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[retrogamingloft]

International Superstar Soccer 2 (ISS2) is a football video game developed by KCEO, Konami's Osaka branch. As part of the International Superstar Soccer series, it predates the more widely recognized Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) series by Konami. ISS2 was released across several platforms, including Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2, and Xbox.

Its gameplay is centered on arcade-style football, distinct from the simulation-focused football games of its time. Known for its user-friendly controls, ISS2 supports a range of offensive and defensive maneuvers. The game features numerous international teams, and while lacking official licenses for real player names and likenesses, it cleverly uses pseudonyms to represent recognizable players.

Graphically, the Konami release leveraged the sixth-generation console capabilities, offering smooth animations and enhanced character models. The Xbox version likely featured improvements like more detailed textures and quicker loading times due to the console's superior hardware.

A standout feature of the ISS series is its Create a Player mode, enabling players to design a custom footballer and develop their skills progressively. The game also offers diverse modes such as open play, international cup, league, and scenarios that allow players to reenact or alter historic football matches.

Despite its merits, this title was often eclipsed by EA Sports' FIFA series and Konami's own Pro Evolution Soccer during that era. While I hold a favorable view of the game, ISS2 did not achieve the depth and realism of PES. Though it is accessible and entertaining, its ball physics and AI functionalities pale in comparison to the advanced features found in Pro Evolution Soccer.

[retrogamingloft]

International Superstar Soccer 2 (ISS2) is a football video game developed by KCEO, Konami's Osaka branch. As part of the International Superstar Soccer series, it predates the more widely recognized Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) series by Konami. ISS2 was released across several platforms, including Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2, and Xbox.

Its gameplay is centered on arcade-style football, distinct from the simulation-focused football games of its time. Known for its user-friendly controls, ISS2 supports a range of offensive and defensive maneuvers. The game features numerous international teams, and while lacking official licenses for real player names and likenesses, it cleverly uses pseudonyms to represent recognizable players.

Graphically, the Konami release leveraged the sixth-generation console capabilities, offering smooth animations and enhanced character models. The Xbox version likely featured improvements like more detailed textures and quicker loading times due to the console's superior hardware.

A standout feature of the ISS series is its Create a Player mode, enabling players to design a custom footballer and develop their skills progressively. The game also offers diverse modes such as open play, international cup, league, and scenarios that allow players to reenact or alter historic football matches.

Despite its merits, this title was often eclipsed by EA Sports' FIFA series and Konami's own Pro Evolution Soccer during that era. While I hold a favorable view of the game, ISS2 did not achieve the depth and realism of PES. Though it is accessible and entertaining, its ball physics and AI functionalities pale in comparison to the advanced features found in Pro Evolution Soccer.

[retrogamingloft]

Released by Stern Pinball in 2001, High Roller Casino immerses players in the thrilling world of Las Vegas gambling. Designed by Jon Norris and featuring vibrant artwork by John Youssi and Constantino Mitchell, this casino-themed pinball machine captures the glitz and glamour of a bustling Vegas establishment.

The gameplay includes elements of classic casino games such as poker, blackjack, roulette, and craps, all creatively integrated into the pinball experience. Players have the chance to "gamble" their points in these mini-games, pursuing high scores through strategic, high-risk decisions. The design features numerous ramps and targets that simulate different casino activities, along with several multiball modes to keep the action engaging and dynamic.

A unique aspect of the machine is its functional slot machine mechanism at the center of the playfield, complete with spinning reels and a digital display, enhancing the gambling atmosphere. The primary objective is to light up the neon casino-themed lights on the playfield, progress through the games, and build points to reach high roller status.

Accompanied by casino-inspired sounds, flashy light shows, and a voiceover that guides and taunts players through their journey, the table offers a fun and immersive experience that mirrors the thrill of Vegas gambling.

