Tag Archives: famicom

Welcome to issue #51 – remember to check out our socials – Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or r/RetroShell.

Can you guess this weeks birthday game?

In the week of July 3, 1991, a legendary game arrived, On a console where fast-paced action thrived. With a spiky-haired hero, brave and bold, Embark on a quest, an adventure to behold.

Save the world from an evil force, With your sword, magic, and a powerful horse. Explore dungeons, solve puzzles with might, In this timeless game that shines so bright.

Want this delivered to you every week? Subscribe below for free – and if you have already subscribed – you have my thanks!

Subscribed

News

🎉 Nintendo Celebrates Famicom’s 40th Anniversary: Nintendo announces a special campaign to honor the iconic Famicom console, recognising its significant contribution to gaming history. [GoNintendo] 💡 Link

🎮 Nintendo Takes a Stand Against Scalpers for the Highly Anticipated Nintendo Switch Launch! [Essentially Sports] 🚀 Link

🔒 Beware of the Nintendo Game Spreading Malware Worldwide [Ruetir] 🔥 Link

👻 Ghouls ‘n Ghosts and More Join the Sega Genesis Lineup on Nintendo Switch! [Crunchyroll] 🎮 Link

Rumour’s suggest that a long-awaited Banjo-Kazooie 3 game might be in the works, bringing back the beloved duo for another adventure. [Nintendo Smash] Link

Sega takes a playful approach with a spoof infomercial promoting Sonic Origins Plus, bringing retro Sonic games to the forefront. [YouTube] Below.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/QqGWk4lbtY8?start=15s&rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Retro-Bit announces physical re-releases of classic Genesis games Sol-Deace and El Viento this year, bringing retro gaming nostalgia to collectors and fans. [Samachar Central] Link

Sega plans to revive classic franchises and explore new opportunities, with Sonic as a major focus, according to a company boss. [Appuals] Link

A demake of the iconic game Myst for the Atari 2600 showcases the vast technological advancements in gaming over the past 30 years. [Ars Technica] Link

Atari announces “Quantum Recharged,” a new game that combines classic arcade gameplay with a modern twist. [Atari] Link

Features

💰 Discover the Astonishing Net Worth of Nintendo’s R.O.B  [SlashGear] 💸 Link

🔍 Ifixit Autopsies Classic Consoles: Get a sneak peek inside 10 iconic consoles from NES to PS2 and the first Xbox, revealing their inner workings and design secrets. [Gearrice] 💡 Link

Discover the value of the Atari Jaguar today and whether it’s worth owning in the modern gaming landscape. [SlashGear] Link

🕹️ From Hacker to Nemesis: Discover the fascinating journey of Gary Bowser, a 1980s hacker who later became a notorious figure in the world of Nintendo as the leader of a piracy group. [TorrentFreak] 📣 Link

🎮 The Incredible Story of the Game Boy that Survived a Bombing and was Removed from the Nintendo Store in New York in its Aftermath. [Game-News24] 📣 Link

Uncover the hidden secrets of console and arcade games, from hidden levels to secret characters, that will leave you amazed. [CBR] Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/6jt3Fa1c_zg?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

“PC Engine: The Box Art Collection” is a must-have book for fans of the classic Japanese video game system, showcasing stunning box art from the era. [Ruetir] Link

🎮 Nokia’s Failed Attempt to Brand a PlayStation After Nintendo’s Rejection Ended Fatally! [Gear Rice] 💥 Link

Nintendo 64 eBay: A Comprehensive Guide to Buying and Selling on the Platform [NNN}. Link

Lists & Rankings

10 Great Games That Are Not Available for Purchase! [CBR] 🌟 Link

🕹️ Discover 7 Fascinating Facts About Nintendo You Didn’t Know! [iTechPost] 📣 Link

Check out the (apparent) 7 Best Game Boy Games of All Time [A Little Bit Human] 🌟 Link

Discover the 20 most popular Super Mario games of all time, showcasing the enduring legacy of this iconic franchise. [Ruetir] Link

And that’s all we have, thanks for reading!

