Monday, March 23, 2026

(REVIEW) Abathor is a Great Pixel Powered Action Game Inspired by 16-Bit Arcade Legends

by Gamatroid 🕹️

"Know, oh prince, that in the years when Atlantis ruled the oceans, sins and arrogance unleashed fierce demons. When everything seemed lost, four heroes arrived to close the Gates of Abathor."

GAME FACTS

TITLE: Abathor
RELEASE DATE: 7/25/2024
MSRP: $14.99
DEVELOPER: Pow Pixel Games
PUBLISHER: Jandusoft
PLATFORMS: Xbox, PlayStation, Switch and PC
PLAYED ON: PlayStation 5

The Atlantean civilization has angered the gods. They have sent hordes of monsters to punish Atlantis by destroying the continent. Players must cooperate and compete to save Atlantis, going through a series of challenges of increasing difficulty.

In their progress, our heroes will fight against ferocious demons and primordial gods, against the living and against the dead, against flying beasts and crawling horrors, they will dodge dangers and traps and descend into chilling abysses. But they will also compete against each other for the loot and the spoils, plundering treasures and offering them to the gods to receive their favor.

Abathor is a 2D platformer with action roguelite influences and up to 4 players in local mode. Fight against an army of monsters through more than 50 stages of increasing difficulty and incredible final bosses. Traverse the entire continent of Atlantis and delve into lore based on Plato’s writings and Athanasius’ map. Re-live the arcade experience of the 80s and 90s.

RETRO ROOTS

Abathor's developer cites Rastan and Golden Axe as sources of inspiration, and it's easy to see why. Rastan is the most immediate visual call back, as the main barbarian character, Crantor, is a dead ringer for the main protagonist of Rastan, and even the gameplay reminds me more of Rastan than anything else, although there are certainly differences that take it beyond its influences.

Rastan - Arcade Archives

The influence from Golden Axe is likely seen in the multiplayer aspect of the game, since there don't really seem to be many references to the game. However, there is one sequence where you ride on an eagle's back which would be a call back to one of the levels from Golden Axe (although the eagle in Golden Axe was WAY bigger).

Golden Axe supported two player multiplayer

See? Golden Axe's eagle was HUGE

REVIEW

Gameplay & Mechanics

Abathor is very well designed, although it's clear it is a small budget indie game. This isn't a knock on the game at all, but there are various areas where you can tell it could have been polished and refined just a bit more if the team had more time and a slightly higher budget. Slight awkwardness aside, Abathor has fun action based gameplay and just slight platforming, similar to that in a Castlevania game (although probably not as punishing).

The four playable characters add a lot to the game's replayability, as each has very distinct strengths and weaknesses that impact gameplay significantly. For example, Crantor (the male barbarian) has a huge sword swing that does 3.5x damage, Sias (the female warrior) is the only character that can block incoming attacks (and I really love that feature, so I use her a lot), Kritias (the ninja) has an upward sword dragon punch-like attack that's awesome and powerful, and Azaes (the white haired warrior) has an ability where he kills enemies with a short range magic attack and then absorbs their soul which powers up his sword attack.

In addition to having multiple characters, the game supports four player simultaneous multiplayer. I didn't get a chance to try that out, but it sounds really cool.

Visuals & Art Direction

Abathor's visual design is well designed and detailed pixel art that seems just a bit more pixelated than the best games from the 16-bit era. Character and enemy animations are detailed, and stages have a lot of environmental detail and animation, like the rolling waves in the background in the first stage. Bosses are generally large and well animated too. Overall a really good looking game, and it also has a CRT filter effect that adds to the nostalgia. I actually prefer to play with the CRT filter most of the time.

Story & Narrative

The story in Abathor is interesting detailed enough to keep the action going, but it doesn't overstay its welcome. It feels very similar to other classic fantasy action games, but it's also more detailed than most games of the 8 and 16 bit era. Overall the story is well done and improves the experience.

Audio & Music

Abathor's music and sound fx are good, sounding much like the 16-bit games that provide inspiration. I found a few of the opening and early game tracks reminded me quite a bit of Golden Axe, although nothing feels like a straight rip-off, more just inspired by it. My only complaint is the music isn't louder in comparison to the sound fx. I would really prefer for the music to shine.

