Identifying Games in "100 Action Arcade Vol 4": Why It's Hard & How to Solve It

Why There's No Definitive List

"100 Action Arcade Vol 4" is a generic compilation title used by multiple budget publishers (often shovelware) across PC, handheld, and plug-and-play devices. No standardized list exists because:

• No trademark control: Anyone can release a "Vol 4" with different games.
• Platform variance: PC CD-ROM (1998–2005), GBA cartridge, PSP UMD, DSiWare, Android APK, dedicated handheld—each has a different lineup.
• Regional differences: European vs. Asian vs. North American releases swap titles.
• Shovelware economics: Publishers license cheap/abandonware titles in bulk; contents change per batch.

How to Identify YOUR Specific Version

1. Platform: PC (Windows 95/98/XP), Game Boy Advance, PSP, Android, dedicated handheld (e.g., "100-in-1" keychain).
2. Publisher/Developer: Check box art, splash screen, or executable properties. Common budget labels: Midas Interactive, Play It!, ValuSoft, Global Star, Zoo Digital, DSI Games, Tommo.
3. Release year / Region: Look for copyright date, ESRB/PEGI rating, barcode (UPC/EAN).
4. Executable filename / Menu art: Screenshot the main menu—distinctive background/logo helps identification.

Search Strategies

• Google: "100 Action Arcade Vol 4" "game list" "PC" (add your platform).
• Archive.org: Search "100 Action Arcade" in Software Library; many ISOs uploaded with file lists.
• MobyGames / GameFAQs: Search the compilation title; check "Releases" for platform-specific contents.
• Reddit/Forums: r/retrogaming, r/shovelware, r/emulation—post menu screenshot.
• YouTube: Search "100 Action Arcade Vol 4 gameplay" + platform; pause on menu.

Common Titles Found in These Packs (PC Era)

If it's a late-90s/early-2000s PC CD-ROM, expect shareware/freeware clones:

• Alien Shooter (demo), Crimsonland (demo), Heavy Weapon (demo), Mutant Storm (demo), Geometry Wars (clone), Asteroids clones, Breakout clones, Pac-Man clones, Space Invaders clones, simple puzzle games (Bejeweled clone, Zuma clone), card solitaires.

If It's a Dedicated Handheld

These usually contain NES/GB/SNES ROMs (often unlicensed). The menu lists 100+ numbers; many are duplicates or hacks. Search the handheld model number (e.g., "MY-100A game list") for a mapped spreadsheet.

Bottom Line

Without platform/publisher/region, the game list is unknowable. Gather the identifiers above, then search. If you share a menu screenshot, enthusiast communities can often identify the exact compilation within hours.