Buying Guides, Featured, Sony (Hidden Gems)

Sony PS2 Buying Guide + Great Games & Hidden Gems!

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Radical Reggie is back w/ a brand new Sony PlayStation 2 (PS2) BUYING GUIDE for 2024: Main Consoles, HDMI video solutions, Accessories + Best Games & HIDDEN GEMS! Do you still play or collect for the mighty PS2?!

As of my last update in January 2022, the top 10 best-selling PlayStation 2 games were:

1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas – This open-world action-adventure game from Rockstar Games became a cultural phenomenon, offering players a vast sandbox to explore and causing a stir with its mature themes and gameplay mechanics.

2. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec – Developed by Polyphony Digital, this racing simulator set a new standard for realism in console racing games, featuring a wide range of cars and tracks for players to master.

3. Gran Turismo 4 – The sequel to Gran Turismo 3, this installment further refined the series’ realistic racing experience, boasting even more cars, tracks, and improved graphics.

4. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City – Another entry in Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto series, Vice City took players to a fictionalized version of Miami in the 1980s, featuring a captivating storyline and memorable characters.

5. Grand Theft Auto III – Often credited with popularizing the open-world genre, GTA III allowed players unprecedented freedom in a sprawling, crime-ridden city, setting the stage for the series’ future success.

6. Final Fantasy X – This critically acclaimed RPG from Square Enix combined stunning visuals, a compelling story, and strategic turn-based combat, cementing its place as one of the most beloved entries in the Final Fantasy series.

7. Tekken 5 – The fifth installment in Namco’s long-running fighting game franchise, Tekken 5 introduced new characters, improved graphics, and refined gameplay mechanics, attracting both casual and competitive players.

8. Kingdom Hearts – A collaboration between Square Enix and Disney, Kingdom Hearts blended action RPG gameplay with beloved Disney characters and worlds, creating a unique and charming experience that resonated with players of all ages.

9. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty – Hideo Kojima’s cinematic stealth-action masterpiece pushed the boundaries of storytelling in video games, offering complex narrative themes, innovative gameplay mechanics, and stunning graphics.

10. Final Fantasy XII – Another standout RPG from Square Enix, Final Fantasy XII featured a vast and immersive world, a complex political storyline, and a revamped real-time battle system that garnered praise from fans and critics alike.

Please note that sales figures may have changed, but these titles were among the best-selling games on the PlayStation 2 during its lifespan.

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Full Length Movies Playing on the 2600? It is Now Possible!

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I have a fun video today showing a new product that has been in development for many years. The MovieCart allows full-length videos to run on stock 2600 hardware.

Order here: https://www.tindie.com/products/lodefmode/moviecart-atari-2600/

The Atari 2600, while groundbreaking in its time, posed significant challenges for programmers due to its hardware limitations and unconventional architecture. One major obstacle was the system’s limited memory, consisting of only 128 bytes of RAM. This scarcity meant that programmers had to be incredibly efficient in their use of memory, often resorting to creative techniques such as reusing memory locations for multiple purposes or employing complex algorithms to squeeze the most out of the available resources. Additionally, the system lacked hardware support for features commonly found in modern consoles, such as sprites or tile-based graphics, forcing developers to manually manipulate the display using the system’s limited capabilities.

Another significant challenge was the Atari 2600’s lack of dedicated video memory. Unlike later consoles that featured separate memory for graphics data, the 2600 required programmers to generate the video signal in real-time, synchronizing their code with the television’s electron beam to draw each scanline and pixel. This “playfield” approach meant that developers had to carefully orchestrate their code to render graphics and update game logic within the tight constraints of the system’s vertical blank interrupt. Consequently, programming for the Atari 2600 demanded a deep understanding of both the hardware’s limitations and its idiosyncratic design, requiring developers to employ innovative programming techniques and optimizations to achieve their desired gameplay experience.

Music

Top 10 Gene Simmons of KISS songs!

