Episodes

  • EPISODE 24: Rygar

    EPISODE 24: Rygar
    Oct 9 2024
    #PA2043, Published by Atari Corp. In this mammoth episode (two hours!), I cover yet another popular arcade port, Rygar, released for the Lynx in 1990. Included are statistics for the game and a run-down on how to play it, along with reviews and ratings, some fun facts and trivia, and lots of listener feedback about the game. Also in today’s episode: Monty and I engage in a lively and intellectual discussion comparing the role of the gladiator-type hero in the sagas of antiquity to whatever (or whomever) passes as a hero today…NOT… …actually, we just make fun Rygar’s diskarmor (battle shield) that he somehow never loses because it is inexplicably tethered to an elastic retractable metal chain. “What kind of rhinos are NOT ground rhinos?” -Monty This Rygar arcade upright cabinet was released in North America by Tecmo in 1986. Rygar action figure (Nintendo version) marketed by Tecmo. RYGAR VITAL STATISTICS Release Date: November of 1990. Initial Retail Price: $39.99 in the US; £29.99 in the UK. Cartridge Information: 256kB mono curved lip-style cartridge. Game Genre: Side-scrolling action platform shooter for 1 player only. Alternate Title: Rygar: Legendary Warrior. Screen Playfield Orientation: Landscape (horizontal). Based On: The arcade cabinet released by Tecmo in Japan on May 20, 1986 under the title Argos no Senshi (アルゴスの戦士, Arugosu no Senshi, literally Warrior of Argus). The North American upright cabinet, called simply Rygar, was released later in 1986. Ports to Other Systems: Amstrad CPC, Commodore 64, Nintendo Entertainment System, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 4, Sega Master System, Sharp X68000, and ZX Spectrum. Sequels: There are no sequels to Rygar. Game Levels (Lands): 23. Number of Players: 1 (no ComLynx support). Packaging: A full-color standard flap-tab regular-size box (5 3/8″ by 4 3/8″ by 7/8″). Instruction Manual: A 16-page (including front and back covers) stapled regular-sized booklet manual in full monochrome, measuring the usual 4 7/8” high by 3 ¾” wide. The North American and European manual was released in English, and the French manual is printed on a single sheet, front and back. Page one from a two-page spread from Issue 174 of RetroGamer magazine about the various ports of Rygar. You can view a full-size version of the scan by clicking HERE. Page two from a two-page spread from Issue 174 of RetroGamer magazine about the various ports of Rygar. You can view a full-size version of the scan by clicking HERE. RYGAR CREDITS Publisher: Atari Corp. Licensee: Tecmo, Ltd. Developer: NuFX, Inc. Programmer & SFX: Lou Haehn (Haehn Software Productions) Music: Doug Hubbard Be sure to check out our partner AtariLynxVault.com to stay “Lynxed In” to all of the latest news about our favorite handheld gaming console! LYNX LYNKS Atari Lynx Books: “GameGuide Lynx” by Karl Morris. Information About Rygar: Atari Age title info/rarity guide for Rygar AtariLynxVault title info/rarity guide for Rygar Digital Press title info/rarity guide for Rygar GameFAQs article about Rygar Moby Games article about Rygar PriceCharting.com value guide about Rygar RarityGuide.com rarity/value guide about Rygar Wikipedia article about Rygar “Atari Lynx Hint Book”, published by Atari in 1993 for Lynx game developers; a cheat for killing the final boss in Rygar can be found on page 56. Reviews and Ratings for Rygar: Review by The Review Crew in Electronic Gaming Monthly (US; Issue #17; December 1990; page 21) Review in Electronic Gaming Monthly (US; Issue #17; December 1990; page 74) Review in STart (US; Issue #41; February 1991; page 62) Review in Computer and Video Games (UK; Issue #112; March 1991; page 71) Review by Julian Boardman in RAZE (UK; Issue #6; April 1991; page 46) Review by Cyril Lachel at DefunctGames (2004) Review by The Video Game Critic (2013) Review by Robert A. Jung at IGN (1999; updated 2018) Review by Jon Mc at AtariLynxVault (2018) Review by Tamaracade at Tamaracade.com (2022) YouTube Videos About Rygar: Playthrough (World-of-Longplays) Playthrough (Media Pool) Playthrough and Review (BTB/Lynx Lounge) Playthrough and Review (CGR Undertow) Playthrough and Review (RetroGamerVX) Comparison of Rygar Ports (console) (The Laird’s Lair) Comparison of Rygar Ports (computer) (The Laird’s Lair) Retailers Selling Rygar: B & C ComputerVisions: US$7.00 (box only), US$24.95 (cart/manual combo), US$34.95 (NIB w/damaged box) and for US$39.95 (NIB) through eBay under the user name MyAtari…check his online store on eBay for availability. Best Electronics (last updated September 24, 2023; check website for availability): US$39.95 (CIB). The Gamesmen (Australia): AU$29.95 (CIB). The Goat Store: Down for Maintenance. Telegames (UK): £39.98 (including VAT). Video 61 & Atari Sales: US$39.95 (NIB). The instruction booklet for Rygar. THE RESOURCES Page is where you can find a current list of after-market and ...
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    2 hrs
  • EPISODE 23: APB-All Points Bulletin

