Reviving an Iconic Brand: Tengen Games
Indie game developer Jeff Silvers has revived the iconic “Tengen” brand with his new venture, Tengen Games, launching the arcade-style action platformer “Zed and Zee.” This game is now available to play on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Windows, breathing new life into a classic gaming experience.
Introducing Tengen Games! We're a new indie game development studio focusing on providing high-quality gaming experiences that merge design influences from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras with quality-of-life beats taken from modern gaming.
— Tengen Games (@tengengames) July 9, 2024
Visit us at https://t.co/WwYNFb13Wg!
The Original Tengen: A Brief History
Tengen Inc., a subsidiary of Atari Games, made a bold entrance into the gaming industry in 1987 by defying Nintendo’s strict licensing agreements for the NES. This move quickly made Tengen one of the most controversial names in the business as they produced and distributed unlicensed games in black cartridges, directly challenging Nintendo’s market dominance. Despite facing legal battles, Tengen managed to release popular titles like “R.B.I. Baseball,” “Gauntlet,” and “Ms. Pac-Man,” which attracted a loyal following of gamers looking for an arcade-like experience at home. However, Tengen’s rebellion ultimately led to their downfall, and the company ceased operations in 1994 after a series of legal challenges with Nintendo.
Introducing Zed and Zee
“Zed and Zee” is a retro-inspired 8-bit platformer game that takes players back to the classic gaming era. The game follows the story of two advanced androids, Zed and Zee, who rebel against their creator, Dr. Otto Matton, after uncovering his evil intentions. Players must navigate through six colorful worlds teeming with diverse enemies such as plasma tanks, flying luchador masks, and unpredictable robo-frogs. With solo and cooperative play options, password save feature, and a two-player versus mode, “Zed and Zee” offers a rich and nostalgic gaming experience. Available for purchase as a Windows PC game or as an authentic NES cartridge, the game combines retro charm with modern gameplay mechanics to provide players with a unique blend of old-school fun.
A New Chapter for Tengen
Jeff Silvers’ vision for Tengen Games is to create a gaming experience that is free from gatekeepers. By reviving the Tengen name, Silvers intends to uphold the original company’s legacy of creative expression and independence. Despite not having any official ties to the original company, Tengen Games will still embody the spirit of uncompromised creative expression. The release of “Zed and Zee” signifies a significant milestone as Tengen Games sets out on this new journey. Both fans of retro gaming and new players can anticipate a fresh wave of indie games that honor the essence of the original Tengen brand.
For more information about Tengen Games and to purchase “Zed and Zee,” please visit tengengames.net.