In its digital incarnation within The Pinball (and The Stern) Arcade collection, the table continues to delight players, faithfully replicating the physical game's playfield, mechanics, and audio. This digital version extends the reach of the classic table, allowing a new generation of players to enjoy its challenges and preserving its place in pinball history.

On a personal note, this table is a standout—definitely in my top five favorite pinball machines. It’s deceptively simple at first glance, with early gameplay allowing you to rack up a substantial score quickly, which might mislead you into thinking it’s an easy ride. However, that's far from the case. This table demands precise nudging skills, especially due to the bumpers located at the lower part of the playfield which propel the ball at high speeds, making it incredibly easy for it to drain through the outlanes.

It’s frustrating, to say the least. A proactive strategy is to nudge the table when the ball is in the upper area, steering it away from danger and toward the flippers, which helps in keeping the ball in play. Managing the ball in the inlane between the flippers is challenging but definitely manageable.

Once you navigate through these challenges and hit the 300 - 350 million point range, the table really opens up. You're rewarded with a slew of bonuses, multi-player modes, and more, allowing you to fully enjoy the excitement and depth this fantastic machine offers.

[retrogamingloft]

Released by Stern Pinball in 2001, High Roller Casino immerses players in the thrilling world of Las Vegas gambling. Designed by Jon Norris and featuring vibrant artwork by John Youssi and Constantino Mitchell, this casino-themed pinball machine captures the glitz and glamour of a bustling Vegas establishment.

The gameplay includes elements of classic casino games such as poker, blackjack, roulette, and craps, all creatively integrated into the pinball experience. Players have the chance to "gamble" their points in these mini-games, pursuing high scores through strategic, high-risk decisions. The design features numerous ramps and targets that simulate different casino activities, along with several multiball modes to keep the action engaging and dynamic.

A unique aspect of the machine is its functional slot machine mechanism at the center of the playfield, complete with spinning reels and a digital display, enhancing the gambling atmosphere. The primary objective is to light up the neon casino-themed lights on the playfield, progress through the games, and build points to reach high roller status.

Accompanied by casino-inspired sounds, flashy light shows, and a voiceover that guides and taunts players through their journey, the table offers a fun and immersive experience that mirrors the thrill of Vegas gambling.

In its digital incarnation within The Pinball (and The Stern) Arcade collection, the table continues to delight players, faithfully replicating the physical game's playfield, mechanics, and audio. This digital version extends the reach of the classic table, allowing a new generation of players to enjoy its challenges and preserving its place in pinball history.

On a personal note, this table is a standout—definitely in my top five favorite pinball machines. It’s deceptively simple at first glance, with early gameplay allowing you to rack up a substantial score quickly, which might mislead you into thinking it’s an easy ride. However, that's far from the case. This table demands precise nudging skills, especially due to the kickers situated in the lower half of the playfield, which propel the ball at high speeds, significantly increasing the chances of the ball draining through the outlanes.

It’s frustrating, to say the least. A proactive strategy is to nudge the table when the ball is in the upper area, steering it away from danger and toward the flippers, which helps in keeping the ball in play. Managing the ball in the inlane between the flippers is challenging but definitely manageable.

Once you navigate through these challenges and hit the 300 - 350 million point range, the table really opens up. You're rewarded with a slew of bonuses, multiball modes, and more, allowing you to fully enjoy the excitement and depth this fantastic machine offers.

[retrogamingloft]

Ultimate Fighting Championship: Tapout, released in 2002 for the Xbox, is a video game based on the mixed martial arts promotion, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Developed by DreamFactory and published by Crave Entertainment, the game aims to deliver a realistic representation of MMA, incorporating various fighting styles like boxing, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and judo. Players can select from a roster of popular UFC fighters, each rendered with detailed graphics and unique fighting skills, or create a custom fighter to navigate through the game's multiple modes, including Tournament, Exhibition, and a Career mode.

