Konami Arcade Classics for PlayStation 1

Konami Arcade Classics

Showcasing 10 Konami arcade games from the early to mid-1980s, this collection is a must-have for fans of the originals. Included here are arcade-perfect translations of Pooyan, Scramble, Yie Ar Kung Fu, Roc'n'Rope, Shao Lin's Road, Circus Charlie, Super Cobra, Road Fighter, Time Pilot, and Gyrus. While these games aren't as well known as 1980s classics by Atari and Namco (think Asteroids and Pac-Man), they are by no means second-rate. In fact, Konami Arcade Classics surpasses similar collections by Atari and Namco in terms of bang for your buck, with only 2 of its 10 "hits" (Shao Lin's Road and Road Fighter) being duds. While the games' graphics and sounds are obviously dated, the gameplay here is just as addictive as it was in its day. In addition to standard retro video game package features such as a short animated movie intro and brief background history, Konami Arcade Classics is vibration function- enhanced. Even without this feature, a dual shock controller is recommended, as its analog stick is much truer to an arcade joystick than using the standard directional buttons. --Joe Hon Pros: Must-have for fans of the originals Vibration effects added to games (requires dual shock controller) Cons: Limited appeal outside of nostalgic and veteran gamers Shao Lin's Road and Road Fighter should've remained retired