The Programme

A publisher of small canons

Focused 10-essay runs on the evolution of a genre across a defined era.

Vol 05 A Konami Reader · Volume II

Konami Anthology II

After the Cabinet, 1994–1996

The three years after the arcade house style stopped being the brand. Castlevania: Bloodlines, Contra: Hard Corps, Sparkster — the Mega Drive's Konami is sharper, stranger, and harsher around the edges than its SNES twin. The late-arcade output thickens; the cinematic-adventure lab in the back room is starting to look like the next decade.

Era
1994 → 1996
Status
In preparation

7 / 9 essays

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Vol 04 A Konami Reader · Volume I

Konami Anthology

From Cabinet to Cartridge, 1990–1993

The four years in which Konami's arcade house style — readable, choreographed, top-tier art — became the dominant visual register of an era, then jumped intact onto the SNES. Castlevania IV, Contra III, Sunset Riders, TMNT IV, Axelay, Rocket Knight, Goemon, Snatcher — the run that made Konami the most consistent third-party developer of the 16-bit generation's first half.

Era
1990 → 1993
Reader
21 essays
Status
Published
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