Summary
Farming Simulatordeveloper Giants Software has announcedFarming Simulator 16-Bit, a new retro demake of the hit sim game. While projects targeted towards retro game enthusiasts aren’t much of a novel concept,Farming Simulator 16-Bitis taking it one step further by launching on none other than the Sega Genesis, complete with pixel art, retro sound effects, and physical cartridges.
Last month, Giants Software revealedFarming Simulator 16-Bitvia a trailer on its official YouTube channel, but many viewers dismissed it as an early April Fools gag. After all, the concept of bringing a modern simulator game to a console from the late 1980s seemed no short of a parody. However,Farming Simulator 16-Bitis indeed real, and this isn’t even the first time Giants Software is dipping its toes into the retro space, with the studio releasing aCommodore 64port ofFarming Simulatorin 2018.
WithFarming Simulator 16-Bit, though, Giants Software is going all-in with a physical release and a soundtrack byTurricancomposer Christopher Hulsbeck. The retroFarming Simulatortitle features new handmadepixel art visualsand digitized sound effects tailored for the Sega Genesis. Interestingly,Farming Simulator 16-Bitwas originally offered as a digital bonus for theFarming Simulator 25Collector’s Edition on PC, but now, fans canpre-order the game in Sega Genesis cartridge formthrough Strictly Limited Games. Two versions ofFarming Simulator 16-Bitare available: a Limited Edition ($50) and a Deluxe Limited Edition ($70), both offered in distinctive green cartridges and limited to 500 copies each.
When buying via Amazon, VideoGamePlus
Farming Simulator 16-BitDeluxe buyers even have the option to arrange early shipping, and for those not quick enough to snag a copy, retail partners like Amazon and VideoGamePlus will offer a less exclusive version that will come in a standard black Sega Genesis cartridge. As cool as this throwback is, though, some members of theFarming Simulatorcommunity have expressed concerns over whether the resources that went intoFarming Simulator 16-Bitmight have been better spent fixing certain ongoingissues inFarming Simulator 25.
Still, at least retro game enthusiasts will find it quite charming that a modern studio like Giants Software has taken the time to produce a fully playable retro edition ofFarming Simulatorfor the 36-year-old Sega Genesis.Farming Simulator 16-Bitmight not be for everyone, but it’s a great nod to an outmoded yet iconic console that houses some of themost influential games ever made.
