atari lynx

The Epyx Collection Handheld Landing on XBox and PC

April 1, 2025 By ausretrogamer

Seven Classic Lynx Games Arrive on Xbox and PC April 9th in ‘The Epyx Collection: Handheld’

Retro gaming fans, rejoice! Pixel Games UK and Imagine Software are making history with their first-ever release on Xbox consoles. Set to launch on April 9th for both Xbox and PC, ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ brings seven legendary Atari Lynx games to a new generation of players.

Priced at £11.99 / US$14.99/ ~AU$23.99 / €14.49, this collection delivers a dose of late ‘80s and early ‘90s nostalgia with beloved classics, including:

California Games (1989): Experience extreme sports like skateboarding, BMX biking, surfing, and more in a vibrant, sun-soaked West Coast setting.
ElectroCop (1989): Step into the cybernetic boots of a futuristic police officer and battle crime in a dystopian cityscape.
Blue Lightning (1989): Engage in high-octane aerial combat and prove your piloting prowess in this arcade-style flight adventure.
Gates of Zendocon (1989): Navigate alien worlds, battle hostile creatures, and take down the sinister Zendocon in an intergalactic space odyssey.
Chip’s Challenge (1989): Solve over 140 mind-bending puzzles in this brain-twisting classic, now with additional Sega Mega Drive and SNES ports.
Todd’s Adventures in Slime World (1990): Explore a hazardous alien world filled with monstrous creatures and slimy traps.
Zarlor Mercenary (1990): Pilot a customisable spacecraft and defend the galaxy from waves of alien invaders in this action-packed shooter.

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source: Imagine Software

Modern Enhancements for a Timeless Experience

Bringing these iconic titles to modern platforms isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about elevating the experience. ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ includes:

Customisable Display Filters – Choose from a variety of filters, including an authentic 80s-style CRT mode.
Suspend Points – Save and restore up to four game states per title, ensuring you can pick up where you left off.
Live Rewind – Rewind up to five seconds of gameplay instantly to correct mistakes or retry difficult sections.

Additionally, the collection features an overhauled user interface, with interactive 3D-rendered box art and cartridges based on the original releases. Fans can also enjoy fully remastered instruction manuals, bringing even more historical detail to these retro gems.

A New Era for Pixel Games UK on Xbox

This marks the first retro release on Xbox for Pixel Games UK and Imagine Software, but it’s only the beginning. “We’re excited to bring the first collection of classic games to Xbox and PC,” says Nick Tiseo, Director of Imagine Software. “It’s been a goal of ours for a long time.”

As the world of retro gaming continues to thrive, ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ is a must-have for both longtime fans and newcomers eager to discover these classic adventures. Don’t miss its worldwide release on April 9th via the Microsoft Store!

Pocket-Sized Nostalgia: The Super Pocket Atari Edition Review

November 4, 2024 By ausretrogamer

The Super Pocket Atari Edition delivers a pocketful of retro magic, perfect for gaming on the go and giving your thumbs the ultimate blast from the past!

The Super Pocket Atari Edition is a delightful fusion of retro gaming and modern convenience, packing a treasure trove of Atari classics into a handheld system that fits snugly in your pocket. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the golden age of gaming or a newcomer eager to explore the legends of the past, this little handheld promises hours of fun with an impressive lineup of pre-installed games—and even more if you have an Evercade cartridge collection!

Design & Ergonomics:
Right off the bat, you’ll notice how perfectly the Super Pocket sits in your hands. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on comfort. The ergonomic design means you can game for extended periods without feeling strain, even during those intense moments of “Centipede” or “Asteroids.” The buttons and D-pad are highly responsive and pleasantly tactile, offering a satisfying click with each press, whether you’re navigating menus or dodging enemies in “Missile Command.” And speaking of the D-pad, it’s as smooth as butter—giving you that precision control you need for those tricky maneuvers.

The Screen:
Let’s not forget the vibrant, crisp screen! For a device this compact, the Super Pocket Atari Edition’s display is surprisingly sharp, with bright colors that bring the iconic Atari titles to life. Every pixel of those vintage graphics pops with a modern twist, making the classics feel fresh without losing their retro charm. The screen size is just right for handheld gaming, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your favorite Atari adventures without feeling cramped.

