In this excerpt from the book “The Sega Arcade Revolution: a History in 62 Games,” Ken Horowitz looks at the troubled journey of Sega’s arcade hit Zaxxon to the C64 computer. A web of lies and deception caused Sega a major headache, as well as a financial loss to its parent company, Paramount.
Features
Remembering Zaxxon: Gaming’s Early Steps Into The Third Dimension
Zaxxon is a true Sega classic that broke ground on many levels. From its innovative isometric perspective to its pioneering use of television promotion, the game redefined the space shooter genre in 1982. Decades removed from its historic debut, it’s still a blast to play, proving that great games never lose their shine.
Classic Interview: Tomikazu Kirita (Konami R&D Director)
This short interview with Konami’s General Director of Research & Development, Tomikazu Kirita appeared in issue six of the Spanish game magazine TodoSega. Kirita gives a few bits of good info regarding Konami’s thoughts on the game market in Spain and whether it considered making games for the popular Master System in Europe.
Unfinished Business: Moon Dancer
Among the slew of Genesis titles that were canceled is Moon Dancer, a strategy/RPG that integrated innovative gameplay mechanics with a large cast and an interesting plot. Some newly-translated details offer more details about the plot and how it played, presenting a deeper look into what could have been a stellar 16-bit title.
Classic Interview: Sega Amusements Spain
This interview by J. Luis Sanz originally appeared in the July/August 1995 issue of the Spanish video game magazine Ultima Generación (the Spanish version of Next Generation magazine). In it, three of Sega Amusements Spain discuss the manufacturer’s origins in the country and plans for expansion.