Publisher: Coconuts Japan

The Lawnmower Man (1993)

by Christopher August 17, 2024

written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1993
Genres: Arcade
Platforms: Game Boy, PC (Microsoft Windows), Sega CD, Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Developers: SCi Games
Publishers: Coconuts Japan, THQ

The Lawnmower Man: A Virtual Reality Horror Classic

Released in 1993, The Lawnmower Man was a groundbreaking video game that combined elements of science fiction, horror, and action. Based on the 1992 film of the same name, the game tells the story of Dr. Lawrence Angelo, a scientist who develops a virtual reality system that can increase the intelligence of humans. However, when his experiments go awry, he creates a monster that threatens to destroy the world.

The Lawnmower Man was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best video games of its era. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive graphics, and chilling atmosphere. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the concept of virtual reality, which has since become a major force in the gaming industry.

Gameplay

The Lawnmower Man is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player takes control of Dr. Angelo or Carla Parkette, the mother of Jobe Smith, the titular lawnmower man. The player must guide their character through a variety of levels, shooting enemies and collecting power-ups. The game also features several unique 3D levels, in which the player must navigate through a virtual reality world.

The Lawnmower Man’s gameplay is fast-paced and challenging, and the game’s difficulty increases as the player progresses. The game also features a number of boss battles, which require the player to use all of their skills to defeat.

Story

The Lawnmower Man’s story is loosely based on the 1992 film of the same name. The game begins with Dr. Angelo developing a virtual reality system that can increase the intelligence of humans. He recruits Jobe Smith, a simple-minded man, as his first test subject.

At first, the experiments are successful, and Jobe’s intelligence increases rapidly. However, Dr. Angelo’s experiments soon go awry, and Jobe begins to develop telekinetic powers. He also becomes increasingly violent and aggressive, and he eventually turns against his creator.

Jobe escapes from Dr. Angelo’s laboratory and begins a reign of terror. He uses his powers to destroy property and kill people. Dr. Angelo and Carla Parkette must stop Jobe before he can destroy the world.

Graphics

The Lawnmower Man’s graphics were cutting-edge for their time. The game’s environments are detailed and atmospheric, and the character sprites are well-animated. The game also features a number of impressive special effects, such as explosions and particle effects.

The Lawnmower Man’s graphics still hold up today, and the game is still a visually impressive experience.

Sound

The Lawnmower Man’s sound is also excellent. The game’s music is atmospheric and suspenseful, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The game also features some excellent voice acting, which helps to bring the characters to life.

The Lawnmower Man’s sound design is one of the best aspects of the game, and it helps to create a truly immersive experience.

Overall

The Lawnmower Man is a classic video game that still holds up today. The game’s innovative gameplay, immersive graphics, and chilling atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of science fiction, horror, and action games.

Legacy

The Lawnmower Man was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the best video games of its era. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the concept of virtual reality, which has since become a major force in the gaming industry.

The Lawnmower Man has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it is still available for purchase today. The game is also available to play online through a number of different emulators.

If you’re a fan of science fiction, horror, or action games, then you owe it to yourself to check out The Lawnmower Man. It’s a classic game that is still a lot of fun to play today.

Review Score

7/10

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Elite Soccer (1994)

by Christopher June 25, 2024

written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1994
Genres: Sport
Platforms: Super Famicom, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Developers: Rage Software
Publishers: Coconuts Japan, Elite Systems, GameTek, Inc.

Elite Soccer (1994): A Retro Gem for Soccer Enthusiasts

Introduction

Released in 1994, Elite Soccer was a groundbreaking soccer game that set new standards for the genre. Developed by Rage Software and published by Audiogenic, Elite Soccer captivated gamers with its realistic gameplay, stunning graphics, and innovative features. In this article, we will delve into the world of Elite Soccer, exploring its gameplay, graphics, sound, and legacy.

Gameplay

Elite Soccer offered a comprehensive and realistic soccer experience. Players could choose from a wide range of teams, including international powerhouses and club teams from various leagues. The game featured fluid and responsive controls, allowing players to execute a variety of moves with precision. Passing, shooting, dribbling, and tackling felt natural and intuitive.