I praise the game for its advanced graphics and realistic animations, which were standout features during the early days of the Xbox console. I think that the game’s emphasis on an authentic fighting experience offers a steep learning curve, appreciated by fans of the sport for its technical depth but noted as potentially challenging for newcomers. Anyway, reviews,its visual appeal and fidelity to the complexities of MMA fighting, make it a memorable title for MMA enthusiasts and gamers looking for a robust combat simulation.

PS. I've been a Mark Coleman fan since his early UFC days and he's always been my first pick in any UFC game I have ever played. But after his recent heroic actions, my admiration for the fighter—already substantial—is eclipsed by my admiration for the man. If Mark should ever read this (though unlikely, you never know), I want him to know that playing as him feels truly special.

[retrogamingloft]

Ultimate Fighting Championship: Tapout, released in 2002 for the Xbox, is a video game based on the mixed martial arts promotion, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Developed by DreamFactory and published by Crave Entertainment, the game aims to deliver a realistic representation of MMA, incorporating various fighting styles like boxing, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and judo. Players can select from a roster of popular UFC fighters, each rendered with detailed graphics and unique fighting skills, or create a custom fighter to navigate through the game's multiple modes, including Tournament, Exhibition, and a Career mode.

I praise the game for its advanced graphics and realistic animations, which were standout features during the early days of the Xbox console. I think that the game’s emphasis on an authentic fighting experience offers a steep learning curve, appreciated by fans of the sport for its technical depth but noted as potentially challenging for newcomers. Anyway, reviews,its visual appeal and fidelity to the complexities of MMA fighting, make it a memorable title for MMA enthusiasts and gamers looking for a robust combat simulation.

PS. I've been a Mark Coleman fan since his early UFC days and he's always been my first pick in any UFC game I have ever played. But after his recent heroic actions, my admiration for the fighter—already substantial—is eclipsed by my admiration for the man. If Mark should ever read this (though unlikely, you never know), I want him to know that playing as him feels truly special.

[retrogamingloft]

Barbarian, released for the Xbox in 2002, is a third-person action-adventure game developed by Saffire and published by Titus Software. Set in a fantasy world, the game follows the barbarian warrior Hegor on his quest to rescue his twin brother Attila from the evil sorcerer Zaugg. Players engage in extensive melee combat with swords and axes, traverse environments like forests, dungeons, and castles, and solve puzzles that involve lever mechanisms and platforming.

The narrative focuses on Hegor's perilous journey across varied terrains, facing formidable enemies and overcoming intricate obstacles to infiltrate Zaugg’s stronghold. The gameplay emphasizes combat with a variety of attacks and combos, alongside environmental puzzles that demand strategic interaction to progress.

Upon release, Barbarian received mixed reviews. Critics praised its visual design and combat mechanics but criticized its repetitiveness and lack of originality. Despite its ambitious features and detailed settings, the game did not achieve significant popularity or spawn sequels.

Critically, Barbarian was perhaps judged too harshly. As an early Xbox release, expectations might have been unreasonably high. Nonetheless, it stands as a solid weapon-based fighting game with a compelling story and atmospheric setting. It offers a quintessential action-adventure experience with an emphasis on melee combat and environmental exploration in a well-crafted fantasy universe. Above all, it remains fun and highly playable.

[retrogamingloft]

Barbarian, released for the Xbox in 2002, is a third-person action-adventure game developed by Saffire and published by Titus Software. Set in a fantasy world, the game follows the barbarian warrior Hegor on his quest to rescue his twin brother Attila from the evil sorcerer Zaugg. Players engage in extensive melee combat with swords and axes, traverse environments like forests, dungeons, and castles, and solve puzzles that involve lever mechanisms and platforming.

The narrative focuses on Hegor's perilous journey across varied terrains, facing formidable enemies and overcoming intricate obstacles to infiltrate Zaugg’s stronghold. The gameplay emphasizes combat with a variety of attacks and combos, alongside environmental puzzles that demand strategic interaction to progress.

