S2010 E1 • Evolution of PC Audio - As Told by Secret of Monkey Island

Computer audio has come quite a way since 1981. Here is a short video I made comparing the major steps from the PC speaker to Adlib on up to today's chips! At least, from the perspective of the LucasArts classic, The Secret of Monkey Island. Monkey Island was chosen due to its having a wide breadth of versions of the same song, as compared to many other games which didn't support this many cards. The final version of the song is from the recent "Secret of Monkey Island Special Edition" on PC/360/PS3 - recorded using live instruments, NOT the CD-ROM version from the early nineties. Some clips recorded by me, others from Crossfire Designs, all awesome.

Première diffusion : 7 janvier 2010

S2010 E2 • Shadow Warrior - DOS PC Game Review

First came Duke Nukem, who really started the whole protagonist-with-a-personality trend. But who remembers Lo Wang? Shadow Warrior took all of the humor and ridiculous antics of Duke 3D and brought them to the East.

Première diffusion : 8 janvier 2010

S2010 E3 • IBM PC 5150 Vintage Computer System Review

Review from the perspective of a casual collector of video games: is the first "PC", the IBM 5150, worth buying today? A run-down of the history, pros and cons of the system and games, what to look for and be aware of when buying, as well as some of the other 8-bit computers and revisions in the 5150 lineage. MS-DOS has never been so fine.

Première diffusion : 15 janvier 2010

S2010 E4 • Blood - DOS PC Game Review

Duke Nukem 3D, Shadow Warrior, Blood: The trinity of major 3DR Build games. Released by Monolith, Blood is one disturbing yet awesome horror shooter. Do you like your hands bloody? Caleb does. And so does this reviewer.

Première diffusion : 24 janvier 2010

S2010 E5 • What DOS PC Should You Buy?

I get a number of questions regarding what PC I would recommend to play games for MS-DOS. There are quite a few answers so in this video I give my opinions on the topic. This is an experiment with something different instead of just game reviews... More LGR involving actual reviews next week!

Première diffusion : 29 janvier 2010

S2010 E6 • The Sims 3: High-End Loft Stuff Pack Review

Is the first stuff pack expansion for The Sims 3 worth buying? What exactly does it include? This review of the HELS Pack attempts to answer these questions and more.

Première diffusion : 2 février 2010

S2010 E7 • Carmageddon - DOS PC Game Review

A post-apocalyptic racing game where you can run down pedestrians and run down your opponents... or, you can even race if you want! And it's really well-made! What's not to love?

Première diffusion : 5 février 2010

S2010 E8 • A-Train - DOS PC Game Review

Railroad Tycoon and SimCity... two classic, different forms of gaming. What if you meshed them together? Why, it's already been done! Take the A-Train in this review of: Apologies for the prior upload with serious rendering errors, which resulted in what appeared to be a review on seriously bad drugs.

Première diffusion : 12 février 2010

S2010 E9 • Streets of SimCity - PC Game Review

Rocket launchers, machine guns and oil slicks. Why? Because apparently just building a city was so lame... it just had to be taken to the extreme, and so a vehicular combat game based around Sim City was born.

Première diffusion : 19 février 2010

S2010 E10 • Epic Pinball - DOS PC Game Review

PC pinball can be such a hit or miss situation... so when it turns out as solid and enjoyable as Epic Pinball, you have to take notice! The makers of Gears of War and Unreal got it right.

Première diffusion : 4 mars 2010

S2010 E11 • Sinclair ZX Spectrum 48k Computer Review

Name the top computers of the 1980's... okay, if the Spectrum wasn't on that list, you need to read up on your history! From an American gamer's perspective, is Sinclair's 48k wonder worth getting today? How about all of those PAL / NTSC problems? This video covers the newcomer bases in this review of:

Première diffusion : 12 mars 2010

S2010 E12 • MDK - DOS PC Game Review

Shiny is well-known for Earthworm Jim... but do you remember MDK? If you like bizarre yet solidly-made cyberpunk shooters, MDK is the game you need. And what does MDK really stand for anyways? Was it really Murder Death Kill? Oh well.

