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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 09/05/2026

Day 4 of Elder Scrolls Random Madness - 2026 Edition. Randomized Character. Randomized Task List. Continuing with Arena! www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 08/05/2026

Continuing with Arena again tonight for Day 3 of Elder Scrolls Random Madness! www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 06/05/2026

Day 2 of Elder Scrolls Random Madness - Continuing with Arena again tonight www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 02/05/2026

Day 1 of Elder Scrolls Random Madness - 2026 Edition. Randomized Character. Randomized Task List. Starting with Arena! www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 01/05/2026

Back to streaming again tonight! Picking one of my all time favorites: The OG Gran Turismo! 🙂 www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 25/04/2026

Afternoon stream today. Finishing up Sanitarium no matter how long it takes! www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 24/04/2026

Continuing tonight with the psychological horror Sanitarium. Can the Catfish somehow destroy this monstrous Mother tree alien thing? www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 19/04/2026

Retro Revisits tonight but just one game this time. I'm a bit distracted by the NHL playoffs, so what better games to play than a hockey game? NHL 98 tonight! Watch hockey. Play hockey. www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

twitch.tv

AstoundedCatfish - Twitch

I’m Catfish. I stream retro games, racing games, and whatever else I feel like deep-diving into. Expect cozy vibes, random phases, and a chill place to hang while I explore gaming history one obsessio...

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 17/04/2026

This one is particularly fun when playing against another person. The action is chaotic - giving players equal chance to score. Losing a fight amusingly causes you to take a penalty, giving the fight winner a powerplay for a bit. The sound/music are both good and hilarious. Still fun today. CFF: 8

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 17/04/2026

Blades of Steel (1987) First released in the Arcade and the NES a year later, this game from Konami was the hockey equivalent to the earlier Double Dribble. 5-on-5 action, goal celebrations, player entrances, and fighting all gave the game unique flavor proving that an NHL license was not necessary.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 15/04/2026

The game didn't do well in North America and by the time SF2 came out, nobody cared to find the original. This is understandable if you try and play it today. It's clearly the imperfect genesis of a fighting game powerhouse to be, and not particularly enjoyable with the clunky controls. CFF: 3

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 15/04/2026

Street Fighter (1987) The original game in this series is largely forgotten, but was important in video game history for the evolution of the fighting genre. Players had three different punch and kick attack strength types to use as well as special combination moves. You could only fight as Ryu.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 15/04/2026

Oh shit that's Castlevania II! Nevermind, we can take turns on that one 😉

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 15/04/2026

Looks cool, but I'm not sure about Bugs Bunny Crazy Castle 😬 Hopefully you have some better games, preferably co-op! 🤞

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 13/04/2026

For some reason, people don't seem to like this game as much. True, there are almost no hints on what to do or where to go, but if you follow a guide, the game is quite as enjoyable as the first game was. The music is just as outstanding even if you need to grind for those hearts at times. CFF: 7

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 13/04/2026

Castlevania II: Simon's Quest (1987) Departing from the gameplay of the original, in this game you control the cursed Simon Belmont who must roam the land to find a cure. It's a non-linear RPG helping coin the term Metroidvania. Day/Night cycles result in shops opening/closing & different monsters.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 12/04/2026

Likely the first racing game I ever played, this one holds a special place for me. The action is still fun today - a challenging game of anticipating the other cars moves & not getting caught out by sharp turns. You have to find a mix of driving safe & being aggressive to make it to the end. CFF: 8

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 12/04/2026

Rad Racer (1987) Arcade style racer by Square with fast-paced action to navigate point-to-point circuits from around the world. Players pick a Ferrari or Formula-style racecar, avoiding the other cars, and getting to checkpoints before time expires. Also had iconic soundtrack and a 3D glasses mode.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 12/04/2026

Tonight I'm doing a Retro Revisit stream! Going back to revisit three randomly determined games that I've previously played in my Gaming Through History journey. Come check out which games the randomizer picks! www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

twitch.tv

AstoundedCatfish - Twitch

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 10/04/2026

The opening scene to the game features a villain punching a woman and carrying her away - a bit cringe here in 2026. The gameplay doesn't age great either. Appreciating the game for its innovation and influence doesn't change the fact that there are much better beat em ups to play instead. CFF: 2

