198X is the EPCOT of retro gaming — in the best way

Ryan Houlihan June 22, 2020 Style 198X will take you through a more beautiful, more idealized version of the '80s and '90s.

198X began its life as a Kickstarter game for the PC from Hi-Bit studios, based out of Stockholm. In the game, you play as Kid, a young woman looking for an escape from suburbia through the glorious world of video games.

PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and coming soon to Xbox One.

Imagine if Stranger Things or San Junipero had used their '80s accoutrement in service of their stories rather than as drag personas. Then imagine you got to play Sega Genesis. That's 198X.

There are 5 retro game genres presented throughout the story. Each gives you a taste of its particular genre's ideal without overwhelming the player with difficulty.

Beat 'Em Up

Think Streets of Rage Think Final Fight Think TMNT

Shmup

Think R-Type Think Raiden Think Fantasy Zone

Racing

Think Out Run Think Super Monaco GP Think Super Hang On

Ninja

Think Ninja Gaiden Think Shinobi Think Strider

RPG

Think Final Fantasy Think Earthbound Think Phantasy Star

The visuals are captivating, the music is stunning and, save for some iffy jump mechanics, the gameplay is tight. A $9.99 price point makes 198X a must buy for even the most casual of retro enthusiasts and indie gamers alike.

Beat 'Em Up

Shmup

Racing

Ninja

RPG

Thanks for reading, head home for more!

Thanks for reading,
head home for more!