2 Comments
User's avatar
Spouting Thomas's avatar

These are always fun. On that Gradius tip: first of all, I didn't know about that secret either. What was the first NES game with a "cheat code", I wonder? But the age of seeking out and learning cheat codes is truly a part of gaming history that came and went. This probably peaked with the rumor of a "boss code" in the original SF2 for SNES. For a few years, EGM would use its April issue to promote a fake cheat code.

But I also think it's funny in this issue that when a kid asks the grown-ups for advice on the game, the immediate response is "Alright kid, let me teach you how to cheat." No need to even mention the fundamentals!

Dylan Cornelius's avatar

Good question! Worth a dig.

I loved EGM's cheat code sections with Trickmaster Terry. Their fake cheat codes were legendary. Sonic in Smash Bros. Melee was an all timer along with Sheng Long in SF2.

I can't say I blame them. Gradius is super balls hard for adults and kids alike!