Category Archives: Gaming History

A post about retro gaming history

The Forgotten Legacy of the Sega Game Gear: A Look Back at the Portable Console That Could Have Been a Contender

The Sega Game Gear was a portable gaming device that was released in 1990 as a direct competitor to Nintendo’s Game Boy. Although it wasn’t as successful as the Game Boy, it still had a loyal following and some notable games that are still remembered today. One of the standout features of the Game Gear was its colour screen.

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Unlike the Game Boy, which had a monochromatic display, the Game Gear’s screen could display up to 32 colours at once. This made games like Sonic the Hedgehog and Mortal Kombat much more visually impressive on the Game Gear than they were on the Game Boy.

 

However, the Game Gear did have some drawbacks. One of the biggest issues was its battery life. The Game Gear required six AA batteries to run, and they only lasted for a few hours at most. This made the Game Gear much less portable than the Game Boy, which had a much longer battery life. Another issue with the Game Gear was its size. While it was technically portable, it was much larger and heavier than the Game Boy. This made it less convenient to carry around, and it was also more prone to damage if dropped or bumped. To address this issue, Game Case protectors were introduced. These protectors were essentially cases that the Game Gear could be placed in when not in use. They were designed to protect the device from scratches, bumps, and other forms of damage while also making it easier to carry around. Game Case protectors came in a variety of styles and designs. Some were made of hard plastic and resembled small suitcases, while others were made of soft materials like neoprene and could be carried over the shoulder like a purse.

 

Overall, the Sega Game Gear was an impressive piece of gaming hardware that was ahead of its time in terms of graphics and screen quality. However, its short battery life and bulky design made it less popular than the Game Boy. For those who still enjoy playing Game Gear games today, Game Case protectors are a must-have accessory to ensure the device remains in good condition.

 

If you are an experienced Game Gear collector, or starting to build your first collection – we suggest that you protect your games with our Sega Game Gear game box protectors. At RetroShell we offer Game Gear game case protectors made of 4mm clear acrylic with a sliding door for easy access. Our Game Gear game box protectors are best in class, and allow you to stack your Game Gear game cases either horizontally or vertically to display your collection.

The Power of Preservation: How Sega Megadrive Box Protectors Keep Retro Gaming Alive

The Sega Megadrive, also known as the Genesis in North America, was a popular home video game console that was first released in Japan in 1988. It was developed and produced by Sega and quickly became one of the most successful gaming systems of its time. The console was known for its advanced technology, innovative features, and a library of classic games that are still beloved by gamers today.

Sega Megadrive Box Protectors

One of the defining features of the Sega Megadrive was its 16-bit processor, which allowed for more advanced graphics and faster gameplay than its competitors. It also introduced a variety of peripherals and accessories, such as the Sega CD and the Sega 32X, which expanded the console’s capabilities and provided gamers with new experiences.

Despite its popularity, the Sega Megadrive faced stiff competition from other gaming systems such as the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and the Atari Jaguar. However, its dedicated fanbase continued to grow, and the console remained a staple in many homes throughout the 1990s.

Today, many retro gamers still collect and play Sega Megadrive games, with titles such as Sonic the Hedgehog, Phantasy Star IV, and Streets of Rage 2 among the most highly regarded. The console’s iconic design and distinctive logo also continue to inspire nostalgia and hold a special place in the hearts of many gamers.

If you’re a collector or just a fan of the Sega Megadrive, you may be interested in protecting your game boxes with Sega Megadrive Box Protectors. These plastic protectors are specifically designed to fit Megadrive game boxes and provide an extra layer of protection against scratches, wear, and tear. They can also help preserve the value of your games, especially if you plan to sell or trade them in the future.

In addition to Megadrive Box Protectors, there are also a variety of other accessories and add-ons available for the console, such as extension cords, controllers, and memory cards. With the continued popularity of retro gaming, it’s never been a better time to be a fan of the Sega Megadrive.