Première diffusion : 20 mars 2010

S2010 E13 • Microsoft Game Room Review

Love classic games? Wondering if Game Room is any good? If you'd like to build an arcade, Game Room for the 360 and Windows Live may be worth checking out. And it's free!* At the time of this review there are 30-something games with plans for many more via free DLC. *Not counting the games themselves, natch.

Première diffusion : 27 mars 2010

S2010 E14 • 3DO Game Console Review

Many consider the 3DO console to be a complete failure. But is this really the case? There are quite a few good games for it, but are they enough to merit buying a system? Get the history, pros and cons of the console in this review of:

Première diffusion : 1 avril 2010

S2010 E15 • NCR 386 MS-DOS Computer Overview

When the 386 came to market in 1986, it blew everything else away. Having one of these was considered "life in the fast lane" and until the 486 & Pentium, it was the ultimate CPU to use. This is an overview of the NCR Comten PC 386SX from 1989, a 386 processor-based sort of IBM PS/2 35SX ish clone, as well 386 machines in general. Also compares its speed to the IBM PC and XT range of machines. This is a response to some requests for footage of some of my systems "in action" instead of just a review. But that would be boring I think so lots of facts, commentary and history as well. Oh and I paid about $25+shipping for this PC, no monitor or extras. I have since added a 3.5" 1.44MB floppy drive, 210MB HDD and Sound Blaster 2.0 card.

Première diffusion : 7 avril 2010

S2010 E16 • Realms of Chaos - DOS PC Game Review

Nothing says early 90's like the platform game. But they weren't limited to consoles, oh no. Computers had Jill of the Jungle, Jazz Jackrabbit and of course, Realms of Chaos. This bloody fantasy side-scroller is remembered quite fondly in many an Apogee fan's mind, and for good reason. It RoCs. LAWL.

Première diffusion : 9 avril 2010

S2010 E17 • Compaq All-in-One 486 MS-DOS Computer Overview

This is an overview of the Compaq Presario 425 from 1993, a 486sx processor-based PC, as well 486 and Overdrive chipped machines in general. Also compares its speed to the 386 range of machines. During the early 90's the 486 ruled all. But when things started progressing so quickly, it wasn't enough and Overdrive CPUs and such addons became quite popular. Also following in the Macintosh's footsteps came all-in-one case designs for some PCs. This is a response to some requests for footage of some of my systems "in action" instead of just a review. But that would be boring I think - so lots of facts, commentary and history as well.

Première diffusion : 16 avril 2010

S2010 E18 • Paganitzu - DOS PC Game Review

A review of the awesome puzzle game from Apogee!

Première diffusion : 23 avril 2010

S2010 E19 • Super Mario Bros 2 Japan - NES Game Review

How many of you actually played SMB2 on the NES when it was new? How many of you were aware back then that, in America, it wasn't really SMB2? The story is somewhat common now but I think this awesome oddity is still worth a look. Is it really too hard for American players?

Première diffusion : 29 avril 2010

S2010 E20 • Compaq Contura Aero 4/33c MS-DOS Laptop Overview

Before the netbooks of today, there was a subcompact laptop computer that was rather impressive, the Contura Aero from Compaq. This is just an overview of the system and its features, showing how it runs and what it is (or is not) capable of. Sorry there's not more game footage, camera is acting up like mad and as such the frame rate was a bit choppy.

Première diffusion : 7 mai 2010

S2010 E21 • Playing Leisuire Suit Larry on an IBM PCjr

Trying to get certain games to run on a PCjr can be a job and a half. Even worse when you haven't played the game in years and don't know the specifics of the PC jr memory configuration. This shows the (aggravating) process of loading LSL: In the Land of the Lounge Lizards from its original floppies on an IBM PCjr MS-DOS computer. This was a 4:3 aspect ratio video, I have no idea why YouTube is forcing a zoomed widescreen output.