One of the standout features of Elite Soccer was its tactical depth. Players could customize their team’s formation and tactics to suit their preferred style of play. The game also introduced a new concept called “player momentum,” which affected players’ speed, agility, and stamina based on their recent actions. This added an extra layer of realism and strategy to the gameplay.

Graphics

For its time, Elite Soccer’s graphics were nothing short of stunning. The game utilized a revolutionary 3D engine to create detailed and immersive environments. The player models were well-animated and featured realistic movements. The stadiums were packed with cheering crowds, adding to the atmosphere of the matches.

Elite Soccer also introduced a number of graphical innovations. It was one of the first soccer games to feature real-time lighting and weather effects. The game’s dynamic weather system could change the conditions of the pitch, affecting the ball’s movement and players’ performance.

Sound

The sound design in Elite Soccer was equally impressive. The game’s soundtrack featured energetic and catchy tunes that perfectly captured the excitement of the matches. The crowd noise was realistic and immersive, creating a truly authentic stadium atmosphere.

The commentary in Elite Soccer was provided by the legendary John Motson, known for his enthusiastic and knowledgeable commentary style. Motson’s commentary added an extra layer of realism and excitement to the matches.

Legacy

Elite Soccer was a critical and commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. It was praised for its realistic gameplay, stunning graphics, and innovative features. The game is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer games of all time, and it continues to be enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts today.

Elite Soccer’s legacy extends beyond its own success. The game’s innovations and advancements paved the way for future soccer games. Its realistic gameplay and detailed graphics set a new standard for the genre, and its tactical depth and player momentum system became industry staples.

Conclusion

Elite Soccer (1994) is a true classic of the soccer gaming genre. Its realistic gameplay, stunning graphics, and innovative features captivated gamers and set new standards for the industry. The game’s legacy continues to inspire and influence soccer games today. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of classic soccer games, Elite Soccer is a must-play experience.

Review Score

7.5/10

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PO’ed (1995)

by Christopher June 4, 2024

written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1995
Genres: Shooter
Platforms: 3DO Interactive Multiplayer, PlayStation
Developers: Any Channel
Publishers: Accolade, Coconuts Japan, Time Warner Interactive

PO’ed (1995): A Hidden Gem of the FPS Genre

Released in 1995, PO’ed is a first-person shooter that has flown under the radar for far too long. Developed by the small team at Ripcord Games and published by GT Interactive, PO’ed is a challenging, innovative, and downright fun shooter that deserves to be rediscovered by a new generation of gamers.

Gameplay

PO’ed is a straightforward shooter with two simple objectives: escape the alien homeworld and kick lots of butt! The game features 25 levels, each with a unique layout and a variety of enemies to defeat. Players control Ox, a lone marine who is armed with a powerful arsenal of weapons, including a shotgun, chaingun, and rocket launcher.

In addition to shooting aliens, players must also solve puzzles and navigate platforming elements. Switches must be flipped to open doors and activate elevators, and players must carefully time their jumps to avoid falling into pits or being crushed by falling objects.

One of the most unique features of PO’ed is the jetpack. This powerful tool allows Ox to fly around the levels, reaching new areas and raining down death on his enemies from above. However, the jetpack’s fuel is limited, so players must use it wisely.

Setting and Story

PO’ed takes place on the alien homeworld, a hostile and unforgiving planet. The game’s story is told through brief cutscenes and in-game text, and it follows Ox as he fights his way through hordes of aliens in an attempt to escape the planet.

The aliens in PO’ed are a grotesque and varied bunch. There are giant spiders, acid-spitting blobs, and even aliens that can launch their own heads at Ox. Each type of alien has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must adapt their tactics to each new encounter.

Graphics and Sound

For a game released in 1995, PO’ed has impressive graphics. The levels are detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with a mix of heavy metal and electronic music that perfectly captures the game’s intense and chaotic atmosphere.