Answer: The game is “The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past” for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), turning 32 this week.

Happy 50th edition everyone – thanks to you all for reading this, which keeps me motivated to keep going and keep improving. If you have any comments on how I can improve this, please let me know via our social platforms (Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or r/RetroShell)

Can you guess this week’s birthday game from the riddle below (answer at the bottom)?

In the week commencing June 26, 1991,

A game arrived, full of action and fun.

On a console that made hearts race,

Prepare to enter a speedy, futuristic chase.

Buckle up, get ready to rev,

As you zoom through tracks with adrenaline waves.

Pick up power-ups, leave opponents in the dust,

In this racing game, red shells are a must.

Subscribe now and join our community of avid gamers, nostalgia enthusiasts, and trivia buffs

Subscribed

News

🎮 Sunsoft aims to revive the nostalgia of three beloved Famicom games by bringing them to the Nintendo Switch through a crowdfunding campaign, giving fans the opportunity to support the resurrection of these retro gems. [GoNintendo] Link

🍄 Super Mario RPG fans rejoice as Noisy Pixel reveals the exciting announcement of a remake for Nintendo Switch, bringing back the beloved classic, Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars, to delight a new generation of gamers. [Noisy Pixel] Link

More exciting news for RPG enthusiasts as a leaker suggests a potential remake of the beloved classic, Chrono Trigger, in the works, offering a chance to revisit the timeless adventure with enhanced visuals and gameplay. [Gameranx] Link

Get ready for some fast-paced micro-game madness as a new WarioWare game, “Move It,” is announced, bringing a fresh batch of cool mini-games and wacky challenges to the Nintendo Switch. [Lifewire] Link

Features

🕹️ Dive into the fascinating world of Super Nintendo cartridges and explore the reason behind their large interior space, uncovering the engineering marvels that allowed for innovative game features and enhanced gaming experiences on the iconic SNES console. [GearRice] Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/EcFOTH48FYo?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Uncover the harsh realities of replaying Nintendo 64 and PlayStation One games, as this article delves into the challenges of revisiting beloved titles from the past, exposing outdated graphics, clunky controls, and questionable design choices that may diminish the nostalgia factor. [CBR – yea, it’s a list but thought I would put it here] Link

😡 Explore a report that reveals the most toxic and vulgar video game communities on Reddit, shedding light on the darker side of online gaming where toxicity, harassment, and hate speech thrive (not retro, but quite interesting). [Destructoid] Link

💡 Check out the new dbrand Retro Darkplates for the PS5, which give the console a nostalgic touch with a translucent design inspired by the iconic N64. [TechEBlog] Link

Uncover the fascinating tale of the 300kg Playboy arcade cabinet, complete with a built-in magnifying glass and stereo speakers, offering a unique and extravagant gaming experience that showcases the innovation and charm of retro gaming. [Game-News24] Link

Rediscover the joy of joysticks as we take a nostalgic journey into the world of Quickshot controllers, highlighting their significance and why they are worth revisiting for a dose of retro gaming nostalgia. [The Guardian] Link

Relive the gory thrills of Namco’s iconic gorefest, Splatterhouse, as the game makes its way to the Arcade Archives, offering players a chance to experience the bloody action and horror of this classic arcade title. [Destructoid] Link

Amidst the changing landscape of the gaming industry, there is a growing call for Sega to make a comeback and rejoin the console market, bringing nostalgia and innovation to gamers worldwide. [CBR – Not a list 😳] Link

Lists & Rankings

🐭 Discover 15 fascinating facts about Pikachu, the beloved and iconic Pokémon, including some lesser-known trivia that will surely surprise even the most dedicated fans. [Ruetir] Link

📟 Dive into a nostalgic journey as Bored Panda showcases a collection of 45 old gadgets, reminding us of the technological marvels and cherished memories of retro devices from the past. [Bored Panda] Link

CBR with their endless supply of lists gives us 10 Video Game Sequels that are more famous than the original. Link

Unlock the secrets of 8 rare NES games and discover some hidden gems that collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts would love to add to their collection, showcasing the diverse and unique titles that made their mark on the Nintendo Entertainment System. [DualShockers] Link

