The world of retro gaming continuously offers players the chance to relive cherished experiences from past console generations. Among the platforms facilitating this nostalgic return is the Evercade, a handheld gaming system that specializes in bringing classic titles back to life. The Renovation Collection 1, its latest release, is a significant addition for Sega enthusiasts as it presents a catalog of 12 Genesis/Mega Drive games once localized by the publisher Renovation.
This collection is noteworthy not for housing mainstream blockbusters but rather for assembling a lineup of what could be best described as 'Double-A' caliber games. These titles may not have been the titans of their time like Sonic or Zelda; however, some, such as El Viento and Gaiares, have cultivated a cult following and now command high prices in the vintage market. The collection offers an accessible and affordable vehicle for new players to explore these games.
El Viento stands out as an action platformer cultivated by the renowned team at Wolf Team, showcasing a combination of fast-paced gameplay and fantastical themes. Meanwhile, Gaiares is a legendary shoot 'em up recognized for its punishing difficulty and inventive "TOZ System," which lets players absorb enemy powers, offering strategic depth and variety to the bullet-ridden chaos.
Wolf Team also treats players to Arcus Odyssey, a game that at first glance might be mistaken for an RPG due to its isometric presentation. However, it's more accurately described as an adventure driven by action and exploration, breaking the archetype of its visual peers. Another pleasant surprise comes in the form of Granada, a top-down shooter exhibiting a deceptive simplicity in static images but, in reality, delivers a vibrant and challenging gameplay.
Sol Deace strips back some of the flashy presentation of its Sega CD counterpart, Sol Feace, yet manages to retain a core shoot 'em up experience that remains thoroughly engaging. From aerial to ground combat, Final Zone (also known as FZ Senki Axis) transitions players into a mech's cockpit, merging fun explosive gameplay with an exceptional score by Motoi Sakuraba, who later composed soundtracks for series like Tales and Dark Souls.
While this collection shines in various areas, it sometimes stumbles, particularly when it comes to its RPG offerings. Exile and Traysia, both plagued by translation issues and censorship compared to their original forms, might require some dedication from the player to extract the intended enjoyment.
The collection further indulges in action-platforming with not one, but two Valis entries: Valis: The Fantasm Soldier and Valis III. Released in the same year, these games are celebrated for their high-adrenaline levels and infamous character designs.
It must be mentioned, however, that amidst the gems, a couple of titles fail to contribute positively to this retro treasure trove. Dino Land's pinball mishaps and Beast Wrestler's unfortunate wrestling gameplay stand out as experiences not worth the player's time, falling stark contrast to the rest of the collection's nostalgic charm.
Renovation Collection 1 may host an array of games that don't necessarily hold the prestigious 'AAA' label, but it encapsulates a specific era of video gaming, characterized by creativity and a gallant pursuit of new ideas. Both Wolf Team and Telenet ventured to produce unique content, and while the results were invariably mixed, the creativity and ambition behind these works remain palpable.
For those with fond memories of Sega's 16-bit console, delving into the Renovation Collection 1 on Evercade can relive moments of triumph, curiosity, and sometimes bafflement at the early gaming culture. Despite the mixed bag of titles, the collection affords ample value by packing in a broad spectrum of experiences, save for the relatively inconsequential inclusion of Dino Land and Beast Wrestler.
This compilation, while highlighting games that may have been viewed as average during their pinnacle, proves indispensable to Genesis and Mega Drive fans. It's a reminder of a bygone era where gaming limitations were routinely challenged, and the sense of discovery in the medium was palpable. It offers a history lesson in entertainment form, marking an age where the sheer will to innovate laid the groundwork for the games we celebrate today.
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