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Review of Commodore 64 Games from the Last Four Years (2020-2024)

The Commodore 64 (C64) has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years, thanks to a dedicated community of developers and enthusiasts. Despite its age, the C64 continues to inspire new game releases that capture the spirit of classic 8-bit gaming while incorporating modern design sensibilities. Here’s a look at some of the standout titles from the last four years.

1. Sam's Journey (2020)

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

"Sam's Journey" by Knights of Bytes is a platformer that sets new standards for C64 games. With its vibrant graphics, fluid animations, and expansive levels, it offers a gameplay experience that rivals many modern indie games. Players control Sam, a small hero on a big adventure, navigating through various worlds filled with enemies, treasures, and secrets.

Highlights:

• Stunning graphics for the C64
• Smooth and responsive controls
• Large, non-linear levels
• Multiple power-ups and abilities

2. Soul Force (2021)

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Created by Sarah Jane Avory, "Soul Force" is a horizontally scrolling shoot-'em-up that showcases the technical prowess of modern C64 development. The game features detailed sprite work, dynamic backgrounds, and a variety of weapons and power-ups. Its challenging gameplay and polished presentation have made it a favorite among C64 fans.

Highlights:

• High-quality graphics and sound
• Fast-paced and challenging gameplay
• Variety of enemies and bosses
• Multiple difficulty settings

3. ZZap! 64 Annual 2020 & 2021 Game Compilations

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

The "ZZap! 64 Annual" compilations are a nostalgic tribute to the classic ZZap! 64 magazine, featuring a collection of mini-games and demos. These compilations bring together new and innovative games from various indie developers, each showcasing their unique take on C64 game design. The annuals offer a delightful mix of genres and styles, providing something for every C64 enthusiast.

Highlights:

• Diverse selection of games
• Retro-inspired design and presentation
• Contributions from multiple developers
• Fun and varied gameplay experiences

4. Grid Pix Advent Calendar (2022)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"Grid Pix Advent Calendar" by LC-Games is a puzzle game that combines logic and pixel art. Released as an advent calendar, the game offers 24 puzzles, each unlocking a new pixel art image. It’s a relaxing and engaging game that exercises the brain while celebrating the holiday spirit in a unique way.

Highlights:

• Clever puzzle design
• Charming pixel art
• Easy-to-learn mechanics
• Seasonal theme

5. Monstro Giganto (2023)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"Monstro Giganto" by Badger Punch Games is a monster-fighting game that brings a fresh genre to the C64. Players control giant monsters in one-on-one battles, using a variety of attacks and strategies to defeat their opponents. The game features detailed sprites, smooth animations, and a compelling combat system.

Highlights:

• Unique monster-battling concept
• Detailed character animations
• Strategic gameplay
• Competitive multiplayer mode

6. Briley Witch Chronicles (2024)

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

"Briley Witch Chronicles" is a role-playing game (RPG) developed by Sarah Jane Avory. The game follows the adventures of Briley, a young witch, as she explores a rich and detailed fantasy world. With its engaging story, charming characters, and deep gameplay mechanics, it stands out as one of the best RPGs for the C64.

Highlights:

• Engaging narrative and characters
• Deep RPG mechanics
• Beautifully designed pixel art
• Extensive world to explore

Conclusion

The last four years have seen an impressive array of new games for the Commodore 64, showcasing the enduring appeal and versatility of this classic platform. From platformers and shoot-'em-ups to puzzle games and RPGs, these titles reflect the creativity and passion of the C64 community. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the C64 scene, these recent releases offer a wealth of enjoyable and nostalgic gaming experiences.

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Continued Review of Commodore 64 Games from the Last Four Years (2020-2024)

7. Super Mario Bros 64 (2021)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"Super Mario Bros 64" is an unofficial port of the classic NES game to the Commodore 64. Developed by a talented group of fans, this version captures the essence of the original while adapting it to the C64's hardware limitations. The game features the familiar levels, enemies, and power-ups that made "Super Mario Bros." a timeless classic.

Highlights:

• Faithful adaptation of the original NES game
• Smooth scrolling and responsive controls
• Iconic music and sound effects
• Impressive technical achievement for the C64

8. Rogue64 (2022)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"Rogue64" by Badger Punch Games is a roguelike dungeon crawler that brings procedurally generated adventures to the C64. Players explore dungeons, fight monsters, and collect loot in a challenging and replayable game. With its retro graphics and deep gameplay mechanics, "Rogue64" offers a compelling experience for fans of the genre.

Highlights:

• Procedurally generated dungeons
• Variety of monsters and items
• High replay value
• Classic roguelike challenge

9. Robot Jet Action (2023)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"Robot Jet Action" is an action-packed platformer developed by Arlasoft. Players control a jet-powered robot navigating through hazardous levels filled with enemies, traps, and obstacles. The game combines fast-paced action with precise platforming, delivering an exciting experience that keeps players on their toes.

Highlights:

• Fast-paced gameplay
• Tight and responsive controls
• Challenging level design
• Vibrant graphics and smooth animations

10. A Pig Quest (2024)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"A Pig Quest" by Antonio Savona is a whimsical platformer that follows the adventures of a heroic pig on a mission to save its friends. The game features charming pixel art, creative level design, and engaging mechanics. Its lighthearted tone and polished presentation make it a standout title for the C64.

Highlights:

• Charming and colorful graphics
• Creative and varied levels
• Engaging and accessible gameplay
• Humorous and lighthearted story

11. Knight Lore (2021)

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

"Knight Lore" is a remarkable port of the classic isometric adventure game originally developed by Ultimate Play the Game. The C64 version preserves the intricate puzzles, atmospheric visuals, and innovative gameplay of the original, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience for players.

Highlights:

• Faithful adaptation of the original game
• Atmospheric isometric graphics
• Intricate puzzles and challenges
• Smooth and responsive controls

12. Pang 64 (2023)

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

"Pang 64" is a fan-made port of the arcade classic "Pang" (also known as "Buster Bros."). Developed by Digital Monastery, this version captures the addictive gameplay and cooperative fun of the original. Players travel around the world popping balloons, each level introducing new challenges and hazards.

Highlights:

• Addictive and engaging gameplay
• Cooperative multiplayer mode
• Diverse and challenging levels
• Faithful recreation of the arcade classic

13. BoxyMoxy (2020)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"BoxyMoxy" by MegaStyle is a unique puzzle game that combines elements of Sokoban and match-three puzzles. Players must push blocks around the screen to create matches and clear levels. Its clever design and increasing difficulty make it a delightful and brain-teasing game.

Highlights:

• Clever and challenging puzzles
• Unique combination of game mechanics
• Increasing difficulty with new mechanics introduced
• Charming retro graphics and sound

14. Tower of Rubble 2 (2022)

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

"Tower of Rubble 2" by Megastyle is an arcade-style game where players must navigate a tower that is constantly crumbling. Quick reflexes and strategic thinking are required to survive as long as possible. The game’s simple premise and escalating difficulty make it highly addictive.

Highlights:

• Simple yet addictive gameplay
• Increasingly challenging levels
• Retro-inspired graphics and sound
• High replay value

Conclusion

The Commodore 64 continues to thrive thanks to a passionate community of developers and players. The last four years have seen a wealth of new games that not only pay homage to the system's rich history but also push the boundaries of what’s possible on this classic hardware. From faithful ports of beloved classics to innovative new titles, the C64's library keeps growing, offering endless enjoyment for both nostalgic gamers and new enthusiasts. Whether you're into platformers, puzzle games, shoot-'em-ups, or RPGs, the recent releases for the Commodore 64 are a testament to the enduring appeal and versatility of this iconic system.