About

Cartridge Almanac is an independent editorial publication about retro video games and the worlds around them. We look at how classic games work, the hardware they were made for, the histories they carry and the habits that keep people returning to them.

What we cover

Our subjects range from game rules and level design to consoles, controllers, formats and the changing ways games were shared. We also make room for the culture of collecting, replaying and talking about older games. Each piece has a distinct question at its centre; we do not treat every old game as if it tells the same story.

Who it is for

The Almanac is for curious players, long-time collectors and readers who may know a game by sight but not its history. You do not need specialist equipment or encyclopedic knowledge to follow along. We explain unfamiliar terms and keep the focus on details a general reader can notice and enjoy.

How we look

We favour patient explanation over ranking lists and nostalgia alone. A familiar button, screen or cartridge can open a wider question about design and play. We aim to separate what can be stated clearly from what remains uncertain, and to give readers enough context to make their own connections.