Technical Performance

As you might expect, the game generally performs flawlessly on modern hardware, especially on the PS5 where I played it. I would assume it also performs well on Switch, but I didn't get a chance to try that version to be certain.

Innovation & Originality

Abathor is highly inspired by games of the 16-bit era, but it brings enough of its own ideas to stand on its own. Having four unique characters to control, each with their own distinct strengths and weaknesses, is really good by itself, but having the ability to play simultaneous muliplayer really sets it apart from its inspiration. Rastan was only one player, and Golden Axe was only two player maximum. Having the ability to play all four at once is really interesting. The different difficulty levels are also a good twist on the classic formula, feeling closer to something like Ninja Gaiden Black than Golden Axe.

Value vs Price

For $14.99, Abathor is priced just right. It is very replayable, even though it isn't a metroidvania, and the multiple characters really add to its replayability. Even though you can switch characters each time you have to start a run over once you run out of continue tokens, I tended to stick with the same character throughout each playthrough. I've put about 15 hours in so far, and I could see playing through it a few more times to explore the Epic Mode difficulty (and to get the true ending) and experiment playing with the different characters. While you could wait for a sale, I think it's more than worth the experience at full price.

VERDICT

Abathor is a good, well-made modern pixel-powered action game, heavily inspired by the great classic arcade games of the 16-bit era like Rastan and Golden Axe. It has great graphics and music, tight controls, and lots of replay value. Even at full price it's a great experience, and I would wholly recommend it to any action game fans.

CRITIC CONSENSUS

8/10 - Gamatroid
7/10 - Nintendo Life
9/10 - PlayStation Universe
7.5/10 - The Games Machine
8/10 - Gamers Heroes
7.5/10 - GameGrin

You can watch my beginning gameplay on PS5 in the YouTube video below:

You can read about how our reviews work here.

If you like my work and would like to help support my efforts you can buy me a coffee:

Saturday, March 14, 2026

Xbox's Helix Hurdle - How Microsoft's Plans for Helix Make Success Unlikely

by Gamatroid 🕹️

AI interpretation for illustrative purposes (I thought it was kind of funny)

So... Microsoft recently unveiled more about its next generation console, code name: Project Helix.

From what they've said so far, we know Helix will be a PC/Console hybrid, playing native Xbox games plus games made for Windows PCs, seemingly allowing access to storefronts like Steam, Epic and GOG.

Microsoft also committed to keeping its backwards compatibility in-place, providing access to more than four generations of Xbox games. (Backwards compatibility is one of my favorite features of the current Xbox.)

Helix will also be the most powerful console on the market when it launches, including "an order of magnitude increase in ray tracing performance and capability, beyond what's currently possible with the Xbox Series X and S" and additional hardware features that will deliver a "massive uplift in performance and enabling massive real-time simulation and large complex worlds using runtime-generated geometry and large-scale interactive worlds". (Having best in class hardware is great, but Xbox Series X can already claim that in the current generation, even though game fidelity and performance appears equivalent to PS5 for most gamers.)

Hogwarts Legacy comparison video from Open Surprise on YouTube

So far, so good on the actual hardware plans, but I've been thinking a lot lately about what Microsoft needs to do in order for Helix to be a "success", and I don't think the current Helix plans are going to do that.

And before I get into the reasons why I think this, it's important to separate the pending success of Helix from Microsoft Gaming.

Why?

Well, Microsoft could have tons of success just being the world's largest video game developer / publisher. They have amazing franchises and currently they can sell their games across PlayStation, Nintendo, and PC to great success. One could argue they honestly don't even need hardware at this point (or you could argue they really do to ensure long term success - but that's a story for another day).

But for the purposes of this article, let's just focus on the success of Helix itself.

Project Helix mockup from Pureinfotech.com

In order for Helix to be a success, Microsoft will need to sell a lot of them. Obvious right? But there's the thing...

What does "success" look like?

