Dreaming of a way to play your favourite retro games with friends and family around the world online? We all know old systems never supported network play through the internet, but things could be about to change with Piepacker beta. It’s a browser-based online gaming platform based around retro games, with so much on offer that you simply have to check it out at piepacker.com or follow the Kickstarter. NES, SNES, and SEGA Mega Drive/Genesis are supported based on the trailer, along with indie titles.
Piepacker promises retro games with online play, video chat, and even game-themed 3D face filters. To invite friends, a magic one-time URL is created and sent, and games can be paused, rewound, saved, and loaded. It doesn’t matter what controller you own, it can be used with a retro game on Piepacker. Games are apparently free, and include
- Worms World Party
- Sensible Soccer
- Earth Worm Jim 2
- Micro Maniacs Racing
Indie games available through Piepacker include:
- Gluf
- Misplaced
- Twin Dragons
- Yazzie
You’ll even find some exclusives, such as -Micro Mages and Xenocrisis.
A key aspect of what Piepacker is promising is the ability to play games that it doesn’t list. For this, you’ll need the PieReader. This is a device that lets you play a physical console cartridge through the Piepacker service. No download is required, and the game plays instantly in your browser.
At this point, details are scant. While the trailer above is polished and well produced, it promises much but shows little. We expect to learn more over time – until then, follow our lead and register your interest at piepacker.com.
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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.
