Backwards Compatible

Welcome to "Backwards Compatible: A Generation 'S' Podcast," your new go-to destination for diving deep into the golden era of video games. Formerly known as "Generation 'S'," we've honed our focus to bring you an even richer journey through the nostalgic lanes of gaming history.

From the pixelated adventures on the NES to the immersive, high-definition worlds of the PS3 and Xbox 360, we cover it all. Each episode is a deep dive into the games that shaped us, discussing not just the games themselves, but the stories behind them, their impact on culture, and how they've influenced the gaming landscape today.

And "Backwards Compatible" isn't just about the games. It's about reliving the pop culture of the '90s and early 2000s through the lens of retro gaming. Remember the excitement of flipping through a gaming magazine, the thrill of finally beating that level you were stuck on for weeks, or the camaraderie of playing with friends? We bring all that back and more.

Whether you're a long-time listener from the "Generation 'S'" days or a newcomer eager to explore the history of video games, "Backwards Compatible" promises a blend of nostalgia, insight, and fun. Join us as we revisit the classics, uncover hidden gems, and share our personal stories of gaming glory. "Backwards Compatible: A Generation 'S' Podcast" is your all-access pass to the past, celebrating the legacy of video games and their place in our hearts and culture.

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Backwards Compatible

Backwards Compatible #8 - Sonic the Hedgehog (Sega Genesis/Megadrive)

May 22, 2024 • Dan Kemp/Derek Taylor • Episode 8

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In episode 8 of "Backwards Compatible: A Generation 'S' Podcast," my good buddy Derek steps in last minute as Lou is unfortunately out sick again. Together, we race through the pixelated landscapes of the original "Sonic the Hedgehog" for the Sega Genesis, originally released in June 1991. This game, while groundbreaking in its day, presents a mixed bag for us as it hasn't aged as gracefully compared to its successors like "Sonic 2," "Sonic 3," "Sonic & Knuckles," and the more recent "Sonic Mania." We discuss how "Sonic 1" laid the foundational speed and gameplay that allowed the later titles to truly soar.

We also introduce a brand-new segment called 'Scratching the Itch,' where we pick a more modern game that captures the spirit of the classic we're discussing. The game we've chosen for this episode promises to rekindle that fast-paced Sonic thrill, but you'll have to tune in to find out what it is! As always, we wrap up with a nod to the pop culture scene from June 1991, giving context to the era when Sonic first zoomed into the gaming world. Join Derek and me for a nostalgic look back at where the speed obsession with gaming's favorite hedgehog began.

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Dan Kemp

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