Messages

[General Gaming / Re: Retro VGS Game Console]

Please support the RETRO VGS if you can.  I think it will make a statement to the mainstream console manufacturers. 

You're hilarious. Have you heard of the Ouya?

It tried to make a statement exactly like the one you said. And it failed miserably.

How many units did the damn thing sell anyway? About 50,000? The Ouya company was so embarrassed, they couldn't even reveal their sales numbers.

This thing is targeting an even smaller audience, with far less power and 3-4 times the price.

I mean, at least Ouya got a mobile port of Sonic CD. This thing could barely get Shovel Knight.

I am optimistic with every console release, either it be indie or mainstream.  The RETRO VGS has an entirely different design model than the Ouya (mobile-style games vs retro games) and has different people behind the project.  Mike Kennedy launched RETRO Magazine successfully and is still going strong the past couple of years.  I've followed him and his team for quite some time.  They are passionate gamers who just want a console that caters toward the RETRO community (cart based, classic gaming, so forth), as well as those who desire physical media vs digital as the current mainstream consoles are going. 

Mike's ideas behind the project are admirable, and if I launched a retro console, I would probably do similar things.  RETRO Magazine is a good medium to advertise the upcoming console (similar how Nintendo Power covered its own consoles back in the day, this is Mike's idea too), since the majority of the readership love RETRO games.  The circulation is estimated to be 40,000 or so throughout the world.  If 30,000 of those people help fund the RETRO VGS, it will surely take off. 

The console is not coming out until next year sometime.  So, it is way too soon to put judgement on something that hasn't even reached funding yet.  Let the public vote with their money, love, and passion.  This week is when the Kickstarter will launch.

[General Gaming / Re: Retro VGS Game Console]

I think the RETRO VGS is a great idea.  I've bought reproduction carts of classic games for the past 3 years, as well as homebrew games.  I love buying old NES, SNES, or Sega Genesis games that never got an English translation and then finding new life in a repro cart complete with box, manual, and poster fully in English.  I believe the RETRO VGS will be more than just a system for indie titles.  It could be a home for old classics receiving HD Remasters, a breath of fresh air for budding game developers to achieve their dream of developing for a classic system like the SNES, Genesis, or even the Neo Geo, and you can even develop new games that take advantage of the full capabilities of the RETRO VGS.

Just imagine Square Enix, Konami, and Capcom jumping on board to revive their classic Secret of Mana & Final Fantasy titles, Castlevania, or even Mega Man?  If they find the HD Remasters working out, maybe they will even develop original content.

Frankly, I'm tired of the "digital revolution," where everything is downloadable to your hard drive.  Sure, it's convenient.  But I WANT a physical instruction manual, collectible maps & posters, and decent artwork on my game box.  Mike Kennedy knows his RETRO business because he is developing a console that is striving to stay away from the digital world (no internet connection for updates and such).  20 years from now, I want the RETRO VGS to still function without needing some patch from the Internet, unlike the Xbox One where it tries to connect to the Internet for every little thing.  I can't even play Killer Instinct on Xbox One without it saying, "The Console needs to go online for a game update."  You can't even save the game without the update?!?

I haven't heard anything about the system's price yet until the Kickstarter next week.  I wouldn't judge its price just yet until the official announcement.  Please support the RETRO VGS if you can.  I think it will make a statement to the mainstream console manufacturers.

[General Gaming / Re: Would you purchase officially licensed and produced reproduction games]

Like I said earlier, I do want to play certain games that never came to the U.S. in English form for the first time on actual hardware.  Emulation is not my cup of tea.

There is still a third option, which would save you from spending a fortune on pricey repros.

The solution is making your own on this one.  Sadly, with the price of even common titles going up it's not as cheap as it once was.  For purely NES games typical cost is say $3-$5 for a donor, $5 in eproms.  Misc wire and however fancy you get with the label.  I use a photo quality sticker, print in highest quality then put a laminate sheet over (just that self laminating stuff you can buy at Office Max etc.)

I feel like I'm pretty good at making them now but still usually takes me about 30 minutes to get the board finished.  If I don't already have a label saved there are literally hours poured into photo shop on setting up labels sometimes.

Of course, buying your eprom burner is a significant cost.  The Top 853 is cheap and effective at around $40-$50 dollars but won't do 16-bit eproms so you're limited to NES and some SNES stuff.  I've heard guys talk about a burner that Top makes that does 16-bit eproms and is around $100.  Minimum you should also have a solder sucker $20.  Thankfully there is some great freeware programs to help split your rom files or remove headers that emulators use to launch the game

Yeah, I've considered that option before, but it seems to be a lot of work for a professional-looking repro (complete-in-box with redone artwork on cart, box, manual, and inserts).  I have a friend who used to put out repros of his own hacked games with the help of a group of people--each specializing in an aspect of the reproduction.  I personally don't mind paying for reproductions at $100 or less because they are worth it (and the hard work put into it).

[General Gaming / Re: Would you purchase officially licensed and produced reproduction games]

I've been buying unofficial reproductions for the past few years anyway.  I especially like reproductions of games that never came to the U.S. back in the day.  With most games getting a fan translation these days, it wouldn't be hard for companies to commission these translations for the U.S.  But it is a pretty niche market, so crowd funding would be the best way to test the waters. 

I say niche market because most of my friends never heard of reproductions before.  And I have played video games with them for years now.  And people who do know about it would not put out the money to buy something like that. 

I personally like reproductions for the sheer value of collecting brand new copies in nice packaging and not have to pay a little fortune to buy these games on Ebay.  Like I said earlier, I do want to play certain games that never came to the U.S. in English form for the first time on actual hardware.  Emulation is not my cup of tea.

