Data East Arcade 2 for Evercade offers a diverse and intriguing selection of classic coin-op games, showcasing both the strengths and quirks of Data East's arcade legacy. This collection includes 12 titles that range from well-known hits to obscure gems, providing a snapshot of the company's varied output.
Highlights of the collection:
1. The Cliffhanger: Edward Randy - Making its home debut, this Indiana Jones-inspired action game features impressive sprite scaling and a unique blend of gameplay styles. While not perfect, it's a must-play for arcade history enthusiasts.
2. Trio the Punch: Never Forget Me - One of the oddest arcade games ever made, it's more of a curiosity than a masterpiece but offers a truly unique experience.
3. Midnight Resistance - A famous run-and-gun title, though the adaptation of its rotary joystick controls to the Evercade's button layout may feel less intuitive.
4. Crude Buster (Two Crude Dudes) - A zany side-scrolling beat 'em up that shines in this arcade-perfect port.
5. Super BurgerTime - A solid iteration on the classic BurgerTime formula.
Other notable inclusions are Joe & Mac Returns (part of the Tumblepop series), Express Raider (a unique Wild West-themed game), and Peter Pepper's Ice Cream Factory (a BurgerTime sequel).
The collection also features some less memorable titles like B-Wings, Last Mission, and SRD: Super Real Darwin, which are serviceable but not standout shooters.
Pros:
- Diverse selection of games, including some making their home debut
- Includes both well-known classics and obscure titles
- Excellent representation of Data East's quirky and varied arcade output
Cons:
- Some games haven't aged as well or may feel average by today's standards
- Adaptation of certain control schemes (like Midnight Resistance) may not feel optimal
Overall, Data East Arcade 2 for Evercade scores a solid 7/10. It's a collection that will appeal strongly to retro gaming enthusiasts and those interested in arcade history. While not every game is a hit, the variety and inclusion of some true gems make this a worthwhile addition to any Evercade library, especially for fans of Data East or those looking to explore the quirkier side of arcade gaming history.