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 10/04/2026

Double Dragon (1987) A genre-defining co-op beat em up game by Technos. Players use a variety of different moves & weapons as they deal punishment on their way to rescue the girl. Colorful & detailed sprites and levels let the game stand out, marking the beginning of a golden age for this genre.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 08/04/2026

Continuing Gaming Through History tonight again in 1998. Triple Play 99 for the PlayStation. A baseball game that came out in 98 with player ratings from 97... 🤔 For sure this will be exciting and exhilarating. www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

twitch.tv

Twitch

Twitch is the world

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 06/04/2026

Difficult and frustrating. Even if you use save states, you better be prepared to learn what's coming before it appears. I'm not really a fan of these types of games, so I'm not the best judge. Regardless, the art in the game is outstanding. CFF: 4

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 06/04/2026

R-Type (1987) Iconic and superbly difficult space shooter with mechanical/alien type enemies and environments. Enemies and bosses followed specific patterns that led to player success if memorized. The player ship had powerups could fire charged shots and produce a shield. Released on many platforms

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

Don't let the ASCII style graphics fool you. This is a serious and hardcore RPG with no hand holding. The 1987 version is not for the faint-hearted and it can be clunky. If you want a better experience you can try the many different versions. The latest official one is from 2023. CFF: 5.5

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

NetHack (1987) Based off the game Hack, this free open-source title is essentially "Rogue-on-Steroids" - a sneaky deep turn-based RPG with procedural dungeons, many classes to play, strategies, and permadeath of course! The goal is to get to the bottom floor and find the elusive Amulet of Yendor.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 04/04/2026

Continuing Gaming Through History tonight again in 1998. This time for Wario Land II - one of the launch titles for the new Game Boy Color. First time play for me on this one! www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

twitch.tv

AstoundedCatfish - Twitch

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 03/04/2026

California Games is very much the same game on all these platforms with very few exceptions - actually amazing if you think about that. The gameplay is... okay.. but it's not a deep dive game at all, and with all of the events being single-player, it leaves a lot to be desired. CFF 3.5

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 03/04/2026

California Games (1987) An event compilation game from Epyx in the vein of Track & Field, but featuring X-Games-like events: roller-skating, surfing, BMX, and hackysack, etc. Released on more than 12 platforms with remarkable consistency, it filled the gaming void for a growing set of "Alt-sports."

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 08/01/2026

Streaming again after long hiatus. Doing some random retro revisits tonight. Come hang out and sit on the virtual couch with me. www.twitch.tv/astoundedcat...

twitch.tv

AstoundedCatfish - Twitch

Retro revisits tonight - random picks

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 29/03/2025

Alas that unique perspective doesn't actually add anything to the gameplay to make it better. Trying to bat from this view is mostly a crap shoot and it takes longer than necessary to understand the timing. Pitching isn't any better. Overall the game is only worth a short nostalgic play. CFF: 5.5

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 29/03/2025

Bases Loaded (1987) This baseball game from Jaleco took a different approach in that it ditched the standard behind-homeplate view that all baseball games had and instead took the view from behind the pitcher. The unique perspective gave a more three dimensional-like experience was a new challenge.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 27/03/2025

The first level is a labyrinth of rooms and is generally hell to get through. If you can manage to clear that stage, you might find the game more enjoyable. Mickey has a lackluster attack that never improves. It feels like this is just a poor man's Castle of Illusion - so play that instead. CFF: 5

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 27/03/2025

Mickey Mousecapade (1987) Platform adventure game from Capcom featuring the Disney stars Mickey and Minnie Mouse. While the player controls only Mickey, Minnie Mouse follows him around and can get kidnapped. If Minnie fails to make a jump, a life is lost, even if Mickey made it safely.

