Gameplay 7/10
The mechanics are true to their roots, which for nostalgia is great. There’s plenty of satisfying exploration and puzzle-solving, but the puzzles and some plotlines are as imperfect in 2025 as they were back on the NES.
Story 6/10
The narratives are intriguing and mysterious. These games can out a time where 3D movement was pretty much out of the question, but they compensate beautifully with a strong sense of setting and exploration. Players looking for character development or complex narratives though are likely to find the minimalist storytelling not their cup of tea.
Graphics 5/10
This one is difficult to score- the 8-bit visuals are charming and just as one might remember them. Fans of the era (like this writer,) want to score it a solid 7 or 8. Realistically though, they lack the detail and polish of even modern indie titles that emulate the same style with more flair. An option to replay the original games but with updated art would have been an awesome addition.
Sound & Music 6/10
The retro audio adds to the throwback feel. Unfortunately like most 8-bit titles of its time, the simple and repetitive songs also can grow old… quickly.
Controls 6/10
The interface is functional but clunky at times. It’s as difficult today as it was in 1986 to use a controller to click a small area to check out a crack in the wall or a key lock on the door. Expect a learning curve if you're new to the genre.
Nostalgia Factor 9/10
For those who grew up with these kinds of games, the anthology is a warm, pixelated time capsule that captures the spirit of 80s gaming perfectly.
Difficulty & Challenge 9/10
The games remain tough, often requiring trial and error and a sharp memory. The majority of the puzzles are logical, finding clues and reading everything can almost always provide the necessary clues. However, there are a couple of points in Shadowgate and Uninvited where the solutions seem so random, it’s a wonder anybody ever solved them without Google or a Guidebook.
Final Verdict 7/10
8-Bit Adventure Anthology: Volume 1 is a great tribute to a bygone era of gaming. It’s definitely not for everyone, likely to be a love/hate situation. Those unfamiliar with the quirks of early point-and-click titles may find it a frustrating slog while for retro fans it’s almost a must-play. If you've brought a little patience and a penchant for old-school charm, this anthology is worth a look.
