I love a good bundle of gaming classics. Whether it is a Namco Museum or Rare Replay, it’s fun for me to play older games that I didn’t necessarily play when I was younger. At 25, I know the 90s and 00s well but early titles are lost on me, largely because I wasn’t alive. Collections, like the SNK 40th Anniversary Collection, offer a look into the past that gamers who appreciate progress will enjoy. The arcade presentation of the SNK 40th Anniversary Collection makes this a must-have for lovers of the retro game style.

For those who remember the heyday of SNK, this collection has all the heavy hitters. SNK 40th Anniversary Collection features a ton of games, and everything from Vanguard to Alpha Mission is fun to play for the first time, as well as revisit after a long time apart. Apart from the games, the collection’s Museum feature is the most appealing part of the entire collection. The Museum is where fans new and old can hear the collection’s soundtracks, browse a comprehensive history-rich bundle of documents, or even soak up some manuals and artwork. It’s fun to see the ins and outs of these classic titles, and its all organized expertly in the Museum layout.

Controller mapping allows players to make sure the classic titles feel as natural as possible. If the game at first glance looks a bit inaccessible, you can watch a pro at the gameplay it to get an idea for techniques and tips. It’s a great feature, especially given that the feel of these older arcade titles are much clunkier than newer games. The titles feel great, even as a newcomer, and some favorites of mine at first play were Guerilla War, P.O.W., and Prehistoric Isle. Sure, there are a few games on here I’ll never play more than once, but guess what? This is a look at a company who once made arcade games that were top of the tops. A few less than appealing titles do not take away from the winners here.

Getting all of these titles in one package is great. On the Xbox One, the games look great and feel even better. At $39.99, you get a ton of content and some great retro titles to master when time needs to be killed or you get that arcade itch. Between the great organization of menus and the Museum, as well as the great presentation of the classic titles, retro fans and curious onlookers get an idea about what SNK did for gaming. It’s clear in this collection; arcade influences up to this very day can be traced back to SNK classics. Feel the history in your fingertips with this fantastic collection of sleeper hits, favorite titles, and yes, a few letdowns.

An Xbox One copy of SNK 40th Anniversary Collection was provided by NIS America for this review. 

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SNK 40th Anniversary Collection

8.4

Score

8.4/10

Pros

• Great Collection
• Incredible Museum Style History Section of the Game
• Great Feel for Retro Controls on Modern Consoles

Cons

• A Few Less Than Exciting Games