A gameplay screenshot from Mickey Mousecapade (1987) for the NES. Mickey Mouse is seen walking through a vibrant outdoor environment, accompanied by Minnie Mouse. They're standing on a grassy path beneath a large tree with pink foliage. Several small enemies, including red and pink figures, are nearby. A large tree with an open, dark entrance stands in the background, possibly indicating a doorway or path. The background consists of a lush green field and a clear blue sky, giving the scene a bright and colorful appearance.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 26/03/2025

Run & guns aren't my forte, but the first Contra is a special game. It's amazingly fun solo or with a buddy, but expect to die a lot unless you start using the Konami code! The varied levels keep things fresh. I prefer the NES version over all others. CFF: 7.5

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 26/03/2025

Contra (1987) This run & gun platformer from Konami was a huge hit in the arcade & NES. The game puts the player(s) in the typical role of saving the world from terrorists that are being controlled by... aliens. Some levels were 3D-like where you advance through corridors. Many collectable powerups.

A gameplay screenshot from the NES version of Contra (1988). The scene takes place in a lush, jungle environment with a steep cliff and river below. A player at the top left is aiming a rifle, while an enemy at the bottom right, standing near a metallic box with a red symbol, holds a weapon. The background features mountains, a starry night sky, and dense greenery.

The box art for the NES version of Contra (1988), featuring two muscular protagonists, armed and ready for combat. One character on the left wears a headband, while the other on the right is in a shooting stance. In the background, a menacing alien figure with a skeletal face looms over them. The title "Contra" is displayed prominently at the top in bold, colorful lettering. The artwork conveys intense action and sci-fi themes, with explosions and alien tentacles framing the characters.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 26/03/2025

Weirdly I feel like the game loses something with the addition of multiple party members & fighting numerous enemies. Maybe I'm in the minority, but I found the 1v1 fights in the first game to be charming in their own way. This just feels like an inferior Final Fantasy. Still not a bad game. CFF: 6

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 26/03/2025

Dragon Quest 2 (1987) Known in the US market as Dragon Warrior II, the second game in this series brought with it a party of three heroes instead of just one, tying them all together with a common quest to save the world. Battles now also feature multiple enemies and each hero has their strengths.

A gameplay screenshot from the NES version of Dragon Warrior II (1987). The image shows three player characters standing in front of a castle entrance, guarded by two soldiers. The castle has a moat with blue water surrounding it, and a stone bridge leads to the entrance. The area around the castle is decorated with pink flowers and gray stone paths. In the bottom-right of the screen, a black text box displays the characters' names and stats: "DR.," "Esga," and "Gwen" with their levels, HP, and MP. The screen has a classic 8-bit art style, with bright colors and pixelated sprites typical of NES games.

The cover art for the NES version of Dragon Warrior II (1987). It features three adventurers: a muscular warrior in the center wielding a sword and shield, a cloaked green-clad fighter to the left with a round shield, and a female mage in white and red robes, holding a staff in the foreground. Behind them looms a dark castle staircase with a cloaked figure at the top, shrouded in mystery, surrounded by ominous creatures like a green dragon on the right. The title "Dragon Warrior II" is displayed in bold red and yellow text across the top of the blue background. The tagline reads, "Seek Allies for Your Quest. The Vast Journey Lies Ahead." Various logos and official Nintendo seals are at the bottom.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 24/03/2025

Not your typical Zelda game & certainly not for the faint-hearted, but this title grows on me with each replaying. It's not a great Zelda game, but that's a really high bar. Instead it's just a good classic NES game. If you stop trying to compare it, you'll find it a good fun challenge. CFF: 6.5

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 24/03/2025

Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (1987) The sequel to the critically-acclaimed first game was quite a surprise and a departure from the gameplay seen in its predecessor. This game was instead a more brutally difficult action platformer with an XP system. Still plenty of adventure and secrets though.