In conclusion, the Sega Megadrive is a console with a rich history and a legacy that continues to live on today. Its advanced technology, innovative features, and library of classic games have made it a beloved system among gamers. If you’re a fan or collector, consider investing in Sega Megadrive Box Protectors to protect and preserve your game boxes for years to come.

 
 
 

Nintendo Famicom – The Console that started it all

The Nintendo Famicom, also known as the Family Computer, was a home video game console released by Nintendo in Japan in 1983. One of the defining features of the Famicom was its unique game boxes, which featured colorful and eye-catching designs that helped to make the console stand out on store shelves. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the design and history of Famicom game boxes.

A Famicom Store Re-Imagined

The Famicom game boxes were designed to be both attractive and informative. The front of the box featured a large image of the game’s main character or characters, along with the game’s title and a small logo for the publisher. The back of the box featured screenshots of the game, a brief description of the game’s story and gameplay, and a list of features and controls. The sides of the box featured additional information about the game, such as the developer, release date, and number of players.

The Famicom game boxes were a different size to the NES game boxes, being smaller and not having the same NES video game protector sleeve which was standard for the system. The Famicom game boxes were made of cardboard and due to this they can wear fast due to their age and through wear and tear. For this reason it is a good idea if you are a collector to get the best Famicoms video game protectors for your Famicom game boxes. At RetroShell we offer the best famicom protectors which are made from 4mm acrylic and have a sliding door for easy access and offer the best retro game protection.

The design of Famicom game boxes was heavily influenced by the video games and anime of the time, with many boxes featuring bright colors, bold lines, and exaggerated character designs. The boxes also often featured illustrations of the game’s characters and environments, which helped to give players a sense of what the game was like before they even played it.

The design of Famicom game boxes was not only used as a way to grab attention but also as a way to create a sense of nostalgia. Many of the games box designs were often used again in later games or in re-released versions, creating a sense of continuity and a feeling of familiarity to old fans and new players.

The Famicom game boxes were not only a defining feature of the console, but they also played a major role in the success of the Famicom in Japan. The colorful and eye-catching designs of the boxes helped to make the Famicom stand out on store shelves, and they helped to attract both children and adults to the console. Today, Famicom game boxes are highly sought after by collectors and are considered an important piece of gaming history.

In conclusion, Famicom game boxes were not only an important part of the console’s design but also played a major role in the success of the Famicom in Japan. The unique design and attention to detail of the game boxes helped to make the Famicom stand out on store shelves and helped to attract both children and adults to the console. Today, Famicom game boxes are highly sought after by collectors and are considered an important piece of gaming history. If you want to keep and display your famicom game boxes in the best way, get yourself some RetroShell Famicom game protectors to ensure that they remain preserved for future generations.



The Top 20 SNES Games with Metacritic Scores and Present Values

The SNES, or Nintendo Super Nintendo Entertainment System is a beloved console from what I consider to be the golden generation of gaming. The limited 8-bit era was over and the stage was set for more colours and better graphics. The two winners of the era were the Sega Megadrive/Genesis, and the Super Famicom, or Super Nintendo.

Which are on the list 

I was given a Megadrive for my birthday, which made me firmly team Sega – but as I have gotten older, I have learned to appreciate the amazing SNES. So without further ado, I give you my top 20 SNES games ever (my opinion!).

#20 – Mortal Kombat II is a classic fighting game that defined the genre in the 90s. With a roster of iconic characters and brutal finishing moves, it’s a must-play for fans of fighting games. Metacritic score 76%, expect to pay:  $15-$90

#19 – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles- Turtles in Time is a classic beat-’em-up with fast-paced action and memorable levels. With up to four player co-op, it’s a great game to play with friends. Metacritic score 87%, expect to pay:  $45-$500

#18 – Kirby’s Dream Course is a unique and charming take on mini-golf, featuring the iconic pink character. With fun power-ups and challenging levels, it’s a must-play for fans of Kirby games. Metacritic score 79%, expect to pay:  $30-$110

