Sweet Hell is a challenging retro-platformer boss rush game that pays homage to the MSX Home Computer era. Created for the Boss Rush Jam 2024 with the theme of “Exchange,” this game offers a nostalgic and demanding experience for players.
Sweet Hell plunges players into a nightmare where they must confront eight legendary monsters, each guarding a boss encounter. The gameplay is reminiscent of classic MSX games like Maze of Galious and La-Mulana, known for their challenging and time-consuming puzzle elements. The game’s difficulty level is akin to descending into the depths of hell itself, providing a true test of skill and perseverance.
In Sweet Hell, players assume the role of a character whose brother has seized the throne, setting up a formidable defense with legendary monsters. The narrative sets the stage for an intense battle against these bosses, adding depth to the gameplay experience.
Players can immerse themselves in the retro gaming experience by using a gamepad, joystick, or keyboard. The option to customize controls, including using “up” for jumping and switching between attack/jump commands, caters to those who appreciate the nostalgia of classic gaming. This feature allows players to relive the feel of old-school gaming with a touch of authenticity.
Keyboard Controls:
Arrows – Move
Z – Jump
X – Attack
P – Pause
H – Toggle scanlines
I – Enable Iron Man mode (available at the first screen only)
K – Swap jump/attack functions
J – Use “up” for jump
Sweet Hell captures the essence of classic MSX games while offering a fresh and challenging boss rush experience. With its blend of retro aesthetics, demanding gameplay, and a nod to iconic titles like La-Mulana, this game is a treat for players seeking a nostalgic yet exhilarating gaming adventure. Get ready to test your skills, face legendary monsters, and conquer the nightmare that is Sweet Hell.
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Stevedore for MSX is a captivating arcade puzzler that immerses players in the adventurous life of a dockworker named Stevedore. The game’s storyline revolves around Stevedore’s rush to finish his work at the docks and attend the annual summer party with the lighthouse keeper, whom he is deeply in love with. However, an unexpected event in the abandoned warehouse sets the stage for an enthralling quest to find the keys and escape, all while questioning the reality of the lighthouse keeper’s presence. The game promises an engaging experience filled with mystery and excitement.
#### Gameplay and Controls
The game is designed for single-player use and offers the option to play using either the keyboard or a joystick. Players control Stevedore’s actions, aiming to navigate through various challenges to find the key and enter the exit door of each room. The game features a life system, where players start with five lives and face the risk of losing a life if Stevedore encounters enemies, spikes, or water. Additionally, the game provides a convenient feature that allows players to restart at the beginning of the same room if they encounter insurmountable obstacles, albeit at the cost of losing a life.
To start the game, players can press the space key or the trigger on the joystick, initiating an immersive and challenging gaming experience.
#### Technical Requirements
“Stevedore” requires an MSX machine with 8K RAM and 16K VRAM, ensuring compatibility with a range of MSX systems. Additionally, the game can be played with an optional joystick, offering players flexibility in choosing their preferred input method for an optimal gaming experience.
#### Visuals and Sound
The game boasts high-quality graphics and engaging visual elements, enhancing the overall gaming experience. The screenshots showcase the game’s captivating visuals, creating an immersive environment for players to explore and navigate. Furthermore, the game is powered by MSXlib, ensuring a seamless and visually appealing presentation.
#### Availability
Players can access Stevedore through physical cartridges available at the MSX Cartridge Shop, providing an opportunity for enthusiasts to enjoy the game on their MSX systems. Additionally, the digital edition of the game is available for online play and download, offering accessibility and convenience for a wide audience of players.
Stevedore for MSX delivers an enthralling and challenging gaming experience, combining an engaging storyline with captivating gameplay mechanics. With its compelling narrative and immersive gameplay, “Stevedore” promises to captivate players and provide hours of entertainment.
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Trucho for MSX, developed by theNestruo and Kamino, offers players an engaging and immersive gaming experience set in the captivating world of Pescatore Island. With its focus on rod fishing, the game promises to deliver a tranquil and enjoyable gameplay experience for enthusiasts of the sport.
#### Gameplay and Features
The game invites players to explore Pescatore Island, a rod fishing paradise, in the story mode. Players can enjoy the leisure of fishing at their own pace, acquiring the necessary licenses to access different fishing areas on the island. The game’s concept and graphics, developed by Errazking, promise to provide players with a visually captivating and serene environment to indulge in the art of rod fishing. Additionally, the game’s music and sound, created by GreenWebSevilla, contribute to the overall immersive experience, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere of the gameplay.
#### Technical Requirements and Compatibility
Trucho is available as a 48KB linear ROM, compatible with MSX emulators, real hardware using flash cartridges supporting linear ROM, or through a ROM loader such as ODO. The game is designed to be played on home computers bearing the MSX mark, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of MSX systems. Players are advised to check their device compatibility and may explore the demonstration version before purchasing the full game for an optimal gaming experience.
#### Availability
Enthusiasts can access Trucho in both physical and digital formats. Physical MSX cartridges are available for purchase at the MSX Cartridge Shop, providing players with the opportunity to add the game to their collection. Additionally, the digital edition of the game is available for online play and download on itch.io, offering accessibility and convenience for a diverse audience of players.
Trucho for MSX promises to deliver a serene and immersive fishing experience, inviting players to embark on a tranquil journey through the captivating world of Pescatore Island. With its visually stunning environments, relaxing gameplay, and engaging soundscapes, “Trucho” offers players the opportunity to escape into the realm of rod fishing paradise.
