Renowned developer Rumbleminze has successfully ported the classic NES game Double Dragon II: The Revenge to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). This latest release enhances the original gameplay experience by leveraging the SNES’s advanced hardware capabilities.
Credit: Rumbleminze
Key Enhancements:
• Dedicated Jump Button: The SNES ‘A’ button now functions as a dedicated jump button, simulating the simultaneous press of ‘Y’ and ‘B’ buttons, thereby improving control responsiveness.
• MSU-1 Audio Support: Players can enjoy an enriched auditory experience with the inclusion of MSU-1 audio support, allowing for high-quality, CD-like music during gameplay.
• Simplified Continuation: The port removes the need for inputting continuation codes after game-overs, enabling players to resume progress seamlessly.
• Difficulty Adjustments: The game is now completable on all difficulty settings, offering a balanced challenge for both newcomers and veteran players.
• Visual Refinements: Updates to the title screen palettes provide a refreshed visual appeal, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the game.
These improvements are made possible by utilizing FastROM/HiROM techniques, which expedite data transfer and when combined with the SNES’s higher sprite limit, effectively reduce flicker and slowdown issues present in the original NES version.
Rumbleminze has previously undertaken similar NES-to-SNES conversions, including titles like Rescue Rangers, Rygar, Super Dodgeball, and Kid Icarus, each benefiting from the SNES’s superior hardware to deliver smoother and more polished gameplay experiences.
In the ever-evolving world of Super Mario 64 discoveries, a dedicated player has unearthed a peculiar glitch involving a log, a cliff, and an extraordinary amount of patience. By executing a precise 34-frame loop repeatedly—approximately 2.8 million times over 36 days—the player managed to make a log drift through a cliff. As of now, this glitch has no known practical application in gameplay or speedrunning.
The Discovery
The glitch was identified by a member of the Super Mario 64 community, showcasing the game’s complex mechanics and the dedication of its fanbase. The process involves meticulous timing and repetition, highlighting the intricate possibilities within the game’s physics engine.
Due to floating point imprecision, the rolling log in Tall, Tall Mountain in Super Mario 64 can be very slowly manipulated to go sideways through the cliff. It takes 36 days of nonstop manipulation to reach the limit of how far it can go. This has no currently known purpose.
While the glitch doesn’t currently offer advantages for speedrunners, it adds to the collective understanding of Super Mario 64’s inner workings. The community often explores such anomalies to find potential time-saving strategies or to gain deeper insights into the game’s design.
A Testament to Community Dedication
This discovery underscores the enduring passion and curiosity of the Super Mario 64 community. Even decades after its release, players continue to explore and uncover new aspects of the game, contributing to its lasting legacy in the gaming world.
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GOG, a prominent European digital game distribution platform, has become a member of the European Federation of Game Archives, Museums, and Preservation Projects (EFGAMP). This coalition, established in 2012, is dedicated to preserving video games as cultural heritage.
Credit: GoG
EFGAMP comprises over 20 heritage institutions, including VIGAMUS in Rome, MO5.COM in France, and the Computerspielemuseum in Berlin. GOG’s inclusion marks the first Polish institution to join, bridging the private sector with cultural organizations across Europe.
Maciej Gołębiewski, Managing Director at GOG, stated, “GOG was created with video game preservation in mind.” He highlighted the GOG Preservation Program, launched in 2024, which ensures compatibility for over 100 classic games, delivering hundreds of enhancements to keep them accessible on modern systems.
Andreas Lange, COO of EFGAMP, welcomed GOG’s membership, noting that GOG’s experience in making classic games accessible complements the work of existing members and brings additional digital expertise to collective preservation efforts.
GOG’s collaboration with EFGAMP underscores the growing importance of preserving digital media. As concerns about the disappearance of digital content increase, initiatives like this play a crucial role in maintaining access to the titles that have shaped the gaming medium.
By joining EFGAMP, GOG reinforces its dedication to protecting gaming’s cultural legacy, ensuring that players worldwide can continue to enjoy classic games for years to come.
For more information, visit the official announcement.
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 has once again proven to be a playground for retro gaming enthusiasts. My Arcade, a leading name in the retro gaming scene, joined forces with Atari to unveil the Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro, a cutting-edge pinball machine with a nostalgic twist. This collaboration is yet another testament to the undying charm of classic gaming in the modern tech world.
