Blast From The Past – Retro Games Are Hot Again

Miss the brainlessly simple and extremely addictive games from the 80s? Find out which game developers feel the same. Dozens of teams are creating new games based on the old classics. Here are just a few of them.

Bugatro Gold

http:///bugatrongold.htm

Bugatron Gold is a well-designed space-shooter game borrows ideas from classics such as Galaga. In Bugatron, you must eradicate the evil alien insects, which swoop and dive at your spaceship in a variety of formations. The polished graphics added to our enjoyment, and the sound effects are blasting cool.

Cosmo Bots

http:///cosmobots.htm

Cosmo Bots takes its cue from the addictive classics Jezzball and Qix. However, that’s where the similarity ends, because Cosmo Bots has different shapes for each level, 3D rendered graphics, digital sound, new enemies, and tons of power-ups. The free version features a full set of 50 levels to play, and does not require any special hardware.

Bricks Of Egypt

http:///bricksofegypt.htm

At its core, Bricks of Egypt is an Arkanoid clone, but it goes beyond replicating the frequently imitated art of busting bricks to place a refreshing emphasis on creative level design. Sure, there’s a ball and paddle, but Arcade Labs layers these familiar basics with Egyptian-themed power-ups, bonuses and special challenges (such as hitting the water drops to extinguish fire bricks or striking keys to unlock new areas on the screen).

Dropheads

http:///dropheads.htm

Meet the Dropheads, hilarious and loveable characters with treasure on their mind. Help these strange little guys navigate the seas by matching them in groups of four or more. Then, watch them bounce off the screen. As you go, collect pieces of a treasure map and assemble them to find the hidden loot. And with two game modes, Arcade for those who like a fast pace and Strategy for those who like a relaxing diversion, there’s something for everyone.

Star Defender

http:///stardefender.htm

Star Defender is a vertical scrolling space shooter and a spectacular clone of Space Invaders. You are a test pilot flying the Tornado. Your spaceship is controlled by your mouse. The ship is limited to movement in the lower line of the play area. Star Defender possesses all of the classic features of the genre: professional and vibrant graphics, breathtaking gameplay and an original soundtrack.

Alpha Ball

http:///alphaball.htm

Alpha Ball is a totally 3D entry into the Arkanoid/Breakout genre, featuring simple controls and addictive gameplay. Each level has built-in, completely 3D backward and upward functionality, with great graphics and effects. The application also features the new Suspend Game feature that lets you quit a game and return to it later. The program has 100 levels, with random level matching.

John Deprice loves retro games. His collection is publically available for free download at http:///games.htm