Games developed by Compile
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Aleste 2
Aleste 2 is a classic shooter game released for the MSX platform in 1989. Developed and published by Compile, this game is the sequel to the popular Aleste and continues to be a fan favorite among retro game enthusiasts. With its fast-paced and challenging gameplay, Aleste 2 offers an immersive experience for players.
The game is set in the year 2090, where humans are being attacked by a powerful alien race known as the Flett. As a member of the Aleste project, players must pilot a space fighter called the Aleste 2 and defeat the Flett army to save humanity. The game consists of eight intense levels, each with its own set of enemies and bosses to defeat.
One of the standout features of Aleste 2 is its unique power-up system. Instead of collecting power-ups throughout the game, players are equipped with a set of weapons at the start of each level. These weapons can be upgraded by collecting power orbs dropped by enemies. This adds an element of strategy to the gameplay, as players must decide which weapon to prioritize upgrading based on the enemies they face.
The graphics and sound of Aleste 2 are also noteworthy. The game boasts colorful and detailed backgrounds, and the sprites for the enemies and bosses are well-designed. The soundtrack, composed by Shinobu Ogawa and Masatomo Miyamoto, is a treat for the ears and perfectly complements the fast-paced action of the game.
In addition to its single-player mode, Aleste 2 offers a two-player mode where players can compete or cooperate with each other to complete the game. This adds an extra layer of excitement and replay value to the game, as players can challenge themselves or their friends to beat their high scores.
Aleste 2 also received positive reviews from gaming magazines of the time. Its challenging gameplay, varied enemies, and impressive power-up system were highly praised. The game's difficulty level has also been noted, with some reviewers remarking on its punishing but rewarding gameplay.
Despite its age, Aleste 2 continues to be enjoyed by gamers today. It has been re-released on various platforms, including the PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, attesting to its enduring popularity. Whether you are a fan of classic shooters or just looking for a challenging gaming experience, Aleste 2 is definitely worth checking out. Its engaging gameplay, unique power-up system, and fantastic presentation make it a standout title in the MSX library. So grab your space fighter and get ready to save humanity from the Flett invasion in this timeless shooter.
Bee & Flower
Bee & Flower is a classic MSX game that was released in 1983. Developed by the legendary game company Konami, this game quickly gained popularity among gamers for its unique concept and challenging gameplay. The game follows the adventure of Buzz the bee and Polly the flower as they work together to collect nectar and reach their respective goals in each level.
One of the remarkable aspects of Bee & Flower is its simple yet engaging storyline. The game takes place in a beautiful garden, and Buzz and Polly are on a mission to collect nectar to keep the garden healthy. However, they must be careful as there are various obstacles and enemies lurking around, ready to hinder their progress. This simple yet charming plot appealed to both young and old gamers, making it a hit among families.
The game's visuals were ahead of its time, with vibrant colors and detailed graphics that brought the garden to life. The attention to detail, such as the buzzing sound of Buzz's wings and the chirping of birds in the background, added to the immersive experience of the game. The design of the enemies, from angry ants to sneaky spiders, also added an element of variation to the gameplay, making it more challenging and exciting.
Bee & Flower's gameplay is where the game truly shines. Players must control both Buzz and Polly simultaneously, navigating them through obstacles and enemies to collect nectar and reach the end goal. The game's controls were simple, but it required a lot of coordination and strategy to maneuver both characters successfully. The levels progressively became more difficult, providing a steady increase in challenge as players advanced through the game.
One of the unique features of Bee & Flower is its two-player mode, where two players can play simultaneously, controlling each character. This cooperative mode not only added to the game's fun factor but also required excellent communication and teamwork between players. It was this aspect that made the game stand out among other single-player games of that time.
Bee & Flower received critical acclaim and was praised for its innovative gameplay and charming graphics. Its success led to many spin-offs and sequels in the following years, cementing its status as a cult classic in the MSX gaming community. Even after decades, the game has retained its popularity among retro game enthusiasts, and its simple yet addictive gameplay continues to attract new players.
C-So!
C-So!, released in 1985, is a classic MSX game that has stood the test of time. Developed by T&E Soft, this game is a must-play for any retro gaming fan. Known for its challenging gameplay, addictive mechanics, and impressive graphics, C-So! is a true gem of the MSX library.
The game follows the story of an alien who crash-lands on Earth and must navigate through various levels to find a way back home. The gameplay is a mix of platformer and puzzle-solving elements, making it a unique and engaging experience. The player must make use of the alien's abilities, such as flying and shooting lasers, to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.
