Pixel Jockey and David Jones Launch Magic Knight 40th Anniversary Collection on ZX Spectrum Tape

Pixel Jockey and David Jones Celebrate 40 Years of Magic Knight with Retro ZX Spectrum Tape Collection In a landmark tribute to classic gaming, acclaimed retro publisher Pixel Jockey has united with British developer David Jones, the visionary behind the Magic Knight series, to unveil a 40th anniversary collection of the beloved adventure-puzzle franchise.

This commemorative set, now live for backing on Kickstarter, brings the four original Magic Knight games to newly-manufactured ZX Spectrum cassette tapes, honoring the spirit and legacy of this iconic British video game series. The Magic Knight series, which began with the release of Finder Keepers in 1985, quickly developed a passionate following thanks to its novel blend of graphic adventure, light RPG mechanics, and the introduction of the pioneering 'Windimation' menu-driven interface.

Following its debut, the series continued with Spellbound (1985), Knight Thyme (1986), and Stormbringer (1987), each further refining the formula and solidifying the franchise's reputation for clever design, distinctive humor, and accessible gameplay.

David Jones’ creative direction on these titles is widely recognized as a formative influence in early British game development, with the Windimation system heralded as ahead of its time. This 40th anniversary collection stands out not just for its meticulously recreated gameplay, but also for its dedication to authenticity.

The Pixel Jockey team meticulously scanned original game artwork and completely redrew the case and tape label designs, staying as faithful as possible to the original ZX Spectrum releases while making only minor changes.

These include commemorative 40th anniversary text and vibrant full-color artwork replacing the original monochrome labels, preserving the games’ classic look with a modern touch. Each game is housed inside a unique collector’s package known as The Codex—a "hook and loop closure" book styled after an ancient tome, aiming to blend seamlessly with both video game archives and fantasy literature collections alike.

This thoughtful presentation serves to bridge nostalgia for the golden era of home computing with the expectations of today’s collectors. The Magic Knight 40th anniversary box set is available at £40, while a premium £70 edition includes exclusive themed merchandise such as a Magic Knight t-shirt, mug, and enamel pin.

The Kickstarter campaign offers fans a rare opportunity to acquire a truly authentic slice of retro gaming history and celebrate the enduring impact of David Jones and the Magic Knight legacy. Interested backers and collectors can support the project now on Kickstarter.

Notably, a brand new entry in the series, tentatively titled MK5, was previously teased in 2023, signaling ongoing enthusiasm for the Magic Knight saga among both developers and retro gaming communities.

Kickstarter David Pixel Jockey David Jones Magic Knight series ZX Spectrum Finder Keepers Spellbound Knight Thyme Stormbringer Windimation