This puzzle experience by Lowtek Games, is centered around navigating a tapeworm through cassette tape-themed levels. The gameplay is grid-based, where the player must collect music notes while avoiding obstacles and navigating through a series of increasingly complex mazes. The tapeworm character adds a layer of strategy to the game, as players must manage its length while maneuvering through tight spaces and around enemies. The game introduces cooperative play, allowing two players to solve puzzles together, which adds a significant layer of depth to the gameplay by requiring coordinated actions and planning.

The game distinguishes itself with its art style and level design, which creatively play into the cassette tape theme, offering a vibrant and engaging visual experience. The introduction of fleas as partygoers who need to be led to their drinks provides a unique puzzle element, where players use the tapeworm to guide them safely through levels. The soundtrack, while starting off mellow, evolves to fit the disco theme more closely, enhancing the gameplay with upbeat tunes as players progress.

In tthis MSX platform puzzle game by Nestor Sanchez (also author of Trucho – find our quicklook on episode 53) players navigate through levels by strategically moving boxes to solve puzzles, a mechanic that requires thoughtful planning to progress. The game is structured around the simple yet engaging concept of using boxes to overcome obstacles, reach higher platforms, or block enemies. With its roots in classic gaming, Stevedore challenges players with its level design, which cleverly integrates various puzzles into a cohesive and enjoyable experience. The puzzles increase in complexity as players advance, introducing new enemy patterns and environmental hazards that keep the gameplay fresh and challenging.

Visually, Stevedore embraces the limitations of the MSX platform to deliver a nostalgic aesthetic that complements its gameplay. Each level is designed with attention to detail, offering visual cues and obstacles that are both functional and thematic. The game’s sound design further enhances the retro experience, with a soundtrack that fits the game’s pace and atmosphere. Despite its challenging nature, the game encourages experimentation through its trial-and-error approach, rewarding players for exploring different strategies to solve puzzles. Stevedore stands as a notable addition to the MSX library, offering a satisfying blend of traditional puzzle-platforming with innovative mechanics.

This minimalist Gameboy adventure brings a dungeon crawler that distills the genre to its bare essentials. The game presents a series of static screens, each a door to a new decision point where players navigate the dungeons’ depths with simple button presses. This approach, reminiscent of early text adventures, strips down the dungeon crawling experience to its narrative and strategic core, where every choice can lead to unforeseen consequences. Despite its simplicity, the game’s well-crafted artwork stands out, inviting players into its carefully drawn world.

The charm of Traumatarium lies in its unpretentious complexity, making it a unique addition to the Gameboy‘s library. Its Kickstarter origins hint at a game that’s not only a labor of love but also a testament to the enduring appeal of handheld gaming. While the gameplay may seem overly straightforward at first glance, it’s this simplicity that underscores the game’s appeal, offering a quick yet engaging escape into a world of fantasy and decision-making.

This Gem for the Megadrive is a platformer that introduces an innovative mix of procedurally generated levels, crafting, and cooperative gameplay, distinguishing itself within the genre. Players can select from three distinct characters, each bringing unique abilities that influence gameplay strategy, especially when navigating through the game’s dynamically generated environments. This feature ensures a fresh experience in each session, bolstered by a robust loot system that rewards exploration with character upgrades and items.

The game’s visual presentation and smooth animations showcase the capabilities of the Megadrive, creating an engaging world that’s both visually appealing and challenging. Cooperative play is a standout feature, allowing two players to join forces and strategize together, enriching the overall gameplay experience.

Listen to the in-depth dedicated episode 39