Discover 10 old games that everyone should experience at least once, featuring timeless classics that have left an indelible mark on gaming history and continue to deliver memorable and immersive gameplay across generations. [Screen Rant] Link

🎮 Brace yourself for a challenge here are the 15 hardest levels in N64 games, where skilled gamers must conquer daunting obstacles and overcome intense difficulty to emerge victorious. [GameRant] Link

Plus the 8 hardest Sega Genesis/Megadrive games ever made (apparently) [GameRant]. Link

Jump into the world of speed and excitement with these best Sonic games that have captivated players for decades, featuring thrilling gameplay, iconic characters, and unforgettable music. Get ready to run, spin, and collect rings in these classic titles. [TechRadar] Link

🕹️ Get ready to take a trip down memory lane with the 10 best (not my words) retro video games from Sega, featuring iconic titles that captivated gamers and left an indelible mark on gaming history. [CBR] Link

With the new film due out (hoping very much it is a return to glory 😬) here is a list of the 5 best Indiana Jones games from Gearrice. Link

Thanks to everyone for getting this far, please do add us to your social channels 🙂 –Twitter, Instagram, TikTok & r/RetroShell.

Answer: The game is “Super Mario Kart” for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), turning 32 this week.

Welcome to Newsletter 47, bringing you the latest news and updates from the exciting world of retro gaming! But first, let’s kick off with a riddle to test your gaming knowledge:

In a pixelated world of wonder and might, A hero emerges to save the day and fight. On June 9th, in ’88, This game made its debut, sealing its fate.

News

Prepare for a chilling fishing experience on Nintendo Switch with “The Horror of Fishing Vacation” – something fishy is lurking beneath the surface! 🎣🐟 Dive into this unique horror game that combines the tranquillity of fishing with spine-tingling thrills. [GameTyrant] Link

Cotton 100% is making a comeback! 🚀 The beloved shooter game is set for a re-release on the Super Famicom in Japan, promising nostalgic gaming bliss. Get ready to embark on a magical adventure with Cotton! [Gamers Grade] Link

A young man 🦆🎮 using the NES gun attempted to hold up a store and steal $300. However, justice prevailed, and the authorities arrested him. Read the full story here: [Ruetir] Link

The first two Metal Gear games are set to be added to Metal Gear Solid Delta, expanding the beloved franchise’s legacy. Get ready for nostalgic stealth action! [NoobFeed] Link

Subscribed

🎮🧱 LEGO introduces a Pac-Man retro arcade cabinet, allowing fans to build and play their own pixelated adventures. Dive into the world of classic gaming with this LEGO masterpiece! [Gizmodo Australia] Link

Unearth the fascinating discovery of Glucoboy! 🕹️🔍 A rare handheld console designed to monitor glucose levels, Glucoboy has been found and its secrets revealed. Delve into the story behind this unique gaming device. [GBATemp] Link

Witness the incredible craftsmanship of a hobbyist who painstakingly grinds down original chips by hand to create a Game Boy-sized NES console! 🎮🔧 Explore the fascinating process behind this impressive feat of retro gaming engineering. [Ars Technica] Link

A rare Mega Drive game sold for almost $10k! [Video Games Chronicle] Link

Get ready to level up your fashion game with Zara’s latest addition: Sega Saturn bags! [Gamereactor] Link

Features

Dive into an insightful article exploring why gamers stay devoted to their favourite game franchises, delving into the factors of loyalty, nostalgia, and financial risk. Gain a deeper understanding of the gamer’s journey. [GamesHub] Link

Super Mario Advance makes its way to Nintendo Switch Online, reviving the beloved classics for nostalgic gaming enthusiasts. [Inverse] Link

Uncover the multitude of video game references hidden within the animated masterpiece “Across the Spider-Verse”! [Final Weapon] Link

Explore a fascinating discussion on new hardware releases for the 3DO system, as enthusiasts dive into the exciting world of this iconic gaming console [GBATemp]. Link

