Bitmap Books Announces The Definitive Book Of SNES RPGs Vol. 1: A Deep Dive Into Classic Nintendo RPGs

Bitmap Books Announces The Definitive Book Of SNES RPGs Vol.

1: A Deep Dive Into Classic Nintendo RPGs Bitmap Books, a UK-based publisher renowned for its meticulously curated video game books, has unveiled its latest ambitious project: The Definitive Book Of SNES RPGs Vol.

1.

This 556-page volume, scheduled to go on pre-order from October 1st, 2024, sets out to chronicle the golden age of Japanese role-playing games and Western RPGs on the iconic Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). Over the past decade, Bitmap Books has established a stellar reputation among gaming historians and enthusiasts alike.

The publisher’s catalogue spans a wide range of retro topics, including Japanese RPG compendiums, deep dives into unfinished games, and comprehensive histories of influential genres and studios.

Their latest undertaking is poised to continue this legacy, offering unparalleled insight into one of the most beloved eras in Nintendo’s storied history. Announced via Bitmap Books’ official Twitter/X account, The Definitive Book Of SNES RPGs Vol.

1 places a spotlight on some of the most significant and influential RPGs of the 16-bit era.

The book will feature behind-the-scenes stories and thorough analyses of landmark titles such as ActRaiser, Eye of the Beholder, Breath of Fire, Chrono Trigger, EarthBound, Final Fantasy III, and Illusion of Gaia.

Each chapter delves into the philosophies, development challenges, and creative visions that shaped these Nintendo classics, explaining why these games continue to leave a lasting impact more than three decades after their initial release. According to Bitmap Books, the book’s primary author is Moses Norton—widely recognized online as the Well-Red Mage—a respected video game critic, researcher, and essayist.

The foreword will be penned by Alex Donaldson, the founder of RPG Site and seasoned RPG journalist.

Contributing visually to the volume, professional video game artist Stephen Sitton (known as Stumpyfongo) brings additional artistic flair to this comprehensive reference. The Definitive Book Of SNES RPGs Vol.

1 stands as both a tribute and a resource, aiming to serve dedicated fans of Nintendo’s RPG legacy as well as new generations eager to understand the creative evolution behind games that laid the foundation for today’s RPG genre.

While pricing details are yet to be announced, Bitmap Books encourages interested readers to sign up for their mailing list via their official website to receive updates and secure their copy when pre-orders launch. As the Nintendo Switch continues to drive interest in retro content through its eShop and SNES Online offerings, this authoritative publication provides a timely and in-depth look at the formative years of RPG development on Nintendo hardware.

With its upcoming release, Bitmap Books further cements its status as a leading source for thoughtful, expertly crafted retrospectives on gaming history.