Game Library:
Now, let’s talk about the games! The system comes loaded with an excellent selection of classic Atari games. Whether you’re a fan of “Breakout,” “Adventure,” or “Yars’ Revenge,” there’s something here for every retro gaming enthusiast. The sheer variety keeps the experience exciting, and revisiting these iconic titles is like stepping into a time machine that fits in your pocket. But what truly sets the Super Pocket Atari Edition apart is its compatibility with Evercade cartridges. If you’ve got a stash of Evercade games, you can expand your library beyond the pre-installed gems, making this handheld a versatile addition to any gamer’s collection.

Specifications:

Preloaded Games: 50 Atari Classics including Centipede, Asteroids, Missile Command and Pong (plus many, many more!)
USB-C Charging: For fast charging. Cable included
Compatibility: Evercade Compatible with over 60 cartridges with 500+ games
Battery: 4+ hours of battery life
Display: High Quality 2.8” IPS Screen 320×240
Features: Easy Mode activates the lowest difficulty for each game

Final Thoughts:
The Super Pocket Atari Edition is a perfect mix of nostalgia, portability, and playability. Its ergonomic design, excellent button layout, crisp display, and extensive game library make it a must-have for retro gaming fans. Plus, the ability to use Evercade cartridges adds a whole new level of replayability and customization. Whether you’re on the go or just lounging at home, this pocket-sized powerhouse will keep you entertained for hours!

Where to buy:

Price: AU$109.99
Store: PixelCrib

Disclaimer: The Super Pocket Atari Edition console was kindly provided by PixelCrib for this review.

‘The Epyx Collection: Handheld’ Brings 6 Classic Lynx Games to Nintendo Switch

April 19, 2024 By ausretrogamer

Six Classic Lynx Games Arrive on Nintendo Switch this April in ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’

Releasing April 25th 2024.

Pixel Games UK is pleased to announce ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ — a collection of six classic Atari Lynx games coming to Nintendo Switch™ on April 25th. The collection includes fond favourites ‘California Games’, ‘ElectroCop’, ‘Blue Lightning’, ‘Gates of Zendocon’, ‘Todd’s Adventures in Slime World’, and ‘Zarlor Mercenary’.

Developed by Imagine Software, these six retro classics are packed with late 80s / early 90s nostalgia and are just as fun and challenging to play today as they were when they were first released — each of them available on Nintendo Switch for the first time.

‘California Games’ (1989)

Experience the laid-back vibe of the West Coast through a series of extreme sports challenges including surfing, skateboarding, BMX biking, roller skating, flying disc (frisbee), and footbag (hacky sack). With its vibrant graphics and dynamic gameplay, ‘California Games’ captures the essence of the 1980s beach culture, offering a fun and nostalgic trip to the sunny shores of California.

‘ElectroCop’ (1989)

Control a cybernetic police officer, step into the world of futuristic law enforcement, and restore order to a crime-ridden city. Armed with advanced weaponry and gadgets, players must navigate through hazardous environments, battle against ruthless criminals, and ultimately confront the nefarious mastermind behind all the chaos. With its combination of action-packed gameplay and sci-fi atmosphere, ‘ElectroCop’ delivers an adrenaline-fueled journey through a dystopian urban landscape.

‘Blue Lightning’ (1989)

‘Blue Lightning’ thrusts players into the cockpit of an advanced fighter jet as they engage in high-stakes aerial combat across a variety of landscapes. With fast-paced gameplay and a standout graphical style, players must navigate through enemy territory, dodge incoming fire, and unleash devastating firepower upon enemy targets. As they progress through increasingly challenging missions, players must showcase their piloting skills and strategic prowess to emerge victorious in this adrenaline-pumping arcade flight experience.

‘Gates of Zendocon’ (1989)

Embark on an intergalactic journey through perilous alien worlds and face off against a horde of deadly adversaries controlled by the sinister Zendocon. Armed with an array of powerful weapons and upgrades, players must navigate through treacherous terrain, blast through waves of hostile creatures, and ultimately confront the formidable bosses guarding the gates to the heart of the Zendocon empire. With its engaging gameplay and sci-fi atmosphere, ‘Gates of the Zendocon’ delivers an epic space-faring adventure that will test players’ skills and courage.