One of the standout features of C-So! is its graphics. Released in 1985, the game's visuals were ahead of its time and still hold up well today. The vibrant colors, detailed backgrounds, and smooth animations make for an immersive gaming experience. The developers also made excellent use of the MSX's hardware capabilities, resulting in a polished and visually stunning game.
In addition to its graphics, C-So! is also known for its challenging gameplay. The levels are filled with tricky puzzles and tough enemies, making it a true test of skill. However, the game is not frustratingly difficult, and with some practice, players can progress and eventually beat the game. This balance of difficulty has contributed to the game's longevity and is one of the reasons it remains popular among gamers today.
Another notable aspect of C-So! is its soundtrack. Composed by acclaimed music composer Yuzo Koshiro, the game's music perfectly complements the gameplay and adds to the overall experience. From upbeat tracks during action sequences to more ambient tunes during puzzle-solving sections, the music in C-So! is a treat for the ears.
C-So! also has a unique feature that sets it apart from other MSX games of its time - a password system. This allowed players to save their progress and continue playing from where they left off, a feature that was not common in games back then. This made C-So! more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.
Casino Games
In Casino Games the player can visit a Casino with $500 in his pocket where he spends it on Casino Games. The games come in 3 different categories including card games, slot machines and pinball.
Once the player chooses their gender and last name, they are greeted by the woman at the information desk. The player can then choose whether to enter an account number if he/she has played before. If not, $500 is given by default and the player is on their way to play.
The categories and games available are
Card games
Poker - The player plays one of four available CPU players ranging from the easy player, Nancy, to the hardest player, Charley. The player engages in a one-on-one game using five-card poker where the player, after playing the ante, can bet, check or fold during one round, before replacing the unwanted cards for the second and final round of betting. The more skilled the opponent, the harder it is to bluff and they themselves will try to bluff more.
Blackjack - The standard game against the dealer in which the objective is to get a higher score than the dealer but not to exceed 21 points for the value of all the players' cards. The player can either hit (get another card) or stand (hold cards). It uses casino rules such as Double Down (if the score is less than 12 then the player can double the bet but have a maximum of one more card), Split (turn two equal cards into 2 separate hands), and Insurance (the player wins if the dealer gets 21 with two cards after playing extra). Bets can range from $10 to $100.
Baccarat - The player attempts to beat the dealer's score using only the last digit of the total cards (i. e. 10+4 = 4) if the score is less than six, the player receives one more card. If the player's score is higher than six or seven, the dealer may receive an extra card according to the complex rules. If the score is eight or more, no one receives an extra card. The bets can be between $10 and $100.
Slot machines
There are old standard fruit slot machines with 3 lines each. The player chooses a slot machine that comes in $1, $5, $25, $50, or $100 per chip. There is one chip per line up to a maximum of 3 lines, after which the player will increase the payout per line up to 3 times (9 chips maximum). Payouts range from 1 Cherry (2 chips) to Lucky Sevens (50 chips).
Pinball:
After choosing the table tilt of Gentle, Medium or Steep (slow to fast) the player is faced with a standard 3-ball pinball table called CASINOGAMES with drop targets, bumpers, rollovers and 2 levels of flippers. The plunger force is based on time and the flippers are controlled with left and B. There is only one table to play there is no money to win.
There is no amount to play for, however, if the player runs out of money then the game is over. When the player has won an amount, he can get an account number to save the game with a password.
Champion Billiards
Champion Billiards, a notable title released for the Sega SG-1000 in 1986, stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of early home gaming. This captivating title emerged at a time when video games were gradually finding their place in living rooms, and the SG-1000 was one of the pioneering consoles to deliver a diverse gaming experience. Champion Billiards aimed to provide players with an engaging simulation of the classic cue sport, delivering not just entertainment but also a sense of competition and realism that resonated with both casual players and billiards enthusiasts alike.
Upon starting the game, players are greeted with an interface that captures the essence of a traditional pool hall. The graphics, though simple by today’s standards, manage to convey the charm of a vibrant billiards setting. The green felt of the table, the polished wood railings, and the assorted colorful balls create an inviting visual feast that immerses users in gameplay. The developers succeeded in crafting an experience that feels authentic, with a physics engine that mimics the movement and interaction of the billiard balls—a groundbreaking achievement for the era.
Mechanics and controls are vital to any sports simulation, and Champion Billiards embraced this aspect with an intuitive layout. Players manipulate the cue by adjusting angles and power levels, creating a tactile experience that mirrors real-life billiards. This attention to detail allowed players not only to showcase their skills but also to hone their techniques over time. Players could engage in solo play against the computer or challenge their friends, making it a social activity that maximizes enjoyment around the console.