    EPISODE 23: APB-All Points Bulletin
    Oct 30 2023
    #PA2042, Published by Atari Corp. In this episode I cover another popular arcade port, APB – All Points Bulletin, released for the Lynx in 1991. Included are statistics for the game and a run-down on how to play it, along with reviews and ratings, some fun facts and trivia, and lots of listener feedback about the game. Also in today’s episode: Monty and I find ourselves on a tangent discussing how accurate the portrayals of police officers were on the television programs of our youth. “Oooh! Oooh!” -Monty There’s a Honker in the Bronx Speeders running all the stops There’s a Litterbug in Harlem Throwing trash at all the cops There are Dopers smoking herb Hitchers hiking on the curb OFFICER BOB, WHERE ARE YOU? The APB – All Points Bulletin arcade upright cabinet with matching seat was released by Atari Games in 1987. APB – All Points Bulletin VITAL STATISTICS Release Date: August of 1991. Initial Retail Price: $34.00-$39.00 in the US; £29.99 in the UK. Cartridge Information: 256kB monaural curved lip-style cartridge. Game Genre: Top-down-view 2-dimensional scrolling arcade racing/driving game for 1 player only. Alternate Title: A.P.B. (it appeared as this title on all packaging and marketing materials for this game). Screen Playfield Orientation: Landscape (horizontal). Based On: The arcade cabinet of the same name released by Atari Games in 1987. Ports to Other Systems: Amstrad CPC (1989), Atari ST (1989), Commodore 64 (1989), Commodore Amiga (1989), DOS (1989), and ZX Spectrum (1989). Game Levels: At least 99. Number of Players: 1 (no ComLynx support). Packaging: A full-color standard flap-tab regular-size box (5 3/8″ by 4 3/8″ by 7/8″). The French variant included a sticker on the front (2 Pin’s Gratuit) indicating the inclusion of 2 lapel pins. Instruction Manual: Each A.P.B. box is packaged with two full color posters, 22” high by 17” wide (see photo above the “Thank You’s” section below); one poster is in English and the other is in French. The front of each poster includes an exact copy of the box cover art, with a yellow triangular banner added at the upper left with the words See reverse side for instructions in a large black font tilted upwards at a 45 degree angle. The back of each poster includes an illustrated comic book-style list of basic instructions. The posters are folded several times in order to fit in the small Lynx boxes. The English instructions for APB – All Points Bulletin were written by Scott Rhoades. The staff of Quicksilver Software, Inc. in 1991 (L-R): Bill Fisher, Arlene Caberto, Scott Bennie, Meghan Rowntree, Byon Garrabrant, Katie Fisher, Todd Camasta, Dave Nelson and Robert Barris (source: Castles manual) APB – All Points Bulletin CREDITS Original Arcade: Atari Games Corporation Publisher: Atari Corporation Licensee: Tengen, Inc. Developer: Quicksilver Software Programmer and Sound Effects: Robert Barris Graphics/Backgrounds: Shann Chastain, Arlene Caberto Somers, David Nelson Music: Dave Bean Movie Projector: William C. Fisher Special Thanks: Steve Ryno Be sure to check out our partner AtariLynxVault.com to stay “Lynxed In” to all of the latest news about our favorite handheld gaming console! LYNX LYNKS Atari Lynx Books: “GameGuide Lynx” by Karl Morris. Information About APB – All Points Bulletin: Atari Age title info/rarity guide for APB – All Points Bulletin Atari Gamer title info/rarity guide for APB – All Points Bulletin Digital Press title info/rarity guide for APB – All Points Bulletin GameFAQs article about APB – All Points Bulletin Moby Games article about APB – All Points Bulletin PriceCharting.com value guide about APB – All Points Bulletin RarityGuide.com rarity/value guide about APB – All Points Bulletin Wikipedia article about APB – All Points Bulletin “Atari Lynx Hint Book”, published by Atari in 1993 for Lynx game developers; a cheat for reaching the quota in APB – All Points Bulletin can be found on page 11. This is a photo of Shinto’s bedroom from back in the day that he mentions in his audio submission for APB – All Points Bulletin (check out the Mountain Dew cans along the top shelf). Reviews and Ratings for APB – All Points Bulletin: Review by David Upchurch in ACE [Advanced Computer Entertainment] (UK; Issue #47; August 1991; page 69) Review by Paul Glancey in Computer + Video Games (UK; Issue #117; August 1991; page 36) Review by Julian Boardman in RAZE (UK; Issue #11; September 1991; page 32) Review by The Review Crew in Electronic Gaming Monthly (US; Issue #27; October 1991; page 22) Review at GameFabrique (undated) Review by Robert A. Jung at IGN (1999; updated 2018) Review by JDeLuna at GameFAQs (1999) Review by KasketDarkFyre at GameFAQs (2002) Review by Cyril Lachel at Defunct Games (2004) Review by Lucas Williams at Retro Gamer (2009) Review by FRGCB Dude at FRGCB (2016) Review by Jon Mc at Atari Gamer (2018) Review by The Video Game Critic (...
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    2 hrs and 4 mins
  • EPISODE 22: Paperboy