Legacy

PO’ed was a critical and commercial success upon its release, but it has since been forgotten by many gamers. However, the game’s influence can still be seen in modern shooters, such as Doom (2016) and Wolfenstein: The New Order.

Conclusion

PO’ed is a hidden gem of the FPS genre. With its challenging levels, grotesque aliens, and innovative jetpack mechanic, it’s a must-play for fans of classic shooters. If you’re looking for a retro shooter that will test your skills and keep you on the edge of your seat, then PO’ed is the game for you.

Review Score

8.5/10

Brain Dead 13 (1995)

by Christopher April 28, 2024

written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1995
Genres: Adventure, Arcade
Platforms: 3DO Interactive Multiplayer, Atari Jaguar CD, DOS, iOS, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Philips CD-i, PlayStation, Sega Saturn
Publishers: Coconuts Japan, Digital Leisure, Empire Interactive, ReadySoft

Brain Dead 13: A Cerebral Thrill Ride Through a Digital House of Horrors

Released in 1995, Brain Dead 13 is an interactive movie game that takes players on a thrilling and terrifying journey through a haunted castle. The game follows the story of a young computer expert who is called to fix a computer at the castle, only to find himself trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse with the castle’s deranged inhabitants.

Brain Dead 13 is a pioneer in the interactive movie genre. The game features a non-linear storyline with multiple endings, depending on the choices the player makes throughout the game. The game’s innovative use of full-motion video and branching storylines creates a truly immersive experience, making the player feel like they are actually inside the haunted castle.

The game’s visuals are suitably creepy, with dark and atmospheric environments that create a sense of dread and suspense. The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with eerie sound effects and a haunting musical score that add to the game’s overall atmosphere.

The gameplay in Brain Dead 13 is simple yet effective. The player controls the game’s protagonist using a point-and-click interface. The player can interact with objects in the environment, talk to other characters, and make choices that will affect the course of the game.

Brain Dead 13 is a challenging game, but it is also a fair one. The game’s puzzles are logical and the player is always given enough information to make informed decisions. The game’s multiple endings also add to its replay value, as the player can go back and make different choices to see how the story unfolds differently.

Overall, Brain Dead 13 is a classic interactive movie game that is still worth playing today. The game’s innovative gameplay, creepy atmosphere, and branching storyline make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

A Deeper Dive into the Gameplay

Brain Dead 13 is a point-and-click adventure game with a branching storyline. The player controls the game’s protagonist, Lance, as he explores a haunted castle and tries to survive the night.

The game’s interface is simple and easy to use. The player uses the mouse to click on objects in the environment and to interact with other characters. The player can also use the mouse to move Lance around the screen.

The game’s puzzles are logical and the player is always given enough information to make informed decisions. The puzzles are also varied, so the player never gets bored.

The game’s branching storyline is one of its strongest features. The player’s choices throughout the game will affect the course of the story and lead to different endings. This adds to the game’s replay value, as the player can go back and make different choices to see how the story unfolds differently.

The Characters of Brain Dead 13

Brain Dead 13 features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique personality and motivations.

Lance: The game’s protagonist, Lance is a young computer expert who is called to fix a computer at a haunted castle. Lance is a resourceful and determined young man, but he is also naive and inexperienced.
Dr. Necros: The castle’s deranged owner, Dr. Necros is a brilliant scientist who has gone mad. Dr. Necros is obsessed with creating life and will stop at nothing to achieve his goal.
Ilsa: Dr. Necros’ beautiful assistant, Ilsa is a mysterious woman with a dark past. Ilsa is torn between her loyalty to Dr. Necros and her desire to escape from the castle.
Frank: The castle’s caretaker, Frank is a simple-minded man who is devoted to Dr. Necros. Frank is unaware of the evil that lurks within the castle walls.

The Legacy of Brain Dead 13

Brain Dead 13 was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, creepy atmosphere, and branching storyline. Brain Dead 13 has been cited as an influence on many later interactive movie games, including the popular Telltale Games series.

Today, Brain Dead 13 is still considered a classic interactive movie game. The game is still enjoyed by fans of the genre and is often cited as one of the best examples of the genre.

