PLAY Expo Blackpool was held
at the Norbreck Castle Hotel on the 30th and 1st
May. Despite an impressive exterior, the
venue was somewhat dated. However I
imagine it was pretty spectacular back in its heyday.
The show encompasses all
aspects of gaming, although most of my time was spent in the arcade section.
Here is a video of a walk around
the arcade machines.
There was a fantastic
selection of titles, including Sega classics and a nice row of Nintendo
cabinets.
My gaming highlights had a
definite Atari theme!
Marble Madness - 1984
The last time I played this
was at Mikado arcade in Tokyo
Road Runner - 1985
Another fun and addictive Atari
title, and one I’ve never seen / played before.
As Road Runner, the player must escape Wile. E Coyote, pick up bird seed
and avoid the obstacles just like in the cartoon. Beep Beep!!
Toobin’ - 1988
Toobin’ certainly stands out
from the crowd, with unique controls, cool artwork and an awesome cascading
waterfall marquee.
I remember seeing Toobin’
many years ago down Great Yarmouth seafront, but I don’t recall ever playing it.
Like many other Atari titles,
the game has a very original concept. Paddle
down the river and avoid the hazards, which include branches, hungry
alligators, dinosaurs whipping their tails, and punks throwing cans at you!
The control system features
four buttons at different diagonals, which control the characters legs and
arms. Also you can throw cans to slow
the other player down.
Toobin’ was loads of fun and
great to play after all these years.
The show had a good selection
of pinball tables.
I remember the Virtuality
machines at the Mint arcade in Great Yarmouth.
Here are some more pics of
the show.
