Video games have changed a lot over time. Some games use traditional playing platforms that require a hand held controller, others use movement sensitive remotes, then there are some that track your body movements to control the game. Games now also have some pretty impressive graphics that are almost movie quality. Despite everything though, nothing beats old school games and graphics. There are a bunch of different smartphone game apps out on the market right now, but the best ones are the retro game apps. Many game makers from the past have decided to turn their original old school games into smartphone apps letting everyone have a little bit of nostalgia in their pockets.
Space Invaders
Space Invaders by Taito gives you the old arcade experience by including on screen controls that mimic the original arcade game. The app lets you choose different screen displays so you can remember it as it was in 1978. Users can choose from color, monochrome, cellophane overlay, or a picture background for the screen. Not only does this app take you back to playing at the arcade, but it also gives you rare materials from the original development of the game. This app is available through iTunes and Google Play for $4.99.
Myst
Myst was a groundbreaking game when it came out in 1993. The game was one of the first that utilized the entire space of a CD, and was also a point-and-click game that made users think about what their next move should be. Now you can immerse yourself into the world of Myst no matter where you are. As you explore you are trying to help reveal the back story of Atrus, an explorer, by finding book pages that take you to different Ages, or worlds. Myst and the sequel Riven have been made into apps for iPhones, iPod touch, and iPad using the iPhone mode. This blast from the past will let you relive every moment while rediscovering the Ages. The app costs $4.99.
Wolfenstein 3D
Wolfenstein 3D was originally released in 1992 and made history by being the first, first person shooter game. The app takes you back to all of the Nazi killing fun that you remember. With this app, the player can control the movements by either using the touch screen or tilting the device. The iPhone app includes all 6 of the original chapters and 60 levels. Inside the game you can also find stolen treasure, ammo, and weapons. There are several versions of the app and can be played on iPhones, LG phones, HTC phones, or other android phones.
R-Type
The 1980’s game is back. R-Type is a side-scrolling shooter game that has you flying through space to take down the Bydo Empire. There are 8 levels for the game and two difficulty levels to choose from. Players also have the options to use new weapons and upgrades for their quest to bring down the evil empire. The app is $1.99 for Android phones and $0.99 for iPhones.
Pac-Man
Pac-Man has been played on many different platforms, like arcade, Nintendo, Game Boy, XBox, and now smartphones. Pac-Man, and his lady Mrs. Pac-Man, can now be seen on just about every type of smartphone on the market today, including Blackberry and Windows 7 phones. Namco has several different versions available of the game and they also range in price. The arcade version of Pac-Man is $3.99 while the demo version of Pac-Man Championship Edition is free. The smartphone version of this game should take you back to the 80’s with ever chomp.
Sonic the Hedgehog
This is another side-scrolling game that was originally released in 1991. The app gives you controls towards the bottom of the screen that are like the Sega Genisis controller. Relive every loop-de-loop and battles again the evil Dr. Eggman. The game has Seven Zones as well as Special Stages to collect Chaos Emeralds. The game is $2.99 and is only available for iOS devices. Sega has put out sequels to the original Sonic the Hedgehog game through iTunes as well.
