If you're a regular reader of Nintendo Life then you'll already be aware of HyperPlay RPG, a UK-based fanzine devoted to covering retro RPGs and Nintendo titles.
The fanzine has seen three issues so far, and we've just taken stock of the latest instalment (issue 2, but it's actually issue 3 if you include the "zero" release), complete with an exclusive cover by legendary artist Wil Overton, the man behind the art of Super Play magazine in the '90s - a big point of inspiration for the fanzine.
While previous issues were black and white, this new entry has a full-colour cover which really gives the impression that the publication is going places. Overton's artwork is superb as ever, showcasing the characters from the SNES RPG Seiken Densetsu 3. The game is covered inside thanks to an in-depth review, and fellow retro role-players Super Mario RPG and Terranigma also get the review treatment.
Elsewhere, there's a playtest of Star Fox Zero on Wii U, a look at Super Famicom: The Box Art Collection and a fascinating look at the history of Role Call, a UK fanzine from the '90s which, in the days before the internet, was a vital source of information for British RPG fans.
At just 40 pages, it might sound a little on the light side but the majority of those pages are taken up with text, so there's plenty of content to read through here - and it's created with a passion and insight that is so often missing from modern print media. The team behind the magazine clearly love the subject matter, and it shows.
Hyper Play RPG may feel like a step backwards in the days of the internet, but anyone who appreciates the lasting appeal of the printed word - and also has a preference for RPGs and Nintendo - should support it as much as possible to ensure that future issues get made.
Comments 18
Never heard of Wil Overton, but the whole "fake anime" style doesn't do a lot for me.
I thought about buying and support, but the fanzine is more expensive for NON-UK buyers, so I pass.
@setezerocinco It costs more to send things abroad.
@Cantisque he is the artist who did the cover art for the magazine Super Play in the mid 90s https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_Play
@Cantisque "Fake anime"?
@kincl4 so the shipping cost is already included? That was not clear for me. I will buy then =]
@Cantisque it is called 'Manga'. You are welcome ; ]
@setezerocinco Indeed! It says so on the homepage, and on each product listing
Its like $5 or $6 bucks with shipping. A phenomenal price & value for great printed media shipped abroad. especially considering the content of the fanzine. Its wonderful all around.
@setezerocinco You do realize Manga is usually the original, right? Manga is drawn first, then animators animate what's seen on those pages and turn it into (you guessed it) an anime. Excluding original anime not taken from manga (by comparison, there won't be many of these) - how is manga 'fake anime'?
Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, Bleach and whatever else you can think of first began as a manga.
@Rhydas
Animation = Anime
Comic = Manga
It is no rocket science...
Thanks for reminding us, I'll have to order the latest issue soon!
@Cantisque This art style shown here is a type of "chibi", so it doesn't really represent the source material. It's basically just a simplified caricature.
Still have my copy of SuperPlay top 100 snes games.
Believe there's a picture of Wil getting some coffee.
I want to get my hands on these! Thanks for the link!
@Cantisque lol. I wasn't going to say anything but you made it too easy:
"Fake Anime Style!" Watchoo talkin' about!!?!
btw, just because you don't like it doesn't mean everyone else doesn't. I'm not a fan of the "tumblr" art style but why should that matter when tons of other people enjoy making it and looking at it. (o_O )
@Utena-mobile I never said others don't like it, I'm saying I don't.
Fake anime, like showing an artist 90's Toonami and then telling them to draw it. You have the eyes, the oversized canines, the big heads on small bodies, that thing they do when they clench their teeth and it looks like a heart monitor line(?).
It very much looks like an artist outside their comfort zone.
But that's just my observation. Don't let me not liking it affect you liking it.
@Cantisque personally, I think it looks closer to Legend of Korra than Toonami, but ok, will do!
( ^_^)b
@setezerocinco Wow, would you believe me if I said I think my reply was aimed at the wrong person? xD I.E. You. Was actually meant for the person above your message... Mybad.
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