Truxton, Hellfire, Fireshark, & Zero Wing! Retro-Bit Taoplan Collection Review

In this Episode, we unbox and check out the Retro-Bit Toaplan Shooters Collection set for the Sega Genesis.Show more

Chapters:
Introduction 0:00
Unboxing 1:41
Fire Shark 11:45
Hellfire 13:53
Truxton 17:39
Zero Wing 19:37
Conclusion 22:35

Retro-Bit has a history of bringing some of the most desired retro games, working with the original creators, and re-releasing them as collector's editions with amazing pack-ins. To-date, they have released games on the original Nintendo Entertainment System and Super NES. Now they are turning their attention to the Sega Mega Drive and Genesis with 4 of the greatest Shmups from Toaplan. Limited collectors editions of Fire Shark, Hellfire, Truxton, and Zero Wing are now here, and they are worth the wait.

It is common to see original versions of these titles sell for several hundred dollars on eBay or at gaming conventions. That puts some of the greatest titles for the system outside the reach for many who would love to play them, and many simply turn to emulating these titles instead. Retro-Bit will be selling these cartridges as either individual cartridges for $44.99 each, or as a 4-pack with all four titles for $159.99.

Similar to previous limited edition box sets Retro-Bit has offered in the past, these Collector’s Editions follows a similar layout to other selections. Exclusive extras have been provided for these limited release, including:

- Special interview with developer Masahiro Yuge (specialized per game)
- Full-Color, Individually Numbered Certificate of Authenticity
- Exclusive Vintage 80’s Puffy Sticker Set
- Vivid & Detailed Instruction Booklet filled with artwork and tips to enhance gameplay
- Premium and original art prints
- 16-Bit Cartridge with unique and vibrant colors per game
- Collector’s Embossed Outer Sleeve with colorful and custom design
- Reversible cartridge cover with embellished artwork

If you decide to purchase all 4 games in the Collector's Set, you will also receive a commemorative slipcover, a collectible Zero Wing enamel pin, and a Thank You Card from Mashiro Yuge.

As per normal, the level of quality and detail here is amazing. Retro-Bit has made these classics available, while in limited quantities, to the masses in such a way that shouldn't affect the value of the originals. The Cartridges themselves, the cases, everything says "Limited Edition". That's respect for the collecting community.

Having not played these before, I was truly going into each game blind. I was totally blown away by how awesome and fun these titles all were, and each one feels connected to the other yet original enough to stand on their own. The controls are tight, I never felt a death was unfair, but they are also not breeze-thru easy either. There's a definite challenge level here, and it hits you hard and fast.

Why It RoX:
- 4 Classics available for less-than what 1 original sells for
- Amazing pack-ins
- Retro-Bit continues to improve their bonus items
- They just look and feel right
- Amazing game play

What Could Be Improved:
- Wider availability
- If you didn't pre-order these will be hard to come by
- Not currently in my Game Eye app

Should You Buy One?
If you have any interest in shooters, like at all, I cannot recommend these 4 titles highly enough. I am not a Shmups aficionado by ANY stretch, but I had so much fun playing these titles. Now these are extremely limited in their release, less than 4000 of each title, so if you are even thinking about getting them and you have the option to add to your cart, do it. You won't regret it. This way you are assured that all your base are belong to you!

#AllYourBaseAreBelongToUs #RetroBit #Toaplan

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