[General Gaming / Re: Transformers Devastation]

Well, this looks promising.  I'd rather it be an adventure game, but a brawler will do, & having the original voices & prog rock helps tremendously!

Yeah man, it looks really cool.  I'd buy it in a heartbeat if they have the original Transformers Theme song in the intro!  :-)  At least a remix of it anyways.  I really miss the theme song in the new Transformers movies and tv series.  It was one of the best things that made the series popular.

[General Gaming / Re: What game deserves a sequel?]

Here is my list of games that need to have a sequel.  It can be part of a series that they haven't continued for many years. 

1.  Wild Arms Series - This is just a fantastic JRPG series.  But unfortunately, we haven't seen a new sequel since Wild Arms 5 for PS2.  I'm still playing through the series, but at least a mention of a new sequel would be nice.  This series fit in the same league as Final Fantasy, Lunar, and Suikoden.  Sony, are you listening? 

2.  Actraiser - It's such a good game that it needs a proper sequel.  Actraiser 2 for SNES didn't really count because it was somewhat a different game.  I guess since we already have an Actraiser 2, Actraiser 3 would be just as good. 
:-)

3.  Altered Beast - I don't really care if people didn't like this game.  It was just awesome when I played Altered Beast back in the day and even these days.  There was a sequel called Project Altered Beast for PS2, but it was a sorry 3D game not even worth mentioning.  Sega needs to make a sequel we would be proud of. 

4. Lunar Series - I don't really need a remake per say, but a sequel in the mainline series (i.e. Lunar 3) would be incredible.  Gamearts did talk about a Lunar 3 like 10 years ago, but it never came into fruition.  I love that series just as much as Suikoden.  They need to hurry up.  lol.

5. Suikoden series - Similar to the Lunar series, I do want this series to continue its legacy into the new generation.  Imagine a military vs military battle of millions of soldiers screaming on the screen in full 60 fps!  Woohoo.  That would be epic to the extreme. 

6. Final Fantasy Tactics - Geez, it's been such a long time since this game came out.  Yet, Square Enix hasn't even talked about a sequel.  I think it would be a mega seller if they would release a sequel to this game.  I guess they would rather port the mainline series to numerous cell phones and devices instead of focusing on their great heritage. 

7. Vandal Hearts Series - They released a side story sequel for PS3 back in 2010 called Vandal Hearts: Flame of Judgement.  It was a digital-only title.  Yeah, the game was pretty good, but we need a true sequel.  Guys, if you are a fan of Final Fantasy Tactics, this is the second best strategy series of all time. 

8.  Wizards & Warriors series - If you know me, you already know I like this series for the NES and Game Boy.  But they really need to put this on a modern system with an upgraded game engine, but still in 2D.  I don't care, release it as a digital-only title.  That would still be sweet. 

9. Lagoon - Alright, so hardly anybody knows about this game.  But you know what?  It was a nice little action RPG game.  I still like it a lot and own a beautiful mint condition copy.  It would be cool if they would ever release a sequel for this one.  I would pre-order it in a heartbeat. 

10. Double Dragon series - Yeah boy, I need an official Double Dragon IV right now.  Hint: Double Dragon V fighting game didn't count.  And make it with 32-bit 2D graphics similar to the NES games but with all new characters (but include the brothers), goofy girlfriend storyline, and crazy acrobatic moves. 

11.  Golden Axe series - Alright, enough with the goofy remakes and sequels, we need a real Golden Axe 4.  Sega has such a rich history, but they keep doing Sonic 3D games and stuff people don't care about.  Below are some more Sega games that need sequels real badly.

12. Phantasy Star series - Yep, another Sega JRPG classic series that they haven't gone back to the original formula for decades.  Phantasy Star 4 was a big hit, but they stopped it since the Genesis days.  We do need a sci-fi JRPG for our modern times.  I'm starving for one, how about you? 

13.  Shining Force series - Another great strategy series they have ignored for so long.  I enjoyed Shining Force 3 very much.  I would say it stands at 3rd place after Vandal Hearts and Final Fantasy Tactics, as far as strategy games are concerned.

[General Gaming / Re: Movie/TV Licensed Games]

LJN for NES did a great job of beating up the licenses they accquired.
ADDAMS FAMILY for any system is a gem.  i love them all. (seriously).
sunsoft got Batman just right.  that is one of the top 10 best NES games ever made.

im sure a few people will chime in with bucky o'hare.  i have never played it, but heard its good.

dont forget games that licensed commercials like california raisins and yo, noid.
i recently picked up the untouchables, but am yet to play it.
many people rag on Platoon for NES, but i kind of like that one.

You're not the only one who likes The Addams Family series.  Fester's Quest was really cool.  For those of you who are not familiar, the game plays like a top-down shooter adventure game, similar to Zelda and Willow, but with guns.  I'm planning on getting entire series for all the systems.

What about Friday the 13th and Rambo?  Haha.  I know some folks who love those games despite the harsh reviews.  I own Rambo though, so don't look at me funny.

[General Gaming / Re: What games deserve a remake?]

Here are a few more titles to add to my remake list.

9. Battletoads - This game was super hard! Especially on the bike-riding level, it was just impossible to me. I was able to recently get past that bike level with a friend, but we still couldn't make it past the following level. But you know, it was such a fun game! It also had some great graphics on the NES. In a remake of Battletoads, developers need to focus on the controls a bit more. It felt loose and sort of floaty when trying to do combos on enemies. Also, the hit detection on cliff edges were off. I can't tell you how many times I fell off the cliff when I was no where near a cliff. All this made the game more difficult than it supposed to be. Other than that, it's like Double Dragon with toads. :-) The music was really cool and catchy as well.