‘Todd’s Adventures in Slime World’ (1990)

In ‘Todd’s Adventures in Slime World,’ players take on the role of Todd, an intrepid explorer navigating through the hazardous depths of Slime World, a sprawling and treacherous alien landscape filled with deadly traps and monstrous creatures. Equipped with an assortment of weapons and gadgets, Todd must traverse through slime-infested caverns, solve puzzles, and fend off hostile slime creatures to uncover the secrets of this mysterious world. With its challenging gameplay and quirky charm, ‘Todd’s Adventures in Slime World’ is a unique platforming adventure that will put players’ skills and wits to the test.

‘Zarlor Mercenary’ (1990)

Step into the boots of a skilled intergalactic mercenary tasked with defending the galaxy from the relentless onslaught of alien invaders. With a powerful arsenal of weapons and piloting a customisable spacecraft, players must navigate through waves of enemy ships, asteroids, and other hazards across various planetary environments. With its fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and intense boss battles, ‘Zarlor Mercenary’ is an exhilarating arcade-style shooter that will challenge players to prove their worth as the galaxy’s ultimate protector.

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source: Imagine Software

‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ for Nintendo Switch allows players to experience these classic games once again, or dive into them for the first time. ‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ adds:

Display Filters — including an 80s-style CRT filter
Suspend Points – save and restore up to 4 suspend points per game
Live Rewind – rewind up to 5 seconds of live gameplay with the push of a button

‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ also features an improved user interface, featuring interactive, 3D-rendered, box art and cartridges for each game based on the original releases. Plus, fully remastered versions of each game’s instruction manual. These additions come following fan feedback, and a desire to preserve even more of the incredible history of these games.

‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ is the fourth retro release on Nintendo Switch for Pixel Games UK, having previously published ‘Chip’s Challenge’, ‘The Monty Mole Collection’ and ‘Hidden — a collection of classic games from the Commodore 64.

‘The Epyx Collection Handheld’ will be released worldwide on Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop on April 25th 2024 for £11.99 / $11.99 / €13.99.

The Analogue Pocket OpenFPGA Adapters Are Awesome!

March 7, 2024 By ausretrogamer

No Emulation.

It may have taken 18 months for them to arrive, but the new Adapters for the Analogue Pocket have been well worth the wait!

Having an extensive library of Atari Lynx, PC-Engine/TurboGrafx-16 and Neo Geo Pocket Colour game carts, it is always with trepidation when playing these on their corresponding original hardware, which may result in the systems breaking down in some way or shape (Ed: Oi capacitors, we are looking at you!). To solve this problem, we obtained a couple of Analogue Pockets and the three pack adapters to be able to play our library of Lynx, NGPC and PC-Engine carts safely, in conjunction with playing our Game Boy, Game Boy Colour and GBA carts too. The Anlogue Pocket is a versatile little beast! It also helps that the Pocket has an absolutely amazing screen!

Based on openFPGA, we can report that playing these game carts on the new adapters is like playing them on their original systems, but better! The better part being that the Pocket is an ergonomically perfect system, with a great D-pad, fire buttons and of course, the stunningly sharp 3.5″ backlit 1600×1440 resolution LTPS LCD display. Having put the carts through their paces, we are quite chuffed at the versatility that the Pocket affords us.

We can finally put the original systems to rest!

They are finally here!

The Atari Lynx II can now be retired!

Of course the first Lynx game was going to be California Games

As Good As James – if you know, you know 😉

Now to plugin the PC-Engine/TurboGrafx-16 adapter to try out a few HuCards…

Playing these PC-Engine games on the Pocket are darn awesome! Our PC-Engine GT can be spared abuse.

Review: Chip’s Challenge – Nintendo Switch

January 22, 2024 By ausretrogamer

Want to join the Bit Busters Computer Club?

One of the first games I bought for my Atari Lynx (back in the day, and which I still have!) was Chip’s Challenge. For the record, the first game I bought for the Lynx was California Games, but this review isn’t about that game!

Just like Tetris on the Game Boy, I love coming back to Chip’s Challenge on the Lynx, it’s just a great game that suits the Lynx to a tee. To now have this great game on the Switch, I honestly couldn’t stop smiling! Chip’s Challenge on the Switch is exactly how I remember it on the Lynx, but with better controls and a luscious screen (if played on the OLED Switch).

For those of you that have no idea who or what Chip’s Challenge is, let us school ya a bit! Schoolboy Chip desperately wants to join the exclusive Bit Busters Computer Club, but to prove his worthiness he must complete a series of brain-twisting challenges set by the club’s owner Melinda the Mental Marvel – darn you Melinda!