Dive into the realm of Nintendo’s most peculiar and unforgettable experiences! Uncover the quirkiest adventures that have left a lasting impression on players worldwide. [GameSpot] Link

Embark on a captivating journey through the history of gaming peripherals, from classic joysticks to cutting-edge VR gloves! 🎮🧤 [Interesting Engineering] Link

Journey back 30 years ago when the original Street Fighter comics both baffled and left fans traumatized! This article delves into an intriguing article that explores the unconventional and controversial Street Fighter comics, which took the franchise in unexpected directions. [GamesRadar] Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/h4r6Qx3NubI?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Explore an informative article that takes you through the evolution and advancements of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies. Discover the transformative impact they have had on various industries. [TechCrunch] Link

Explore an engaging article that traces the advancements and innovations that have shaped the gaming landscape over the years. Witness the remarkable progression of technology that has brought us to the current generation of consoles. [Interesting Engineering] Link

Dive into the fascinating story behind Sega’s marketing gimmick and the unexpected revelation that blast processing was, in fact, a real technology. [Ruetir] Link

Here is an informative article that provides an overview of reliable ROM sites, allowing you to relive classic gaming experiences on various platforms. [GadgetFreeks] Link

Lists & Rankings

Explore an article highlighting the top 10 games from the 90’s from the list masters at CBR, covering the iconic releases for Nintendo and PlayStation. Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/ex7GF6Yvki0?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Uncover Nintendo’s 10 finest remakes of all time! This article showcases the most remarkable remakes by Nintendo, breathing new life into beloved classics and reimagining gaming experiences. Rediscover the magic of these timeless gems. [TheGamer] Link

Take a nostalgic trip back to the Game Boy Color era and explore the 20 best games that defined the handheld’s legacy from timeless classics to hidden gems.[Cultured Vultures] Link

Explore an article that celebrates the 10 best games released towards the end of the SNES era, showcasing the incredible titles that continued to captivate players.[CBR] Link

Discover the surprising influences behind classic Nintendo games that shaped gaming history! Game Rant looks at the unexpected sources of inspiration for beloved Nintendo titles. Link

Thanks for reading! Please check out our sponsor (www.retroshell.com) for your retro gaming protection.

Answer to today’s question: Metal Gear, was released for the MSX2 on June 9, 1988. It is now 35 years old.

Welcome to #44 and welcome to all of the new subscribers and thanks to all of the existing subscribers.

This week’s riddle from a game in history launched this week:

“I’m a puzzle game with colourful gems, Arrange them right, clear them in tandem, My characters’ names sound like sweets so dandy, I’m a classic on the Famicom candyland-y!

Can you guess the game (answer at the bottom)?

News

Always wanted to play Halo on your Game Boy colour? Well, a studio has modded Doom to allow this, called Halo – Combat Devolved [Sofa Swordsman]. Link

A new Game Boy game called “Year 2031” is set to release in June, featuring 2D graphics and classic gameplay, proving that even after 32 years since its original release, the Game Boy still has a special place in the hearts of retro gamers. [Ruetir] Link

Gimmick! is coming to Nintendo Switch Online in July, allowing gamers to experience one of the most charming and underrated NES games. [Nintendo Life] Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/Rb8KGQVksp0?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

“Barbie Fashion Designer” has been inducted into the Video Game Hall of Fame, but many fans are disappointed with the exclusion of “GoldenEye 007”. [Ruetir] Link

Atari has announced a new platformer game called Mr. Run and Jump, which features a fast-moving protagonist and challenging obstacles that require quick reflexes to overcome – it was first made as homebrew for the 2600. [Quarter Disorder] Link

Features

Nintendo apparently recruited Capcom to develop an open-world Legend of Zelda game, according to a recently uncovered memo that’s part of a massive data dump of internal documents from Nintendo that took place earlier this year. [CGMagOnline] Link

This article traces the evolution of 3D gaming from the early days of polygonal graphics in arcade games to the immersive worlds of modern virtual reality experiences [Chart Attack]. Link

Check out this amazing Game Boy collection reminding us of the nostalgia and joy that these little devices brought to our lives. [Game Rant] Link