There were other games in the series, such as Battletoads & Double Dragon and Super Battletoads. Those were really good games and perhaps don't need a remake. But the original Battletoads would be fantastic with an updated fighting system, graphics & sound, and additional characters to choose from.

10. Double Dragon II - The first Double Dragon on NES was a single player game and was not as polished. But wow, the 2nd game in the series really was the best one. It got extremely hard later on in the game. But I have to congratulate myself for beating it several years ago with a friend. I might like this game more than Streets of Rage just due to the sheer number of moves you can perform if you practiced enough. I was able to do numerous combos, not with button mashing, but with true mastery of the moves. Plus, those power uppercuts and cyclone kicks were very exhilarating when done right. The game was so fun that I can play it over and over with any coop buddy. I believe a remake would be in order with even more crazy moves and coop combos. Sure, they did a remake called Double Dragon Neon a couple of years ago. But that one just didn't feel the same. Plus, it was almost an entirely different game with fan service. A true remake would be awesome.

11. Albert Odyssey - Most people never even heard of this title, much less give it a chance. This came out on Sega Saturn, and I am so glad I gave it a shot. It's got everything a good RPG has--great graphics, lovely characters, an exciting storyline, crazy villains, cool battle system, and the superb soundtrack! It was so underrated. It would be amazing to see it running on a modern console with increased difficulty, since it was a pretty easy game. This is quite the traditional JRPG. So, a remake would be nice to have some more side quests, mini games, and anime cut scenes to add to the drama. The game can be pretty lighthearted at times until the drama kicks in. Reminds me a lot of the Lunar series. If you haven't played this game yet, I suggest you give it a try. You won't be disappointed.

[General Gaming / Re: What games deserve a remake?]

Metroid was remade tho. Metroid zero on GBA. and very good it is too.

True, but it was for a portable system.  And the GBA is pretty outdated with what it can deliver.  I'm talking about an all-out PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/One or even Wii U release with redrawn graphics & sound.  It doesn't hurt to add clever new enemy designs, mini-bosses & bosses, as well as more cool powerups and weapons.

[General Gaming / What games deserve a remake?]

Hey everyone,

You know, I believe that if more companies focus on remakes of retro games, they would make a lot of money. The recent success of the DuckTales remake is proof that retro games can make quite the splash. However, just like any game, a remake has to be well developed with the proper care in all departments, i.e. graphics, sound, characters, gameplay, story, and so forth. Don't be like the Golden Axe remake (Golden Axe: Beast Rider) that barely got out of the market. Of course, you also got ten thousand versions of Tetris and Pac-Man. Those aren't really remakes, but are just different variations of the same game. I guess you can count a few Pac-Man titles that are remakes with enhanced graphics, gameplay, and sound. Resident Evil HD and Killer Instinct were also recent remakes that really hit the bar.

Here is a list of games I want to be remade for current gen consoles.

1. Final Fantasy VI - I would buy this one in a heartbeat. lol. My favorite RPG needs a facelift, but not in 3D. It should stay in 2D but with modern graphics, music, and perhaps some vocals for the songs. They should also add some storyline elements to enhance the characters' development even more. Sure, they have released the game on various platforms over the years. However, it never received a full remake.

2. Golden Axe - I want to see a real remake of this game. I even formed a development team back in the day to make this happen. But of course, I ran out of steam, since the team was not as dedicated and money was an issue. It should be upgraded to 2.5D graphics similar to the arcade sequel, Golden Axe: The Revenge of Death Adder. I would like to also see a bigger selection of characters and even hidden characters like in the Mortal Kombat series. I know it's not a fighting game, but it should have similar attributes. Which reminds me, though Golden Axe was a fun game, it should also have more moves and magic. With modern machines, 4-player coop via local and online would be great.

3. Streets of Rage - Another Sega classic that needs a huge facelift. Although there is a homebrew game in development right now called Project Y that is very similar to Streets of Rage, I would rather Sega do it correctly and call it Streets of Rage HD or something. Similar to Golden Axe, more characters, moves, and items you can pick up to bash your enemies would all be a plus for this remake. The music could use a modern remix of sorts, but keep the MIDI sounds if possible.

4. Actraiser - Oh yeah, this game was one of my very favorite SNES titles. It was a fantastic side-scroller with a very fun town-building simulator. It would be so awesome to play this in HD on say the Xbox 360 or PS3. And then, what better than a fully orchestrated upgraded soundtrack? I love that game and deserves a remake more than any other game in my opinion.

5. Metroid - Well, Super Metroid is a lot better game, but perhaps it shouldn't be remade. I think that it's a perfect game that can't be any better other than graphics. But the original Metroid should be remade with some tweaks in all departments. Don't get me wrong, Metroid was a good game in itself. But it would be an even better game if done right.

6. Soul Blazer - This game is on par with the fantastic Actraiser in every way. Everything from the cool bosses to the great top-down RPG action, the game is a masterpiece. Don't change anything, just enhance every aspect of it.

7. Super Mario Bros - This was the game that started the revolution of Nintendo and dawn of a new era of video games after the game industry crash in the 1980s. Sure, it was sort of remade in Super Mario All-Stars. But, it was just graphics & sound enhancements. Nintendo needs to bring back Super Mario Bros. with new enemies, levels, bosses, and modern 64-bit 2D graphics for its 30 year anniversary since the game's release date in Japan of September 13, 1985, which would mark 30 years if Nintendo releases it this year as a remake for the Wii U. I bet if I was on Nintendo's Board of Directors, it would be released.

8. Bonk's Adventure - The only other game mascot that deserves great fan recognition other than Mario.  Did I forget Sonic?  No, but I didn't like the Sonic games as much.  And I'm sure Sonic fans would throw a fit at me.  But I digress.  Bonk's Adventure was a very a fun game, right up there with the original Super Mario Bros.  So, it deserves every bit of a facelift for the modern generation.  People need a taste of what classic gaming is all about with their next-gen fanciness, such as bigger levels, awesome new enemies/bosses, and souped up graphics & sound. 

