Book Review PC Engine: The Box Art Collection

PC Engine: The Box Art Collection is an essential read for fans of retro gaming, particularly those interested in the PC Engine (known as TurboGrafx-16 in the West). Published by Bitmap Books, renowned for their high-quality gaming literature, this hefty tome weighs in at 2.5kg and spans 372 pages of pure nostalgia and artistic appreciation.

Physical Attributes and Presentation:

• imensions: 25x25cm hardback cover
• Cover Design: Striking red metallic foil logo on a white background
• Print Quality: Lithographic printing on premium paper
• Binding: Thread-sewn for durability and the ability to lay flat
• Packaging: Shrink-wrapped with protective padding in a custom cardboard box

Content Structure:

1. Foreword by Paul Weller
2. Comprehensive history of the PC Engine
3. Collector interview with Lee Thacker
4. A-Z showcase of PC Engine box art
5. Index and credits

The book's primary focus is on the captivating box art that adorned PC Engine games. Each featured game is presented with:

• High-quality, large-format images of the box art
• Multiple screenshots showcasing in-game action
• Detailed information including release year, developer, genre, and format
• A paragraph describing the game
• Analysis of the cover artwork, including design choices and trivia

Historical Context and Educational Value:
For many readers, especially those outside Japan, this book serves as an introduction to a console that never saw widespread Western release. The PC Engine's compact size (comparable to an Xbox controller) and impressive hardware capabilities are highlighted, offering insights into why it became an importer's dream.

Visual Appeal and Design:
The book's layout is thoughtfully crafted, with each page featuring a bold, single-color backdrop that complements the vibrant box art. The juxtaposition of gothic, cartoonish, and anime-inspired artwork provides a visual feast that captures the diversity of the PC Engine's game library.

Critique and Comparison:
While the book excels in presenting the visual aspects of PC Engine games, some reviewers note that it doesn't offer the same depth of historical analysis found in other Bitmap Books publications. However, this aligns with the book's primary focus on box art appreciation.

Target Audience:
This collection is ideal for:

• Retro gaming enthusiasts
• Art and design aficionados
• Those curious about gaming history, particularly Japanese consoles
• Collectors of video game memorabilia

Price and Value:
Priced at £29.99, the book represents a significant investment. However, the quality of materials, printing, and content justifies the cost for those passionate about gaming history and art.

Final Thoughts:
PC Engine: The Box Art Collection is more than just a coffee table book; it's a time capsule that preserves and celebrates a unique period in gaming history. Its ability to spark curiosity about lesser-known games and potentially drive readers to explore the PC Engine library is a testament to its effectiveness.

The book not only serves as a visual compendium but also as a gateway to discovering new games. Readers are advised to approach with caution, as the enticing artwork and game descriptions might lead to impromptu retro game shopping sprees!

For fans of the PC Engine, collectors of gaming memorabilia, or anyone interested in the artistry behind video game packaging, this book is an indispensable addition to their library. It stands as another high-quality entry in Bitmap Books' impressive catalog, continuing their tradition of creating premium publications that honor gaming's rich history.