Category Archives: Featured

*New* BOOMER SHOOTERS: 8 Games You Must Play!

Boomer Shooters are very popular these days and I share eight games that you must play now!
GAMES SHOWN:
Beyond Sunset
Chop Goblins
Wizordum
Rise of the Triad: Ludicrous Edition
Deadlink
Impaler
Turok 3: Shadow of Oblivion Remastered
Forgive me father 2

A “Boomer Shooter” is a subgenre of first-person shooter (FPS) video games that draws inspiration from classic shooters of the 1990s, particularly those from the era of PC gaming dominated by titles like Doom, Quake, and Duke Nukem 3D. The term “Boomer” in this context doesn’t refer to the generational demographic but rather pays homage to the gameplay style and design philosophy reminiscent of the shooters that were popular during the formative years of the genre. These games aim to capture the fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled action, and straightforward mechanics that characterized the early days of FPS gaming.

Typically, Boomer Shooters feature intense, non-stop combat, large and intricate level designs, and a focus on skill-based gameplay. They often eschew modern gaming conventions like regenerating health and cover-based mechanics, opting instead for health pickups, expansive weapon arsenals, and challenging enemy encounters. The graphics and visuals may deliberately adopt a retro aesthetic, utilizing pixel art or low-polygon models to evoke a nostalgic feel while still incorporating modern design elements. Boomer Shooters cater to players who appreciate the purity of the classic FPS experience, emphasizing speed, precision, and a sense of immersion in dynamic, action-packed environments reminiscent of gaming’s golden age.

Xbox 360 Faceplates: A Brilliant Idea That Died too Soon!

The original Xbox 360 allowed gamers to customize their console with faceplates. Ultimately 900+ were commercially released and I have acquired many unique faceplates, some of them quite rare and unusual. Did YOU rock any Xbox 360 Faceplates?

The Xbox 360, released by Microsoft in 2005, marked a significant milestone in the gaming industry. It was the successor to the original Xbox and played a crucial role in popularizing high-definition gaming. The console featured a sleek design with a white exterior and a distinctive concave shape. One of its standout features was its robust online gaming platform, Xbox Live, which allowed players to connect, compete, and communicate with others around the world. The Xbox 360 introduced a wireless controller, enhancing the gaming experience by providing more freedom of movement.

In terms of hardware, the Xbox 360 boasted a custom triple-core processor, high-capacity hard drive options, and a dedicated graphics processor for impressive graphics and performance. It supported a wide range of games, including popular franchises like Halo, Gears of War, and Mass Effect. The Xbox 360 contributed to the growth of digital distribution, offering downloadable content and games through Xbox Live Arcade. Despite facing some technical issues like the infamous “Red Ring of Death,” the Xbox 360 left a lasting impact on the gaming landscape and set the stage for subsequent generations of gaming consoles.

They fixed the XBOX HDMI…but I still can’t recommend it.

Review of the FIXED version of the EON XBHD HDMI adapter for the original Xbox. This will connect to your modern television, but it also adds a bunch of features most people probably don’t need at a very high price. In the video I also compare it to cheaper HDMI options like the Hyperkin cables and the excellent XBOX2HDMI adapter.
XBOX2HDMI: https://electron-shepherd.com
EON XBHD: https://www.eongaming.tech

Sponsor: CLZ GAMES for cataloging your new and retro games. Check out Google or Apple app stores or https://www.collectorz.com for more info!

The original Xbox, released by Microsoft in 2001, was a groundbreaking console that left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. One of its key strengths was its powerful hardware. Sporting an Intel Pentium III processor and an NVIDIA GPU, the Xbox was a technological powerhouse for its time, surpassing the capabilities of its competitors. This allowed for impressive graphics and smoother gameplay experiences, setting a new standard for console gaming.