That's all I can think of right now. So, what games do you want to be remade?

[General Gaming / Re: Movie/TV Licensed Games]

What about games that were being developed as a licensed title and then had the license pulled during development like Journey to Silius.  That would have been the best Terminator game ever made.  I do like Terminator on Sega CD though it is pretty easy and not super inspiring.  The sound track kicks ass at least.

Cool, I wanted to pick up a copy of Journey to Silius the other day.  Not too many people know about the bit of trivia that Journey to Silius was supposed to be based on Terminator, not to mention it was made by Sunsoft (makers of really good games like Blaster Master and Batman for NES).  That game is super rare when it comes to finding a complete-in-box copy.  They must of not made too many copies.

[General Gaming / Re: Movie/TV Licensed Games]

Ah yes, I forgot about the TMNT games, Aladdin, DuckTales, Cool Spot, and The Addams Family series.    Those were all really good licensed games.  Looks like I will be quite busy collecting for a while.

Well done with Cool Spot.

Also, did chester cheetah get a game?  Or am i making that up?

Well, I looked it up and found this:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chester_Cheetah:_Too_Cool_to_Fool

Apparently, they did make a Chester Cheetah game for SNES and Sega Genesis.  Being a big collector as myself, I still didn't know a game existed for Cheetos Snacks.  lol.

[General Gaming / Re: Movie/TV Licensed Games]

I can't think of many good licensed games on the Duo... The Addams Family is sort of OK. Tail Spin and Darkwing Duck are both pretty dire.

Just off the top of my head, here's a few of the decent- to-good licensed games I can think of from the 8 & 16-bit days:

NES: Duck Tales 1&2, Darkwing Duck, Batman, Tiny Toon Adventures 1&2, TMNT 2&3, Wacky Races, Felix the Cat, The Jetsons, The Flintstones 1&2, Bucky O'Hare

SNES: Indiana Jones Greatest Adventures, Star Wars 1-3, Goof Troop, Buster Busts Loose, Alien 3, Magical Quest, Hook (the SNES one is decent), Aladdin, Addams Family (& Pugsley's Scavenger Hunt), Krusty's Super Funhouse, Turtles in Time

Genesis: Castle/World of Illusion, Mickey Mania, Quackshot, Alien 3, Aladdin, Cool Spot, Beavis & Butt-Head, Rambo III, Terminator (CD), Hyperstone Heist

Ah yes, I forgot about the TMNT games, Aladdin, DuckTales, Cool Spot, and The Addams Family series.    Those were all really good licensed games.  Looks like I will be quite busy collecting for a while. 

Oh, I also own Willow for NES.  People said it was a Zelda clone, but it was a good clone.

[General Gaming / Movie/TV Licensed Games]

Hey guys,

I've recently found a new interest in collecting and playing licensed games. You're probably like, "Blasphemy!" lol. Movies and TV shows made into games have mostly been really bad over the years. But regardless of how bad they were, I still want to own a part of history. So far, the only games I own that came from movies are Rambo and Batman for the NES. It's odd that when I was a kid, Rambo was actually a good game. I almost beat it and had fun playing it. As for Batman, it plays a lot like Ninja Gaiden, really hard game but very cool.

As for TV show-based games, I haven't played the Flintstones games, but looking to acquire them some day.

I recently bought Hook and True Lies from a flea market in Florida.  They aren't great games.  But like I said, I want to own a part of gaming history. 

Have you played any licensed games that are good? Do you own any? I believe some of the best licensed games were the Star Wars games on SNES. You know, Super Star Wars, Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi. They really surprised me. Awesome games in their own right.

[Buy/Sell/Trade / WTB: Wizards & Warriors for NES]

Hey everyone,

I'm currently in the market for the first Wizards & Warriors game for the NES.  It's quite hard to find a nice complete-in-box copy these days.  I've been searching for the past 4 months.  The 2nd and 3rd games are easier to find.  I've recently acquired the 2nd game in great condition, but not so with the first one.  Do you guys have a copy you want to let go or know someone who does?   Thanks so much!

[Buy/Sell/Trade / Re: Hu card and CD games for sale]

I just received my games today.  I have to say madboom has quick service/shipping and nice to deal with.  Highly recommended.  The games were in good condition as described.  Thanks, madboom.

[Buy/Sell/Trade / Re: Hu card and CD games for sale]

Hey Madboom, I just PM'ed you about some games.  I hope you still have them.  Thanks!

[General Gaming / Re: Fix your NES blinking red light for good]

Here's an NES fix:  Take care of your original NES and don't jam your game load mechanism up and down so hard.  I still have my original system from 1988, and it still works great.  To me, I don't see any design flaw with the system as so many have claimed.  It's more user error than anything else.

Half of the problem is keep your games' metal contacts clean.  Take it apart to clean with an eraser if you have to.  Dirty games will infest your system into permanent non-working status.  I find that the dirty games come from cartridges bought from other users (Ebay, yard sales, flea markets, pawn shops, etc).  Once I take care of the game, they stay clean.  And your NES also will work perfectly.

[General Gaming / Re: The Suikoden Series]

You should try Vandal Hearts.  More tactical but awesome in every way.

I've played and beaten Vandal Hearts I & II, as well as Vandal Hearts: Flames of Judgement on the PSN.  It's my second favorite strategy series right after Final Fantasy Tactics.  Konami has lost their RPG touch in recent years (they're not the only ones).  I can't name a single decent RPG from Konami these days.  *sigh*  Can you guys name anything?  Maybe I'm missing something.

