The Retrogaming Times N^o. 20 Review

Published 7 January 2025

Old magazines and retro gaming articles are a treasure trove, and The Retrogaming Times stands out as much loved gem. This long-running series delved into gaming across the decades, delivering fresh takes on retro gaming news and insights. With a dynamic team of writers, every issue brimmed with new perspectives and timeless articles that remain relevant and fascinating even years later.

Commodore 64 enthusiasts will especially enjoy the behind-the-scenes article on testing games in development—a rare glimpse into the creative process of retro game design. And the best part? These games are no longer just ideas; they’re finished masterpieces ready for us to relive and enjoy.

A Review and Discussion on Retrogaming Times Issue 20

Retrogaming enthusiasts, rejoice! The Retrogaming Times Issue 20 is a treasure, showcasing a delightful assortment of gaming history, retro reviews, and fascinating insights into the era of pixels and gamepads. Published as part of the long-running Retrogaming Times series, this issue captures the spirit of retro gaming with an eclectic mix of articles and editorials that cater to both seasoned collectors and casual gamers. I have also reviewed The Retrogaming Times No 22 in a separate article. This is just one of many magazine reviews to enjoy.

Highlights of Issue 20

• ☆  Nintendo Gameboy 30^th Anniversary — The Nintendo Game Boy (eBay affiliate link) hits an important anniversary for retro gaming, celebrating its vast game library and portable gameplay legacy. While initially skeptical of its green visuals and basic sound, the author's perception changed after experiencing the joy of playing Super Mario Land on a family trip. The Game Boy's simplicity, innovative gameplay, and cultural impact won them over. Over time, its nostalgic value grew, leading to a lasting respect for the console and its iconic games. I've never owned a Game Boy, however, the Game Boy offers not only a significant historical piece but also a gateway to timeless gaming experiences that should be a part of any collection.
• ☆  Commodore 64 new game testing — this article provides a behind-the-scenes look at playtesting new Commodore 64 games, highlighting the challenges and satisfaction of the process. The author shares their experiences with titles like Exploding Fish, Sizzler, Space Moguls, and Age of Heroes, uncovering and documenting bugs, testing on emulators and hardware, and even influencing game design with suggestions like enemy placement and character animations. While testing requires patience and technical understanding to identify and reproduce issues, it offers a rewarding way to contribute to polished new releases, giving a rare insight into retro game development and the collaborative effort behind bringing new life to classic platforms.
• ☆  25 years of Final Fantasy VI — The May 2019 issue of Famitsu celebrates the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy VI (originally Final Fantasy III in North America), highlighting Square Enix's plans for retrospectives, events, and merchandise. The author reminisces about experiencing the game for the first time, watching a friend play it on the SNES and later playing it themselves on the PlayStation version. They reflect on the game's graphics, soundtrack, and narrative, which left a lasting impression, despite moments of anxiety over critical in-game decisions. This author's reflection underscores the enduring impact of Final Fantasy VI and its role in shaping their gaming journey. The celebration of its 25-year legacy serves as a reminder of the powerful memories video games create, making the hope for another twenty-five years of gaming all the more resonant.
• ☆  Sega Saturn Controller — The Sega Saturn(eBay affiliate link), though not a commercial hit, holds a certain charm for fans of Sega's hardware progression. While its library of games was criticized for being rushed, standout titles like Daytona USA made a significant impact. For the author, Daytona USA was a groundbreaking driving game, offering customizable controls and frantic experience that, while falling short of its arcade counterpart, provided immense fun and replayability. The Saturn also shone with titles like Virtua Fighter, which brought impressive 3D graphics and deep gameplay, and Virtua Cop, which delivered an arcade-like experience through the light gun controller. Despite its struggles against the Nintendo 64, the Sega Saturn showcased Sega's innovative spirit and paved the way for the beloved Sega Dreamcast.

Themes and Takeaways

What makes Issue 20 especially engaging is its focus on community and discovery. While many retro gaming publications tread familiar ground, this issue dares to shine a light on the lesser-celebrated aspects of the hobby. From obscure game reviews to insights into the collector’s market, the magazine captures the diversity and passion of retro gaming culture.

The blend of nostalgia and education is expertly balanced. Readers are not only reminded of their past gaming experiences but also introduced to new facets of the hobby that they may not have considered before. It’s a celebration of the enduring legacy of retro games and their influence on modern gaming.

Featured Game Publishers

Protovision
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Psytronik Software
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megastyle
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Final Thoughts

Issue 20 of Retrogaming Times is a must-read for anyone with even a passing interest in retro gaming. Its rich content and enthusiastic tone make it a joy to explore, whether you’re reliving fond memories or discovering hidden gems for the first time. The magazine’s ability to entertain, inform, and inspire is a testament to the enduring appeal of retro gaming.

For those who haven’t yet had the pleasure, I encourage you to dive into this issue and let the Retrogaming Times remind you why these classic games and consoles continue to hold a special place in our hearts.