Episode 30: Crystalis

Retro Spectives

Originally released in 1990 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Crystalis was not a smash hit upon release. It was considered just another action rpg, another zelda-clone. But in the years that followed, it slowly developed a cult following, many of who now believe it to be one of the strongest titles that was ever released for the NES.

Join Pat and James as they travel further back in time than ever before in their quest to separate the all time classics from titles that have aged like milk. Does Crystalis still have what it takes 30 years later or has modern game design left it in the dust?

In order to answer this question, Pat and James dive deep on the following topics:

• Does Crystalis’ story hold up to the hype? Post-apocalyptic settings have evolved greatly since its release and videogame writing even moreso.
• Can a strong sense of progression fill the void of fun left by the simplistic and repetitive gameplay of the NES era?
• Grinding: The good, the bad and the extremely ugly. Just how much is too much?

We discuss these topics, and many more, on the 30th episode of the Retro Spectives Podcast!

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