[General Gaming / Re: The Suikoden Series]

I plan to collect the entire series next year.  I'm missing Suikoden II, IV, and V.  You're right, guys.  Besides Final Fantasy, Suikoden and Lunar are the only other series that I get so engrossed in the gameplay and desperately look forward to playing those games to the end.  I think the storyline and music what really gets me for Suikoden.  The battles (both one-on-one and full on military) are just icing on the cake, but rather really good icing. 

As I said before, I only played and beaten the first 2 Suikoden games.  I haven't played enough of III, IV, V to really formulate a decent opinion.  I'm sure they are good in their own right.  I usually just like popping them in for a few minutes to watch the intro because they are always so epic in every game!

[General Gaming / The Suikoden Series]

Hi folks,

I decided to create this thread to dedicate to the Suikoden game series. It's one of my favorite RPG series, and it deserves some attention for a change (besides Final Fantasy series). I've never finished playing all the games in the series. So, I should start doing so asap. lol. If you guys start playing any game in the series again, talk about it here.

To celebrate this occasion, Sony has just announced that Sukoden II will finally be released on the Playstation Network tomorrow 12/9/2014 as a digital release as a PS Classics title for only $9.99. So, there should be no excuse not to play this fantastic RPG. It has never been released anywhere else since it launched on the PS1 back in 1999. I really hope this will lower the price gouging on Ebay of Suikoden II.

You can read about its downloadable, digital release here:  http://www.egmnow.com/articles/news/suikoden-ii-finally-joins-the-ps-one-classics-on-psn-tomorrow/

[General Gaming / Re: Console Backwards Compatibility]

There should just be a retron everything and be done with it.

The problem with official emulators like Retron 5 is that they have to wait until the patent for these consoles expire  before they can legally emulate them.  Once the patents for PS1, Saturn, and N64 run out, you are going to see the Retron and other Chinese ripoffs make console emulators for them.  Emulators can also have issues with bad video and audio.  But in the case of Retron 5, I heard they did a great job.  Took them long enough though.

[General Gaming / Re: Console Backwards Compatibility]

Yeah, despite what I said in my original post, I don't have any problems with backwards compatibility.  I simply just don't use the feature, that's all.  Similar to the feature of modern consoles being able to play movies, I don't use that feature either.  Game consoles were made to play games, and I keep it that way.  As with backwards compatibility, my perception is that each console was made to play its own games. 

Modern consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One have the ability for people to watch TV, surf the web, post on facebook, watch youtube, wash dishes, and paint the house.  Well, minus the last two points.  But anyways, I just ignore all those things and play games.  I find those additional things seem annoying and make those consoles cost more than they should be when I don't even use those features.   They should make cheaper models that only play games.  Something like $150 - $200 I would jump right in.

[General Gaming / Console Backwards Compatibility]

This forum is a hardcore gamer place. So, you guys play classic game consoles by default. But my question is this...do you care about console backwards compatibility at all? I sure don't. But my ear is always on the ground listening to people talk about how they hate the current generation of systems (PS4 and Xbox One) don't have backwards compatibility at all. The Wii U, however, can play SOME Wii games. But Gamecube games are not compatible.

Sony launched (although still in its infancy) their game streaming service (Netflix-style with games) call Playstation Now, which allows people to play older PS1, PS2, & PS3 games on their PS4. But Microsoft is pretty quiet about their future plans. They did mention that software emulation is in the works where you can download games from Xbox Live from the previous generation. That is not even something they really care about.

As for myself, I could care less about backwards compatibility. The concept has been around since the Atari days where the Atari 7800 could play 2600 games. I always feel that each console should play their own games. That is why I have 2 TVs (with one spare) for classic consoles and 2 HD TVs for new-gen consoles. There is something else. I have a "strange" tradition of taking care of my consoles where I let the console rest every 2-3 hours of gameplay (and not play it for the rest of the day) and rotate them around so that each console has a rest period (like a few months). So, I believe that if you play say a PS1 on PS2, the PS2 would not have time to rest when you feel like playing another PS2 game next time. Get my point?

It seems "strange" to regular gamers. But you know, my oldest console (The NES) bought back from 1988 still works like new. The up and down mechanism (where you put the game in) still works flawlessly where other people complain that the older NES models wear out quickly and the mechanism has to be replaced all the time. All of my other consoles also work like new.

Anyways, Backwards Compatibility is a marketing thing for casual gamers in my opinion where they like to trade in their "old" consoles for the new ones. Therefore, they can no longer play older games if the desire to do so. Another thing is people complain about running out of room with so many consoles to manage. Really? If there is a will, there is a way. I've seen hardcore gamers' house where they have massive entertainment centers that cover the walls with classic consoles to modern ones. You can play anything you want--just pick up the controller. :-)

[PCE/TG-16|CD/SGX Discussion / Re: What's the going rate on Addams Family?]

I bought my copy of The Addams Family only like 2 months ago for $20.00 in really nice condition (no scratches, complete with case & instructions).  It was my first Turbografx-CD game I ever owned.  It was to test out the TG-CD unit I got during the summer. 

The game itself is fun but hard as rocks.  I got past the mansion after dying numerous times and trying to figure out how to get past certain parts.  The game has that weird feeling like they never finished making the game or something.  lol.  I died instantly after the mansion.  It only gets harder.  It's not a bad platformer, just not as good as the other versions on SNES and Sega Genesis.

[Console Repair/Mod Center / Re: REPAIR GUIDE - TG16 CD/PCE CD laser swap guide (pictorial)]

+ctophil , did you find any US seller ? i can try this out service out and see what happens..

I didn't find a U.S. seller, but I was able to salvage a laser from a good condition Sony Discman for my Turbografx-CD Unit.  It's working great now.