Première diffusion : 9 mai 2010

S2010 E22 • SimTower - PC Game Review

What if SimCity was more focused? Way more. Like, you only make one building instead of a city of buildings? Throw some Yoot into the mix and you've got Sim Tower, the excellent tower society simulation from Maxis and OPeNBooK Co.

Première diffusion : 14 mai 2010

S2010 E23 • IBM PCjr Vintage Computer System Review

Review from the perspective of a somewhat casual collector: is the first "home PC" from IBM, the PC jr, worth buying today? A run-down of the history, pros and cons of the system and games, what to look for and be aware of when buying. 3-voice square wave sound forever!

Première diffusion : 20 mai 2010

S2010 E24 • Leisure Suit Larry 1 - DOS PC Game Review

Adult games have been an omnipresent part of gaming since its earliest days, but no other comes close to the awesome that is Leisure Suit Larry. Specifically here we have LSL in the Land of the Lounge Lizards. This first game in the series is still one of the best, so prepare your blow-up doll and buy some lubbers for this review of: Al Lowe is the man.

Première diffusion : 28 mai 2010

S2010 E25 • The Sims 3: Ambitions Review

Is the second expansion pack for TS3 worth buying? What are the new careers and objects?... Find out in this review!

Première diffusion : 2 juin 2010

S2010 E26 • Zeliard - DOS PC Game Review

Action platform games for DOS weren't exactly too common before Epic and Apogee. Imagine my surprise when I found Zeliard from Sierra, developed in '87 by Game Arts! Zeliard... get into it. Zeliard for MS-DOS PCs, played on a Tandy 1000 RL/HD.

Première diffusion : 11 juin 2010

S2010 E27 • Top 17 Worst PC Games

Tired of all those lists of the "worst" games that are actually just commonly-known sub par games? I am. So I made this list. These aren't just "mediocre" games... this is my worst of the worst. Keyword: MY list. This is 100% subjective and my own opinion, nothing more. Consists of the top 17 worst PC games that I own. I actually collect these games somewhat, seeking out the worst crap as a matter of twisted pride and a weird guilty pleasure of perverted taste in games. Games were chosen on the basis of effort made vs end result, bugginess, lack of gameplay and/or fun, hype vs disappointment, and personal preference in comparison to other similar games. Why 17? Because it's an odd number, very odd.

Première diffusion : 17 juin 2010

S2010 E28 • The Need for Speed Game Review (Part I: 3DO & PC)

In this one-year LGR anniversary special, we take a look at The Need For Speed. The first game in the still-going series got its start on the forgotten 3DO game console, eventually being ported to DOS PCs. This is a history and in-depth review and comparison of the 3DO and PC versions of the game. Also be sure and check out Part II where we'll look at TNFS:SE, the PS1 and Saturn ports as well as import variations.

Première diffusion : 25 juin 2010

S2010 E29 • The Need for Speed Game Review (Part II: SE & Imports)

In the second half of this special, we take a look at The Need For Speed Special Edition. It wasn't the full sequel many hoped for, but it was still a great improvement to the game and also spawned new ports for the new consoles, as well as some Nissan-infused awesomeness. This is a history and in-depth review and comparison of the PC and console ports, as well as a look at the imports for Japanese consoles. Also be sure and check out Part I where we look at the original game with both the 3DO and MS-DOS PC versions.

Première diffusion : 2 juillet 2010

S2010 E30 • AstroDriller 3020 - PC Game Review

Like puzzle games? How about lasers? How about leveling up IN SPACE? Astro Driller 3020 may just be the ideal game for you, space-faring "casual" gamer - check this out for some sticky sweet opinion! And yes, Chronic Logic approached me to review this. And I thank them for the awesome opportunity (and the game)!