While many video games from that period tend to lean heavily on action and adventure, Champion Billiards found a unique niche within the realm of sports simulation. It encouraged strategic thinking and precision over frantic reflexes. The emphasis on tactics allowed for a deeper engagement with the game, helping it stand out amidst a sea of arcade-style titles. Players could spend hours perfecting their shots, experimenting with different angles, and attempting to outsmart their opponents.
In retrospect, Champion Billiards holds a cherished place in the history of video games as it reflects the early explorations into sports simulation. Though it may not have achieved the iconic status of other franchise games, its contribution to the genre is undeniable. As gaming continues to evolve, the roots of such nostalgic titles remind us of the importance of skillful play, patient strategy, and casual competition in a world that often leans towards fast-paced action. Champion Billiards deserves recognition for sowing the seeds of authenticity and engagement in the gaming industry, paving the way for future sports simulations.
Devil's Crush
Genesis releases in 1991 brought a weirdly theatrical action game called Devil’s Crush, where every corridor feels like it was carved from molten rumor and black humor. The premise sends you trudging through hellish arenas packed with hostile creatures and mechanical hazards that seem to enjoy watching you hesitate. Rather than relying purely on brute force, the design keeps nudging you to think in trajectories, timing windows, and spatial tricks, which gives the action a faint chesslike sting beneath its brawling skin.
What makes the experience memorable is its signature crushing concept. You are able to manipulate falling parts and press hazards, creating moments where enemies get pinned between lethal elements like cogs in a failed experiment. Combat is therefore less about trading hits in open ground and more about shepherding targets toward the right danger, sometimes by guiding their movement while you dodge incoming projectiles. Terrain can turn against you too, since moving obstacles and trap layouts change the rhythm of every exchange.
Stages march forward with escalating pressure: narrow routes, denser enemy waves, and more elaborate environmental gimmicks. You often feel rewarded for learning how each screen breathes, where delays in enemy paths become exploitable rather than frustrating. Controls stay responsive during hectic seconds, and the game’s momentum helps you recover from errors, though it still punishes poor positioning when crushing traps lock in. Boss fights lean into spectacle, turning the usual side-scrolling clash into something closer to a timed demolition.
Visually, the cartridge leans on high-contrast sprite work and dramatic animation, portraying flames, chains, and stone machinery with a gritty clarity that suits the setting. Backgrounds shift just enough to prevent visual fatigue, while character motion reads clean even when multiple threats appear at once. The soundtrack carries a hard-driving energy, mixing heavy rhythm with synth textures that sound appropriately infernal without drowning out the gameplay.
Long after its release, Devil’s Crush remains a cult curiosity for players who enjoy action games with puzzle-like instincts. Its biggest charm is the way it disguises strategy inside kinetic chaos, offering sharp learning curves and satisfying payoff when you finally orchestrate a perfect trap. Even if you approach it for its reputation, the deeper you go, the more it feels like a mischievous ride through engineered mayhem.
Disc Station Bessatsu: i miss you.
Disc Station Bessatsu: i miss you. is a unique entry in the SEGA Saturn library that captivates gamers with its blend of visual novels and interactive storytelling. Released in 1997, this title presented a refreshing narrative approach in a landscape dominated by action-oriented gameplay. Developed by the renowned visual novel company, Leaf, the game is recognized for its immersive storytelling, compelling character arcs, and emotional depth.
At its core, Disc Station Bessatsu: i miss you. revolves around the protagonist’s myriad interactions with several characters, each intricately crafted with a rich backstory. Players navigate through various scenarios, making choices that affect the narrative flow and the relationships with each character. The game is remarkable not only for its engaging plot but also for the emotional resonance it achieves, drawing players into profound themes of love, loss, and longing. This emotional engagement elevates the experience beyond mere gameplay, transforming the title into a poignant exploration of human connection.
One of the standout features of this title is its stunning visual presentation. The artwork showcases beautifully drawn characters and breathtaking backgrounds infused with a sense of nostalgia that evokes a powerful emotional response. The graphics effectively complement the narrative, immersing players in a world that feels both personal and expansive. Additionally, the soundtrack enhances the atmosphere, with melodies that underscore the emotional weight of the story. The combination of visuals and sound creates a captivating environment that resonates with players long after the screen fades to black.