Credit: MyArcade
A Retro-Modern Marvel
For those who grew up in arcades, the Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro is like a time machine—but with a high-tech engine. The pinball machine integrates Atari’s classic gaming heritage with state-of-the-art features, offering players a tactile, immersive experience that pays homage to the golden era of gaming while embracing the future.
Designed for both seasoned pinball players and newcomers, the Pinball Player Pro features vibrant LCDs, immersive soundtracks, and lightning-fast mechanics. It’s a brilliant example of how timeless design and modern engineering can collide to create something truly unique. CES attendees were treated to hands-on demos, and early impressions suggest that this is more than just a pretty machine—it’s set to be a game-changer for pinball enthusiasts.
Credit MyArcade
Why It Matters
Pinball machines, once ubiquitous in the 70s and 80s, have seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks to retro gaming’s growing popularity. Atari and My Arcade’s new creation doesn’t just ride the retro wave; it pushes it forward. With collectors and gamers alike clamouring for physical gaming experiences, this launch could spark a revival in home-based arcade setups.
It also taps into the wider nostalgia trend that has taken over pop culture. Whether it’s the return of vinyl records, remakes of classic films, or vintage gaming, people are looking to reconnect with simpler times. Atari and My Arcade have smartly positioned themselves at the centre of this cultural phenomenon.
A Sign of Things to Come?
This partnership hints at a potential revival for other Atari classics. Could we see updated versions of Pong, Asteroids, or Centipede next? If the buzz around this release is any indication, the retro gaming market is far from tapped out. Atari’s brand power, combined with My Arcade’s hardware expertise, is a promising formula that could pave the way for even more ambitious projects.
If you’re a retro gaming fan, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year. The Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro promises to reignite arcade nostalgia while setting new standards for pinball enthusiasts.
As retro gaming continues its triumphant return, now’s the perfect time to protect your classics. Keep your favourite retro games pristine with RetroShell premium game protectors—because your collection deserves the best. Visit www.retroshell.com today.
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Do you like Doom? Do you like wine? Do you like art? If you answered yes to all three, then you are in for an absolute treat.
A new mod titled Doom: The Gallery Experience offers players a sophisticated twist on the classic 1993 Doom game. Developed by Filippo Meozzi and Liam Stone, this mod transforms the traditional demon-slaying adventure into a cultured gallery visit, complete with wine and cheese.
In this reimagined version, players navigate a renovated E1M1 level, now designed as an art gallery. Instead of collecting weapons and ammunition, attendees gather hors d’oeuvres and beverages while appreciating various artworks. Interacting with exhibits provides detailed information sourced from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, enhancing the educational aspect of the experience.
The mod is available for download or can be played directly in the browser via Itch.io. This creative adaptation showcases the versatility of the Doom engine and the ingenuity of its fan community, offering a unique blend of classic gaming and high culture.
The retro gaming scene thrives on nostalgia—a powerful force that keeps us hooked on the cherished games of our youth. Despite Nintendo’s successful ventures with the NES and SNES Classic Editions, fans have long awaited a Nintendo 64 Mini Classic Edition. While no official product exists, the creative spirit of the gaming community has bridged the gap. This blog explores the creation of a DIY Nintendo 64 Mini Classic Edition using the versatile Raspberry Pi 5, blending nostalgia with modern technology.
A Nostalgic Look Back
When Nintendo introduced the NES and SNES Classic Editions, they rekindled the flame of retro gaming. These consoles catered to a generation that grew up on Mario, Zelda, and Metroid, packaged in sleek miniaturised forms. Released between 2017 and 2018, these editions aligned perfectly with the launch of the Nintendo Switch, providing a sense of continuity in Nintendo’s gaming universe.
The SNES Mini (EU Edition)
What Made Them Popular?
• Nostalgia Reimagined: Players relived classic games with modern ease.
• Plug-and-Play Convenience: No fiddling with cartridges or blowing on connectors—just pure gaming.
• Speculated Expansion: Rumours about potential Game Boy or Nintendo 64 Mini editions buzzed for years, fuelling anticipation.