#17 – Star Fox (Star Wing) is a classic on-rails shooter with a memorable cast of characters and iconic levels. With smooth gameplay and a sense of speed, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre. Metacritic score 82%, expect to pay:  $15-$50

StarWing SNES Game Box Protector
StarWing SNES Game Box Protector

#16 – F-Zero is a high-speed racing game with futuristic vehicles and challenging courses. With tight controls and a sense of speed, it’s a must-play for fans of the racing genre. Metacritic score 80%, expect to pay:  $15-$55

#15 – Super Mario RPG- Legend of the Seven Stars is a classic RPG that combines the best elements of the Mario franchise with traditional RPG mechanics. With a memorable storyline and engaging combat, it’s a must-play for fans of both genres. Metacritic score 88%, expect to pay:  $90-$500

#14 – Shadowrun is a classic RPG based on the popular tabletop game. With a deep story and complex character progression, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre and of the franchise. Metacritic score 84%, expect to pay:  $60-$150

#13 – ActRaiser is a unique blend of city-building simulation and action platformer. With an epic storyline and memorable music, it’s a must-play for fans of both genres. Metacritic score 79%, expect to pay:  $50-$230

#12 – Contra III- The Alien Wars is a fast-paced and challenging run-and-gun shooter. With cooperative multiplayer and memorable levels, it’s a classic that’s still fun to play today.Metacritic score 81%, expect to pay:  $30-$225

#11 – Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts is a challenging action platformer that’s known for its difficulty. With tight controls and beautifully designed levels, it’s a classic game that still holds up today. Metacritic score 78%, expect to pay:  $20-$210

#10 – Mega Man X2 is a classic action platformer that builds upon the success of its predecessor. With fast-paced action and challenging levels, it’s a must-play for fans of the Mega Man franchise. Metacritic score 83%, expect to pay:  $150-$500

#9 – Super Mario All-Stars is a collection of four classic Mario games, updated with improved graphics and sound. It’s a must-have for fans of the franchise and a great way to experience some classic Mario games on the SNES. Metacritic score 87%, expect to pay:  $25-$80

#8 – Donkey Kong Country is a landmark platformer with fluid animations and tight controls. Its levels are challenging and well-designed, and its use of pre-rendered graphics was revolutionary at the time. Metacritic score 85%, expect to pay:  $10-120

#7 – Super Castlevania IV is a beautifully designed platformer with tight controls and challenging levels. It’s a must-play for fans of the genre, and its stunning visuals still hold up today. Metacritic score 77%, expect to pay:  $25-$150

#6 – Secret of Mana is a classic action RPG that features a memorable storyline and engaging combat. With up to three player co-op, it’s a great game to play with friends or family. Metacritic score 87%, expect to pay:  $25-$150

#5 – Super Mario World 2- Yoshi’s Island is a charming platformer that puts players in control of Yoshi. The game’s graphics and sound design are distinctive and memorable, and it remains a fan-favorite to this day. Metacritic score 89%, expect to pay:  $35-$150

#4 – Super Mario Kart is a classic kart racing game that is still popular today. With fun power-ups and a roster of beloved Mario characters, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre and of Mario games.Metacritic score 82%, expect to pay:  $35-$175

#3 – Super Street Fighter II Turbo is a legendary fighting game that defined the genre in the 90s. With a roster of iconic characters and smooth gameplay, it’s a must-play for fans of fighting games. Metacritic score 83%, expect to pay:  $20-$150

#2 – Final Fantasy IV is a classic RPG that was ahead of its time. It has a deep story and characters, and was a pioneer in the use of active time battles. It’s still enjoyable to play today. Metacritic score 83%, expect to pay:  $50-$500

#1 – EarthBound is a quirky RPG with a unique storyline and humor. Players control a group of kids on a journey to save the world from aliens. It’s a classic and beloved game for fans of the genre. Metacritic score 90%, expect to pay:  $400-$2000

So there you have it! Some classic games and great memories. Sadly the Super Nintendo game boxes were made of cardboard, unlike their Sega counterpart, so they are getting more valuable and getting hold of a nice version of these games is getting more and more expensive. If you are a collector and are looking for the best game box protector for your Super Nintendo games, then trust in RetroShell to give you the best Super Nintendo game box protection. Our SNES game protectors are made from 4mm hard acrylic and offer a sliding door for easy access. 

