The 1980s marked a pivotal era for video games, with companies like Nintendo rising to prominence. While the NES became a household name, other developers also contributed to the gaming landscape. This November, eight classic sports titles from that decade are making a comeback in remastered form on the Nintendo Switch.
Reliving the Golden Age of Epyx Sports Titles
Pixel Games has announced the release of “The Epyx Games: Sports Collection,” arriving on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch OLED on November 28, 2024. This collection features a nostalgic lineup of beloved Epyx titles:
- Summer Games (1984)
- Summer Games II (1985)
- Winter Games (1985)
- World Games (1986)
- Championship Wrestling (1986)
- California Games (1987)
- The Games – Winter Edition (1988)
- The Games – Summer Edition (1988)
Epyx dominated the C64 sports game scene in the ’80s, and this collection allows players to relive over 50 athletic events across these eight classic titles. The collection includes the iconic “California Games,” a best-seller of its time.
From Skiing to Skateboarding: A Diverse Range of Sports
“The Epyx Games: Sports Collection” offers a diverse range of sporting experiences. Players can compete for gold in various events, from skiing and skateboarding to wrestling, roller skating, BMX, bobsledding, and much more. Known for their impressive animation and immersive gameplay, some Epyx titles were even developed with input from former Olympic athletes, enhancing their authenticity.
Modern Enhancements for a Classic Experience
While retaining the charm of the original games, the remastered collection incorporates modern enhancements. These include:
- Retro CRT filters and scaling options
- Integrated game instruction manuals
- Save game functionality
- Customizable right and left-hand control presets
- Recreated game boxes with 360-degree rotation
Pricing and Availability
The “Epyx Games: Sports Collection” will be available on the Nintendo eShop on November 28, 2024. The pricing has yet to be announced, but it is anticipated to be within a reasonable range, possibly between $10 and $20.
A Nostalgic Trip Back to the ’80s
This collection offers a fantastic opportunity for both veteran gamers and newcomers to experience the classic sports games that defined an era. With its modernized features and diverse selection of titles, “The Epyx Games: Sports Collection” promises a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of gaming.