Upon release, Barbarian received mixed reviews. Critics praised its visual design and combat mechanics but criticized its repetitiveness and lack of originality. Despite its ambitious features and detailed settings, the game did not achieve significant popularity or spawn sequels.

Critically, Barbarian was perhaps judged too harshly. As an early Xbox release, expectations might have been unreasonably high. Nonetheless, it stands as a solid weapon-based fighting game with a compelling story and atmospheric setting. It offers a quintessential action-adventure experience with an emphasis on melee combat and environmental exploration in a well-crafted fantasy universe. Above all, it remains fun and highly playable.

[retrogamingloft]

The Legend of Zelda for the Famicom/Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), first released in 1986 in Japan and later in 1987 in North America and Europe, stands as a pivotal milestone in the realm of action-adventure video games. Developed and published by Nintendo, this iconic title melds action, exploration, and puzzle-solving into an unforgettable gaming experience.

In the game, players assume the role of the courageous hero, Link, venturing through the enchanting realm of Hyrule. Link's journey entails delving into dungeons, engaging in combat with foes, and forging alliances with non-player characters (NPCs).

At its core, the narrative revolves around Link's noble quest to rescue Princess Zelda and thwart the malevolent Ganon. Progressing through the game involves traversing Hyrule's diverse landscapes, from lush forests to towering mountains, encountering towns, dungeons, and various landmarks along the way.

The adventure unfolds across nine main dungeons, each presenting its own set of challenges and adversaries. To overcome these obstacles, players must employ a blend of strategy, wit, and mastery of Link's arsenal, which includes iconic weapons like the sword and bow, as well as essential tools such as bombs and the boomerang.

Combat mechanics primarily revolve around real-time swordplay, with players engaging enemies both in the expansive overworld and within the labyrinthine dungeons. Success often hinges on effectively utilizing a combination of weaponry and specialized items to vanquish foes and overcome environmental hurdles.

Notably, The Legend of Zelda introduced a groundbreaking battery-backed save system, allowing players to preserve their progress at designated "save points" within dungeons—a feature that was innovative for its time and contributed to shaping future game design trends.

Widely celebrated as one of the greatest and most influential video games ever created, The Legend of Zelda has left an indelible mark on gaming culture. Its legacy endures through the enduring popularity of the franchise, which has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across multiple gaming platforms.

For both retro gaming aficionados and newcomers, delving into this title goes beyond mere gameplay; it's a glimpse into gaming history, an encounter with a lasting legend. It speaks to the enduring charm of immersive storytelling and engaging gameplay.

Therefore, adding this classic to our channel library wasn't just a practical move but a recognition of its significant legacy. And finally capturing its essence in a video, reflects our steadfast passion and dedication as retro gaming enthusiasts. In plain words, it makes us feel good, lol.

[retrogamingloft]

The Legend of Zelda for the Famicom/Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), first released in 1986 in Japan and later in 1987 in North America and Europe, stands as a pivotal milestone in the realm of action-adventure video games. Developed and published by Nintendo, this iconic title melds action, exploration, and puzzle-solving into an unforgettable gaming experience.

In the game, players assume the role of the courageous hero, Link, venturing through the enchanting realm of Hyrule. Link's journey entails delving into dungeons, engaging in combat with foes, and forging alliances with non-player characters (NPCs).

At its core, the narrative revolves around Link's noble quest to rescue Princess Zelda and thwart the malevolent Ganon. Progressing through the game involves traversing Hyrule's diverse landscapes, from lush forests to towering mountains, encountering towns, dungeons, and various landmarks along the way.

The adventure unfolds across nine main dungeons, each presenting its own set of challenges and adversaries. To overcome these obstacles, players must employ a blend of strategy, wit, and mastery of Link's arsenal, which includes iconic weapons like the sword and bow, as well as essential tools such as bombs and the boomerang.

Combat mechanics primarily revolve around real-time swordplay, with players engaging enemies both in the expansive overworld and within the labyrinthine dungeons. Success often hinges on effectively utilizing a combination of weaponry and specialized items to vanquish foes and overcome environmental hurdles.