Link is a staple in the Nintendo universe, but his cameos in other games go beyond Super Smash Bros, as they have ranged from the NES era to current titles, and his presence is sure to make fans of the franchise happy [Destructoid]. Link

The article discusses the challenges of game development and the importance of recognizing failure as a valuable part of the creative process, citing examples from the development of games such as Diablo III and No Man’s Sky. [Ruetir] Link

Subscribed

This article explores the evolution of the iconic SEGA logo, detailing its various iterations and the brand’s history over the years, along with a visual guide to each logo [Fabrik Brands]. Link

And while we are at it, the Atari logo as well [Fabrik Brands]. Link

Did you know there was a Nintendo Joystick for the PC? Neither did I (and it does not even work on Nintendo consoles) [YouTube]. Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/9Q7w3nPknkQ?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Chocobos, Maraca, and Nintendo 64’s Super Mario 64 all make an appearance in this trip down memory lane, celebrating the year that saw the explosion of 32-bit consoles in 1996 [Ruetir]. Link

A look back at the ridiculous Nintendo Game Boy add-on that gave the console a miniature steering wheel, plus a light gun, and even a piano keyboard, among other things. [Digg] Link

Lists & Rankings

Ranking all Sega consoles from worst to best, the author takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane and shares his thoughts on each of the consoles. [Cultured Vultures] Link

Dualshockers has compiled a list of the top Atari 7800 games that are still worth playing today, including classic titles such as “Asteroids,” “Centipede,” and “Galaga,” as well as lesser-known games like “Meltdown” and “Desert Falcon.” [Dualshockers] Link

Learn some surprising facts about the Legend of Zelda series, including how the iconic “Z” logo was created and how the game was originally intended to feature time travel. [Den of Geek] Link

Android Police has shared a humorous list of the “10 worst educational games” for children, including gems such as ‘Oregon Trail: Director’s Cut’ and ‘Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?’, which they describe as “as dry and dull as a doctor’s waiting room”. Link

Gear Rice has listed the five most expensive PAL Master System games on the collector’s market, including Sonic the Hedgehog and Phantasy Star, which can cost up to £1,500 each. [Gear Rice] Link

Kotaku Australia compiled a list of the top 10 most bizarre and funniest cheats, secrets, and easter eggs in racing game history, featuring everything from crashing UFOs to giant chickens. [Kotaku Australia] Link

That’s all for this week, thanks for reading. If you can share this with friends or anyone else interested in Retro it would be appreciated.

Thanks to www.retroshell.com for sponsoring!

(Answer: Puzzle Bobble, Nintendo Famicom, May 20, 1994, it will be 29 years old this week)

Welcome to Newsletter 45! In this edition, we dive into the exciting world of retro gaming, bringing you the latest news and updates. 

Can you guess the game released in history during the week of May 22nd? Stay tuned until the end for the answer

Riddle: I’m a classic shooter, commanding a starfighter, Blasting enemies in space, and feeling like a victor. Alien hordes I must fend, with precision and might, A timeless challenge, a retro gaming delight.

Can you guess the game? The answer awaits you at the end of this newsletter.

News

In an interesting connection between the past and present, one of the new powers in the game “Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” is based on a 1966 Nintendo toy called the Ultra Hand. This demonstrates Nintendo’s ability to draw inspiration from its rich history to create new and exciting gameplay elements. [Ruetir] Link

Nintendo’s potential plans for a Metroid movie following the success of the Super Mario Bros. film raise concerns about capturing the game’s atmospheric and solitary essence on the big screen. [CinemaBlend] Link

LEGO has teased an upcoming Pac-Man project, sparking excitement among fans of both the classic arcade game and LEGO, with details yet to be revealed about this exciting collaboration. [Brick Fanatics] Link

Rumours suggest that the iconic Nintendo 64 game, “Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask,” will be added to the Nintendo Switch Online service, giving players the chance to experience this beloved title once again. [Inverse] Link

