Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Centipede & Millipede revives the classic arcade shooting action that defined a generation of gamers. In Centipede, you jockey a small blaster around the bottom of the screen, firing upward to eliminate the segmented worm descending through a field of mushrooms. Each segment destroyed splits the centipede into smaller, but no less dangerous, fragments. Millipede ups the ante by introducing faster-moving arthropods, spiders that weave erratic paths, and other critters that bring fresh patterns of challenge.

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What makes this compilation stand out is the inclusion of “evolved” modes with full-screen anti-aliasing and Dolby Digital sound. The core control scheme remains tight and responsive, retaining the precise movement and instant feedback arcade fans expect. The evolved visuals and audio build on the original’s simplicity, making every shot feel more impactful without sacrificing the snappy pacing that’s key to staying alive.

Throttle Monkey™ mode caters to players craving an extra adrenaline rush. By cranking up the game’s speed, this mode tests your reflexes and strategic thinking like never before. Mushroom fields multiply and enemies accelerate, forcing you to adapt your corner-peek shots and dodge patterns on the fly. For veterans looking for a fresh challenge, Throttle Monkey™ is a welcome twist that extends replayability far beyond the standard arcade experience.

Graphics

The graphics in the original arcade versions of Centipede and Millipede are iconic in their blocky charm, with vibrant pixel art that was revolutionary in the early ’80s. This compilation stays faithful to those roots, presenting the mushroom fields, centipede segments, and insect swarms with crisp fidelity. Each sprite retains the bright, high-contrast color palette that makes every enemy and obstacle stand out clearly against the playfield.

Switching to the evolved mode reveals full-screen anti-aliasing that smooths out jagged edges and enriches the visual depth. Mushrooms gain a subtle shading, projectiles glow with a soft trail, and the high-score fonts look sharper than ever. Dolby Digital sound effects layer a punchy thwock with each shot, combined with a remastered electronic soundtrack that enhances the retro-futuristic atmosphere without feeling intrusive.

Whether you stick to the classic pixel-perfect presentation or venture into the evolved format, graphical options let you tailor the look to your preference. With filters that emulate CRT scanlines or a clean HDTV aesthetic, the compilation accommodates purists and modernists alike. The result is a visually satisfying tribute that honors the arcade originals while offering a tasteful polish for contemporary displays.

Story

Unlike many modern titles, Centipede & Millipede offer no elaborate cutscenes or branching narratives. Instead, the story is told entirely through gameplay: you, the lone defender, stand your ground against relentless waves of creeping insects. It’s a distilled, arcade-era premise that places pure skill and pattern recognition front and center.

This minimalist approach to storytelling taps into nostalgia, evoking memories of quarters spent chasing high scores in dimly lit arcades. The absence of an overarching plot is a feature rather than a drawback; it underscores the games’ design ethos of immediate action. From the moment you insert a virtual coin, there’s a singular goal—survive as long as you can and etch your initials atop the leaderboard.

Fans of narrative-heavy experiences may find this bare-bones setup surprising, but those who appreciate gameplay-first design will relish the uncomplicated focus. Every pixel and sound cue serves to reinforce the tension of dodging fast-moving segments and explosive spiders. The implied backstory—a battle for territory in a world overrun by arthropods—provides just enough context to fuel the classics’ timeless appeal.

Overall Experience

Centipede & Millipede deliver a compact yet robust arcade package. Both titles are instantly accessible, requiring no lengthy tutorials or character progression systems—just quick reflexes and strategic positioning. Whether you’re a veteran high-score chaser or a newcomer curious about arcade history, this compilation makes stepping into the action effortless and fun.

The dual presentation of original and evolved modes adds considerable value, letting you toggle between nostalgic authenticity and modern enhancements. Dolby Digital audio elevates the soundscape, while full-screen anti-aliasing makes every mushroom and critter pop. Throttle Monkey™ mode further enriches the package, providing an optional hard mode that keeps seasoned players coming back for more.

In terms of replayability, these timeless shooters shine brightest when played in short, intense bursts—perfect for couch sessions or on-the-go handheld gaming. Leaderboards, local and online, encourage friendly competition and give players a reason to revisit the arenas. Though there’s no dramatic plot to uncover, the simple premise combined with tight mechanics, dynamic visuals, and varied difficulty options yields a satisfying overall experience.

Retro Replay Score

6.4/10