Notably, The Legend of Zelda introduced a groundbreaking battery-backed save system, allowing players to preserve their progress at designated "save points" within dungeons—a feature that was innovative for its time and contributed to shaping future game design trends.

Widely celebrated as one of the greatest and most influential video games ever created, The Legend of Zelda has left an indelible mark on gaming culture. Its legacy endures through the enduring popularity of the franchise, which has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across multiple gaming platforms.

For both retro gaming aficionados and newcomers, delving into this title goes beyond mere gameplay; it's a glimpse into gaming history, an encounter with a lasting legend. It speaks to the enduring charm of immersive storytelling and engaging gameplay.

Therefore, adding this classic to our channel library wasn't just a practical move but a recognition of its significant legacy. And finally capturing its essence in a video, reflects our steadfast passion and dedication as retro gaming enthusiasts. In plain words, it makes us feel good, lol.

[retrogamingloft]

Launched in 1990 by Williams Electronics, Fun House is a distinctive pinball machine featuring a carnival and amusement park theme. Designed by the renowned Pat Lawlor, it is celebrated for its innovative gameplay and complex rules. Central to the game is Rudy, a talking ventriloquist dummy head, who engages players with both guidance and witty commentary. The primary goal in this table is to advance the playfield's clock to midnight, initiating a special mode where players can earn extra points by targeting Rudy.

Rudy's presence brings a dynamic and memorable touch, making Fun House a beloved choice among pinball enthusiasts and collectors for its creativity and challenging gameplay. The game also received accolades in its digital form, featured in Pinball Hall of Fame: The Williams Collection. This version is praised for its faithful recreation of the original’s aesthetics and intricate gameplay, maintaining the charm of Rudy's character. The digital adaptation expanded access to this machine, preserving its legacy and introducing its unique design to a new generation of players.

Personally, I appreciate Fun House for its thematic and mechanical ingenuity, but find it less captivating over extended play. As someone unafraid to speak my mind, I believe that after completing the main quest, the gameplay becomes somewhat repetitive. This does not detract from my appreciation of the game’s originality and innovation, but it does limit my long-term engagement with it.

[retrogamingloft]

Launched in 1990 by Williams Electronics, Fun House is a distinctive pinball machine featuring a carnival and amusement park theme. Designed by the renowned Pat Lawlor, it is celebrated for its innovative gameplay and complex rules. Central to the game is Rudy, a talking ventriloquist dummy head, who engages players with both guidance and witty commentary. The primary goal in this table is to advance the playfield's clock to midnight, initiating a special mode where players can earn extra points by targeting Rudy.

Rudy's presence brings a dynamic and memorable touch, making Fun House a beloved choice among pinball enthusiasts and collectors for its creativity and challenging gameplay. The game also received accolades in its digital form, featured in Pinball Hall of Fame: The Williams Collection. This version is praised for its faithful recreation of the original’s aesthetics and intricate gameplay, maintaining the charm of Rudy's character. The digital adaptation expanded access to this machine, preserving its legacy and introducing its unique design to a new generation of players.

Personally, I appreciate Fun House for its thematic and mechanical ingenuity, but find it less captivating over extended play. As someone unafraid to speak my mind, I believe that after completing the main quest, the gameplay becomes somewhat repetitive. This does not detract from my appreciation of the game’s originality and innovation, but it does limit my long-term engagement with it.

[retrogamingloft]

King of Fighters R-1, released in 1998 for the Neo Geo Pocket, epitomizes the essence of the celebrated King of Fighters series by SNK, despite the constraints of the handheld platform. This adaptation retains much of the original arcade series' spirit and character roster, albeit with necessary modifications to accommodate the console's limited control scheme and smaller screen. The game intelligently simplifies some of the series' intricate fighting mechanics, ensuring the gameplay remains deep and satisfying for fans.