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Gene Simmons, the iconic bassist and co-lead vocalist of KISS, has collaborated on numerous songs throughout his career, both with KISS and other artists. Here are ten notable songs featuring Gene Simmons:

  1. “God of Thunder” by KISS – From the album “Destroyer” (1976). This song features Simmons on lead vocals and has become one of KISS’s signature tracks. It’s also the centerpiece of Gene’s fire breathing bass solo when played live.
  2. “Rock and Roll All Nite” by KISS – From the album “Dressed to Kill” (1975). Another classic KISS anthem featuring Simmons on vocals. Fun fact, it was actually the live version of the song that eventually became the popular version of the song.
  3. “Calling Dr. Love” by KISS – From the album “Rock and Roll Over” (1976). Simmons delivers a commanding vocal performance on this hard-rocking track.
  4. “War Machine” by KISS – From the album “Creatures of the Night” (1982). Simmons’s powerful vocals drive this heavy-hitting song. This song was actually co-written by Bryan Adams of Cuts Like A Knife and Summer of ’69 fame!
  5. “Deuce” by KISS – From the album “KISS” (1974). Simmons sings lead vocals on this track, which has become a staple of KISS’s live performances. “You know your man is working hard…he’s worth a… “
  6. “Christine Sixteen” by KISS – From the album “Love Gun” (1977). Simmons’s distinctive voice shines on this catchy rock tune. This song was famously sampled by Tone Lōc in his 1989 song “Funky Cold Medina”.
  7. “I Love It Loud” by KISS – From the album “Creatures of the Night” (1982). Simmons co-wrote and sings lead vocals on this anthemic track. Probably some of the heaviest drums in any KISS song..and that chorus is a highlight at any live KISS show.
  8. “Unholy” by KISS – From the album “Revenge” (1992). Simmons delivers a gritty vocal performance on this heavy metal song. The song is considered by many fans to be a return to the Demon persona by Gene Simmons in the 90s.
  9. “Domino” by KISS – From the album “Revenge” (1992). Another great track from the “Revenge” album featuring Simmons on lead vocals. This has a killer groove and a fairly naughty bridge spoken by Gene.
  10. “Goin’ Blind” from the album “Hotter than Hell” (1974) is a bit of a deep cut but has a great groove and amazing guitar solo! The Melvins did an amazing cover it as well.

These songs showcase Gene Simmons’s vocal prowess and his significant contributions to the sound and legacy of KISS.

Movies

The Game: What Happened to David Fincher’s Most Underrated Movie?

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David Fincher is a visionary director known for his meticulous attention to detail, dark storytelling, and innovative visual style. Emerging in the 1990s, Fincher quickly gained recognition for his work on films like “Se7en” and “Fight Club,” which showcased his knack for crafting gripping narratives that delve into the complexities of the human psyche. His films often explore themes of existentialism, alienation, and the darker aspects of modern society, drawing audiences into immersive worlds filled with suspense and intrigue. Fincher’s distinctive visual aesthetic, characterized by moody lighting, sleek cinematography, and meticulously composed shots, creates an atmosphere of tension and unease that is unmistakably his own.

Beyond his feature films, Fincher has also made significant contributions to television, directing and producing acclaimed series such as “House of Cards” and “Mindhunter.” His work in television demonstrates his ability to adapt his cinematic style to the episodic format while maintaining the same level of quality and intensity that defines his films. Known for his perfectionism and rigorous approach to filmmaking, Fincher is a director who consistently pushes the boundaries of storytelling and visual artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

Music

Top 10 Ace Frehley Songs

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Ace Frehley, best known as the former lead guitarist of the iconic rock band Kiss, has a number of great songs throughout his career, both as a solo artist and with Kiss. With the release of Ace Frehley’s latest song and album I thought it was a good time to RANK the Top 10 Ace Frehley’s Songs Ever!