It's very clear Microsoft has not been satisfied with the sales of Xbox consoles in either the previous generation or the current generation.

Here's a chart I developed using data from VGChartz.com to illustrate the Xbox console sale situation:

From a worldwide console sale perspective, Xbox has been behind from the very beginning. Even the lauded Xbox 360 generation was only "successful" in North America. From a global perspective, PlayStation 3 sold more units than Xbox 360, but just barely.

But I fully believe that when Microsoft looks at "success" it's primarily focused on the North American console market, so let's zoom in on that.

Here is the same chart showing just North American Console sales:

Just looking at North America certainly puts Xbox sales in a better light than its global performance, with Xbox 360 beating both PS3 AND the Nintendo Wii (honestly that was a shock for me.)

This was the "golden era" for Xbox, and likely what their team is benchmarking against when they are thinking about success.

Let's dive into that a bit more:

Xbox 360 sold 55.9% more consoles than PS3.

Currently the Xbox Series X/S sits at 39.3% BELOW PS5.

Currently, PS5 is still 16.4% below lifetime PS4 sales.

Even if Microsoft was content with selling an equal number of consoles as PS5, it would have to sell 12.5M more Helix than it did Series X/S, and that could be a very hard sell. Why?

The Xbox Series had an affordable entry point (with the S, which launched at $299 versus the PS5 and Series X both at $499) and when it launched they still had exclusives (Halo, Gears, Forza). Helix doesn't look like it will have either of those advantages, although it will launch with Gamepass, which the Series consoles didn't have at first (although it doesn't seem to be much of a console seller, especially not at its recent price point).

And remember, this current console generation launched during COVID when EVERYONE WAS STUCK AT HOME and gaming was at its highest point in years. There were people playing games and starting Twitch channels that wouldn't have done so under normal conditions, and Microsoft STILL couldn't sell a significant number of consoles.

Furthermore, for the Series S, there was a period of time when you couldn't even find a PS5 and the only available console was the Series S (which is how I got mine).

Helix won't have any of these advantages.

Master Chief realizing they're screwed

Also, Helix is rumored to be expensive ($1,000+) and, at this time, doesn't have any committed exclusives AT ALL. Now it likely won't have any direct competition, since Sony is looking to launch PS6 no earlier than 2029, but Sony also has the PS5 Pro, which will cost significantly less than the Helix, and it has PlayStation's exclusives in its library PLUS all of Microsoft's multi-platform games (which at this time looks to be all of them).

I'm not saying that Helix won't sell any consoles, but can it sell enough to be "successful"?

Xbox Series X claimed it was the most powerful console on the market (which it technically was), but the majority of gamers didn't care. Even when the PS5 was unavailable, or only available through scalpers, many gamers still held out for a PS5 over an Xbox Series X or S. And remember, this is when Xbox still had exclusive games on its platform.

Now they are going to launch a very expensive console that has games you could also just buy on PC or PlayStation, and they are going to sell more units than the "failed" Xbox Series X/S?

Unlikely.

RIP Helix

And what about the games?

IF Microsoft is committed to making Helix a success, the BEST way it could do that would be to pull back its flagship franchises and only make them available on Helix. However, given their recent direction, and the fact that would result in massive revenue losses, it is VERY unlikely.

Even if they don't have any exclusives, couldn't Microsoft at least force its own studios to ensure that Helix is the best place to play its games? Meaning, they could ensure the games look and play the best on Helix?

Sure... at least in the beginning.

Halo Campaign Evolved looking sweeet :)

If Microsoft ensures their own development teams have access to Helix dev kits as early as possible, it could push them to take full advantage of Helix's hardware in order for the games to look and play best on Helix at launch.

But if they don't sell a significant number of Helix consoles right away, how long will they allocate extra development time and resources to optimize for Helix over other platforms?

My guess is... not very long.

So where does that leave Helix?

Original Xbox prototype from GDC 2000

I think the best case scenario seems to be it could become the high-end living room PC hybrid that Microsoft has always wanted, but have a limited number of sales.