The title offers players a chance to engage in combat with a well-known selection of characters from the series, organized into teams. Each character possesses unique moves and combos, upholding the strategic, team-based gameplay that is central to the series. Despite the handheld's inherent limitations, King of Fighters R-1 successfully captures the dynamic and competitive spirit of its arcade predecessors, providing an engaging experience on the go.

Initially, I underestimated the Neo Geo Pocket's capabilities, given its relatively small game library. However, this game was a delightful surprise, offering solid gameplay, appealing graphics and a challenging level of difficulty (I hate Orochi, lol). I remember being in my twenties, complaining about its limited moveset. I used to say things like, "A more extensive moveset could have potentially made it one of the best handheld fighting games of the '90s." Looking back, it’s clear the developers maximized the potential of the available hardware. Yeah, I was so naive, lol…

[retrogamingloft]

King of Fighters R-1, released in 1998 for the Neo Geo Pocket, epitomizes the essence of the celebrated King of Fighters series by SNK, despite the constraints of the handheld platform. This adaptation retains much of the original arcade series' spirit and character roster, albeit with necessary modifications to accommodate the console's limited control scheme and smaller screen. The game intelligently simplifies some of the series' intricate fighting mechanics, ensuring the gameplay remains deep and satisfying for fans.

The title offers players a chance to engage in combat with a well-known selection of characters from the series, organized into teams. Each character possesses unique moves and combos, upholding the strategic, team-based gameplay that is central to the series. Despite the handheld's inherent limitations, King of Fighters R-1 successfully captures the dynamic and competitive spirit of its arcade predecessors, providing an engaging experience on the go.

Initially, I underestimated the Neo Geo Pocket's capabilities, given its relatively small game library. However, this game was a delightful surprise, offering solid gameplay, appealing graphics and a challenging level of difficulty (I hate Orochi, lol). I remember being in my twenties, complaining about its limited moveset. I used to say things like, "A more extensive moveset could have potentially made it one of the best handheld fighting games of the '90s." Looking back, it’s clear the developers maximized the potential of the available hardware. Yeah, I was so naive, lol…

[retrogamingloft]

World Tour Soccer for the PSP, also known as World Tour Soccer: Challenge Edition in some regions, serves as the portable adaptation of the popular This is Football series from PlayStation consoles. Developed by SCE London Studio and published by Sony in 2005, the game transitions the immersive soccer experience from console to handheld, focusing on quick, accessible gameplay ideal for on-the-go entertainment.

WTS is renowned for its dynamic and fast-paced matches that appeal to both casual gamers and soccer enthusiasts alike, featuring a variety of gameplay modes. Its Challenge Mode is particularly notable, where players must achieve specific objectives during matches, such as scoring within a set timeframe or executing a precise number of successful tackles. This mode adds a unique twist to the conventional gameplay of soccer titles.

Visually, this title optimizes the PSP's capabilities with detailed player models and stadiums, maintaining a balance between high-quality graphics and performance to ensure fluid gameplay—a crucial element for sports games that require swift reflexes and accurate timing.

The controls are smartly adapted to fit the PSP’s layout, using the analog nub and face buttons for comprehensive control, from basic movements to intricate soccer tactics. The game also includes a multiplayer mode using the PSP's local wireless connectivity, which was a major draw, offering competitive and enjoyable matches with friends.

Despite competition from other leading soccer games on the PSP like FIFA and Pro Evolution Soccer, World Tour Soccer stands out with its unique challenge-based gameplay and quick play sessions, tailored to the portable nature of the device.

Personally, despite not being a fan of the original This is Football series, I found the portable version quite engaging—arguably the best iteration. Unlike its predecessors, This is Football 1 and 2, which I found frustratingly unplayable due to gameplay limitations, this game retained the core elements of its console counterpart and introduced compelling gameplay mechanics.

Overall, it's a surprisingly enjoyable soccer title with potential for improvement. It would have been interesting to see a sequel with smarter AI teammates and enhanced non-possession player movements.