Moreover, the original Xbox introduced the concept of Xbox Live, a revolutionary online gaming service. This marked a significant shift in multiplayer gaming, enabling players to connect with others around the world seamlessly. Xbox Live not only facilitated competitive gaming but also laid the foundation for the online gaming communities that thrive today. The console’s diverse library of games, including iconic titles like Halo: Combat Evolved, contributed to its success and solidified its place in gaming history. The original Xbox’s combination of cutting-edge hardware, innovative online capabilities, and a compelling game lineup established it as a formidable player in the console market, earning it a lasting legacy among gaming enthusiasts.

* NEW * Retro Shooter Light Gun – New Version Review

Review of the new Retro Shooter light gun package for the Pandora Box. MORE INFO: https://retroshooter.com

Light gun arcade games have had a significant impact on gaming culture. Here are five of the most popular and influential ones:

  1. Duck Hunt (1984): One of the earliest and most iconic light gun games, bundled with the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Players used the NES Zapper to shoot ducks on the screen.
  2. Time Crisis series (1995 – present): Known for its pedal system allowing players to take cover, this series revolutionized light gun gameplay. It introduced the cover mechanic, adding depth to arcade shooters.
  3. House of the Dead series (1996 – present): This franchise brought horror-themed arcade shooting to the forefront. Players faced hordes of zombies and creatures in various installments, using light guns to survive.
  4. Point Blank series (1994 – 2017): Offering a different experience from traditional shooters, Point Blank focused on mini-games and challenges requiring precise shooting skills. It stood out for its variety and humor.
  5. Lethal Enforcers (1992): This game utilized digitized graphics and realistic settings, setting itself apart during its time. Players took on the role of a law enforcement officer, taking down criminals.

These games have left a lasting impact on the arcade gaming landscape and continue to influence modern gaming experiences.

Atari 2600+ vs Atari GameStation Pro – Which is BETTER?

I’m comparing the new Atari 2600+ vs Atari GameStation Pro. Two very different systems but yet both are pretty cool in their own right!
Atari 2600+: https://atari.com
Atari GameStation Pro: https://amzn.to/3NsqUz2 (affiliate link)

Atari holds an iconic status in gaming history, particularly due to its foundational role in popularizing home gaming consoles. The release of the Atari 2600 in 1977 marked a monumental shift, bringing gaming from arcade halls into households worldwide. This console introduced a range of games, from the simple yet addictive “Pong” to the diverse library that included “Space Invaders,” “Pac-Man,” and “Asteroids.” Its accessible design and innovative use of interchangeable cartridges revolutionized how people engaged with games, laying the groundwork for the modern gaming industry.

Moreover, the Atari era cultivated an entire generation’s love for gaming, shaping the very essence of what we now understand as gaming culture. It wasn’t merely about entertainment; it was a transformative social experience. Friends and families gathered around TVs, engrossed in these pixelated worlds, fostering a communal bond through shared gaming experiences. The success and impact of Atari transcended its time, serving as a cornerstone that paved the way for subsequent gaming consoles and influencing game design, technology, and the burgeoning gaming community that continues to thrive today.

** DISCLAIMER: Both of these Atari consoles were sent to me for review, but nobody reviewed the video and all of the opinions are my own **

Analogue Duo Review – is this $250 TurboGrafx-16 clone worth it?!

Review of the Analogue Duo, a TurboGrafx-16 / PC Engine FPGA based clone system. But is it worth the $250?
Info: https://www.analogue.co

The TurboGrafx-16, released by NEC in 1987, was a pioneering 16-bit video game console that brought about significant advancements in gaming technology. Known as the PC Engine in Japan, it boasted a sleek design and was notably smaller than its contemporaries. Its defining feature was its graphics and sound capabilities, offering impressive performance for its time. The console introduced a range of colorful and visually engaging games, showcasing the power of its hardware, especially in the realm of 2D gaming. It also had a unique add-on called the TurboGrafx-CD, one of the earliest CD-ROM peripheral attachments for a console, expanding its library with CD-based games and enhanced audio.