Conclusion

Brain Dead 13 is a classic interactive movie game that is still worth playing today. The game’s innovative gameplay, creepy atmosphere, and branching storyline make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a truly immersive and terrifying experience, then Brain Dead 13 is the game for you.

Review Score

7/10

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Ballistix (1989)

by Nish February 27, 2024

written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1989
Genres: Arcade, Sport
Platforms: Acorn Electron, Amiga, Atari ST/STE, BBC Microcomputer System, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine
Developers: Reflections Interactive
Publishers: Coconuts Japan, Psyclapse, Superior Software Ltd.

Ballistix (1989): A Futuristic Sports Classic

Ballistix is a futuristic sports game developed by Martin Edmondson and published by Psyclapse in 1989. It was released on the Amiga and Atari ST, and was later ported to a number of other home computers and the PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16 console.

The game is set in a future where a new sport called Ballistix has become popular. Ballistix is a fast-paced and action-packed game that combines elements of air hockey, pinball, and billiards.

The goal of the game is to direct a puck into your opponent’s goal by shooting small balls at it. You control a paddle that can be moved around the edge of the playfield. You can use the paddle to hit the puck directly, or you can bounce the balls off the walls and other objects to indirecty hit the puck.

Ballistix is a challenging and rewarding game that requires both skill and strategy. It is a great game for both single-player and multiplayer gaming.

Gameplay

Ballistix is played on a rectangular playfield that is surrounded by walls. The puck is placed in the center of the playfield, and each player controls a paddle that can be moved around the edge of the playfield.

The goal of the game is to direct the puck into your opponent’s goal. You can do this by hitting the puck directly with your paddle, or you can bounce the balls off the walls and other objects to indirecty hit the puck.

The game is played in real-time, and the puck moves very quickly. This makes it difficult to control the puck, and it can be easy to lose track of it. However, the game also features a slow-motion mode that can be used to help you line up your shots.

Ballistix can be played with either one or two players. In single-player mode, you play against a computer opponent. In multiplayer mode, you can play against a friend or family member.

Power-ups

There are a number of power-ups that can be collected during the game. These power-ups can give you a variety of advantages, such as increased speed, strength, or accuracy.

The power-ups are randomly placed on the playfield, and they disappear after a short period of time. This means that you need to be quick to collect them.

Reception

Ballistix was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging difficulty, and addictive multiplayer mode. Ballistix was also one of the first games to feature a slow-motion mode, which was a major innovation at the time.

Ballistix has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game today. It is considered to be one of the best futuristic sports games ever made.

Legacy

Ballistix has had a significant impact on the video game industry. It is one of the first games to combine elements of air hockey, pinball, and billiards. It is also one of the first games to feature a slow-motion mode.

Ballistix has been cited as an inspiration for a number of other games, including the popular Rocket League.

Conclusion

Ballistix is a classic futuristic sports game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that requires both skill and strategy. If you are a fan of retro gaming or futuristic sports games, then you should definitely check out Ballistix.

Review Score

8/10

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Firepower 2000 (1992)

by Nish April 27, 2022

written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1992
Genres: Shooter
Platforms: Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Developers: SCi Games, The Sales Curve
Publishers: Coconuts Japan, Storm, Sun Corporation of America, Time Warner Interactive

Firepower 2000 (1992): A Vertical Scrolling Shooter Masterpiece

Released in arcades in 1992, Firepower 2000 is a vertically scrolling shoot ’em up (shmup) developed by Toaplan and published by Taito. The game quickly gained a reputation for its intense action, challenging gameplay, and innovative features.

Gameplay

Firepower 2000 puts players in the cockpit of a helicopter gunship or an armored jeep, tasked with fighting their way through waves of enemy forces. The game features a variety of敵機, including tanks, helicopters, hovercraft, snowmobiles, and even giant flying fish. Players must use their weapons and special abilities to defeat the enemy forces and progress through the game’s eight stages.

One of the things that sets Firepower 2000 apart from other shmups is its focus on strategy. Players must carefully choose which weapons and power-ups to use, and when to use them. The game also features a number of branching paths, allowing players to choose their own route through the game.