However, the Nintendo 64 Mini never materialised. Meanwhile, Sega dipped into the nostalgia pool with its Genesis Mini, but consumer interest in such official products eventually waned. Enter the enthusiasts who take matters into their own hands.
Enter the DIY Nintendo 64 Mini Project
Determined to bring the Nintendo 64 Mini to life, a creative gamer embarked on a project to build one from scratch. At the heart of this endeavour was the Raspberry Pi 5, a credit-card-sized computer renowned for its versatility and affordability. The Pi, coupled with a custom Nintendo 64-style case, created the foundation for this retro revival.
Raspberry Pi Model 5
What Made This Project Special?
1. Authentic Aesthetics: A Retro Flag case designed to mimic the colourful charm of the original console.
2. Powerful Hardware: The Raspberry Pi 5’s advanced specs made it perfect for emulating Nintendo 64 games.
3. Tailored Experience: A handpicked selection of 60 iconic titles ensured every gaming session was a trip down memory lane.
Building the Console
The Components
Before diving into the build, assembling the right tools and components was essential:
1. Raspberry Pi 5 ($45-$80 depending on spec): The brain of the operation.
2. RetroFlag Case ($29.99): Shaped like the Nintendo 64 for that authentic retro feel.
3. Heat Sinks and Cooling Fans: To keep the Pi running smoothly during intense gaming sessions.
4. Micro SD Card ($21.05 – suggested Sandisk 256gb): For storage, loaded with games and the operating system.
2. Flash the SD Card: Use Win32 Disk Imager (or a similar tool) to write the image to the card.
3. Boot Up the Pi: Insert the SD card into the Pi, power it on, and let Batocera work its magic.
Adding Games
Transferring ROMs (game files) is a straightforward process:
1. Connect to Wi-Fi: Configure your network for easy file transfers.
2. Use FileZilla: This FTP client allows you to drag and drop ROMs into the Pi’s storage.
3. Organise Your Library: Add box art and video previews for a polished look.
Reliving the Nintendo 64 Experience
Gaming Setup
Once everything is in place, the DIY Nintendo 64 Mini boots to life, displaying a clean interface and an array of familiar games. With a controller in hand, the nostalgic journey begins.
• Customisation: Users can tweak splash screens, add background music, and personalise settings.
• Controller Pairing: A quick Bluetooth sync connects the classic Nintendo 64 controller for an authentic feel.
And there you have it! Your own Nintendo 64 mini console. If you are a Nintendo 64 game collector then make sure you protect your precious collection with a RetroShell, and if you love retro, then sign up to our free weekly retro gaming newsletter.
What do you think of this Nintendo 64 Mini Classic Edition? Are you tempted to build your own or perhaps adapt this idea for another console? Let us know in the comments below!
When you talk about games that changed everything, Super Mario Bros. 3 sits right at the top of that list. Released in Japan in 1988, this masterpiece didn’t just improve on its predecessors – it completely revolutionized what we thought was possible in a platforming game.
The Development Journey
Early Beginnings Development kicked off in 1986, right after The Lost Levels hit the shelves in Japan. The team, led by the legendary duo of Shigeru Miyamoto and Takashi Tezuka, initially toyed with the idea of an isometric perspective. Thankfully, they stuck with the classic side-scrolling format we all know and love.
Hidden Secrets Here’s something fascinating – Miyamoto had originally sketched concept art of Mario riding another character, an idea that would later evolve into Yoshi in Super Mario World. That sketch hung on the wall throughout SMB3’s entire development, waiting five years before finally becoming reality.
Revolutionary Design Elements
The Stage Play Aesthetic Nintendo took an incredibly creative approach to the game’s visual presentation. The whole game was designed to look like a stage play, complete with rising curtains and levels that appeared to be bolted onto the backdrop. This wasn’t just a visual gimmick – it added a unique theatrical charm to the entire experience.
World Map Innovation The introduction of the overworld map was a game-changer. Instead of linear progression, players could now choose their path through each world, adding a strategic layer to the gameplay. This board game-style navigation would become a staple of the series and influence countless other games.
Gameplay Mechanics
Power-Up Revolution The game introduced some of the most creative power-ups in gaming history. The Tanooki Suit let Mario turn into an invincible statue, while the Frog Suit gave him superior underwater mobility. Each power-up wasn’t just a simple boost – it fundamentally changed how you could approach levels.