I had a separate thread about my laser repair adventures here if you want to read it. 
:-)   https://www.pcengine-fx.com/forums/index.php?topic=17740.0

[General Gaming / Re: Bayonetta 2]

Good to know there is another Wii U game that's pretty cool.  I'm planning to get a Wii U in the next few months.  I gotta get my fix of Mario and Zelda games.  lol.   

Do you know if the first Bayonetta is on the same disc or is there a DLC code?  Can you recommend other Wii U games besides the typical Mario, Zelda, and Donkey Kong games I should get?

[Console Repair/Mod Center / Re: Modless RGB and A/V Upgrade for TurboGrafx-16 and PC-Engine]

Very nice, DB-Elec.  Thanks for working on all these cool devices for the Turbografx-16 and PC Engine.  As you know, I purchased your import game converter for TG-16 and a happy customer.  I'll definitely get your new Grafx Booster as well.  :-)

[General Gaming / Re: Death of Game Manuals & Inserts]

And then there are those CE editions were the only "CE" content is a code sheet for DLC.

Sad but true, this is why I love the special editions that NIS America puts out.  Normally they have pretty awesome bonuses and don't cost that much more than the regular game.  Most western game CEs come with digital goodies or a cheaply made ridiculous looking statue and a $100 premium over the game.

I rest my case.  I do agree that NIS, Atlus, and Xseed Games still release nice special editions.  I own some of them.  But the vast majority of games out there are catering towards the digital era and abandoning nice packaging altogether.  Well, I guess all we can do is depend on that little niche where smaller publishers still love the dying breed of hardcore gamers.

[General Gaming / Re: Death of Game Manuals & Inserts]

I have some more thoughts about this topic.  Not only do modern games lack manuals and inserts to make them lighter and cheaper, but they are also made in China, Mexico, Thailand, Indonesia, or somewhere that has cheap labor to manufacture them. The same goes for game consoles, TVs, and other electronics. If it says, Sony or Toshiba, it's not really made in Japan. It's made in China.

If you look at retro games for NES or SNES, they are all Made in Japan, including their respective consoles. I don't have to say much about Microsoft. It's already made in China, Indonesia, or Mexico by default, even the discs. lol.

If you watch the Pawn Stars and American Pickers, products that were made back in the day were very high quality. It would probably last 100 - 200 years no problem. And everything were made in America or Japan, you know, within their respective countries. But the things we get today are so flimsy, cheap, and thin looking. I'd be surprised if they last 5 years. Hehe. I ask you, "So 20 years from now, will there be any classic antiques left in the world with the junk we're making to have an American Pickers or Pawn Stars show? Or will real Pawn and Thrift Shops just throw everything away and go out of business?"

For example, let's say in the future you sell a "rare" RPG game that came out in 2014 on Ebay. You say in the description that it is complete and in good condition. With retro to semi-retro games, you have manuals, inserts, posters, maps, etc. It would look awesome in the Ebay picture spread out like that. But with a modern game, all you have is a cheap case with a disc. *Crickets chirping* Certainly, collectors like me would pay much less, since it's not really a "collector's item." To me and I'm sure many game collectors out there would agree that all those physical objects in a game box adds a ton of value to the whole package deal.

[Buy/Sell/Trade / Re: WTB Mysterious Song]

Sounds good.  I also appreciate the reprint.  I didn't even know the game existed until like a few weeks ago; so I wasn't around during the first print. 

I will surely put in my pre-order in November.

[General Gaming / Re: Death of Game Manuals & Inserts]

I guess the majority of people don't see it the way I do.  I see everything in style and art.  I like my house in a certain way that is soothing and artistic to me.  I like the beauty of architecture, as well as decorations such as statues & figurines, paintings, lighting, plants & flowers, and so forth.  The same applies to video games.  I like the game to be both artistic on the inside (what's on the TV screen) and on the outside just the same (packaging).  I like to have something tangible in reality to put on a shelf to take pride and decorate the walls of something I enjoy having.  What I don't want is a bland-looking box with no instructions, no inserts, no maps, no nothing.  Might as well not release a game at all if I don't have nice packaging to go with the game.  I don't want to print out an online instruction manual on standard paper.  It's ugly and look like junk. 

Life is not all about the money, meaning how much more profit I can make today.  The Internet is fine for fast information at your fingertips.  But don't make it so important that we are deprived of our artistic nature with thoughtless packaging, whereby we download everything. 

Additional content: It seems video games are not the only problem we have in society these days.  Everything seems cheaper.  My local newspaper is a shocking 40% smaller than it used to be.  They cut the newspaper so they use less paper.  Even my bar of soap is smaller than before.  You pay higher prices for something less.

[General Gaming / Re: Death of Game Manuals & Inserts]

I believe the trend these days is to provide a manual only with a premium or limited edition release.

Apart from that, it's definitely heading down the path of non-physical releases in the near future.

Yeah, but the problem with that is not all games come out with premium or limited edition copies.  In fact, it's a very small amount of games that do.  Like my friend said, game publishers these days put money on making fancy graphics & sound with super large development teams writing "hollywood-style" scripts with high-paying voice actors instead of on the packaging.  I choose simplistic gameplay with awesome packaging over the above stuff.  But I'm the minority on this choice.  So publishers would rather move to digital-only and make AAA titles anyway.  I'm thinking of stop playing modern games altogether if it comes to that.

[General Gaming / Death of Game Manuals & Inserts]

Hi everyone,

I talked about how publishers are gearing towards taking away instruction manuals from our game boxes these days. And then, I read an article on retrocollect.com about the same thing. Apparently, I'm not alone, but still in the tiny minority.

