The Epyx Collection: Handheld is a premium arcade package from Pixel Games UK. This compiles six retro games released from the 1980s, to the early 90s, from Epyx. The games range from sports to fighter jets, letting you experience classic video games with the benefit of modern technology. Improved quality-of-life features include save states, control presets, and display filters.

Since the games in The Epyx Collection: Handheld are faithful recreations of the original games, expect dated graphics as well as linear and repetitive gameplay. You can also check out Classic Snake Adventures or Arcade Archives Solomon's Key for more.

Arcade classics at your fingertips

The Epyx Collection: Handheld contains some of the 80s developer’s biggest titles. Blue Lightning is a 3D shooter where you take control of a top-secret fighter jet. California Games is a set of sports games popular in the titular location. You also have Electrocop, Todd’s Adventures in Slime World, Zarlor Mercenary, and Gates of Zendocon, which are all shooter games in different formats.

As mentioned, the games are faithful ports of the original games. However, there are modern QoL features added. You can switch between LCD and CRT display filters for those authentic old-school visuals. There are also save and load states, allowing you to save your game and pick up at any point. Lastly, you can also switch between left- and right-handed control presets for increased accessibility.

Like most games from the previous decades, the titles included in this game are also challenging, often without the benefit of a difficulty progression that lets players get used to it. Also, when you lose all your lives, you go back to the start. Thankfully, this difficulty is offset by the game’s save and load states. Also, the games retain some of their original problems, such as bugs and glitches.

Fun addition for retro enthusiasts

The Epyx Collection: Handheld offers a nostalgic journey through six arcade classics from the 80s, faithfully ported with modern quality-of-life enhancements. While the games maintain their original challenge and occasional bugs, features, like save states and display filters, provide a smoother experience. Whether reliving fond memories or discovering these gems anew, this collection provides hours of retro gaming joy with a touch of contemporary convenience.