Three Super Mario Advance games, including Super Mario Advance, Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World, and Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3, will soon be joining the Game Boy Advance lineup on the Nintendo Switch [Crunchyroll] Link (Note: we don’t usually cover GBA games, but you recently said you wanted more content relating to retro games on modern consoles we adding it in)

And..The SNES version of Bust-A-Move, a classic puzzle game, is set to make its way to the Nintendo Switch on May 23rd, 2023, offering fans a nostalgic and addictive experience on the modern console. [GoNintendo] Link

Introducing the FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel Pocket, a retro-themed portable gaming console that combines nostalgia with modern technology, allowing gamers to enjoy their favourite retro games on the go in a stylish and compact device. [FunnyPlaying] Link (Note: sold out as I share this)

Introducing the RG Nano, a compact retro gaming console that fits in the palm of your hand, offering a nostalgic gaming experience with its library of classic games and sleek design, perfect for gaming enthusiasts on the go. [TrendHunter] Link

The classic platformer game Cyber-Citizen Shockman – initially only released for the PC Engine in Japan has made its way to the Nintendo Switch (see below), offering players a chance to experience its retro charm and challenging gameplay on the modern console. [Go Nintendo] Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/wpQ1jEayM04?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Analogue have launched pre-orders for their PC Engine/TurboGrafx 16 offering both a Jap (white) and USA (black) model for $249 – I am still waiting for my pocket, so I will pass on this one [Analogue]. Link

Features

“The Legend of Zelda: Revolution – Redefining Videogames” – This article explores how “The Legend of Zelda” series has revolutionized the world of video games through its innovative gameplay, immersive storytelling, and enduring legacy. [Softonic] Link

A cool YouTube video explaining how Sonic saved Sega [YouTube]. Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/BJmcAPMxXRY?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

This comprehensive article delves into the intricate timeline of The Legend of Zelda series, connecting the various games and providing insights into the lore and chronology of this beloved franchise. [Mirror] Link

In a thought-provoking article, the author discusses their opinion that modern gaming is inferior to the golden age of retro gaming, highlighting factors such as excessive microtransactions, lack of innovation, and the nostalgic charm that made the old days so special. [Game-News24] Link

A new project aims to transform the classic Game Boy handheld console into functional Bitcoin wallets, combining nostalgia with modern cryptocurrency technology for a unique and geeky twist. [Ruetir] Link

Discover the best iOS iPhone emulators, allowing users to experience iOS apps and games on their smartphones, an often challenging scene given Apple’s policies. [Android Authority] Link

Some smart person has hacked a $10 calculator to play Doom which I thought was a useless, but cool project worth sharing [YouTube]. Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/XmY83eCzHwI?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Lists & Rankings

Even decades after their release, the retro NES games from Nintendo, such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid, still hold up and offer timeless gameplay experiences that resonate with players of all ages. [CBR] Link

Explore the world of underappreciated Nintendo video games, including titles like Captain Rainbow and Chibi-Robo! that may have flown under the radar but still offer unique and enjoyable gaming experiences for fans. [CBR] Link

This article highlights 8 overlooked platformer games for the Sega Genesis console that have stood the test of time, providing entertaining gameplay and nostalgic charm that retro gaming enthusiasts will appreciate. [GameRant] Link

In this video, WatchMojo gives you the 20 worst video game consoles of all time. [YouTube]. Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/90o3WBQHGAs?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

From the Atari 2600 to the Atari Jaguar, this article provides a comprehensive breakdown and ranking of the various Atari consoles, considering factors such as historical significance, game library, and overall impact on the gaming industry. [Cultured Vultures] Link

Make life easier and have this delivered every Monday to your inbox, just enter your email below

Subscribed

CBR takes a deep dive into 10 quirky and lesser-known spin-off games from the Legend of Zelda franchise, showcasing their unique concepts and unexpected departures from the main series. Link

That’s all folks! Thank you for being a part of our retro gaming community. If you enjoy this newsletter, we would appreciate your support by liking and sharing it with other retro gaming enthusiasts. Don’t forget to visit our Substack to see older editions. 

Please visit www.retroshell.com to explore their fantastic range of premium hard 4mm acrylic retro game protection products.