    EPISODE 22: Paperboy
    Nov 20 2021
    #PA2041, Published by Atari Corp. In this episode I cover yet another arcade port for the Lynx, Paperboy, released in 1990. Included are statistics for the game and a run-down on how to play it, along with reviews and ratings, some fun facts and trivia, and lots of listener feedback about the game. Also in today’s episode: Monty and I talk about the lost art of delivering newspapers door to door. “Yes…it’s true…I once owned a Morris Minor to deliver The Heckington Hawker. Please don’t pity me.” -Monty The Paperboy upright arcade cabinet was released by Atari Games in 1984. PAPERBOY VITAL STATISTICS Release Date: December of 1990. Initial Retail Price: $34.99-$39.95 in the US; £29.99 in the UK. Cartridge Information: 128kB mono curved lip-style cartridge. Game Genre: Isometric-view 2-dimensional scrolling arcade game for 1 player only. Screen Playfield Orientation: Landscape (horizontal). Based On: The arcade cabinet of the same name released by Atari Games in 1984. Ports to Other Systems: Acorn Electron (1986), Amstrad CPC (1987), Apple ][ (1988), Apple ][gs (1988), Atari ST (1989), BBC Micro (1986), Blackberry (2009), Commodore 16 (1986), Commodore Plus/4 (1986), Commodore 64 (1986), Commodore Amiga (1989), DOS platform (1988), J2ME platform (2005), Nintendo Entertainment System (1988), Nintendo Game Boy (1990), Nintendo Game Boy Color (1999), Sega Game Gear (1991), Sega Genesis (1991), Sega Master System (1990), Xbox 360 (2007), and ZX Spectrum (1986). Sequels: Paperboy 2 for Amstrad CPC (1991), Atari ST (1992), Commodore Amiga (1992), DOS platform (1991), Nintendo Game Boy (1992), Nintendo Entertainment System (1991), Super Nintendo Entertainment System (1991), Sega Game Gear (1993), Sega Genesis (1992), and ZX Spectrum (1992). Game Levels: There are three skill levels: Easy Street (easiest), Middle Road (medium difficulty), and Hard Way (hardest). Within each of these skill levels, there are seven stages, one for each day of the week. Number of Players: 1 (no ComLynx support). Packaging: A full-color standard flap-tab regular-size box (5 3/8″ by 4 3/8″ by 7/8″). The French variant included a lapel pin and French-language manual, And the Japanese variant included Japanese verbiage on the box back, along with a Japanese-language manual. There was also a blister pack variant sold. Instruction Manual: A 12-page (including front and back covers) stapled regular-sized booklet manual in monochrome, measuring the usual 4 7/8” high by 3 ¾” wide. The manual was released in English in North America and in Europe, in a full-color Japanese manual in Japan, and in French in France. The manual was written by veteran Atari Lynx manual writer Scott Rhoades. Kieren Hawken’s interview with Paperboy programmer Al Baker from the February 2014 issue (#125) of Retro Gamer magazine. You can view a full-size version of the scan by clicking HERE. PAPERBOY CREDITS Original Arcade: Atari Games Corporation Publisher: Atari Corporation Licensee: Tengen, Inc. Developer: Al Baker & Associates Programmer: Al Baker Sound: David Tumminaro Original Art: Elite Systems Lynx Art: Nathan BakerBe sure to check out our partner AtariGamer.com to stay “Lynxed In” to all of the latest news about our favorite handheld gaming console! LYNX LYNKS Kieren Hawken’s 2019 book “The A-Z of Atari Lynx Games Volume 1”. Coming Soon: “The A-Z of Atari Lynx Games Volume 2”! Information About Paperboy: Atari Age title info/rarity guide for Paperboy Atari Gamer title info/rarity guide for Paperboy Digital Press title info/rarity guide for Paperboy GameFAQs article about Paperboy Moby Games article about Paperboy PriceCharting.com value guide about Paperboy RarityGuide.com rarity/value guide about Paperboy Wikipedia article about Paperboy A comparison of the different home ports of Paperboy, published in the February 2014 issue (#125) of Retro Gamer magazine. You can view a full-size version of the scan by clicking HERE. Reviews and Ratings for Paperboy: Review by Gideon in GamePro (US; Issue #017; December 1990; page 148) Review in RAZE (UK; Issue #03; January 1991; page 47) Review by Robert A. Jung at IGN (1999) Review by The Video Game Critic (2005) Review by Brian Thomas Barnhart at Atario.io (2016) Review by Jon Mc at Atari Gamer (2018) YouTube Videos About Paperboy: Playthrough (World-of-Longplays) Playthrough (Atari7800com) Playthrough and Review (BTB/Lynx Lounge) Playthrough and Review (RetroGamerDaz) Comparison of Handheld Ports of Paperboy (The Laird’s Lair) Retailers Selling Paperboy: B & C ComputerVisions: US$9.95 (box only), US$19.95 (cart/manual combo), US$24.95 (NIB w/damaged box) and for US$29.95 (NIB) through eBay under the user name MyAtari…check his online store on eBay for availability. Best Electronics (last updated October 7, 2021; check website for availability): US$14.95 (loose cart), US$19.95 (CIB). The Gamesmen (Australia): AU$24.95 (CIB). The Goat Store: None Available. ...
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    1 hr and 40 mins
  • EPISODE 21: Robotron: 2084