A gameplay screenshot from Zelda II: The Adventure of Link for the NES, released in 1987. The player controls Link, shown mid-jump with his sword drawn, battling a tall, segmented dragon that breathes fireballs. The dragon's body consists of stacked, glowing orange orbs, and it is positioned on the right side of the screen, towering over Link. Link is fighting the dragon in a dungeon, with a backdrop of red brick walls and a lava floor at the bottom of the screen. The user interface at the top shows various stats: “Magic-7,” “Life-8,” and a life bar that is partially filled. The experience points counter reads 307/5000, and there is a small magic meter displayed in blue. The visuals are typical of the NES era, with simple sprites and a limited color palette.

The cover art for the NES version of Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (1987) features a golden background with a large, ornate sword diagonally across the center. The sword has a jeweled hilt, with red and green gemstones embedded in intricate designs. In the top left, there is a small gold shield icon with the words “Zelda II” written on a green background. Below the sword, the game’s title appears in stylized text: “The Adventure of Link” with "Link" in large blue letters. Beneath that, a tagline reads, “Another journey of ultimate challenge in the fantasy world of Hyrule.” The cover displays official Nintendo branding in the bottom left corner, with a gold quality seal near the bottom right.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 23/03/2025

As a fan of driving/racing games, I found this "game" to be quite surprisingly enjoyable. It's almost like a super-basic retro Gran Turismo with only Ford/Lincoln/Mercury cars. Trying to get a good time on the circuit track with all the different cars, not bad for an advert-game. CFF: 6.5

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 23/03/2025

The Ford Simulator (1987) Sent as a floppy in magazines as an advertisement and also available to play in dealerships, this driving simulator had unique physics for each car, from Mustangs to a Bronco. While gameplay was basic, it did feature different modes such as drag racing and circuit races.

A gameplay screenshot from the 1987 DOS version of The Ford Simulator. The view is from inside a vehicle, showing a digital dashboard and steering wheel from a first-person perspective. The dashboard is displayed in a retro pixelated style, with cyan, black, and red colors dominating the screen. The digital speedometer is at the center, showing the car's speed as 75 mph. Other gauges and controls are visible, including a radio, a clock showing 3:28, and various dials. In the background, the player is driving toward a city skyline with blocky, pixelated skyscrapers in the distance. The bottom of the screen has red text, with "F1: Help" on the left and "F8: Ford Infocenter" on the right. The graphic style reflects classic 1980s DOS game visuals with minimal detail and bold, contrasting colors.

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 22/03/2025

It is important to give some of these retro games a second chance. Sometimes I'll pick one up and it'll catch me on day where I'm very impatient. My second go on this game was more positive than the first. The smooth gameplay and mini-game to set the explosives after landing is quite fun. CFF: 5.5

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Astounded Catfish @astoundedcatfish.bsky.social · 22/03/2025

Uridium (1986) This quality space shooter tasks the player with taking down large spaceships by first eliminating the defenses and then landing to place explosives to destroy the big ship's reactor. Gameplay was remarkably smooth and the player could fly in all 4 directions like Defender.

A screenshot from the 1986 Commodore 64 game Uridium. The image shows a top-down view of a spaceship flying through a narrow pathway, surrounded by large, golden spinning hexagons. The spaceship is at the center, firing a laser beam, as it navigates through the enemies and obstacles. Above the scene, the game's title "Uridium" is displayed in yellow text, while the HUD on the top left shows "Top" with a score of 0 and 3 lives remaining. The background consists of grey geometric structures, resembling a space station or battleship. The overall color scheme is a mix of black, grey, and yellow, typical of the Commodore 64's graphical style.

The cover art for the 1986 Commodore 64 game Uridium. The main focus is a sleek, futuristic white spaceship with curved wings and glowing blue accents, flying through space. It is angled forward with two visible jet engines leaving bright trails of orange and yellow behind as it blasts through a dark starry background. In the distance, a large metallic space station or ship hovers above. At the top center, the game's title Uridium is written in metallic, futuristic font with a subtle gradient effect. In the top right corner, a white diagonal banner reads "FOR CBM 64 & 128," indicating the platform. At the bottom of the cover, the developer's name Hewson is displayed in bold, blue text with a metallic finish, matching the futuristic theme.

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