Answer to today’s riddle: Galaga / Atari 2600 / Launched May 22nd, 1983 in North America making it 40 years old!

Welcome to Newsletter 43! This week’s edition covers news and updates from the world of retro gaming. A bit Zelda and list-heavy this week, but hope you enjoy it.

For this week’s riddle, I present to you a game released in the week of May 9th for the Nintendo Game Boy:

I’m a puzzler of a different kind, with coloured tiles and lines to find. Some say I’m like Tetris, but I’m unique. With a name like a city that’s hard to pronounce, I’m sure to keep you amused for hours. What game am I?

News

A prototype of a Game & Watch handheld console featuring the classic game “Tetris” has been discovered 40 years after it was first developed, and it features a unique version of the game with a different soundtrack and sound effects. [Stealth Optional] Link

“Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” is a new manga series set to launch in Japan later this year, following Link’s adventure to help a kingdom plagued by drought, featuring a new storyline with familiar characters [Japan Times]. Link

The infamous Zelda CD-i game has been given a much better-looking makeover, with a Game Boy-style version now available to play thanks to a fan-made ROM hack. [IGN] Link

A new game for the Game Boy! In “Batty & Zabella”, players take on the role of a dynamic duo who must work together to escape a mansion filled with supernatural creatures and other obstacles. The game features beautiful pixel art, challenging gameplay, and a great soundtrack. [Pocket Gamer] Link

A Steam game leak appears to reveal an N64 collection featuring many classic Nintendo 64 games that could potentially be heading to PC. [Comicbook.com] Link

Valiant Comics’ Shadowman will make a return to consoles with a new action and horror game that will be based on the comics, featuring the game’s protagonist Jack Boniface who is a human possessed by a supernatural spirit and is expected to be released for multiple platforms. [Ruetir] Link

 

Features

This article looks at the history of the iconic Nintendo logo, from its origins in 1889 as a playing card company to the colourful and modern design that is now instantly recognizable worldwide. [Fast Company] Link

According to a recent report, Nintendo was not a big fan of Tiger and Hasbro’s Pokedex toy, which was a handheld device that allowed kids to listen to information about Pokemon creatures. [Nintendo Life] Link

This article discusses the history of the Wario Land series and how it evolved over time, as well as why it has been absent from Nintendo platforms in recent years. [Softonic] Link

Gamerant’s article talks about how some gaming consoles, like the Sega Saturn and the TurboGrafx-16, were considered commercial failures in North America, but managed to succeed in other parts of the world like Japan and Europe, and even gained cult followings in these regions. [Gamerant] Link

The Sega Megadrive/Genesis was (and still is) the most modular of consoles. But how big can it get – well see below? [YouTube]. Link

Here we have 30 interesting facts about the history of video games, including the first video game ever created, the first video game console, the first game to feature a save function, and more. [Facts Chronicle] Link

 

Lists & Rankings

Digital Trends lists the 15 best characters in The Legend of Zelda series, including the main character Link, the villainous Ganon, and the fan-favourite Midna. Link

Screen Rant recommends five retro games that are still enjoyable and hold up well today: Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Sonic the Hedgehog, Tetris, and Doom. Link

What is the first console boot-up screen when I write this (for me its Seeeegaaaaa), well PC Mag has weighed in on their view of the 10 best intro screens. Link

“Digg” presents a fun article about some of the most ridiculous Game Boy accessories ever made, including a Game Boy printer, a sewing machine, and a karaoke machine [Digg]. Link

Discover the seven ultimate and best sandbox games that were released for the SNES, including games such as SimCity, Utopia: The Creation of a Nation, and Super Mario World [MSN] Link

The best Sega characters of all time have been ranked, and Sonic the Hedgehog predictably comes out on top. Other iconic characters from franchises such as Phantasy Star, Virtua Fighter, and Shenmue also make the list. [TheGamer] Link

The list kings (Gamerant) have compiled a list of the 8 hardest N64 games of all time, including titles like Conker’s Bad Fur Day, Turok 2: Seeds of Evil, and Jet Force Gemini. Link

Digital Trends has compiled a list of the 50 best games of all time, including classics like Super Mario Bros, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Tetris, as well as newer titles such as The Last of Us and Breath of the Wild. Link

And that’s all for this week, thanks for reading – and thanks to RetroShell for sponsoring. Check out their premium video game protectors, which are made from 4mm hard acrylic.