    EPISODE 21: Robotron: 2084
    Sep 27 2021
    #PT5003, Published by Shadowsoft, Inc. (PA2082 on Atari’s Master Part Number Listing) In this episode I cover a very highly regarded arcade port for the Lynx, Robotron: 2084, released for the Lynx in 1991. Included are statistics for the game, a run-down on how to play it, reviews and ratings, some fun facts and trivia, and (of course) listener feedback about the game. Plus, during the course of this episode, I begin to foster grave concerns about Monty’s true motivations regarding the future of our planet. Crikey. Before viewing the following show notes, you must click on the link below: Robotron: 2084 arcade cabinet released by Williams Electronics in 1982. ROBOTRON: 2084 VITAL STATISTICS Release Date: August of 1991. Initial Retail Price: $38.99 in the US; £29.00-£34.99 in the UK. Cartridge Information: 128kB stereo curved lip-style cartridge. Game Genre: Top-down-view 2-dimensional multidirectional action shooter for 1 player only. Screen Playfield Orientation: Landscape (horizontal). Based On: The arcade cabinet of the same name created by Eugene Jarvis and Larry DeMar of Vid Kidz and released by Williams Electronics in 1982. This arcade game was in turn inspired by Jarvis’ and DeMar’s previous game, Defender, as well as by the arcade game Berzerk, the Commodore PET game Chase, and the 1949 George Orwell novel “Nineteen Eight-Four” (also known as “1984”). Ports to Other Systems: Acorn Electron, Apple ][, Apple MacIntosh, Atari 5200, Atari 7800, Atari 8-bit line of computers, Atari ST, BBC Micro, Commodore 64, Commodore VIC-20, IBM PC (PC booter), and Xbox 360. There is also a brand new home brew port of Robotron: 2084 for the original Atari VCS (2600) from Champ Games . It is called RobotWar 2684, and it will be released sometime this fall at AtariAge; you can find more info about it here. Game Levels: At least 50. The arcade cabinet Robotron: 2084 includes 40 unique levels, or waves. After wave 40, the game repeats waves 21-40 over and over again until wave 255 is reached. Number of Players: 1 (no ComLynx support). Packaging: A full-color standard flap-tab regular-size box (5 3/8″ by 4 3/8″ by 7/8″). The French variant included a sticker on the front (Pin’s Gratuit) indicating the inclusion of a lapel pin. Instruction Manual: A 16-page (including front and back covers) stapled regular-sized booklet manual in full monochrome, measuring the usual 4 7/8” high by 3 ¾” wide. The manual was released in English in North America and in Europe, and in French in France. ROBOTRON: 2084 CREDITS Publisher: Shadowsoft, Inc. Licensee: Williams Electronics Games, Inc./WMS Industries, Inc. Developer (Arcade): Vid Kidz Programmer, Graphics, and Sound Effects: Dave Dies Music: Chris Gundlack Be sure to check out our partner AtariGamer.com to stay “Lynxed In” to all of the latest news about our favorite handheld gaming console! LYNX LYNKS Kieren Hawken’s 2019 book “The A-Z of Atari Lynx Games Volume 1”. The release announcement about Robotron: 2084 for the Lynx in the Atari Adventure insert of Issue #21 (April 1991) of Electronic Gaming Monthly magazine. The game was released in August of 1991. Information About Robotron: 2084: Atari Age title info/rarity guide for Robotron: 2084 Atari Gamer title info/rarity guide for Robotron: 2084 Digital Press title info/rarity guide for Robotron: 2084 GameFAQs article about Robotron: 2084 Moby Games article about Robotron: 2084 PriceCharting.com value guide about Robotron: 2084 RarityGuide.com rarity/value guide about Robotron: 2084 Wikipedia article about Robotron: 2084 Reviews and Ratings for Robotron: 2084: Review by Tom R. Halfhill in Game Player’s (US; August 1991; page 43) Review by David Upchurch in ACE [Advanced Computer Entertainment] (UK; Issue #53; February 1992; page 77) Review by Tim Boone in Computer and Video Games Go (UK; Issue #04; February 1992; page 8) Review in Computer and Video Games Go (UK; Issue #08; June 1992; page 25) Review by Paul Rixon in Atari User (UK; Issue #56; June 1992; page 41) Review by Keita Iita at Atari HQ (undated) Review by Robert A. Jung at IGN (1999; updated 2018) Review by Dan Loosen at The Atari Times (2004) Review by forcexdistance at GameFAQs (2011) Review by David James Keaton at Spiders Are Our Friends (2013) Review at 8-Bit Central (2014) Review by Brian Thomas Barnhart at Atario.io (2016) Review by Jon Mc at Atari Gamer (2018) Review by The Video Game Critic (2019) There is also a brand new home brew port of Robotron: 2084 being published by Champ Games for the original Atari VCS (2600). It is called RobotWar 2684, and it will be released sometime this fall at AtariAge. YouTube Videos About Robotron: 2084: Playthrough (World-of-Longplays) Playthrough (Atari7800com) Playthrough and Review (ArcadeUSA) Playthrough and Review (BTB/Lynx Lounge) Playthrough and Review (Leftover Culture Review) Playthrough and Review (RetroGamerDaz) Retailers Selling Robotron: 2084: B & C ...
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    1 hr and 51 mins
  • EPISODE 20: Ninja 外伝 Gaiden

