For gaming enthusiasts with a particular affinity for the classics, the Codemasters Collection 1 cartridge for the Evercade handheld console is akin to a treasure chest unearthed from a bygone era. Codemasters, now folded into the expansive EA family, once heralded from British origins as an independent developer and publisher. Their prolific output during the 1980s and 90s catered to an array of home computers and gaming consoles. The Codemasters Collection 1 stands as an homage to this prolific period, showcasing a range of games that endure in their appeal and challenge.
The inclusion of Sensible Software's titles especially enhances the luster of this collection. Codemasters' acquisition of Sensible Software in 1999 expanded its library with gems like Sensible Soccer, Cannon Fodder, and Mega-Lo-Mania. Sensible Soccer is not just a sports title but an institution within the genre, lauded as one of history's greatest football games. The Evercade cartridge features the Mega Drive/Genesis version, known as Sensible Soccer: International Edition, which retains the game's essence and magnetic pull, proving its timeless playability.
Cannon Fodder, another Sensible Software masterpiece, also makes its way onto the Evercade via its Genesis port. Though originally designed for mouse control on the Amiga system, the transition to gamepad-based play on the Mega Drive/Genesis was mostly smooth. There's an inevitable learning curve as players adjust, but the transition is well worth the effort for the tactical action that Cannon Fodder delivers.
Mega-Lo-Mania, breaking ground as a real-time strategy (RTS) game, completes the Sensible Software triad on this cartridge. Like Cannon Fodder, the absence of a mouse makes for a less intuitive experience; nonetheless, it offers a compelling and pioneering RTS experience for those willing to embrace its control scheme.
The remainder of this 17-game pantheon draws from the NES and Mega Drive platforms. These selections primarily spotlight Codemasters' adroitness in producing engaging games on a modest budget. The Ultimate Stuntman stands out from the pack, delivering a thrilling NES experience that merits newfound recognition.
Also featured are other lesser-known but enjoyable titles like Super Skidmarks from the Mega Drive, though not quite at par with its Amiga counterpart, and Psycho Pinball, a moderately entertaining pinball simulator originally released on the Mega Drive. Additionally, Tennis All-Stars makes a pseudo-debut as an "unreleased title," looking suspiciously akin to Pete Sampras Tennis, a Mega Drive title Codemasters circulated in 1994.
Embedding the quirky Cosmic Spacehead, and its precursor, Linus Spacehead's Cosmic Crusade, adds another layer of variety, illustrating Codemasters' foray into platforming mascots. Although not quite rivalling Mario or Sonic, the games exhibit an undeniable charm with striking visuals.
Codemasters Collection 1 is indisputably generous, cramming 17 titles onto Evercade's cartridge media. The assortment spans multiple genres and quality, ensuring that players from the era will find something to reminisce over. The Sensible Software offerings, particularly Sensible Soccer and Cannon Fodder, serve as twin beacons attracting gamers nostalgic for the glory days. For those, the rest is a welcome embellishment—an array of pixelated memories ready to be rediscovered or explored anew.
