Ascending Optics Unveils "Spyro Year of the Dragon" Collector Lenses: A Nostalgic Boost for Retro Gamers

St. Helens, OR – November 8, 2023 – Ascending Optics LLC, a US-based optics company specializing in high-precision lenses and custom optical solutions, today announced the launch of a limited-edition line of collectible lenses inspired by the beloved PlayStation classic, Spyro: Year of the Dragon. These aren’t your typical camera filters; they're designed to subtly enhance the viewing experience on modern displays, bringing a touch of the original game’s magic back to life for dedicated fans. Based out of St. Helens, Oregon, Ascending Optics (reachable at 626-271-4857) has been quietly building a reputation for delivering top-notch optical performance for a range of applications – from industrial inspection to high-end photography. But the team, comprised of life-long gamers and optical engineers, decided to tackle a passion project: capturing the feeling of playing Spyro: Year of the Dragon on a classic CRT television, but optimized for today’s flat screens. “We noticed a lot of discussion online about how modern TVs just don’t feel right for playing older games,” explains Sarah Chen, Lead Optical Engineer at Ascending Optics. “The colors are too vibrant, the contrast is too sharp… it loses that certain warmth and charm. We wanted to see if we could use our expertise in optics to address that.” The result is the “Spyro Year of the Dragon” lens collection. It's not about making the game look exactly like it did on a CRT, Chen clarifies. That’s largely impossible due to the fundamental differences in display technology. Instead, the lenses aim to recreate the impression of the original’s visual aesthetic. What do these lenses do? Ascending Optics developed three distinct lens variations, each designed to evoke a specific element of the Spyro: Year of the Dragon experience: "Dream Weavers" Lens: This lens focuses on softening the overall image. It reduces harsh edges and bright highlights, mimicking the slight blurriness inherent in older CRT displays. The colors are subtly warmed, adding a touch of nostalgia. "Think of it as giving your screen a cozy blanket," Chen says. "It's about reducing eye strain during those long gem-collecting sessions." This lens is perfect for players who prioritize comfort and a more immersive, less ‘clinical’ viewing experience. "Midnight Plane" Lens: Taking inspiration from the iconic Midnight Plane level, this lens introduces a subtle, cool tint to the image. It enhances dark areas without completely obscuring detail, making the shadowy levels feel more atmospheric and mysterious. "We wanted to capture that sense of adventure and exploration in the darker parts of the game," explains David Lee, a senior optical designer. "The lens adds a touch of depth and makes those hidden areas feel even more rewarding to discover." "Avalanche Peak" Lens: Inspired by the crisp, snow-covered landscapes of Avalanche Peak, this lens focuses on increasing contrast and sharpness while maintaining a natural color palette. It's designed to bring out the details in the game's vibrant environments, making the colorful world of Spyro truly pop. "We paid a lot of attention to not over-saturate the colors," says Chen. “We wanted it to feel crisp and clear, but still stay true to the original’s aesthetic.” How do they work? These aren’t digital filters or software adjustments. They’re physical lenses, crafted from high-quality optical glass. They're designed to be compatible with a wide range of displays – from computer monitors and televisions to handheld gaming devices. The lenses work by selectively filtering certain wavelengths of light. The “Dream Weavers” lens uses a combination of diffusion and color correction to soften the image and warm the colors. The “Midnight Plane” lens utilizes a subtle blue-tinted coating to enhance dark areas. And the “Avalanche Peak” lens employs a multi-layer coating to increase contrast and sharpen the image. More Than Just a Gimmick? While the "Spyro Year of the Dragon" lenses are clearly aimed at a niche audience, Ascending Optics believes they demonstrate the potential of optical solutions to enhance the gaming experience. “We’re exploring other possibilities, like lenses designed for different game genres or to address specific visual issues,” says Chen. “We think there’s a real opportunity to use optics to improve image quality, reduce eye strain, and create a more immersive gaming experience.” Availability and Pricing The "Spyro Year of the Dragon" lens collection is available for pre-order on the Ascending Optics website (website address currently under development - check social media for updates). Each lens is individually handcrafted and comes with a protective case and cleaning cloth. Pricing is as follows: “Dream Weavers” Lens: $79.99 “Midnight Plane” Lens: $89.99 “Avalanche Peak” Lens: $99.99 Complete Collector’s Set (all three lenses): $249.99 Ascending Optics LLC is located at 364 S 6TH ST, ST. HELENS, OR, 97051-2516. You can reach them at 626-271-4857 or follow them on social media for updates and announcements. About Ascending Optics LLC: Ascending Optics LLC is a US-based company specializing in the design and manufacturing of high-precision lenses and custom optical solutions. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Ascending Optics serves a diverse range of industries, including industrial inspection, photography, and gaming. They are passionate about using optics to solve challenging problems and enhance the visual experience.