    EPISODE 20: Ninja 外伝 Gaiden
    Sep 3 2021
    #PA2039, Published by Atari Corp. In this episode I cover one of the best arcade ports ever released for the Lynx, Ninja 外伝 Gaiden, released for the Lynx in 1991. Included are statistics for the game and a run-down on how to play it, along with reviews and ratings, some fun facts and trivia, and lots of listener feedback about the game. Also in today’s episode: Monty displays his prowess as a Supreme Verbal Ninja…whatever that is. “I know not one whit of sarcasm.” -Monty The original Ninja 外伝 Gaiden upright arcade cabinet was released by Tecmo in 1988. NINJA GAIDEN VITAL STATISTICS Release Date: July of 1991. Initial Retail Price: $38.99-$39.99 in the US, and £29.99 in the UK. Cartridge Information: 256kB mono curved lip-style cartridge. Game Genre: Side-view 2-dimensional scrolling action beat-’em-up game for 1 player. Alternate Title: Shadow Warriors was the title given to the Ninja 外伝 Gaiden arcade cabinet for its release in Europe. Screen Playfield Orientation: Landscape (horizontal). Based On: The arcade cabinet Ninja Gaiden released by Tecmo, Ltd. in late 1988 in North America and Europe, and in January 1989 in Japan. The cabinet was named Arcade Game of the Year for 1990. Sequels: Ninja 外伝 Gaiden III: The Ancient Ship of Doom (Atari Lynx; 1993; this was a port of the NES version of Ninja 外伝 Gaiden III: The Ancient Ship of Doom). Ports to Other Systems: Ports of Ninja 外伝 Gaiden were also released in Europe (as Shadow Warriors) on the Amstrad CPC, the Atari ST, the Commodore Amiga, the Commodore 64, and the ZX Spectrum. Elsewhere, the game was also ported as Ninja 外伝 Gaiden to the DOS platform, the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Wii, and the PlayStation 4. Many other versions and permutations using the Ninja 外伝 Gaiden name and general concept were ported to home consoles and computers, but they generally bear little resemblance to the original arcade game (the NES version is the most notorious in its apparent lack of similarity to the arcade game). Game Levels: There are four stages, or neighborhoods, in Ninja 外伝 Gaiden: the City Streets, the Casino Moto, the Train Station, and the Palace. Number of Players: 1 (no ComLynx support). Packaging: A full-color standard flap-tab regular-size box (5 3/8″ by 4 3/8″ by 7/8″), with parallel verbiage on the back in both English and French. Instruction Manual: Ninja 外伝 Gaiden was packaged with a full color poster, 22” high by 17” wide (see photo above After-Market and Home Brew Lynx Titles). The front of the poster includes an exact copy of the box cover art, with a yellow triangular banner added at the upper left with the words See reverse side for instructions in a large black font tilted upwards at a 45 degree angle. The back of the poster includes an illustrated comic book-style list of basic instructions. The posters, released in both English and in French, were folded several times in order to fit in the small Lynx boxes. The instructions for Ninja 外伝 Gaiden were written by Scott Rhoades. NINJA 外伝 GAIDEN CREDITS Publisher: Atari Corporation Licensee: Tecmo, Ltd. Developer: Blue Sky Software Be sure to check out our partner AtariGamer.com to stay “Lynxed In” to all of the latest news about our favorite handheld gaming console! LYNX LYNKS Kieren Hawken’s 2019 book “The A-Z of Atari Lynx Games Volume 1”. Page 1 of the release announcement about Ninja 外伝 Gaiden for the Lynx in the Atari Adventure insert of Issue #21 (April 1991) of Electronic Gaming Monthly magazine. The game was released in July of 1991. Information About Ninja 外伝 Gaiden: Atari Age title info/rarity guide for Ninja 外伝 Gaiden Atari Gamer title info/rarity guide for Ninja 外伝 Gaiden Digital Press title info/rarity guide for Ninja 外伝 Gaiden GameFAQs article about Ninja 外伝 Gaiden Moby Games article about Ninja 外伝 Gaiden PriceCharting.com value guide about Ninja 外伝 Gaiden RarityGuide.com rarity/value guide about Ninja 外伝 Gaiden Wikipedia article about Ninja 外伝 Gaiden Twitter Page of Arcus@Arcus87, who does speed-runs of various Ninja 外伝 Gaiden ports Page 2 of the release announcement about Ninja 外伝 Gaiden for the Lynx in the Atari Adventure insert of Issue #21 (April 1991) of Electronic Gaming Monthly magazine. This page has more useful information about how to play the game than did the poster/manual that came with the game. Reviews and Ratings for Ninja 外伝 Gaiden: Review by The Review Crew in Electronic Gaming Monthly (US; Issue #24; July 1991; page 26) Review by David Upchurch in ACE-Advanced Computer Entertainment (UK; Issue #47; August 1991; page 68) Review by Les Ellis in RAZE (UK; Issue #10; August 1991; page 54) Review by Maurice Molyneaux in Video Games and Computer Entertainment (US; Issue #31; August 1991; page 71) Review in ZERO (UK; Issue #23; September 1991; page 64 [click on the graphic in Scans]) Review by JDeLuna at GameFAQs (1999) ...
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    1 hr and 43 mins
  • EPISODE 19: Tournament Cyberball 2072