Level Design Mastery The attention to detail in level design was unprecedented. World 1-1 alone showcases brilliant teaching mechanics, introducing concepts like the Jump Blocks in a valley with a Paragoomba, naturally encouraging players to discover new mechanics through gameplay.
Technical Achievements
Push for Innovation The development team pushed the NES hardware to its limits. The game featured smooth animations, detailed sprites, and complex-level designs that seemed impossible on the system. Even the enemy movements were more sophisticated, with new behaviours and patterns that made each encounter unique.
Cultural Impact
Marketing Revolution Nintendo’s marketing strategy for SMB3 was revolutionary. The game made a spectacular appearance in the film “The Wizard,” essentially turning the movie into a 90-minute commercial that generated unprecedented hype. This marketing move would influence game promotions for years to come.
Sales Success The numbers tell an incredible story. Super Mario Bros. 3 sold a staggering 17 million copies worldwide, making it the third-best-selling NES game. In the United States alone, it generated $595 million by early 1992 – more than blockbuster films like E.T., Batman, and Jurassic Park.
Legacy and Influence
Critical Acclaim The game received near-universal praise from critics. Computer and Video Games magazine gave it a 98% score, with editor Paul Rand calling it “the Mona Lisa of gaming”. This wasn’t just hyperbole – the game’s influence can still be seen in platformers today.
Speedrunning Community The game’s precise controls and hidden glitches have made it a favourite among speedrunners[7]. Events like Games Done Quick regularly feature Super Mario Bros. 3 runs, showcasing just how deep the game’s mechanics go.
Modern Relevance
Continued Influence Even modern Mario games owe a debt to Super Mario Bros. 3. The recent success of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which became the fastest-selling title in the franchise, builds upon many of the foundations laid by SMB3.
Lasting Appeal The game has been rereleased multiple times, from Super Mario All-Stars to the Nintendo Switch Online service. Each new generation discovers what made this game special, proving that truly great game design is timeless.
Technical Innovation
Prototype Development Early versions of the game showed significant differences from the final release. Screenshots from development reveal different level layouts, altered enemy placements, and even changes to core items like the Super Leaf, which was originally green instead of brown.
The Human Element
Team Dedication The game’s success wasn’t just about technical achievements. It was about a team of passionate developers working tirelessly to create something special. From Koji Kondo’s memorable soundtrack to the countless hours spent perfecting each level, every aspect showed incredible attention to detail.
Super Mario Bros. 3 remains a masterclass in game design, proving that innovation, attention to detail, and pure gaming joy never go out of style. It’s not just a great game – it’s a piece of gaming history that continues to influence and inspire decades after its release.
If you are lucky enough to own this gem in physical form for the NES or SNES then we recommend protecting it with a RetroShell – the finest protection for your games.
Retro gaming enthusiasts have a new treat to explore with Over Horizon: The Arcade Game, a ROM hack that reimagines the NES classic Over Horizon as a streamlined, arcade-style shooter. Developed by Denny and technically executed by kandowontu, this hack offers a reinterpreted version of the original game with a focus on faster pacing, simplified mechanics, and an authentic arcade feel.
What’s New?
Denny’s vision for the hack was to create a fictional “arcade original” version of Over Horizon, as if the NES game had been a direct port of a hypothetical arcade release. To achieve this, several changes were made:
Stage Adjustments: Stage 5, deemed overly long and frustrating, was removed entirely. Stage 6 was heavily streamlined by cutting non-essential screens, sub-bosses, and backward teleporters to maintain a fast-paced arcade flow. Only the most engaging segments of the final level remain, including the climactic boss battle. Gameplay Tweaks: The Edit Mode was removed to align with the arcade aesthetic, where ship configurations remain fixed throughout gameplay. Speed selection was eliminated, as it was deemed cumbersome and unnecessary. Players now enjoy a simplified control scheme that emphasizes action over micromanagement. Ending Changes: The post-credit scene, which featured an alien baby teasing a sequel, was removed to provide a more definitive conclusion, in line with arcade game design.
Preserving the Arcade Feel
The hack’s adjustments ensure a more digestible and action-packed experience, akin to what players expect from arcade shooters. By cutting redundant or overly complex features, Denny and kandowontu crafted a game that balances challenge and enjoyment without sacrificing its retro charm.