 

SNES Game Box Protector
A RetroShell SNES Game protector

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The Nintendo 64: A Time Capsule of Gaming History

The Nintendo 64, commonly known as the N64, was a home video game console developed and released by Nintendo in 1996. It was the first console to feature true 3D graphics and was a major player in the fifth generation of gaming consoles. The N64 was known for its innovative hardware, which allowed for a more immersive gaming experience, as well as its wide variety of games that spanned genres and audiences.

The N64 was a console that left a lasting impact on the gaming industry. It was the first console to introduce many new features such as the analogue stick, four controller ports, and the Rumble Pak, which added force feedback to the controller. The N64 game boxes were of a similar size to is predecessor, the Super Nintendo and were also made of cardboard, meaning that the N64 game boxes did not have much protection and could often be damaged quite easily through regular wear and tear.

The N64 was designed with cutting-edge technology that allowed for a more immersive gaming experience. The console featured a 64-bit central processing unit (CPU) and a Reality Coprocessor, which made it capable of rendering 3D graphics in real-time. This was a significant leap forward in gaming technology at the time and set the N64 apart from its competitors.

One of the most notable features of the N64’s design was its unique controller. The controller featured an analog stick, which allowed for more precise control in games. It also had a total of six buttons, four of which were arranged in a diamond shape and two in the middle, making it one of the most versatile controllers of its time. The N64 also featured four controller ports which allowed for multiplayer gaming, a feature that was not common in consoles at that time.

N64 Control Pads

Another important aspect of the N64‘s design was the Rumble Pak. It was an accessory that plugged into the controller and added force feedback, allowing players to feel the vibrations of in-game actions. This technology was a first in the gaming industry and added a new dimension to the gaming experience. The Rumble Pak was so successful that it became a standard feature in most controllers today.

N64 Rumble Pack
N64 Rumble Pack

The N64 left a lasting impact on the gaming industry and is still remembered fondly by many gamers. One of its greatest legacies is the introduction of 3D graphics in gaming. The N64 was one of the first consoles to make 3D graphics accessible to the masses, and it paved the way for future consoles to continue to push the boundaries of what was possible in terms of graphics and gameplay.

Another important legacy of the N64 is its game library. The console featured a wide variety of games that spanned genres and audiences, including some of the most iconic franchises in gaming history such as Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and GoldenEye 007. These games not only sold well at the time of release, but also continue to be considered classics and are still played today by many gamers.

The N64 also played a significant role in popularizing local multiplayer gaming. The console featured four controller ports, which allowed for multiplayer gaming, a feature that was not common in consoles at that time. This feature led to many memorable gaming experiences shared among friends and family, and it helped to establish the N64 as a social console. It also influenced the design of future consoles, which continued to prioritize local multiplayer gaming.

The Nintendo 64 is a true time capsule of gaming history. It was a console that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in terms of graphics and gameplay, and it introduced many new features that are now standard in gaming. The N64’s hardware and design were ahead of its time, and it continues to be remembered fondly by many gamers today.

In recent years, with the resurgence of some of the Nintendo 64 games being remade, or appearing on the Switch Online game service – there has been a surge in popularity. Due to N64 games being made of cardboard, the games have not stood the test of time so well, and getting a N64 game with a good condition game box is a big challenge. 

If you are an experienced N64 collector, or starting to build your first collection – we suggest that you protect your games with our Nintendo 64 game box protectors. At RetroShell we offer N64 game protectors made of 4mm clear acrylic with a sliding door for easy access. Our Nintendo 64 game box protectors are best in class, and allow you to stack your N64 game boxes either horizontally or vertically to display your collection.

