Rob’s blog of posts

If you have ever played and enjoyed early 1980s video games, and you’re into downloading an awesome, tiny piece of Windows freeware, check out ROM CHECK FAIL. In this game, a handful of old arcade and console classics have been mixed and mashed into a glitchy extravaganza.

The game, the environment, and the enemies constantly switch as the game glitches over and over. You might find yourself controlling Super Mario in a Pac-Man maze, or the Space Invaders ship fighting Gauntlet ghosts. This deceptively simple idea translates into an insane gaming experience whether you play for a quick fix or a longer session.

The controls are easy enough. ALT+Enter will toggle full-screen mode. Arrow keys move whichever character you’re controlling in whatever directions it is able. The space bar is the action button to shoot, jump, swing a sword, or whatever else depending on your character. Fight off the baddies as well as you’re able. If you’re unable to fight them, just try to avoid them until the next glitch.

There are lots of glitchy rapidly flashing things, so if that bugs you then leave it alone. Otherwise, grab it right away.

I haven’t laughed out loud this much while playing a game in far too long.