Additionally, expanding the scoring options, especially for offensive aerial plays which - especially at higher difficulty levels - are lacking, would have been beneficial. In short, in my humble opinion, World Tour Soccer is a compelling "what if" in the realm of soccer games.

[retrogamingloft]

World Tour Soccer for the PSP, also known as World Tour Soccer: Challenge Edition in some regions, serves as the portable adaptation of the popular This is Football series from PlayStation consoles. Developed by SCE London Studio and published by Sony in 2005, the game transitions the immersive soccer experience from console to handheld, focusing on quick, accessible gameplay ideal for on-the-go entertainment.

WTS is renowned for its dynamic and fast-paced matches that appeal to both casual gamers and soccer enthusiasts alike, featuring a variety of gameplay modes. Its Challenge Mode is particularly notable, where players must achieve specific objectives during matches, such as scoring within a set timeframe or executing a precise number of successful tackles. This mode adds a unique twist to the conventional gameplay of soccer titles.

Visually, this title optimizes the PSP's capabilities with detailed player models and stadiums, maintaining a balance between high-quality graphics and performance to ensure fluid gameplay—a crucial element for sports games that require swift reflexes and accurate timing.

The controls are smartly adapted to fit the PSP’s layout, using the analog nub and face buttons for comprehensive control, from basic movements to intricate soccer tactics. The game also includes a multiplayer mode using the PSP's local wireless connectivity, which was a major draw, offering competitive and enjoyable matches with friends.

Despite competition from other leading soccer games on the PSP like FIFA and Pro Evolution Soccer, World Tour Soccer stands out with its unique challenge-based gameplay and quick play sessions, tailored to the portable nature of the device.

Personally, despite not being a fan of the original This is Football series, I found the portable version quite engaging—arguably the best iteration. Unlike its predecessors, This is Football 1 and 2, which I found frustratingly unplayable due to gameplay limitations, this game retained the core elements of its console counterpart and introduced compelling gameplay mechanics.

Overall, it's a surprisingly enjoyable soccer title with potential for improvement. It would have been interesting to see a sequel with smarter AI teammates and enhanced non-possession player movements.

Additionally, expanding the scoring options, especially for offensive aerial plays which - especially at higher difficulty levels - are lacking, would have been beneficial. In short, in my humble opinion, World Tour Soccer is a compelling "what if" in the realm of soccer games.

[retrogamingloft]

NBA Showtime: NBA on NBC is often lauded as a worthy heir to the revered basketball franchises NBA Jam and NBA Hangtime, developed by Midway. These games are known for their exaggerated dunks, fast-paced action, and a fun, relaxed approach to the sport.

For the Game Boy Color, just as for the Dreamcast and PlayStation versions, the game boasted improved graphics and fluid gameplay. However, this praise ends here.

Two decades plus four years after its release, I ponder over how such an eagerly awaited title could become so universally playable across all platforms, rendering the challenge virtually non-existent. Revisiting the Dreamcast version after twenty-one years, it merely took me part of a quarter to get accustomed and win easily on the most difficult setting. The PlayStation and GBC versions offered similar experiences, with the GBC requiring no more than 30 seconds to master.

While there's some challenge in defense, offense is bewilderingly simple. I could score three-pointers from any position effortlessly, and two-pointers were a given. Even on the highest difficulty, the disparity between my skills and the AI's was vast (a likely scenario for most players).

In all four playoffs games, after securing a lead in the first quarter, I spent the rest just killing time on the court, making the game clock run faster by shooting just before the 24-second shot clock expired. The playoffs couldn't end soon enough for me.

The versus mode does little to redeem the game - why should enjoyment depend on having another player? With a single gameplay mode and ten difficulty levels, adjusting them should have been enough.

In summary, no extensive final thoughts are needed; the essence of my critique is perfectly captured in the concluding remarks. It's a profound disappointment, with nothing more to elaborate on, marking a significant downturn in my gaming experience.