Première diffusion : 9 juillet 2010

S2010 E31 • Xbox 360 Slim vs. 360 Original

A comparison of the redesigned 360S console to the older model 360 Pro/Arcade/Elite models. Is it worth the hit to the wallet for previous owners? Or is it only for newcomers? I wasn't planning on doing one of these, but after requests for such a thing I figured I may as well quickly put a video together. And here it is, I hope it answers your questions as to relative "worth" of the machine. This does not replace the review this week, it's a supplement of sorts. Retro goodness comes this weekend.

Première diffusion : 15 juillet 2010

S2010 E32 • Shanghai II: Dragon's Eye - DOS PC Game Review

Mahjong solitaire is easily one of my favorite ways to relax. And as great as the real thing is I can't help but keep thinking... NEEDS MORE DOS!

Première diffusion : 17 juillet 2010

S2010 E34 • Jill of the Jungle - DOS PC Game Review

Sometimes you just need a good ol' action platform game to unwind. Mostly these were stuck in 16-bit console land, but not Jill! One of the earlier games with a female action protagonist, Jill is not to be missed. Also includes a little info on "Jill-inspired" games, like Onesimus, Xargon and Vinyl Goddess From Mars.

Première diffusion : 30 juillet 2010

S2010 E35 • Dragon's Lair - DOS PC Game Review

Don Bluth's "Dragon's Lair" is awesome. But the PC port from 1989? It leaves a bit to be desired. Overprotective copy protection, repetition, odd controls, repetition, bugs and repetition. At least it's more playable than that NES port.

Première diffusion : 6 août 2010

S2010 E36 • CP/M Vintage Goodies - Osborne 1 Computer & Kaypro IV

A slew of CP/M, Osborne, Kaypro and Heath retro computing software and hardware. Any tips or additional info is appreciated! The Heathkit / Zenith stuff is especially curious. I'm not sure what all it's actually for, system-wise. Possibly a H89/90. Turns out the Kaypro is a 4/83 + 88 making it compatible with MS-DOS. I also got the floppy drive working. There will be a proper and full-length review of these machines at some point.

Première diffusion : 10 août 2010

S2010 E37 • SimCity 2000 Network Edition - PC Game Review

SC2K is an undeniable classic. But time seems to have forgotten this ill-fated multiplayer version of the ultimate city simulator. Long before the online antics of Spore or The Sims Online, there was Network Edition.

Première diffusion : 13 août 2010

S2010 E38 • Macintosh 128k Vintage Computer Review

The first Macintosh. Not many computers are this legendary or can make the claim that even being from 1984 its direct descendants are still sold today. But is it worth buying one to a games collector? The Insanely Great Apple Macintosh 128 Computer System Thanks to Killgruz for assistance and inspiration!

Première diffusion : 20 août 2010

S2010 E39 • Top 17 Satisfying PC Game Weapons

There are tons of game weapons that FEEL great to use. But some rise above the rest and for whatever reason they just blow away the competition. Why? I don't know, this is totally subjective but it's something I've noticed and is just a list for fun. This is the top 17 most satisfying and gratifying PC game weapons I've come across. Games were chosen on the basis of that intangible feeling of awesomeness that I got when playing them. Whether it be from sound, visual feedback, "feel", etc. Why 17? Because it's an odd number, very odd.

Première diffusion : 27 août 2010

S2010 E40 • Zombie Wars - PC Game Review

Many 90's PC gamers remember Halloween Harry/Alien Carnage. But what about the sequel for Windows 3.1? Zombie Wars deserves a look, but it's rather hard to find the original CD.

Première diffusion : 2 septembre 2010

S2010 E41 • Repton - Acorn Electron Game Review

An overview of the game Repton by Superior Software, played on an Acorn Electron computer. Lazy Game Reviews Quickie #1. Review starts at 1:40. These LGRQ videos are a break from my "full length" reviews to simply show more arcade-like games and give my opinion on the game and how it plays. The goal is to do this in around 3 minutes for each game, unscripted and unrehearsed.