I miss the days when you open up a brand new, shrink wrapped game, you have all these cool inserts and advertisements for upcoming games, soundtracks, prizes, and magazines. There were even beautiful posters and maps with incredible artwork. I make it a ritual to go through all of those things and soak in the great packaging. Then, I would read the manual from the beginning to end to get my feet wet with the game's fantasy world--all this before the game goes into the console. The recent game that I bought, Dark Souls II, only had a disc with a transparent box so you can see the Warranties and Warnings written on the backside of the box cover. I have to reiterate that it is cheaply made. They didn't even print a SEPARATE piece of paper for the Warranty information like in Mass Effect 3 (another game that didn't have a manual). But they made use of the BACK of the box cover insert to save paper.

After reading the article below, I am further disgusted that Nintendo, of all people, didn't include an actual manual for the new Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS. They are old-school publishers that are also getting away from their roots.

I tell my gaming friends about these things. But they hear it and forget about it. If I don't bring this topic up, it seems nobody really cares about what they get in the game box anymore. It's all about download this, download that. Fill up the hard drive with digital stuff. It's "convenient, saves space, and I just want to play the game." What happened to the appreciation of beautiful artwork, enjoying the backstory of the characters and levels, maybe a map or walkthrough to get you started, and a poster to hang on your wall? Does a painting look better on a wall or as a wallpaper on your computer? Do they have museums for digital paintings worth millions of dollars?

Here's the article about the same subject with a similar perspective: http://www.retrocollect.com/Articles/video-game-manuals-a-inserts-a-thing-of-the-past.html

[Console Repair/Mod Center / Re: System Card 3.0 Not Working?]

Hey Everyone,

I finally received the updated DB-Elec converter called the PC-Henshin.  After a period of testing, I would like to say that it works great!  The Japanese System Card 3.0 will work with it everytime.  So, those who need an alternative way to play Super CD games on your Turbografx-CD, the PC-Henshin Converter is the way to go.  Oh, it'll play import games too!  :-) 

As I said before, the TurboPoser or Chopsado will work as well.  But it is harder to use and may wear out in the near future, since it's just a slim piece of wiring.  The redesigned PC-Henshin (DB-Elec Converter) is smaller than the previous design, and the Turbografx16/PC Engine switch is no longer there.  They don't have it for sale right now.  But you can take a look at the converter here:  http://www.db-elec.com/home/products/pc-engine-to-turbografx16-converter

[General Gaming / Re: Playstation TV]

The Playstation TV looks interesting.  It just feels like a product for some people who are not going to own a PS Vita and other Playstation systems.  I own just about all the consoles out there.  I even have a Vizio streaming device so a Playstation TV is pointless. 

I would rather get an Ouya, at least it has games I can't play on Sony's consoles.

[General Gaming / Re: Games you never finished?]

I was playing Panzer Dragoon Saga earlier this year and got to disc 4 but never finished it.  I don't like RPGs but PDS did hold my attention.

Rayxanber II is another game I've never finished and most likely never will due to difficulty.

You have Panzer Dragoon Saga and never finished it?  Such irony.  LOL.  Just messing with you.  I wish I had the game so I could finish it.  :-)  It's just freaking expensive.  It's like the price of a console.

[Off-Topic / Re: I Don't Believe Europeans Play Video Games]

Well, I wouldn't say America has a lot of Retro shops.  It depends on where you go.  Like in my town, the closest retro store was like 60 miles away, and they also closed down several years ago.  There was also a Play 'N Trade in my town that only stayed open for like 2 years.  These days, I would have to drive at least 2 - 3 hours for a retro store in Atlanta.  I live in a decent size city.  Sure, there are like 5 Gamestops.  But you gonna have to depend on Ebay for anything retro.

[General Gaming / Re: Games you never finished?]

Here are some recent games I never finished.  If I listed every game in history, it would fill a book.  lol.  Well, it would fill at least a few pages because I used to rent games all the time and hardly finished any of them.  But these days, I will finish a game 99% of the time.  The games below reflect my last 5 years of gaming (2009 - 2014). 

1.  Final Fantasy XII (PS2)- I got stuck in a building where I couldn't leave to level up some more.  The boss in the building was too hard for my characters.

2.  Disgaea (PS2) - I tried to get into this series going but it requires a lot of strategy to beat certain levels.  So I got bored and stopped playing it. 

3. L.A. Noire (Xbox 360) - Good game but can get repetitive.  Once again, I got bored.  Hehe.

4. Assassin's Creed (Xbox 360) - It started off pretty good, but once again got repetitive.  I heard the rest of the series is very good, much better than the first one.  So, maybe I should give the rest of the series a shot.

5. Willow (NES) - Excellent game and similar to The Legend of Zelda.  But I was right in the middle of another game at the time, so I was distracted.  I like to play video games one at a time.  This is one of those games that I will come back to.

[Console Repair/Mod Center / Re: Color Fading to B&W on TG16]

Also check your composite cables.  Sometimes they go bad as well.  I've had a few instances where this happened to me on various consoles.  Another thing is to make sure the video cable that is coming from the back of the TV is plugged in securely and not being pushed around back there by wires or other obstacles.  I don't know how old is your TV, but extended use of the video composite plug-in on the TV could also be the culprit.  The actual plug-in hole can be loose.  You can try moving the cord around back there to see if you get some color back.

[Console Repair/Mod Center / Re: An alternative to region-modding your PC Engine]

Awesome work.  I'm always delighted to hear people so passionate about their hobbies enough to develop alternative ways to play games on classic consoles. 

Thanks, ishiyakazuo and DB-elec, for producing the converter for people like me who dislike modifying their systems.

[Off-Topic / Re: Final Fantasy Type-0 and XV]

The game play in XV reminds me of Lightning returns which I enjoyed moreso than the original FFXIII.  I heard the type 0 was pretty lackluster when it originally came out so I don't know what to expect from that.