RetroShell N64 Game Box Protectors




The History of Sonic the Hedgehog

Sonic the Hedgehog is a iconic video game character and franchise created by Sega. The character first appeared in the eponymous game in 1991, and has since become one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in the gaming world. The history of Sonic the Hedgehog is a story of innovation, success, and cultural impact.

The origins of Sonic the Hedgehog date back to the late 1980s, when Sega was looking to create a new mascot to rival Nintendo’s Mario. The character was designed by artist Naoto Ohshima, who drew inspiration from the design of Michael Jackson and the speed of a cheetah. The character was initially named “Mr. Needlemouse,” but it was later changed to “Sonic” to reflect the character’s speed.

 

Sonic the Hedgehog was first introduced in the eponymous game on June 23rd, 1991. The game was a massive success and it quickly established Sonic as one of the most popular characters in the gaming world. It was released on the Sega Genesis console, which was one of the most popular consoles of the era. The game featured fast-paced, side-scrolling action and a high-speed, blue hedgehog as the main character.

 

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 was released in 1992, and it built on the success of the first game by introducing new features such as the ability to play as Sonic’s sidekick Tails, and the introduction of the Spin Dash move. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Sonic & Knuckles followed in 1994, expanding the Sonic universe and introducing new characters such as Knuckles the Echidna. The series continued to evolve with the introduction of 3D graphics in Sonic Adventure in 1998 and Sonic Adventure 2 in 2001.

 

The Sonic the Hedgehog franchise has also expanded to other forms of media, including comics, anime, and movies. The comic series, published by Archie Comics, ran for over two decades and was one of the longest-running video game-based comic series. The franchise also had a successful anime series, Sonic X, which aired in 2003. In 2020, the first live-action movie of the franchise was released, with a mix of live-action and animation.

 

Sonic the Hedgehog has had a profound impact on the gaming industry, and it has become a cultural icon. The franchise has sold over 160 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling video game franchises of all time. Sonic has been recognized as one of the most recognizable and iconic characters in the gaming world, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of gamers.

 

If you are a Sega retro game collector and are looking for the best video game protectors for your retro video games – trust in RetroShell to deliver the best video game cases.

A brief history of Sega

Sega is a name that has been synonymous with video games for decades. The company was founded in Japan in 1940 and has a long and storied history that has seen it rise to the top of the gaming industry and then fall from grace. In this blog post, we will take a look at the history of Sega and how it went from a small arcade game maker to one of the most recognizable names in the gaming industry.

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Sega’s origins can be traced back to 1940 when the company was founded as Service Games. At the time, the company was focused on importing and servicing coin-operated games like pinball machines and slot machines. However, in the late 1950s, Sega began to move into the world of arcade games. The company’s first arcade game was a submarine simulator called Periscope. It was released in 1966 and was a huge success, quickly becoming one of the most popular arcade games of the time.

In the 1970s, Sega began to expand into new markets. The company released a number of new arcade games that were hugely popular and helped to establish Sega as a major player in the gaming industry. Some of the most popular games of the decade include the racing game Monaco GP and the platformer Carnival.

In the 1980s, Sega began to focus on home consoles. The company released the SG-1000 in 1983, which was the first home console from Sega. However, it did not achieve much success and was quickly replaced by the Sega Master System in 1985. The Master System was a much more powerful console and was able to compete with the likes of the Nintendo Entertainment System. The console was released in North America in 1986 and featured a number of popular games like Phantasy Star, Alex Kidd and Wonder Boy.

In the 1990s, Sega released its most successful console to date, the Sega Genesis. The Genesis was released in North America in 1989 and quickly established itself as a major player in the console market. The console featured a number of popular games like Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage and Phantasy Star IV. The Sega Genesis was also the first console to feature a CD-ROM peripheral, the Sega CD, which was released in 1991.

