If you’ve heard of — or even read — FREEZE64 then you may well be interested in FREEZE-ZX. Also from Vinny Mainolfi, this Spectrum-themed magazine features the same humour, insights, and nostalgia as the existing, C64-centric series.
The cover feature issue one is a look at the Jet Set Willy sequel, Jet Set Steamboat Willie, one of the cheekiest pieces of out-of-copyright subversion ever. With a review of the game, you can expect an honest appraisal.
Also in FREEZE-ZX #1
The first edition also features:
THE SINCLAIR SIN-BIN:
Brace yourself for a riotous trip down memory lane as we dredge up some of the ZX Spectrum’s most hilariously abysmal games, immortalised in the pages of Sinclair User. Oh, the stinkers!
DEVELOPERS’ DEN:
Step into the world of game developer extraordinaire Dave Sloan of SloanySoft. From crafting this issue’s cover-feature gem to building an impressive library of Spectrum titles, Dave spills the beans on his programming journey. It’s an interview you simply can’t miss!
DON’T PEEK! IT’S POKES!:
Ever wanted to dabble in ZX Spectrum cheats? FREEZE-ZX’s Editor, famous for wild Commodore 64 hacks, will share a stash of ingenious POKES for your gaming adventures.
ALL MAPPED OUT:
Who doesn’t love a good game map? The centrefold is devoted to a glorious, intricately crafted map just for you.
SECRET SQUIRREL:
Dive deep into ZX Spectrum game code alongside their cheeky furry companion. Hidden messages, Easter eggs, and surprises await!
FREE-LOADERS:
Discover the charm of Rally Bug by the illustrious Jonathan Cauldwell — and learn about FREEZE-ZX‘s Editor’s unexpected involvement in the backstory behind this public domain gem.
THE SPECTRUM NEXT:
It’s a conversation with Michael ‘Flash’ Ware, also seen in issue 57 FREEZE64. This time, Michael returns to dive into the wonders of the Spectrum Next, shedding light on this innovative machine and its capabilities. He also shares an exciting glimpse into its game library – some of which proudly bear his own creative touch.
BYTE-SIZED REVIEW: S.C.I.O.N.
A look at BitmapSoft’s latest release, S.C.I.O.N., crafted by Tom Potter. Not only does it lookat the ins and outs of this intriguing run-and-gun strategy RPG-lite creation, FREEZE-ZX also chats with Tom himself to uncover the story behind its development.
Avaliable via mail order, this A5 printed fanzine is chock full of ZX Spectrum material. Order your FREEZE-ZX now for £6.99 + shipping ahead of a Summer 2025 release.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
