The latest video from Green Pixel Retro Lab gives viewers a closer look at Commodore 64 games Triad and Gridtrap, two lesser-known games from publisher LiveWire Software UK. Rather than stick to surface impressions, the host loads up original cassette copies on actual C64 hardware, then switches gears to an emulator and debugger to dig into how the games were made. It’s a rare opportunity to study the quirks and craft of these nearly forgotten titles in real-time.
From the moment the cassette whirs to life, the experience feels grounded in the 1980s, complete with authentic load times and all the quirks that come with them. But this isn’t just a nostalgia trip—it’s a thorough review that considers how these games function under the hood. The host breaks down the graphics, examines how character sets were used, and dissects the sprite work, all with the help of a retro debugger that exposes how things tick.
Triad brings an arcade-inspired puzzle mechanic with a side of abstract flair. It’s fast-paced and demands a bit of patience to get the hang of the controls, but once the rhythm clicks, the design reveals itself. Gridtrap, on the other hand, feels more tactical, with an emphasis on spatial awareness and quick decision-making. Both games use the C64’s graphical capabilities in different ways, and it’s fascinating to compare their approaches.
If you’re curious about obscure software from the C64’s deeper catalogue—or just enjoy seeing old tapes come to life again—this video is worth your time. It’s one thing to hear about vintage games, and another to watch them operate on the hardware they were built for, cassette squeal and all.