So long as Microsoft makes money off of each Helix sold, such that it helps support the profitability of their gaming division, it may not matter if it is able to go head-to-head with PlayStation or not. Whether Microsoft considers Helix a success, really depends on its own internal expectations and measures of what success means going forward.

But one thing is almost certain.

PlayStation and Nintendo seem destined to continue ruling the living room console market for the foreseeable future.

Monday, March 9, 2026

(PREVIEW) Hands-on With the Upcoming Little Nemo and the Guardians of Slumberland

by Gamatroid 🕹️

Explore a dream world as the iconic Little Nemo, armed with toys, candy, and stuffed animals in this cute & colorful Metroidvania adventure. Experience NES-era platformer gameplay in a vast, non-linear world that has been hand-animated frame-by-frame, as you unlock new abilities to progress.

Forget what you know about "dark and gritty" Metroidvanias; this is a vivid, hand-animated journey that reimagines the golden age of NES-style platforming. You explore a vast, non-linear dream world as Little Nemo, trading traditional weapons for toys and pajamas to fend off the encroaching "Oblivion." It’s a gorgeous evolution of the 1905 comic strip’s imagination, designed with the tight, responsive feel of a classic Capcom title.

GAME FACTS

TITLE: Little Nemo and the Guardians of Slumberland
EXPECTED RELEASE: March 31, 2026 (PC) / Later in 2026 (Switch)
MSRP: TBD
DEVELOPER: DIE SOFT
PUBLISHER: DIE SOFT
PLATFORMS: PC (Steam/itch.io), Nintendo Switch

VIBES

This is a sensory delight—every frame is hand-animated, giving it the fluid feel of a high-budget 90s cartoon. The music is an absolute standout, composed by Peter Berkman of Anamanaguchi, delivering that signature high-energy chiptune sound that makes you want to keep moving. Unlike many modern "hardcore" platformers, the world feels inviting and whimsical, though the precision required for some jumps quickly reminds you of its retro lineage.

Toy-Based Progression: Instead of getting a "double jump" or a "dash," you collect Nemo’s favorite toys and different pairs of PJs that grant abilities. It turns the standard Metroidvania power-creep into something far more charming.

Platforming over Combat: While there are bosses and enemies, the focus is heavily shifted toward movement and environmental puzzles. It feels more like a non-linear Super Mario or Kirby than a traditional melee-focused Castlevania clone.

The "Wake Up" Mechanic: Instead of "death", the developer has implemented a system where being too reckless "wakes you up". Should this happen, Nemo will find himself back in his bedroom, and you can simply head back to bed to continue the adventure.

HERITAGE

While it takes its aesthetic and world from Winsor McCay’s 1905 Little Nemo in Slumberland comics...

Original Little Nemo Comic (1905)

...the gameplay is a direct love letter to Capcom’s Little Nemo: The Dream Master on NES.

Screenshots from Little Nemo The Dream Master on NES

It captures that specific era where games were defined by "blue skies and iconic zones," but expands it with modern interconnected level design.

IMPRESSIONS

I had a chance to get hands-on with a demo of Little Nemo and the Guardians of Slumberland on Steam and I came away impressed. The graphics look good in still shots but look even better in motion. The controls are tight and the environments are colorful and interesting to play through. Some of the dialog is a bit drawn out but that's a common occurrence in modern gaming (whether retro-inspired or not).

So far it's all looking good, and it's not nearly as difficult or punishing as the NES original, whether that's a good thing for fans of the original or not. It's important to keep in mind though that this is not a remake of the NES game. It is simply inspired by the same source material, and the choice for it to also be side scrolling is certainly a nod to the NES, but also to the original comic strip.

HYPE LEVEL: 4/5

The demo proves that the foundation is solid and the presentation is world-class. However, because games like this are so dependent on the complete experience, and I've seen it happen where the demo is better than the full game, I’m keeping my hopes high but my wallet in my pocket until I see how the whole dream comes together.

You can watch my demo playthrough on PC in the YouTube video below:

For upcoming game previews, like this, I've started using a new "Hype Level" approach, which is intended to be a call back to game reviews of old (I'm sure you can guess the inspiration).

Until next time!

