it was an amazing thing to play at that quality portably. The library of games was massive, and included many NES staples, as well as many exclusives only seen on this system.  Tetris for me, was the early stand out game, as well as Super Mario land.  I had my light for night gaming, and road trips would never be the same.  A total game changer in my world of gaming.

Did you have the Game Boy launch bundle? What was your favorite Game Boy Game?  

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Skate or Die 2: The Search For Double Trouble (NES) was a game I owned and loved growing up. It was edgy, and cool, and you were cool if you played it. Lol. Or so I thought. This 1990 NES release had you skating and earning cash for a permit to build a ramp after the mayor bans skateboarding in your town. Go figure. Lol. An improvement over the first Skate or Die, this game still felt flat for most gamers, despite selling well. The Start Screen is amazing, and is one of the earliest NES games to feature voiceover in the start screen. I have had that stuck in my head all day after playing it. Bold, and edgy at the time, it definitely oozes 1990 vibes.

The Half-Pipe in this game was the one and only part of it that I really enjoyed. While the missions, and story were decent, its the Half-Pipe, and Mission Cutscenes that make this game worth the play. Catching air and spinning properly took a bit of finesse, but when done right, this Half-Pipe delivers. The little spine in the middle is awesome too.

Did you enjoy Skate or Die 2? Do you remember this awesome start screen?

We've had fun with Phantasy Star, but we think it's time to start something new for Save Point Sunday.  We would like to get your feedback for an idea we have, as well as any suggestions or ideas you may have for the new Save Point Sunday game.

We've been talking a lot about some great sports games lately, and that got us thinking.  How about we do a Save Point Sunday with sports!  For example, we take games like Tecmo Super Bowl, and Baseball Stars, and play a weekly game, then compare our results.  For football it would literally follow the structure of the season, so pretty easy.  

Now, how to pick the games, teams, or matchups?  We could do it a number of ways.  We could just play with whoever we want, we could nominate or vote on the matchups, or we could randomly pre-determine each week's match-up in advance on the mods end. We would love any other suggestions for this process, as this seems like the most crucial part.

So this was our thought for Save Point Sunday. Please make any changes, suggestions, game suggestions, or general ideas for Save Point Sunday here.  If you just want another Phantasy Star like game, that works too.  Appreciate all the feedback in advance, Happy Save Point Sunday.

In the early days of the PS1, and a pre Gran Turismo gaming world, Ridge Racer (PS1) was, IMO, the pinnacle of racing games. This nearly perfect arcade port was fast, fun, and vibrant. With a killer soundtrack, and stunning visuals. This launch title showcased the innovation and potential of this newly released console.

Ridge Racer was one of the first titles I owned about 2 months after the console launch. You just couldn't find games anywhere at launch, as you may remember. And boy did this game deliver. I would sit there perfecting lines for hours. The game definitely required clean runs, and a lot of course memorization. But those hours were always rewarding, and enjoyable. I always loved the stunning visuals and colors, like the helicopter flying over the course. And the colorful race cars were iconic as well. I highly recommend this racing classic.

Did you like Ridge Racer? What was your favorite pre Gran Turismo PS1 racing game?

Missile Command (Atari 5200) though simple, is a very fun and addictive game. Your objective is to protect 6 cities from incoming missiles. It gets pretty challenging as you move up levels and you have to have a strategy to take down all of the missiles as it gets faster and more chaotic. I played this for the first time at our local arcade at a young age, and instantly liked it. I became a little obsessed with it trying to beat the levels perfectly. My parents thought I had a problem. Lol.

From what I understand there is a Playstation and Nintendo Switch version, though I haven't played those. I have been thinking of trying those versions out soon.

Do you like this game? Have you played the Playstation or Nintendo Switch versions? Did you like them? Do you have a favorite version of this game?

Tecmo Super Bowl (NES) is IMO the GOAT of retro sports titles.  This epic football game, released in 1991, had full NFL team rosters, a season mode, and kept you playing for hours.  Considered one of the best NES titles made, this game has inspired numerous season and roster updates throughout the years.  

I was obsessed with sports in the early 90's.  Collecting cards, playing them, anything sports I was there.  So this game was perfect.  The real rosters and season mode changed everything.  My top teams being the 49ers and Lions.  I was always throwing with Joe Montana, or running with Barry Sanders.  I would play a season in a weekend sometimes.  This football game is the best!

Were you a fan of Tecmo Super Bowl? Which team did you like playing with?

When I first played Arch Rivals in the arcade, my mind was blown. I had never entertained the idea of a Basketball game with no fouls. Arch Rivals (Genesis) delivers a great port, of the Arcade version, that's a blast to play. The over the top characters, punching, and chaos is awesome.

The Box Art for this game is incredible. The cartoonish style, and chaos perfectly embody the game. The colors pop, and that green Mohawk is incredible. Not pictured is the short referee with glasses, that cracks me up. A precursor to NBA Jam, give this game a play for an epic Basket Brawl.

Did you like Arch Rivals? Which port did you prefer?

Michael Jackson's Moonwalker (Genesis) is always a good time. The graphics are pretty awesome and I love the Michael Jackson music throughout the game. I think its a nice touch how you can choose the music. You get all of Michael's signature moves while you play too. The full screen dance routine is my favorite, and its fun to moonwalk and throw his hat as well. I loved seeing his chimp Bubbles, and how Michael would transform into a robot that fired lasers. I played the arcade version of this game a lot, but I just recently found out about the Genesis version and tried it out. All in all I like it, but I think the arcade game still holds the number 1 spot for me.

Have you ever played this game? Did you like it? Which version do you like the most?