  1. “New York Groove” – A cover originally recorded by Hello, this song became one of Frehley’s signature tracks from his 1978 solo album.
  2. “Shock Me” – A classic Kiss song written and sung by Frehley, known for its electrifying guitar solo and catchy chorus.
  3. “Cold Gin” – Another Kiss classic written by Frehley, known for its gritty riff and memorable chorus.
  4. “Rocket Ride” – A high-energy track from Kiss’ “Alive II” album, featuring Frehley’s distinctive guitar work.
  5. “Rip It Out” – A standout track from Frehley’s 1978 solo debut album, showcasing his songwriting and guitar prowess.
  6. “Into the Void” – A heavy-hitting song from Frehley’s 2009 album “Anomaly,” displaying his continued ability to deliver powerful rock anthems.
  7. “Strange Ways” – A dark and intense song from Kiss’ “Hotter Than Hell” album, featuring Frehley’s unique guitar style.
  8. “Snow Blind” – A track from Frehley’s solo album, “Ace Frehley,” known for its infectious groove and memorable guitar melodies.
  9. “Rock Soldiers” – A hard-hitting anthem from Frehley’s 1987 album “Frehley’s Comet,” reflecting on his struggles with addiction and his journey to sobriety, with powerful guitar solos and a memorable chorus.
  10. “Into the Night” – A standout track from Frehley’s 1987 album “Frehley’s Comet,” featuring heartfelt lyrics and melodic guitar work that highlight his versatility as a musician.

These songs represent just a glimpse into Ace Frehley’s impressive catalog of music, showcasing his talent as both a guitarist and songwriter.

Featured, Recent Pickups

** LET’S GO! ** GAME PICKUPS: 34 Games! (PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Sega, NES, Arcade)

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We’re back with the first RECENT GAME PICKUPS of 2024 w/ Radical Reggie! So many awesome games & accessories! ** LET’S GO! **

GAMES SHOWN:

Gunborg / Wallachia / Stellar Interface LPs

Robocop: Rogue City

Castle Crashers PAX edition

Cyberpunk 2077 V2.0

Full Void (Evercade)

Jets’n’Guns 2

Marvel Super Heroes (Arcade1Up)

Turtles Arcade (Arcade1Up)

Spider-man Shattered Dimensions (PS3 PAL)

Rival MegaGun

Eagle Island Twist 

The King of Fighters XIII

Orbital Bullet

Clock Tower Collection

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: TurboCharged

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II

Duke Nukem collection (Evercade)

Star Ocean The Second Story R

Legend of Steel Empire

NeoGeo Mini Christmas Edition

NES Endings Compendium Vol1 (Book)

Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle

Mayflash Arcade sticks

Gylt

Tinykin

Gravity Circuit

Horror Collection (NES)

Eternights

Shakedown Hawaii (3DS)

Galactix / Marcus

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown 

Lunar Silver Star / Eternal Blue (Sega CD)

Xbox Hunter Wireless Controller (Retro Fighters)

Dreamcast Striker DC Wireless Controller (Retro Fighters)

Official Blockbuster Switch holder (Retro Fighters)

Visgo Mini Arcade Bartop

Featured, PC Games

Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster (2024) REVIEW

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Nightdive Studios remastered the classic Star Wars Dark Forces game for modern consoles and PC, upgrading the graphics & music as well as including a bunch of developer behind the scenes content. Can they improve on one of the best Star Wars games ever made? Check out my review!
More info: https://www.nightdivestudios.com

“Star Wars: Dark Forces” stands as a seminal milestone in the realm of video game adaptations of the beloved science fiction franchise. Released in 1995 by LucasArts, this first-person shooter immersed players in the expansive Star Wars universe, offering a gripping narrative set within the Galactic Empire’s oppressive regime. Players assumed the role of Kyle Katarn, a skilled mercenary tasked with thwarting the sinister plans of the Empire, including the development of the dreaded Death Star. Through a combination of intense action sequences, intricate level design, and a richly crafted storyline, “Dark Forces” captivated audiences, earning widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay mechanics and faithful adherence to the Star Wars mythos.