You have to help Chip solve over 140 challenging grid-based puzzles, finding and using tools and devices such as keys, switches, pushable blocks and more, all while avoiding enemy creatures, and collecting computer chips to exit the level, all against the clock! Sounds easy aye 😉

Chip’s Challenge on the Switch has brought back a lot of nostalgia. For those coming in fresh to this game, please don’t be put off by the “blocky” graphics – it’s just all part of the charm! The game shines with its mind-bending puzzles to solve. At the end of the day, for the price of the game (less than a take away coffee), Chip’s Challenge is well worth it on the Switch. It may look quite blocky when docked, but this game shines when playing it on the go!

Chip’s Challenge will be released worldwide on Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop on January 25th 2024.

Disclaimer: Chip’s Challenge Switch review code supplied by Pixel Games UK

GameGuide – Atari Lynx: The Perfect Lynx Companion

December 6, 2023 By ausretrogamer

Just in time for Chrissy 2023, Zafinn Books’ GameGuide – Atari Lynx arrives in the Ausretrogamer Fun Factory!

We weren’t expecting this book for another couple of weeks, so for it to turn up well ahead of schedule, and all the way from Ireland, was a welcome surprise.

If you aren’t familiar with Zafinn Books, it is a one man (Karl Morris), self-publishing house, with a great selection of limited edition books, just like this GameGuide for the Atari Lynx. The addition of some very cool stickers (sticking it up the Game Boy!) was another surprise and was totally unexpected.

Can’t wait to flick through this while enjoying the festive season.

Atari 50: Celebrating Atari’s 50th Anniversary

November 30, 2022 By ausretrogamer

Celebrating Atari’s 50th anniversary!

The brand Atari has been around since 1972, making 2022 it’s 50th year in existence. Atari’s history is long and rich (some may say, sordid) with plenty of owners taking the helm, some for the good of Atari, some not.

The current Atari is a far cry from the Atari from the 70s and early 80s, but we’ll spare you the details on how we feel about the contemporary Atari, after all, this post is to celebrate their 50th anniversary! If however you do want to delve deep into the history of Atari, check out Marty Goldberg & Curt Vendel’s book, Atari Inc. Business Is Fun (read our review here).

For now, let’s all raise a glass to Atari in celebration of its 50th anniversary!

An Amazing Retro Gaming Donation

March 24, 2022 By ausretrogamer

When we first started ausretrogamer over a decade ago we never imagined that our little corner of nostalgia would capture the attention of people around Australia and around the world.

Over the years we have had readers contacting us to donate their wares, usually due to our genuine love of retro gaming and the preservation of classic games and consoles, plus no one wants to send stuff to landfill – it’s a win win!

A few weeks ago we were contacted by Mike, an avid reader of our site, who asked if we would be interested in his donation of classic consoles, computers and games. Mike sent us a photo of some of his goodies, and we must say, our eyes lit up at the vastness of the collection he was going to donate.

We finally met up with Mike late last week and the big surprise was that he had way more amazing stuff to donate than what was in the initial photos. We were pleasantly surprised and found it totally humbling that someone would generously give away their items to be preserved and enjoyed – which we will! The best part of this donation was meeting Mike and having a great conversation about games, systems and life in general – which is totally priceless.

We haven’t gone through all of the items Mike donated to ausretrogamer, but we thought we would share some photos of this amazing collection – scroll slowly to take in all the nostalgia!

Many thanks to Mike for his generosity, these will be cherished.

all images owned by & copyright of ausretrogamer

Documentary: Lemmings 30th Anniversary

February 16, 2022 By ausretrogamer

For all of you that are fans of Lemmings (us included!), set aside 2 hours and watch this awesome free documentary, Lemmings: Can You Dig It?

This true story of the creation of Lemmings features all the talented people involved in bringing this classic title for us to enjoy. From the computer rooms in Dundee to the world-changing UK games scene that exists today; through the voices of those who were there at the time and those who grew up playing it, watch and enjoy Lemmings: Can You Dig It?!

source: Exient

The Retro Gaming Vault – May 2021

June 3, 2021 By ausretrogamer

Our first retro gaming vault feature proved successful, so we thought we’d keep things going!

For this month’s images, we delved further into our vault and dug up some cool and peculiar photos of items we have in our collection and from gaming parties we have attended and ComLynxed with our friends!

We hope you keep enjoying these blasts from the past!

Will always love the PC-Engine HuCards – they are so cute and packed with awesome gaming!