Game: 198x| Release: June 20th, 2019 | Genre: N/A| Publisher: Hi- Bit Studios| Developer: Hi- Bit Studios
Being a kid who grew up finding an escape in video games, 198X hits home on a high level
198x has been on my to play list for quite some time now. I have amassed a giant fucking collection of steam games and 198X has sit on the top of the pile for a few years. Before I dive into this review I would like to say a few things. You are probably reading this because you know I am the PSX Slayer and are wondering where I have been and what is going on in my life. Rest assured, I shall return one day to full streaming capacity on Twitch this year. Q3 I am expecting. I have lost pretty much everything I once owned and gained. Car – Gone, Girl – Gone, Apartment – Gone, Video Games and Consoles – Gone. So with that being said I am just doing some random streams of random games until I get a quality Playstation back in my grasp. With that being said… I played this game at the perfect time in my life as it opened some weird memories from my life… so lets dig into this shit.
198x follows the story of a kid who is told by his mom to never go to the arcade, well homie says fuck you bitch and goes to the arcade and he becomes ONE OF THEM! One of those soulless ungovernables that spend their left-over drug money on round after round of Street Fighter II. This is a very unique game as it tells a story of this kid by the games he is playing in the arcade.
Each stage of 198x is an element of the kid’s own story and then it is complimented quickly by a cutscene of what is transpiring in the kid’s life
The kid wanders down to the city all the time to play in the arcade. So it is fitting the first stage is a knock off of the second stage of the first Final Fight, the subway stage. It kinda explains how this kid be getting from his home to the arcade. The first thing you will notice is that the soundtrack is a fucking banger. Once the opening credits rolled and I saw the name Yuzo Koshiro I knew why.
The second stage of this game is an R-Type like space shooter which depicts the kid’s escape from reality into his fantasy world of the arcade. This is when you start to realize this game has a deep story developing, even if each stage is like 10 minutes at most long.
After this stage we are introduced to this rebel chick the kid goes to school with in a cutscene, even though homie never talks to her, she definitely did some shit to him because the dude sees her car then you are playing an Outrun like arcade game. This is one of the coolest parts of the game. The Outrun stage kicks ass. It is super-fast and the music bangs. I don’t know if there is a way to actually finish this stage or not, but the timer runs out and you are greeted with yet another cut scene of the kid’s personal struggles.
Fourthly we play a game that is like Shinobi, if Shinobi is constantly running, called Shadowplay. This is the most frustrating of the 5 games. This stage is hard as shit in comparison to the 4 other super easy stages you beat in this game. There are all these spikes and shit you have to avoid and when you continue you have to start from a checkpoint unlike every other stage where you just pick up from where you died at.
Lastly, we play an arcade RPG like game that blurs the line between the kid’s reality and the kid’s escape from reality. The game is called Kill Screen and the game keeps yelling shit at you like its your mom telling you to clean your room and that video games are stupid.
In conclusion, though the game is super short, it is very imaginative and unique. I beat this shit in like an hour and half. If you are looking for a super short game to play with some great graphics and an excellent story and a killer soundtrack. Check out 198X.
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Rating
Lets see what AI has to say about 198X…
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Genre: Action, Adventure
Developer: Hi-Bit Studios
Publisher: Hi-Bit Studios
Platform: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Introduction:
198X is an action-packed adventure game developed and published by Hi-Bit Studios. Released on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch, 198X takes players on an enthralling journey through the realm of retro gaming. This captivating title, with its evocative storytelling, nostalgic aesthetics, and thrilling gameplay, aims to transport players back to the beloved era of the 1980s.
Gameplay:
198X presents a unique blend of different gaming genres, creating a compelling and immersive experience. Players embark on a coming-of-age story as they assume the role of a teenager who seeks solace in the world of video games. Throughout the game, players encounter various arcade-style games, each representing a different genre of the era. From side-scrolling beat ’em ups to racing games and shoot ’em ups, 198X captures the essence of the ’80s gaming culture.
The gameplay mechanics are well-crafted, providing a nostalgic feel while incorporating modern elements. Players will find themselves engrossed in the challenges of each game, striving to achieve high scores and unlock new levels. The controls are intuitive, ensuring a seamless transition between different game genres, and the visuals exude the vibrant aesthetics of the ’80s arcade scene.
Storyline:
The narrative of 198X is a poignant exploration of adolescence, escapism, and self-discovery. Set in the suburban town of Suburbia, players follow the protagonist as they navigate the challenges and conflicts of their teenage years. The game beautifully captures the struggles, dreams, and aspirations of youth, using video games as a means of escape and self-expression.
Through emotionally charged cutscenes and introspective monologues, 198X offers a glimpse into the protagonist’s personal growth and the profound impact of gaming on their life. The storyline is both captivating and relatable, evoking a sense of nostalgia while addressing universal themes that transcend the confines of time.
Visuals and Sound:
198X delivers a visual and auditory feast that pays homage to the iconic aesthetics of the ’80s. The pixel art graphics masterfully recreate the look and feel of classic arcade games, transporting players back to the golden age of gaming. The attention to detail in the visuals, from the neon-lit streets to the arcade cabinets, is commendable and adds an extra layer of authenticity.
Complementing the visuals is an exceptional soundtrack that blends synthwave, chiptune, and electronic music. The mesmerizing tunes perfectly capture the essence of the ’80s era, creating an immersive audio experience that enhances the gameplay and further immerses players in the world of 198X.
Conclusion:
198X is an extraordinary gaming experience that successfully merges nostalgia with modern sensibilities. Its captivating storytelling, diverse gameplay, and visually stunning aesthetics make it a standout title in the gaming landscape. By capturing the essence of the ’80s gaming culture and exploring the emotional journey of the protagonist, 198X offers a unique and introspective adventure that resonates with players on a deep level.