With its groundbreaking features, “Star Wars: Dark Forces” left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, influencing subsequent titles in the genre and cementing its status as a classic. The game introduced players to an array of iconic Star Wars locales, from the industrial depths of Imperial bases to the sprawling expanses of alien worlds. Furthermore, its dynamic blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat offered a multifaceted gaming experience that resonated with audiences of all ages. Even decades after its release, “Dark Forces” continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers, serving as a testament to the enduring power and cultural significance of the Star Wars franchise in the realm of interactive entertainment.

Metal Jesus Likes

Ken and Roberta Williams Interview w/ Matt Barton (New for 2024)

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Ken and Roberta Williams are the founders of Sierra On-Line, one of the most influential computer game developers and publishers of all time. Recently, the couple returned to their gaming roots with a 3D, AR-enabled version of the classic text adventure Colossal Cave.

Sierra On-Line was a powerhouse in the gaming industry throughout the 1980s and 1990s, known for producing some of the most iconic and influential adventure games of the era. One of their standout titles from the 1980s was “King’s Quest” (1984), a groundbreaking adventure game that introduced players to the fantastical world of Daventry and the daring adventures of King Graham. With its innovative use of graphics and text-based commands, “King’s Quest” offered players unprecedented freedom to explore its richly detailed environments and solve puzzles, setting a new standard for the adventure game genre. Its success spawned numerous sequels, each building upon the legacy of the original and further cementing Sierra’s reputation as a leader in interactive storytelling.

In the 1990s, Sierra continued to push the boundaries of gaming with titles like “Space Quest” (1986) and “Quest for Glory” (1989). “Space Quest” combined humor, science fiction, and adventure in a series of games following the hapless space janitor Roger Wilco as he stumbled his way through various interstellar misadventures. The series was known for its witty writing, colorful characters, and imaginative settings, earning it a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. “Quest for Glory,” on the other hand, blended elements of traditional adventure games with role-playing mechanics, allowing players to create and develop their own character as they embarked on epic quests in the fantasy world of Gloriana. With its innovative approach to gameplay and rich narrative, “Quest for Glory” left a lasting impression on the gaming landscape and remains beloved by fans to this day. Overall, Sierra On-Line’s catalog of games from the 1980s and 1990s showcased the company’s pioneering spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the history of gaming.

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I Beat Every Single 2D Mario Game…

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Josie Woah completes every 2D Mario game in anticipation of Super Mario Wonder on Switch.

The first three Super Mario games—Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, and Super Mario Bros. 3—were pivotal in shaping the landscape of video gaming on the original NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) for several reasons. Firstly, Super Mario Bros., released in 1985, revolutionized the platformer genre by introducing tight controls, imaginative level design, and a memorable protagonist in Mario. It set the standard for side-scrolling action games, establishing many conventions still used in the genre today. Its accessible yet challenging gameplay appealed to players of all ages and skill levels, helping to popularize gaming as a mainstream form of entertainment and cementing Nintendo’s position as a dominant force in the industry.

Following the success of the original Super Mario Bros., its sequels—Super Mario Bros. 2 and Super Mario Bros. 3—further solidified Mario’s status as a cultural icon and Nintendo’s flagship franchise. Super Mario Bros. 2 introduced innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to play as multiple characters with unique abilities, and showcased Nintendo’s willingness to experiment with new ideas. Meanwhile, Super Mario Bros. 3 pushed the NES hardware to its limits with its expansive world map, diverse environments, and plethora of power-ups and secrets, offering players an even deeper and more immersive gaming experience. These games not only helped drive sales of the NES console but also fostered a sense of community and shared experiences among players, laying the foundation for the enduring legacy of the Super Mario series and its impact on the gaming industry as a whole.

Retro Gaming with a Heavy Metal Soundtrack