However, the early 2000s, Sega’s fortunes began to decline. The company’s next console, the Sega Dreamcast, was released in 1998 but was not as successful as the Genesis. The Dreamcast was the last console released by Sega, as the company decided to focus on developing and publishing games for other consoles.

Despite the fall of Sega’s hardware business, the company continues to be active in the gaming industry. Sega still publishes a wide variety of games for multiple platforms, and it’s franchises like Sonic the Hedgehog, Phantasy Star, Yakuza, and Total War continue to be popular.

In conclusion, Sega has had a long and storied history in the gaming industry. The company has been responsible for some of the most iconic games and consoles of all time, and continues to be a major player in the industry today. Despite the fall of Sega’s hardware business, the company continues to be active in the gaming industry. Sega’s legacy and impact on the gaming industry will always be remembered.

At RetroShell we take video game preservation very seriously, we make the best video game protectors that you can find, which are designed to offer your retro video game cases the ultimate protection. Our video game box protectors are made from hard 4mm acrylic and allow games to be perfectly displayed and protected, and can even be stacked due to our unique video game protector box design. 

If you are a collector of Sega games, then you should consider protecting them with a RetroShell.

A brief history of video game protectors

Video game boxes have come a long way since the early days of gaming. In the beginning, video games were sold in simple cardboard boxes that were designed to hold the game cartridge or disc. These boxes were functional, but not very visually appealing. As the video game industry grew, so did the design and packaging of video game boxes.

Dall.E’s interpretation of a brief history of video game protectors in an art deco style.

In the 1980s and 1990s, video game boxes began to feature more colorful and dynamic artwork, which helped to attract customers and set games apart from one another on store shelves. The boxes also grew larger to accommodate instruction manuals and other materials that were included with the game. The design of the boxes also began to reflect the style and theme of the game itself, making the box art a form of advertising.

As technology has advanced, the way video games are packaged has also changed. With the advent of digital distribution, many games are now sold and downloaded directly to consoles or computers, eliminating the need for a physical box. However, some companies still produce physical copies of games, and these boxes continue to feature eye-catching artwork and design.

One important aspect that has been added to video game boxes is the use of “video game protectors” to ensure the longevity of the game. These protectors are usually made of plastic and are designed to fit snugly over the game cartridge or disc, protecting it from scratches, dust, and other damage. These protectors have become increasingly popular as a way to preserve the condition of the game and maintain its value over time.

In conclusion, video game boxes have come a long way since the early days of gaming, evolving from simple cardboard boxes to visually appealing designs that reflect the style and theme of the game. The addition of “video game protectors” has also become an important aspect to ensure the longevity of the game. While digital distribution has become more prevalent, physical copies of games and the traditional video game boxes are still an important part of the gaming industry.

If you want your video games to have the best protection, you should use RetroShell for your retro video game protection needs!

Why Retro Gaming?

Retro gaming has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many people rediscovering the joys of playing classic video games from the past. In my opinion, there are several reasons why retro gaming is worth revisiting.

First, retro games are a nostalgiciac trip down memory lane. For many people, playing classic games brings back fond memories of their childhood and allows them to relive the experiences they had while playing these games for the first time.

Second, retro games are often simpler and more focused than modern games, which can be a refreshing change of pace. Without the distractions of high-resolution graphics, cutscenes, and complex storylines, retro games allow players to focus on the core gameplay and challenge themselves to improve.

Third, retro games are often more affordable than newer games. Many classic games can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of new releases, making them an affordable option for gamers on a budget.

Finally, retro gaming can be a great way to introduce younger generations to the history of video games. Many classic games are considered classics for a reason, and playing them can give younger players a sense of perspective and appreciation for the evolution of the medium.

Overall, I believe that retro gaming is a valuable and enjoyable pastime that is worth exploring for anyone who is a fan of video games. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer looking to relive old memories or a newcomer who is curious about the history of the medium, there is something for everyone in the world of retro gaming.