When most people think of controversial games, Mortal Kombat first comes to mind. But, NARC (Arcade) was a title filled with controversy in 1988. Involving drugs, crime, and violence in an intense shooter wasn't exactly the norm. And this game had all 3, in a gory filled package. The goal being to clean up the streets and "say no to drugs".

The Arcade cabinet was unique in its screen protruding out closer to the player. The game played very well and was quite enjoyable. I really enjoyed driving the Red Porsche and mowing down enemies. In a pinch, a nice rocket hit always sent legs and arms flying. The dogs were always a pain in the butt. This was at a local pizza place, and always got a few quarters out of me. I prefer the Arcade version, but the NES port is also a good play. I highly recommend this great game.

Did you like playing NARC? Do you remember the awesome Red Porsche?

I owned Golden Axe and Golden Axe 2 in the early 90s and played them quite a bit, enough so that I haven't really felt much need to revisit them in the last 30+ years other than a casual 15 minute play session for nostalgia's sake.

With the sub choosing Golden Axe for this Saturday's side quest, I decided to check out other versions of one of my old favorites. Then, after giving them a try I dove into the Genesis version to give my least favorite character, Axe Battler his due.

First we have the Master System version. A demake of sorts to please Europe and Brazil where the Master System was popular, it's astonishingly accurate for an 8-bit port of a 16-bit arcade game. I love the title screen. The music is competent. Sadly you can only play as Axe Battler and the mushy controls make it rather difficult to the point that I couldn't get past level 3. Everything is here...just less of it, such as the background going black when you cast magic. They tried to keep as much animation as possible, but it ends up making the game feel slow and choppy. Pics 1 through 3. Title screen, gameplay, magic casting.

Second, I played the PC-Engine CD-ROM version, released only in Japan in 1991, ported by Telenet Japan. From the get-go this version looks and sounds amazing, with animated cinematics for the game itself and then each character, a sweet character select screen and cd quality music that's probably superior to the arcade. The opening presentation is out of this world good and you can tell they put a ton of effort into it...and then you play the game. The visuals appear in what seems to be a special, wider, higher resolution mode that few games on the platform use. The colors seem muted compared to the PC Engine's usually vibrant pallette and the character sprites seem off. I played as Tyris Flare and she just doesn't look right. In fact, most of the enemies don't look right. The graphics are just wierd and all sorts of wrong. It plays well enough although its harder than the Genesis version. The level of detail seems off too. I'm not sure what Telenet was thinking, but the PC-ENGINE deserves and is capable of far better. Pics 4 through 7, Opening cinematic still, Character select screen, Tyris Flare, and gameplay.

Last we have the Genesis version. It's the best version, hands down and I thought the PC-ENGINE version would be much better than it ended up being. I wasn't able to beat it without using the 9 continues trick, although I came close on one of my 4 attempts. The final boss is just so incredibly hard with an extremely cheap moveset that really leaves little margin for error. Ignore the skeletons and you'll have a much easier time. Pics 8 through 10. Tyris calls upon her dragon, Axe Battler summons a mini-volcano, and the after-credits screen.

Version 3.5 was the MSU Enhanced Genesis version with the PC-ENGINE CD-ROM soundtrack spliced in, which is the one I finished with Axe Battler.

I've always loved flying video games. No matter plane, helicopter, jet-pack, or any other way of being in the air, I'm on board. Microsoft Flight Simulator (1988) was an innovative flight simulator that brings back many memories and flight hours logged. Innovative, and constantly evolving this series is still producing cutting edge flight simulation.

We had this on our home computer, and I was so fascinated by the real planes and conditions this game had. The Learjet, Sopwith Camel, and Cessna were all awesome to fly. It also had a crop dusting mode that was fun and challenging. The controls were intuitive and really made you understand flaps and various other important plane functions. Just a great play, and educational at the same time.

Did you play this classic Flight Simulator? What other flight simulator games do you like?

Having a blast playing our Side Quest Saturday game, Golden Axe (Genesis). Such an amazing, fun, and nostalgic game. This port has no business being this good, lol. Big props to Sega for this masterpiece.

The funniest part is always kicking the crap out of the thieves. Better luck next time buddy, a girl needs her sleep, lol. Such an iconic part of the game, and your potion meter. Really enjoying this game, perfect for Side Quest Saturday.

Which character are you playing as? Kick any thieves lately?

Top Gun (NES) was a game I played quite a bit when I was younger. It was my brother's favorite game at the time, and since he was younger we typically played the game that he wanted to play. Neither of us got far into the game just because it was so difficult. My brother just refused to give up. Lol. Its not a bad game, but boy did I get tired of it there for a while. Trying to land on that aircraft carrier was the bane of my existence. There is a great AVGN video of this on YouTube. I recommend watching it if you are interested.

Top Gun was a very popular movie, and I think that contributed to the popularity of this game. I'll admit it was pretty cool being able to fly the F-14 Tomcat like in the movie. Still, imo, this game was just a bit too difficult for me. Granted, I haven't played it since I was a kid so maybe I would think differently now? But I honestly doubt it. 🤔

What do you think of this game? Did you find it difficult? Ever seen the AVGN episode of this game?

PS1 will always hold a special place in my heart. All the games, the leap forward in innovation and edginess. Everything Sony did was amazing. That being said, the recent announcement that there will be no more physical discs starting 2028 saddens me.

To pay homage to physical discs, here is my copy of Hogs of War. It's a "Black Bottom" disc that was exclusive to most of the early PS1 games. Despite the anti-privacy, and anti-scratch rumors, it was purely for show and marketing. IMO it worked, I still love these discs, their look, and the nostalgic feeling I get when I see them.

Do you remember the "Black Bottom" discs? How do you feel about no more physical discs?