I was just wondering that the other day... MS or another giant needs to give their unlimited supplies of cash to fund some of these older titles and bring them forward so they can enjoy the limelight on current gen.

Final Fantasy XIII was the worst FF title of all time.  RPG-wise, it's a boring game.  I haven't played Lightning Returns nor FF XIII-2 yet.  I will have to give them a try eventually.  I'm just being hopeful that FF XV, especially, will get the series rolling again.  Although, that blonde guy in the car from the trailer looks like Cloud (FF VII).  Maybe he is the great grandson of Cloud?  lol. 

I just don't like how they are focusing on action instead of good old turned-based combat for a change similar to FF I - FF X. Why not a true reboot, Square Enix?  Don't try to impress newbies so much, impress the millions of fans who are already on board.

[Buy/Sell/Trade / Re: Trading TurboPosers for working TG16 HuCards (and selling some too)]

This is great news for folks who don't have US System Card 3, correct?

I can (hopefully) use a Japanese System Card in TG-CD with this?

Yes, I couldn't afford an American System Card 3.0 ($200.00, if you can find one).  This is why I had to get a converter to play the Japanese Card 3.0 ($20.00). 

I tested the TurboPoser again the other day, and it still works perfectly.  I have even been playing Castlevania Dracula X: Rondo of Blood to Stage 4.  Good stuff.

[Console Repair/Mod Center / Re: New Laser for Turbo CD Unit]

Hello

You have in US the last stock of lens kss 220 here :

http://www.ebay.com/itm/KSS220-Laser-optical-head-replacement-of-KSS162-KSS167-/161279805429?pt=US_Personal_CD_Players&hash=item258d0687f5

Yeah, I saw those lasers.  It's good to know that you have some in stock.  But buying a used Sony Discman is half the price ($25.00) to swap the laser out.  The price is not as good as what BlueBMW said ($5.00? Phew!); but I think $25.00 is the best you can do these days for a good laser.

[Off-Topic / Final Fantasy Type-0 and XV]

So who is excited about the remake of Final Fantasy Type-0 coming out March 2015?  Yeah, you have to buy a PS4 or Xbox One to play it.  But I am hoping the new Final Fantasies will bring the series out of the dirt in a big way. There are also news that you get a demo of Final Fantasy XV if you buy Type-0 next year. 

Let me know what you guys think. I'm excited.  Looks pretty cool so far.  Like I said, I'm looking to buy a Playstation 4 or Xbox One next year for these games. 

Final Fantasy Type-0 Trailer (TGS 2014)

Final Fantasy Type 0 HD Trailer (TGS 2014)


Final Fantasy XV Trailer (TGS 2014)

Final Fantasy 15/Final Fantasy XV - Gameplay Trailer (TGS 2014) (PS4/Xbox One)

[Off-Topic / Re: AVGN Movie Bomb]

I'm one of the original AVGN Movie supporters.  James does know his stuff, and the best part is that he works really hard on his movie-making passions.  I can't wait for the Movie to be released on DVD/Blu-ray.  I will be buying a few copies to send to my friends as an introductory gift. 

The premiere in theaters looked fantastic.  I'm really happy that James and crew got a large following.  He deserves the tremendous applause for a job well done.

[Buy/Sell/Trade / Re: FS: Keith Courage game box, never produced until now...]

I received my Keith Courage box today!  Very nice!  Looks to be professionally done and great quality.  Now my Keith Courage Jewel Case is no longer lonely.  :-)  Thanks, Sparky!

[PCE/TG-16|CD/SGX Discussion / Re: Top 5 Favourite TG16 Soundtracks]

No particular order overall (can't bother choosing only five, sorry!):


Ys III/I & II/IV in that order - each OST's amazing

Dracula X

Nexzr

Aldynes

Rayxanber II/III

GunHed

Devil Crash

Soldier series (i.e. 3 different games)

Gate of Thunder

To a lesser extent: Lords of Thunder (reminds me too much of Joey Tafolla or Joey MacAlpine music, i.e. great shredders of the 80s), Spriggan 1 and 2, Sylphia and first stage music of Terra Cresta II (love that track!).

These rank among my favourite OST's ever. Btw, I have absolutely no nostalgia whatsoever for these titles, having grown up in a household with NES + SNES. That says a lot about the quality of the soundtracks found on the system.

Cool, I thought nobody in this thread was ever going to list Dracula X.  You would think that more people would list it as one of their top TG-16/CD soundtracks. 

Anyways, I haven't played too many games yet, since I'm a new collector and all.  But here is my obvious list.

Turbografx-16 Hucard:

1. Dungeon Explorer
2. Bonk's Adventure
3. Neutopia I
4. Neutopia II
5. Legendary Axe


Turbografx-CD:

1. Castlevania: Dracula X
2. Ys Book I & II
3. Ys III: Wanderers from Ys
4. Exile
5. Dungeon Explorer II

[Console Repair/Mod Center / Re: New Laser for Turbo CD Unit]

Just an update, I'm proud to announce that my Turbografx-CD is now in perfect working order!  Not only does it play Super System CD games great, it loads very fast and working nicely every time.  Swapping out the laser from a good condition, Sony Discman D-11 did the trick.  But boy, those vintage CD players do have a lot of wires to mess with.  It's like a jungle in there.  The Lion King would be proud.  lol. 

It was hard work, but paid off.  Thanks again, guys, for your assistance.

[General Gaming / Re: Play Doom on your Canon Printer]

That's pretty cool.  So, am I going to get malware/viruses on my printer if I hook it up to the Internet?  Soon, people are going to sell anti-virus software for printers.  LOL.  But I wouldn't mind a virus like Bonk's Adventure on my printer.  Hehe.  That would be even better than Doom.