Weapons and Power-Ups

Firepower 2000 features a wide variety of weapons and power-ups that players can use to defeat their enemies. These include:

Vulcan Cannon: A rapid-fire cannon that is the player’s primary weapon.
Homing Missiles: Missiles that lock on to enemy targets and automatically follow them.
Spread Shot: A weapon that fires a wide spread of bullets, making it effective against large groups of enemies.
Laser: A powerful beam weapon that can pierce through multiple enemies.
Napalm: A bomb that explodes on impact, damaging all nearby enemies.

In addition to weapons, Firepower 2000 also features a number of power-ups that can enhance the player’s abilities. These include:

Speed Up: Increases the player’s speed.
Invincibility: Makes the player invincible for a short period of time.
Hyper Shot: Increases the power of the player’s weapons.
Autofire: Allows the player to fire their weapons automatically.

Graphics and Sound

Firepower 2000 is known for its impressive graphics and sound. The game’s sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are colorful and varied. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with a mix of rock and electronic music that perfectly complements the game’s action.

Legacy

Firepower 2000 was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best shmups ever made. The game has been ported to a number of home platforms, including the Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, and PlayStation. It has also been included in a number of compilations, such as Taito Legends and Toaplan Shooting Battle.

Firepower 2000 has been praised for its intense action, challenging gameplay, and innovative features. The game is still enjoyed by shmup fans today, and is considered to be a classic of the genre.

Conclusion

Firepower 2000 is a masterpiece of the shmup genre. The game’s intense action, challenging gameplay, and innovative features make it a must-play for any fan of the genre. If you’re looking for a shmup that will test your skills and keep you coming back for more, then Firepower 2000 is the game for you.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Amida (1990)

by Nish July 6, 2018

written by Nish 3 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1990
Genres: Puzzle
Platforms: Game Boy
Developers: Sofix
Publishers: Coconuts Japan

Amida: A Ladder-Climbing Puzzle Adventure

Released in 1990, Amida is a captivating Japanese ladder-climbing puzzle video game that has garnered a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its unique gameplay, challenging levels, and charming pixel art have made it a timeless classic.

Gameplay: A Test of Agility and Strategy

Amida presents players with a series of pre-set bridges, each composed of a labyrinthine network of obstacles. The player’s objective is to guide the main character safely across these bridges, avoiding the obstacles that lie in their path.

The character moves automatically, blindly navigating into the obstacles. The player’s control comes in the form of an animated platform that can be moved horizontally below the character. By strategically positioning the platform, the player can redirect the character’s movement, guiding them around obstacles and towards the exit.

Levels: An Escalating Challenge

Amida features a total of 100 levels, each offering a unique layout and increasing difficulty. The early levels serve as a gentle introduction to the game’s mechanics, but as players progress, the levels become more complex and demanding.

Obstacles come in various forms, including spikes, pits, and moving platforms. Players must carefully observe the level layout and anticipate the character’s movement to guide them safely through each perilous bridge.

Visuals: Charming Pixel Art

Despite its age, Amida’s pixel art graphics retain a timeless charm. The vibrant colors and detailed sprites bring the game’s world to life, creating a visually appealing experience. The character animations are fluid and expressive, adding to the game’s overall charm.

Legacy: A Cult Classic

Amida was initially released in arcades, but its popularity led to ports for various home platforms, including the NES, Game Boy, and PlayStation. The game has also been re-released on modern platforms, allowing a new generation of gamers to experience its unique blend of puzzle and action.

Over the years, Amida has amassed a dedicated fan base who appreciate its challenging gameplay, charming visuals, and nostalgic appeal. Its influence can be seen in later puzzle games, particularly those that incorporate elements of platforming and obstacle avoidance.

Conclusion

Amida (1990) is a true gem of the retro gaming era. Its innovative gameplay, challenging levels, and charming visuals have made it a beloved classic among puzzle enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the genre, Amida offers a rewarding and nostalgic experience that will keep you entertained for hours on end.

Review Score

8/10