Despite its technical advancements and innovative add-ons, the TurboGrafx-16 faced tough competition in the gaming market, primarily from Nintendo and Sega. Limited third-party support and a smaller game library compared to its rivals hindered its widespread success. However, it garnered a cult following due to its unique games, such as “Bonk’s Adventure” and “Ys Book I & II,” which remain fondly remembered by retro gaming enthusiasts. While it didn’t dominate the market, the TurboGrafx-16 remains an essential piece of gaming history, remembered for its technological innovations and contributions to the evolution of gaming consoles.

$100 Challenge at Portland Retro Gaming Expo + PICKUPS!

Metal Jesus & Drunken Master Paul are at Portland Retro Gaming Expo w/ $100 each to buy 3 great games PLUS collectables. Who do YOU think had the better pickups at Portland Retro Gaming Expo?

Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant city nestled in the Pacific Northwest known for its eclectic culture, lush greenery, and laid-back atmosphere. With a backdrop of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains and the nearby Columbia River Gorge, Portland boasts a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, the city embraces a thriving food scene highlighted by farm-to-table dining, a plethora of food carts offering global cuisines, and a fervent craft beer and coffee culture. Artistic expression flourishes in Portland, evident through its numerous galleries, street murals, and the iconic Portlandia statue. The city’s love for the outdoors is evident with its extensive network of parks, bike-friendly streets, and proximity to hiking trails and scenic vistas, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Yet, Portland also grapples with challenges such as homelessness and urban development, which add complexity to its dynamic identity. Overall, Portland captures a blend of natural beauty, creativity, and a unique sense of community that draws both locals and visitors alike.

2023 Holiday Gift Guide – 10 Gifts for Gamers!

My 2023 Holiday gift guide! 10 gaming products I recommend including handhelds, keyboards, arcade machines, handheld grips, HDMI converters, books, controllers & more!

Products Mentioned:
Super Pockets – https://amzn.to/3ueI4JQ
8bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard – https://amzn.to/3szk03N
Replicade Ghosts n Goblins – https://newwavetoys.com
Satisfye ZenGrip Ronin for Switch – https://www.satisfye.com
Stylth Grip for Steam Deck – https://www.satisfye.com
RetroTink 2x & 5x – https://www.retrotink.com
The Console Chronicles- https://bit.ly/MJRLIC
A Handheld History Book – https://amzn.to/3uhM1gO
Nitro Deck – https://amzn.to/3MJmJPd
Space Invaders 1/4 arcades – https://numskull.com
Retro Fighters controllers – https://amzn.to/46il36b
Grid Studio – https://gridstudio.cc

(As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases from affiliate links)

XREAL Air2 Glasses Review – I’m impressed!

Review of the new Xreal Air2 AR (Augmented Reality) glasses. I use these glasses playing Steam Deck games, Nintendo Switch games, iPad & more.

Augmented reality (AR) glasses are wearable devices that seamlessly blend digital information with the real-world environment, enhancing the user’s perception and interaction with their surroundings. These glasses typically consist of a lightweight frame equipped with transparent display screens positioned in front of the user’s eyes. The display technology allows virtual images, graphics, or information to be superimposed onto the user’s view of the real world. AR glasses often incorporate sensors such as cameras, accelerometers, and gyroscopes to track the user’s movements and gather data about the environment. This data is then processed in real-time to generate and display relevant augmented content.

One of the primary advantages of augmented reality glasses is their potential to revolutionize how users consume information and engage with digital content. From providing contextual information about the objects in the user’s field of view to enabling immersive gaming experiences or aiding in navigation through enhanced maps and directions, AR glasses have a broad range of applications. Moreover, they offer hands-free operation, allowing users to access information and perform tasks without the need for a separate device. As technology continues to advance, augmented reality glasses are poised to play an increasingly significant role in various industries, including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and entertainment, by offering innovative solutions to enhance productivity, learning, and entertainment experiences.

Website pre-order links for XREAL Air 2 and XREAL Air 2 Pro:
– US: https://amzn.to/45ZxW4N
– UK: https://amzn.to/3smeyRU
XREAL Air on sale: https://amzn.to/49xGToU
Pre-order link for the XREAL Air 2 Pro: https://bit.ly/45G4H6R