With its innovative nonlinear storytelling, Disc Station Bessatsu: i miss you. encourages multiple playthroughs. Gamers are drawn into a world filled with choices that lead to different outcomes, making each session a unique experience. This replayability factor is crucial in a genre where player agency often leads to varied interpretations of narrative arcs. The ability to explore different paths not only enriches the gameplay but also fosters a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations.
While the game may not have achieved the mainstream success of other titles from the era, it has garnered a dedicated fanbase that appreciates its artistic ambition and depth. In a time when video games were often viewed as mere entertainment, Disc Station Bessatsu: i miss you. stood out as a profound compact of art and gameplay, paving the way for future visual novels and interactive storytelling. Its legacy endures, reminding players of the powerful emotional connections that can be forged through the medium of gaming.
Disc Station Special 4: Autumn Edition
Disc Station Special 4: Autumn Edition may seem like just another video game from the 80s, but for fans of the MSX computer system, it holds a special place in their hearts. Released in 1989 by Japanese game developer and publisher, Game Arts, this game was part of the popular Disc Station series that featured monthly releases of exclusive games and demos for the MSX platform. However, what made this particular game stand out was its unique autumn-themed edition, offering players a refreshing change from the usual sci-fi and fantasy themes of the time.
The game was a collection of four mini-games, each with its own distinct gameplay and visual style. The first game, titled "Doki Doki Majo Shinpan" (Heart-Pounding Witch Hunt), was a wacky puzzle game where players had to find witches hiding among a group of women by using a heart-shaped detector. The next game, "Masao-kun ga Ita" (Masao Was Here), was a simple yet addictive platformer where players controlled a character named Masao, who had to collect coins while avoiding obstacles. This game also featured charming pixel art graphics that were perfect for the autumn season.
The third game, "Mahjongg Crusaders" was a mahjong game with a twist. Instead of traditional Chinese symbols, the game featured cute chibi characters and autumn-themed tiles. This added a fun and playful element to the game, making it suitable for players of all ages. The final game, "Tower of Barbarians" was a role-playing game where players had to guide their characters through various levels of a tower filled with monsters and traps. This game also featured a unique gameplay mechanic where players could use spells by typing in commands on the MSX keyboard.
What made Disc Station Special 4: Autumn Edition even more special was its bonus content. The game came with a disc filled with demos of new upcoming games, interviews with game developers, and even a special MSX system utility tool. It was a treat for MSX enthusiasts who were always eager to try out new games and learn more about the behind-the-scenes of their favorite hobby.
The reception for Disc Station Special 4: Autumn Edition was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its varied gameplay and charming aesthetics. The game quickly became a must-have for MSX collectors and is still sought after by retro gaming enthusiasts to this day. It is a testament to the enduring appeal and quality of the game that it continues to be cherished and remembered fondly by fans more than 30 years after its release.
Dragon Quiz
In 1991, the gaming world was introduced to the MSX game, Dragon Quiz. Developed by Pony Canyon Inc., this game quickly gained popularity among MSX users for its unique gameplay and captivating storyline. As the name suggests, Dragon Quiz is a trivia game that tests players' knowledge on various topics, all while taking them on an adventure through a mystical world filled with dragons.
The game follows the story of a brave adventurer who is on a quest to defeat a powerful dragon who has been terrorizing the kingdom. However, the only way to defeat the dragon is by answering a series of challenging questions correctly. Players must navigate through different levels, each with its own set of questions, to ultimately reach the dragon's lair and claim victory.
Unlike other quiz games of its time, Dragon Quiz incorporated fantasy elements, making it a unique and engaging experience for players. The graphics were cutting edge for its time, with detailed and vibrant scenery that transported players to a world filled with magic and wonder. The soundtrack, composed by famed composer Miki Higashino, perfectly captured the fantasy theme of the game and added to its immersive quality.
One of the most impressive aspects of Dragon Quiz was its vast database of questions. The developers ensured that players were not given the same questions repeatedly, keeping the game fresh and challenging. The questions ranged from history and geography to literature and pop culture, making it a game suitable for players of all ages and backgrounds. This also adds to the game's replay value, as players can keep coming back for more knowledge-testing fun.
Dragon Quiz also had a multiplayer feature, allowing players to compete with friends or family in a battle of wits. This feature was especially popular in the MSX community, as it added a competitive element to the gameplay. Players could also create their own custom quizzes, further enhancing the game's versatility and longevity.
Despite being released nearly three decades ago, Dragon Quiz remains a beloved game among retro gamers. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with its charming graphics and enchanting storyline, has stood the test of time. In fact, the game has been re-released on various platforms, including mobile devices and virtual consoles, introducing it to a new generation of gamers.
