Freeze64 Issue 77 has arrived, and it’s another treasure trove of Commodore 64 goodness. Editor Vinny Mainolfi takes readers on a retro-fueled journey that dives deep into classics, clunkers, musical obscurities, and developer stories. This issue’s highlight? A first-time playthrough of Zoids – The Battle Begins—an icon-driven arcade experience from Martech that left many scratching their heads back in 1986. Will Vinny praise or pan it, especially with the game’s developer featured in the same issue? It’s the kind of tension you didn’t know you needed.
Retro Games, Rotten and Rare
Next up, CCRAPBACK returns with Julian Rignall revisiting the regrettable wreckage from ZZAP!64 issue 18. Think Knight Rider and Miami Vice—two titles Ocean Software might rather forget. But Julian gleefully reminds us why these games earned a place in the digital dungeon.
Meanwhile, everyone’s favorite pixel-poking rodent, Secret Squirrel, uncovers more obscure titles like Invasion Anarchy and Freaky Fish. These hidden curios deserve a second glance—if only for the sheer fun of the hunt.
Deep Dives and Developer Gold
Paul Norris takes center stage this issue, both in a photo-packed centerfold and a 12-page interview in The Developers’ Den. Norris shares candid insights about creating under-the-radar gems like Ice Palace, Stifflip & Co, and Wicked. His tales from Creative Sparks and Palace Software make for a must-read feature.
Tuning into the SID Scene
Hidden Harmonies makes a melodic return, with Warren Pilkington highlighting C64 tunes that may have slipped under your radar. There’s even a nod to a personal favorite from Freeze64 issue 14, adding a dash of continuity for longtime readers.
Dusty Discs and Developer Diaries
The ‘Mouldy Cupboard’ offers up a strange pick this time—BMX Number Jump. Is it a forgotten classic or a justifiable reject? Only one way to find out. Meanwhile, part six of Diary of a Game continues the saga of Operation Vostoka, as Chris Stanley and Megastyle keep the momentum going toward what looks like a future standout release.