Première diffusion : 4 septembre 2010

S2010 E42 • The Sims 3: Fast Lane Stuff Pack Review

Is the second stuff pack expansion for The Sims 3 worth buying? What exactly does it include? This review of FLS answers these questions and more. As usual, this also covers patch items that launched with the expansion/stuff pack (VE trait, naming vehicles, driving preference, etc).

Première diffusion : 7 septembre 2010

S2010 E43 • Oh Mummy - ZX Spectrum Game Review

An overview of the game Oh Mummy by Gem Software in 1984, played on a Sinclair ZX Spectrum computer. Special thanks to Mark for the game donation! Lazy Game Reviews Quickie #2. These LGRQ videos are a break from my "full length" reviews to simply show more arcade-like games and give my opinion on the game and how it plays. The goal is to do this in around 3 minutes for each game, unscripted and unrehearsed.

Première diffusion : 10 septembre 2010

S2010 E44 • Ladder - Kaypro CP/M Game Review

An overview of the game Ladder by Yahoo Software, played on a Kaypro 4/83 vintage portable computer.

Première diffusion : 14 septembre 2010

S2010 E45 • Master of Magic - Commodore 64 Game Review

An overview of the game Master of Magic by Mastertronic from 1985, played on a Commodore 64 computer. Enjoy Sword & Sorcery and the early Ultimas? Well, this is actually a lot simpler than Ultima and the like, but still rather enjoyable. No XP or leveling up, just arcade fun. And yes, before someone mentions it I am aware the title track is an arrangement of Shibolet by Synergy. Doesn't make it any less rad though, Rob Hubbard took it and made it spectacular.

Première diffusion : 24 septembre 2010

S2010 E46 • CD-Man - DOS PC Game Review

An overview of the CD Man games by Creative Dimensions from 1989 and 1992. Pac-Man games are a dime a dozen but this is one that really stands out to me. Mainly because I played it endlessly as a kid, but also because it's just freaking cool. Covers the pre-release 1989 game and the v2.0 game from 1992.

Première diffusion : 2 octobre 2010

S2010 E47 • Amiga 500 Computer System Review

The Amiga is the stuff of pure legend. The A500 in particular is often looked back on with fond memories and no regrets. But is it worth buying one to a games collector today? An overview of the history, pros and cons of the machine. Many thanks to Borin81 for the Amiga!

Première diffusion : 10 octobre 2010

S2010 E48 • Slam! - Windows PC Game Review

Air hockey games. For Windows 3.1, there isn't much choice. Fortunately, there is Robert Epps' Slam! It's no Shufflepuck Cafe but it's still a nifty little shareware game from 1993, with solid controls, customization and evil AI. It's now freeware, and even works (mostly) on Windows 7!

Première diffusion : 14 octobre 2010

S2010 E49 • SkyStrike Plus - Atari ST Game Review

Flight sim games can wear you down after a while, but a good dogfighting game? Never gets old! This one by the makers of JetStrike is superb.

Première diffusion : 21 octobre 2010

S2010 E50 • The Sims 3: Late Night Review

Is the third expansion pack for TS3 worth buying? What are the new activities and objects? Find out in this review! As usual, this also covers the updates for the main game that release on or near the initial launch date of the expansion (such as half-walls, grouping, body sliders, zodiac signs etc). In this case it covers the LN patch (Patch 17) released with the expansion on 10/26/10.

Première diffusion : 27 octobre 2010

S2010 E51 • Minecraft on Halloween Part 1 of 2 "Intro"

This is mainly for my own posterity's sake, nothing special. But also several have requested that I make a video showing my Minecraft world. On this Halloween day, which also happens to be the day Alpha was updated, I thought it might be amusing to some of you. Or perhaps not. It may be a bit hard to hear me at times, as the volume of the game was higher than I thought, my apologies. That's what happens when there is no editing, folks! And yes, all you see was made by myself, block-by-block with individually mined resources, over the course of 30-40 hours or so. I really don't know for sure, lost all track of time like only the best games can do.

Première diffusion : 31 octobre 2010