Curated Video Shortlist
Longplays, developer retrospectives, and documentary content covering Core Design’s full catalogue - curated from Phase 1 citation research.
The definitive English-language retrospective on Core Design’s history. Covers the founding, the Rick Dangerous era, Chuck Rock, the CentreGold and Eidos acquisitions, Tomb Raider’s rise, and the studio’s eventual closure. Primary recommendation for anyone new to the Core Design story.
Also embedded on the History page.
Episode 455 of The Retro Hour features former Core Design programmer Chris Long discussing Chuck Rock, Rick Dangerous 2, and the studio’s Mega CD work. Insider view of Core’s creative process in the early 1990s.
Full playthroughs of Core Design’s key titles. Amiga versions preferred for audio fidelity; C64 versions for SID music context.
Full playthrough of the Amiga version of Rick Dangerous. All five levels: South American jungle, Egyptian pyramid, Schwarzendumpf Castle, missile base, and final boss encounter. Demonstrates the game’s trap-based design philosophy and the “Waaaahh!” death sound in full context.
Also embedded on the Home page.
Full playthrough of the Rick Dangerous sequel. Five new worlds: the Amazon, the Arctic, Egypt, London, and outer space. Dave Pridmore’s SID music is best heard on the C64 version; the Amiga version showcases the improved visual design.
Full playthrough of Chuck Rock on the Amiga - showcasing Martin Iveson’s acclaimed soundtrack, the belly-barge mechanic, and the game’s five prehistoric worlds. The Amiga version remains the definitive audiovisual experience.
Full playthrough of Heimdall on the Amiga. Demonstrates the Norse RPG’s atmospheric visual design, isometric perspective, and Martin Iveson’s orchestral tracker soundtrack.
Simon Phipps, lead programmer and creator of Rick Dangerous, discusses the development of both games including the origin of the iconic “Waaaahh!” death sound, the Indiana Jones inspiration, and the game’s brutal design philosophy.
Also embedded on the People page.
Toby Gard, creator of Lara Croft, discusses the design decisions behind Tomb Raider’s protagonist, the original game’s development at Core Design, and his departure during Tomb Raider II.
Also embedded on the People page.