The answer to the riddle was: Kwirk, Nintendo Game Boy, May 9th, 1989, 34 years old this week

Hello and welcome to Newsletter 42! We have some exciting news and articles to share with you today, covering Ocarina of Time secrets, the WOAT, DK Lego and Wi-Fi for the NES(?!).

This week a game as hard as they come was released, in case this is not enough to guess, here is a riddle [answer at the bottom]:

Welcome to this week’s Retro Gaming Newsletter!

In this week’s newsletter we cover Nintendo taking a cautious approach to controversy, the Sega Lynx portable that never was, Atari on an IP buying frenzy, and even some love for the Neo-Geo.

????️ Can you guess the game released this week in history?

I’m a spinning marsupial, quite brave and bold, On a 32-bit Sony console, my adventures unfold. Against an evil scientist, I constantly fight, To save my girlfriend and make things right.

Can you guess the game? ????

News

???? Nintendo reportedly changed the name of a character in the Mario Bros Movie to prevent any racial controversy [Yahoo]. Link

The fan’s word on the best Nintendo controllers is here – from Nintendo Life. Link

 

Did you know the Atari Lynx ???? was almost Segas first handheld [Globe Live Media]? Link

Code breakthrough: Coders successfully decompile Paper Mario, paving the way for a potential fan-made PC port [Overclock3D]. Link

Atari has purchased a load more Retro gaming IP, including Bubsy. They are on a spending spree. Not sure why [Metro]. Link

Classic additions: Nintendo Switch Online expands its retro game lineup with titles like Street Fighter II and more [Niche Gamer]. Link

 

 

Features

Masahiro Sakurai, a Nintendo legend, delves into the rich past of the Famicom and NES, gaming’s golden consoles [Essentially Sports]. Link

Explore a comprehensive (????) ranking of the best Super Mario Bros. games, from classics to Nintendo Switch titles [Kotaku]. Link

Hackaday looks back at the Sega Master System 8-Bit 3D glasses ????. Link

The Neo Geo was a thing of legend when I was younger, with crazy expensive games, I saw it in magazines and could only imagine what owning one must be like. News Nation World has the top 5 most expensive carts just in case you were one of the lucky owners. Link

Or maybe more interesting? Discover the 15 least-loved Mario video games that failed to live up to the franchise’s high standards [Yardbarker]. Link

Retro revival: Ryo Mukai’s one-component light pen build offers a modern replacement for the rare 1980s Vectrex accessory [Hackster.io]. Link

 

Explore the evolution of handheld gaming and the impact of culture and technology on the market [Tech EDT]. Link

Celebrate a classic: The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past turns 31, reflecting its enduring legacy and impact on Nintendo [Inverse]. Link

Unearth the past: Naughty Dog’s long-forgotten RPG, Rings of Power, offers a glimpse into the studio’s early days – and had a topless woman in the intro ???? [DualShockers]. Link

The Guardian (of all places – Retro is really getting mainstream) gives you a beginner’s guide to the world of Super Mario, covering essential games, tips, and trivia. Link

 

Lists & Rankings

????️ Uncover the secrets: Delve into 15 lesser-known facts about the iconic Super Nintendo console and its history [Den of Geek]. Link

Discover top retro Sega games that have yet to be ported, leaving fans eagerly awaiting their potential return [CBR]. Link

???? Blast from the past: Check out these 10 formerly huge gaming franchises that are ripe for a revival [Destructoid]. Link

Thanks for reading, please do check out our sponsors RetroShell (www.retroshell.com) if you are a game collector – their cases are the best, and without them, this newsletter would likely not exist.

[Answer: Crash Bandicoot, Sony PlayStation, Released in Europe on April 24, 1996 – turning 27 years old this week]