This ROM hack not only serves as a tribute to the original Over Horizon but also demonstrates the creativity and dedication of the ROM hacking community. For NES enthusiasts, it’s a must-try that breathes new life into a beloved classic.
Preserving the Arcade Feel
The hack’s adjustments ensure a more digestible and action-packed experience, akin to what players expect from arcade shooters. By cutting redundant or overly complex features, Denny and kandowontu crafted a game that balances challenge and enjoyment without sacrificing its retro charm.
This ROM hack not only serves as a tribute to the original Over Horizon but also demonstrates the creativity and dedication of the ROM hacking community. For NES enthusiasts, it’s a must-try that breathes new life into a beloved classic.
If you are an NES game collector, be sure to check out RetroShell’s range of NES game protectors.
In a surprising homage to both classic gaming and modern fighting franchises, an indie developer, known on X as @RheoGamer, has managed to create a demo version of “Street Fighter IV” for the Sega Mega Drive. This remarkable feat combines the beloved mechanics and characters of the 2008 Street Fighter game with the nostalgic 16-bit graphics of the early ’90s console. The demo, which showcases characters like Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li in a simplified but recognizable form, has sparked excitement across the gaming community, particularly among those with a fondness for retro gaming.
The developer utilized the SGDK (Sega Genesis Development Kit) to bring this project to life, demonstrating not only a deep understanding of the original game’s mechanics but also an impressive capability to adapt them to the significantly more limited hardware of the Mega Drive. This development has been shared widely on X, where it has received praise for its authenticity in translating the feel of Street Fighter IV into a format that many thought impossible. Fans have been sharing clips and screenshots, marvelling at how close the experience feels to the arcade original, despite the hardware constraints.
While no official release is announced, the demo has ignited conversations about the potential for more such projects, bridging the gap between modern gaming and retro hardware. This has also led to debates on the feasibility and desirability of porting other modern games to classic systems, highlighting the ongoing passion for retro gaming and the creative possibilities within the indie development scene. The project serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Street Fighter and the innovative spirit of the gaming community.
If you are looking for the words best display protectors for the Sega Megadrive / Genesis, be sure to check out RetroShell.
In a delightful nod to nostalgia, Limited Run Games has unveiled the Snow Bros. Deluxe Edition for the classic Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), bringing back the beloved arcade game that has captured hearts since its 1990 debut. This re-release has sparked excitement among both long-time fans and new gamers eager to experience the chilly adventures of Nick and Tom.
A Blizzard of Fun: Snow Bros., originally developed by Toaplan, features the mischievous duo, Nick and Tom, as they transform into snowmen to save their kingdom from the icy grip of King Scorch. The gameplay involves turning enemies into snowballs and rolling them across the screen to clear levels, a mechanic that remains as engaging today as it was decades ago.
Deluxe Edition Details: The Deluxe Edition for NES comes on a playable cartridge, ensuring the authentic feel of the original hardware. Pre-orders for this limited edition are now open, with a closing date of Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. This release is not just a revival but a collector’s dream, complete with a clear snowy sparkle cartridge that enhances the tactile joy of gaming.
Why It Matters: Limited Run Games is renowned for its commitment to preserving gaming history through officially licensed, highly collectable editions. Each game is only printed once, making this Snow Bros. re-release a rare opportunity for gamers to own a piece of video game heritage.
Fan Reactions: The announcement has been met with waves of enthusiasm across gaming communities. On platforms like X, discussions are buzzing with fans sharing memories, gameplay tips, and their excitement for this throwback. “Winter is here, and so are the Snow Bros!” has been a popular sentiment, reflecting the community’s warm welcome to this frosty adventure.
The Legacy Continues: Snow Bros. has seen various releases over the years, but this Deluxe Edition on the NES marks a significant return to its roots. It’s not just about playing an old game; it’s about reliving the magic of a time when video games were a simpler, yet profound joy.
For those looking to dive into this snowy saga or add to their retro collection, the Snow Bros. Deluxe Edition for NES is available for pre-order. Don’t miss your chance to chill out with Nick and Tom once more. If you are looking for the finest display case and protection for this release, you can check out our collection of protectors for the NES, Genesis and many other retro consoles.
