Limited Run has a solid reputation for releasing collectible versions of niche games. Much like the Criterion Collection, their whole business model is looking for obscure titles, and making fancy versions for die hard fans. Unlike other specialty distributors, some of the games Limited Run release are maybe not genre classics. One of their more interesting releases coming later this year is “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Retro Collection.” The set will include “Bill & Ted” games originally released for the NES and GameBoy.
Unlike Limited Run’s upcoming “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles“ collection, titles starring Bill S. Preston Esq. and Theodore Logan aren’t really talked about. I have to be completely honest, I didn’t know even “Bill & Ted” games exist. It doesn’t help that they are made by LJN, a company notorious for making cheap licensed games of of popular movies.
Gentlemen, We’re History
Despite the dubious quality of the original games, Limited Run is pulling out all the stops for this upcoming release. “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Retro Collection” is coming to both the Switch and PlayStation in multiple forms.
Along with the standard release (which will run $34.99), there is also a collector’s edition. You get a retro box made to look like NES packaging along with a cartridge slipcover and Wyld Stallyns soundtrack (for $59.99). Along with the games, Limited Run is also taking pre-orders for a ‘Most Excellent’ skateboard deck (for $74.99). There is also a ‘Non Heinous’ trading card set (for $5.99).
Keep in mind that Bill & Ted have endured for well over 30 years. “Bill & Ted Face The Music” also proved love for the characters is still strong. People also still go crazy for anything retro, and are willing to pay for anything that takes them back to childhood. Limited Run is well aware of this. They even managed to make “Night Trap” something worth buying, so they clearly know their audience. If you have any childhood attachment to these games, be sure to pre order before they’re history.
All of these go on sale June 9th, at 10am (EST).