    EPISODE 19: Tournament Cyberball 2072
    Jul 30 2021
    #PA2038, Published by Atari Corp. In this episode I cover the first of two American-rules football games for the Atari Lynx, Tournament Cyberball 2072, released in 1991. Included are statistics for the game and a run-down on how to play it, along with reviews and ratings, some fun facts and trivia, and some listener feedback about the game. In the previous episode, Monty and I discussed the differences between soccer and American football (I’m still unclear about that). In today’s episode, we banter about the differences between robots and androids. Such fun! “Exterminate! Exterminate!” -Daleks, 1963 Did Bender (with a Tom Servo torso) from FUTURAMA make a cameo in the Tournament Cyberball 2072 poster manual…eight years before FUTURAMA premiered? The Tournament Cyberball 2072 four-player upright arcade cabinet was released by Atari Games in 1989. TOURNAMENT CYBERBALL 2072 VITAL STATISTICS Release Date: October of 1991. Initial Retail Price: $38.99-$39.95 in the US and £27.49 in the UK. Cartridge Information: 256kB mono curved lip-style cartridge. Game Genre: Top-down-view 2-dimensional scrolling futuristic sports game for 1 player, or for up to 4 players (cooperatively or competitively) using the ComLynx cable. Alternate Titles: Tournament Cyberball and Cyberball 2072. The splash screen displays the title as Tournament Cyberball 2072. Screen Playfield Orientation: Landscape (horizontal). Based On: The arcade cabinet Cyberball 2072, released by Atari Games in 1989. The arcade game was released either in two-player cabinets with one screen, or in four-player cabinets with two screens. The latter version was called Tournament Cyberball 2072. Sequel to: The arcade cabinet Cyberball, created by John Salwitz and released by Atari Games in September of 1988, which was based on the American field sport of football. Ports to Other Systems: Cyberball 2072 was also ported to the XBox 360 in 2007. Game Levels: Six 5-minute periods. Number of Players: 1-4 (with ComLynx support). Packaging: A full-color standard flap-tab regular-size box (5 3/8″ by 4 3/8″ by 7/8″) with parallel verbiage on the back in both English and French. It was released in both English and French variants. The French variant was identical to the English box, but it also included the ‘DEFI LYNX’ brochures including the Atari Lynx shaped brochure and free DEFI LYNX pins (pin’s gratuit). Instruction Manual: Tournament Cyberball 2072 was packaged with a full color poster, 22” high by 17” wide. The front of the poster includes an exact copy of the box cover art, with a yellow triangular banner added at the upper left with the words See reverse side for instructions in a large black font tilted upwards at a 45 degree angle. The back of the poster includes an illustrated comic book-style list of basic instructions with parallel verbiage in both English and French. The posters were folded several times in order to fit in the small Lynx boxes. TOURNAMENT CYBERBALL 2072 CREDITS Publisher: Atari Corporation Licensee: Tengen, Inc. Developer: Blue Sky Software Be sure to check out our partner AtariGamer.com to stay “Lynxed In” to all of the latest news about our favorite handheld gaming console! LYNX LYNKS Kieren Hawken’s 2019 book “The A-Z of Atari Lynx Games Volume 1”. Release announcement about Tournament Cyberball for the Lynx in the Atari Adventure insert of Issue #21 (April 1991) of Electronic Gaming Monthly magazine. The game was finally released six months later in October of 1991. Information About Tournament Cyberball 2072: Atari Age title info/rarity guide for Tournament Cyberball 2072 Atari Gamer title info/rarity guide for Tournament Cyberball 2072 Digital Press title info/rarity guide for Tournament Cyberball 2072 GameFAQs title info about Tournament Cyberball 2072 Moby Games title info about Tournament Cyberball 2072 PriceCharting.com value guide about Tournament Cyberball 2072 RarityGuide.com rarity/value guide about Tournament Cyberball 2072 Atari Adventure announcement about Tournament Cyberball 2072 in EGM #21 (April 1991) Wikipedia article about Cyberball (arcade cabinet) Reviews and Ratings for Tournament Cyberball 2072: Review by Jeff at JVGS.net (undated) Review by Paul at Family Friendly Gaming (undated) Review by Robert A. Jung at Atari Archives (1991) Review by Robert A. Jung at IGN (1999; updated in 2018) Review by Matt Paprocki at Digital Press (2005) Review by the Video Game Critic (2006) Review by Jon Mc at Atari Gamer (2018) The box cover art of the Atari Lynx port of Tournament Cyberball 2072 graced the front of the April 1991 issue (#21) of Electronic Gaming Monthly magazine. YouTube Videos About Tournament Cyberball 2072: Playthrough (World-of-Longplays) Playthrough (GameplayMuseum) Playthrough and Review (Brian Thomas Barnhart/Lynx Lounge) Playthrough (Last True Boss) (ZoneLynx) Retailers Selling Tournament Cyberball 2072: B & C ComputerVisions: US$5.00 (box only), US$9.95...
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    1 hr and 34 mins
  • EPISODE 18: World Class Fussball/Soccer

