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Tag Archives: Commodore 64

Modern Retro Games, Nintendo, Steam

ZX Spectrum and C64 Classic “Head Over Heels” Steps Back into the Spotlight on PC and Switch

Posted on by Owen

Originally released in 1987, Head Over Heels first captured the imaginations of gamers on the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64 with its inventive isometric puzzle-platform gameplay. Created by developer Jon Ritman and artist Bernie Drummond, it stood out for its dual-character mechanic: players could switch between “Head,” known for impressive jumps, and “Heels,” who excelled in speed. By working in tandem, the pair navigated a labyrinth of cleverly designed rooms, solving puzzles that demanded equal parts timing and strategy.

Over time, Head Over Heels gained cult status among enthusiasts of 8-bit computing, thanks to its charming graphics, distinctive abilities system, and a depth of play that rivalled many contemporary releases. Even decades later, it is often cited as a quintessential example of isometric design done right, alongside other legendary titles such as Batman (1986), which shared similar mechanics.

Now, according to recent updates, this classic is returning for a new generation on PC and Nintendo Switch. The remaster promises polished visuals that retain the game’s original feel, while introducing a smoother framerate, refined controls, and enhanced audio. Early demonstrations suggest that the developers have been careful to preserve the spirit of the original, ensuring that each puzzle remains faithful to its 8-bit roots. Additional checkpoints, a more intuitive item-collection system, and a dynamic help feature are also rumoured, aiming to keep the experience accessible without sacrificing the core challenge.

This revitalised release illustrates a wider movement in retro gaming: bringing classic titles to modern platforms while respecting their heritage. In the case of Head Over Heels, fans can look forward to reliving an iconic puzzle adventure, while newcomers will get a taste of 1980s innovation in a freshly updated format.

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Modern Retro Games, New Games

Sky Shapers: A New Vertical Shmup for the Amiga

Posted on by Owen

Amiga fans looking for a fresh challenge in the beloved vertical shoot-’em-up genre will be pleased to learn about Sky Shapers. Announced in January 2025, this upcoming title has caught the attention of classic arcade aficionados who fondly recall the likes of 1942 and TwinBee. As the name suggests, Sky Shapers places players in control of a futuristic fighter craft, navigating an upward-scrolling battlefield teeming with wave after wave of airborne adversaries. The rapid pacing is complemented by colourful graphics, reminiscent of late-80s arcade hits, while the responsive controls evoke the tactile thrill of those early joystick-and-button experiences.

Credit: Indie Retro News

Early previews indicate that Sky Shapers offers carefully considered level design, ensuring new arrivals can find their footing without dampening the excitement for seasoned shmup veterans. The difficulty curve, a crucial element of any good shooter, appears finely tuned to challenge reflexes and reward strategic thinking. A neat technical flourish is the inclusion of smooth sprite handling, which many gamers will appreciate, particularly on older platforms. The developers have highlighted their commitment to retaining the “pick-up-and-play” quality that defined the original vertical shooters, aiming to offer a truly classic experience with modern refinements.

Vertical scrolling shoot-’em-ups have long been a staple of retro gaming culture, tracing their roots to early arcade cabinets. Although each generation introduced new hardware capabilities, the core appeal of racing skyward while blasting enemies has remained. Sky Shapers seems poised to carry on that tradition—offering vibrant pixel art, quick reflex-based gameplay, and a familiar yet polished style that is sure to resonate with fans of classic shoot-’em-ups. With continued support from the retro community and dedicated developers pushing the hardware’s limits, Sky Shapers stands ready to become a highlight in 2025’s growing catalogue of vintage-inspired titles. You can check out the project on Amiga Shop, with more information at Indie Retro News who do a great job of reporting on all of the scene for the retro home computers.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Arcade, Collecting, Fun Things

Unreleased Commodore 64 Game Magnum Force Discovered After Decades

Posted on by Owen

In a thrilling find for lovers of classic gaming and C64 fans, an unreleased Commodore 64 title, Magnum Force, has surfaced after more than 30 years in obscurity. Unearthed on a Codemasters 30 games CD pack, this scramble-like clone never hit the shelves as a standalone release, making its discovery a delightful surprise. Preservationists, notably from the Games That Weren’t project, have brought this hidden piece of history to light, offering fans a chance to peek into the past.

Credit: Indie Retro News

The game draws inspiration from Scramble, a landmark title released by Konami in 1981. As one of the earliest side-scrolling shooters, Scramble had players piloting a spaceship through hazardous landscapes, taking down enemies in a fast-paced challenge. Its influence rippled through the gaming world, shaping the shoot ‘em up genre. Magnum Force, crafted by Gavin Raeburn for Codemasters, sought to echo that excitement on the Commodore 64—a machine celebrated in the 1980s for its remarkable visuals and audio.

What makes this find curious is its unreleased status. Codemasters, known for budget-friendly offerings, might have shelved Magnum Force for quality concerns or strategic reasons, only slipping it onto a compilation disc as an extra. Described as a “sooped up Scramble clone,” it boasted end-of-level bosses and power-ups—features that spiced up the original formula. Yet, its obscurity persisted, likely because few snapped up that particular CD pack.

This discovery highlights the vital work of preserving gaming’s legacy. Efforts by groups like Games That Weren’t ensure these forgotten titles aren’t lost forever, giving us insight into the creativity and hurdles of early developers. For those who cherish the Commodore 64’s golden era, Magnum Force is a fascinating artefact, sparking wonder about other lost games still out there.

Protect your treasured classics with RetroShell, crafted to safeguard your vintage collection. Stay in the loop with retro gaming news by subscribing to our free Substack, landing in your inbox every Monday!