Saturday, March 7, 2026

(PREVIEW) Hands-on with Saint Slayer - an Awesome Looking Blood Soaked 8-Bit Homage to Old School Castlevania

by Gamatroid 🕹️

The year is 1698. A mysterious figure named Father Pacer has shattered the peace negotiated after the War of the Grand Alliance, obsessively and violently stealing Catholic relics throughout the Holy Roman Empire. Can the ex-soldier-turned-farmer Rudiger protect his people from a power-mad priest and his horde of monsters and minions?

Can he become Saint Slayer?

You play as Rudiger, a 17th-century soldier-turned-farmer who picks up a spear to defend the Holy Roman Empire from a relic-stealing, power-mad priest. It’s a blood-soaked homage to the 8-bit era that doesn't just copy the aesthetic, it embraces the beautiful "stiffness" of retro game design.

GAME FACTS

TITLE: Saint Slayer - Spear of Sacrilege
EXPECTED RELEASE: 4/20/2026
MSRP: $9.99
DEVELOPER: Lillymo Games
PUBLISHER: Lillymo Games
PLATFORMS: Xbox, PlayStation, Switch and PC

VIBES

This is "crunchy" retro-styled gaming at its finest. The high-contrast pixel art creates a grim, gothic atmosphere that feels heavy and dangerous. The soundtrack is a standout, featuring high-energy chiptunes that drive the action forward.

Controlling your character feels meaningful and there’s no "air control" here; once you jump, you’re committed. This makes the platforming feel like the old school games we know and love, rather than a modern reflex test.

While most of it seems like a direct influence from old school Castlevania, there will be some differences like:

The Pogo-Spear: Wielding a spear looks to provide a different rhythm than the traditional whip, and the ability to bounce off enemies’ heads adds a verticality that will likely help diversify the gameplay and keep things fresh.

Two-Player Bloody Co-op: It’s rare to find a high-fidelity 8-bit platformer that supports local co-op, let alone one that includes "friendly fire." I'm sure all the times you hit your friend will be "accidental". LOL.

There may be additional twists but these are two I saw mentioned so far.

HERITAGE

The DNA here is pure old school Castlevania (1986), but the developer, Barry Johnson, has also cited influences from DuckTales for the movement.

The overall vibe is very much inspired by Castlevania

Elements like the "pogo" ability were clearly influenced by DuckTales

With writing by Colin Moriarty, the game aims to fit into the "modern retro" space alongside titles like Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon or Shovel Knight.

IMPRESSIONS

I had a chance to get hands-on with a demo of Saint Slayer on Steam, and it's looking really good. Graphics appear NES accurate at first, but then you notice an extra level of polish that goes beyond Nintendo's original 8-bit powerhouse, to this game's benefit.

The controls are tight and the action feels just right. The story is just detailed enough to keep you interested but not drawn out so you're mashing the skip button. Castlevania inspirations are apparent but the game isn't nearly as punishing to play. I had a great time with the demo and you should check it out if you get a chance.

HYPE LEVEL: 5/5

It is nice to see a developer lean into the limitations of the 8-bit era to create a specific type of experience and challenge. With a demo already showing off impressive polish, a killer soundtrack, and the addition of two-player co-op (with friendly fire!), this is a day-one priority for anyone who still has their NES hooked up to a CRT.

Saint Slayer looks like it’s going to be a masterclass in "stiff" action-platforming. It’s unapologetic about its roots, and for my type of gamer, April 20th can't come soon enough.

You can watch my demo playthrough on PC in the YouTube video below:

For upcoming game previews, like this, I'm trying out a new "Hype Level" approach that is a call back to game reviews of old (I'm sure you can guess the inspiration).

It's cheesy I know, but... what can you do? lol

Monday, March 2, 2026

(DEALS) My Favorite Video Game Sales of the Week (3/2/26)

by Gamatroid 🕹️

Let's face it, gaming can be an expensive hobby. So I try and keep an eye out for great deals whenever I can, and even better if they are retro-related.

In my searches for games on sale this week I came across some pretty great deals you might want to check out.

I've listed some of my favorites below.

PlayStation Store Deals