    EPISODE 18: World Class Fussball/Soccer
    Jun 21 2021
    #PA2037, Published by Atari Corp. In this episode I cover the first of two soccer games for the Lynx, World Class Fussball/Soccer, also known as World Class Soccer, released for the Lynx in 1992. Included are statistics for the game and a run-down on how to play it, along with reviews and ratings, some fun facts and trivia, and some listener feedback about the game. And Monty and I get into a spirited (and ultimately futile) discussion about the differences between soccer, football, and fussball. “Did you see that ludicrous display last night?! The thing about Arsenal is, they always try and walk it in!” WORLD CLASS FUSSBALL/SOCCER VITAL STATISTICS Release Date: September of 1992. Initial Retail Price: ~$24.99 (US); £19.99 (UK). Cartridge Information: Monaural curved lip-style cartridge of unknown ROM size. Game Genre: Isometric-view 2-dimensional scrolling sports game for 1 player, or for 2 opposing players using the ComLynx cable. Working Title: Super Soccer. Alternate Title: World Class Soccer. Screen Playfield Orientation: Landscape (horizontal). Based On: The field sport of football (or soccer, as it is known in the US, Australia, and other countries). Ports to Other Systems: This game was an Atari Lynx exclusive and was not specifically ported to any other systems. Game Levels: There are no levels in World Class Fussball/Soccer. Number of Players: 1-2 (with ComLynx support). Packaging: A full-color standard flap-tab regular-size box (5 3/8″ by 4 3/8″ by 7/8″). Instruction Manual: A 52-page (including front and back covers) stapled multi-lingual regular-sized booklet manual in monochrome, measuring the usual 4 7/8” high by 3 ¾” wide. WORLD CLASS FUSSBALL/SOCCER CREDITS Publisher: Atari Corporation Developer: Brian A. Rice., Inc. Programmers: Ted R. Niemiec, Brian A. Rice, Rob McCool, William B. Norris IV. Graphics: Rick Incrocci, Glenn Leszczak, Joel Seider, Ted R. Niemiec, Thomas L. Fessler. Music/Sound Effects: Clifford Falls, Chuck Batson. Designers: Brian A. Rice, Ted R. Niemiec, William B. Norris IV. Gameplay Consultants: Ihor Kutynsky, Thomas L. Fessler. Be sure to check out our partner AtariGamer.com to stay “Lynxed In” to all of the latest news about our favorite handheld gaming console! LYNX LYNKS Kieren Hawken’s 2019 book “The A-Z of Atari Lynx Games Volume 1”. Information About World Class Fussball/Soccer: Atari Age title info/rarity guide for World Class Fussball/Soccer Atari Gamer title info/rarity guide for World Class Fussball/Soccer Digital Press title info/rarity guide for World Class Fussball/Soccer GameFAQs article about World Class Fussball/Soccer Moby Games article about World Class Fussball/Soccer Wikipedia article about World Class Fussball/Soccer Here is the feedback solicitation photo that is referenced in the Listener Feedback segment of this episode. This is perhaps my goofiest feedback pic yet. Reviews and Ratings for World Class Fussball/Soccer: Review by Michael Paul in Video Games (Germany; Issue #10; September 1992; page 135) [in German] Review by Amaya Lopez in Zero (UK; Issue #35; September 1992; page 79) Review in Game Zone (UK; Issue #11; September 1992; page 64) Review (PDF) by Martin Gaksch in Power Play (Germany; Issue #55; October 1992; page 158) [in German] Review (PDF) by Nourdine Nini in Joypad (France; Issue #16; January 1993; page 138) [in French] Review (PDF) by Nourdine Nini in Joystick (France; Issue #34; January 1993; page 227) [in French] Review (PDF) by Olivier Scamps in Player One (France; Issue #27; January-February 1993; page 142) [in French] Review by Robert A. Jung at IGN (1999; updated in 2018) Review by Jon Mc at Atari Gamer (2018) YouTube Videos About World Class Fussball/Soccer: Playthrough/Gameplay (World-of-Longplays) Playthrough/Gameplay (gameOn) Playthrough/Gameplay (AtariLynxChannel) [no sound] Playthrough/Gameplay (GameplayMuseum) Playthrough/Review (MrVenom1974) [in German] Retailers Selling World Class Fussball/Soccer: B & C ComputerVisions: Bruce at B & C is selling World Class Fussball/Soccer for US$19.95 (cart/manual combo) and US$29.95 (NIB w/scuffed box) through eBay under the user name MyAtari…check his online store on eBay for availability. Best Electronics (last updated January 7, 2021; check website for availability): US$45.95 (CIB); US$9.95 (loose cart). The Gamesmen (Australia): Not Available. The Goat Store: US$0.99 (cart only w/damaged label) and US$3.98 (CIB w/damaged box). Telegames (UK): £29.99 (including tax; NOS with box and manual). Video 61 & Atari Sales: US$49.95 (cart/manual combo). After-Market and Home Brew Lynx Titles Now Available: As of the recording date, here are the after-market and home brew Atari Lynx titles available from Luchs Soft in Germany (prices include VAT but not shipping costs): Alpine Games (€55,92) Ejagfest Slideshow (€49,97) Quadromania (€55,92) Retro X-MASsacre (Pre-order; €44,02) Space Battle (Single: €55,92) Space Battle ...
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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • EPISODE IN02: Interview with Scott Rhoades

    EPISODE IN02: Interview with Scott Rhoades
    May 26 2021

    THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON YOUTUBE:

    Recorded May 19, 2021
    Many, many thanks go to Scott Rhoades, the gifted Atari game manual writer who graciously agreed to be interviewed for The HandyCast. Scott’s willingness to share his experiences at Atari during the Lynx’s early days is a testament to his devotion to the craft of writing, to fans of his work, and to the Atari Lynx community. Cheers to you, Scott!

    Biography of Scott Rhoades:
    Portfolio website (includes samples of his writing)

    Other Interviews with Scott Rhoades:
    Interview with No Swear Gamer on Atari.io (August 20, 2016)
    Interview with Bill Pepper on the Atari Bytes podcast (April 16, 2017)
    Interview with Neal Chase on PitchWars.org (October 24, 2017)

    As usual, I would also like to thank the Free Music Archive for “8-Bit Core” by Tagirijus used in this episode under the Creative Commons License as the opening and closing theme music for The HandyCast. Other music included in this episode: “The Lounge,” also by Tagirijus.

    I really hope you enjoy this special interview episode of The Atari Lynx HandyCast. Also, keep an eye (and ear) out for future interview-only episodes coming down the pike in the near future.

    -Mark

    The post EPISODE IN02: Interview with Scott Rhoades appeared first on The Atari Lynx HandyCast.
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    1 hr and 5 mins