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.
SSF Designs has introduced the Virtual Lens Set, a premium replacement for the aging plastic lens covers of the Nintendo Virtual Boy. Available for $23.99 at Stone Age Gamer, this set aims to rejuvenate your console’s visual clarity, ensuring a pristine gaming experience.
Credit: Stone Age Gamer / SSF Designs
Key Features:
• Complete Set: Includes two lenses, catering to both eyes, for a comprehensive upgrade.
• User-Friendly Installation: Designed for easy replacement, allowing gamers to swiftly enhance their console without hassle.
• Enhanced Light Blocking: Engineered to reduce external light interference, minimizing unwanted light bleed and enhancing immersion.
Over time, original Virtual Boy lenses can accumulate scratches and degrade, diminishing the overall gaming experience. The Virtual Lens Set addresses these issues, offering a straightforward solution to restore visual fidelity.
For optimal performance, it’s recommended to handle the lenses by their red plastic sides during installation to prevent fingerprints and dust accumulation. Cleaning with a camera lens cloth or isopropyl alcohol can further maintain their clarity.
For a detailed installation guide, SSF Designs provides a helpful video tutorial.
In addition to the Virtual Lens Set, Stone Age Gamer offers a range of accessories and replacement parts for the Virtual Boy, including foam visors and eye shade holders, enabling enthusiasts to fully refurbish their classic consoles.
Preserving the condition of retro gaming hardware is essential for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Upgrading components like the lens covers can significantly enhance the longevity and enjoyment of these classic systems.
For those looking to protect their physical game collections, consider investing in RetroShell premium game protectors. Stay informed about the latest in retro gaming by subscribing to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.
I hope that however you spent the Christmas time, it was enjoyable and filled with gaming goodness.
My week in gaming has been spent using my Chromatic, a beautiful console, playing Marvel Rivals (and Snap), and hacking my PS3 to load every guitar game from the PS2/PS3 era to relive the golden era of music games.
This week’s newsletter has 37 stories—including a Sega Genesis/Megadrive “Star Wars Holiday Special” game, watching films on the Game Boy Colour, Gen Z’s retro love, and a lot more. Thanks for reading!
News
🥳 Experience the force of nostalgia with the “Star Wars Holiday Special” mod for Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, adding a festive twist to your retro gaming. [RetroShell] Link
So bad it’s good.
🎮 Columbus Circle reveals the 8-Bit Compact HD, a modern 720p Famicom console designed to honour retro gaming in style. [RetroShell] Link
😂 Nintendo gives the NES a glow-up—officially rebranding it as “Regular Nintendo” after 39 years of memes. [Hard Drive] Link
📅 Celebrate gaming history with Fabli’s 2025 Retro Gaming Calendar (🇯🇵), packed with iconic dates and imagery to relive the classics. [RetroShell] Link
🖥️ Another N64 gem joins the PC world as dedicated fans bring a beloved classic to life with a new port. [VideoGamesChronicle] Link
🦊 Star Fox creator praises fans for porting Star Fox 64 to PC, even though it’s likely to draw Nintendo’s ire. [Automaton Media] Link
📺 Watch movies on your Game Boy using a creative link cable hack—because why not? [Hackaday] Link
🎄 SuperSega claims Sega approves its FPGA console—just in time for Christmas cheer! [Time Extension] Link
🎵 The Super Mario 64 soundtrack is now streaming via Nintendo Music—featuring all your favourite tunes from Peach’s Castle. [Nintendo Life] Link
🕹️ A passionate Sega fan has crafted a Final Fight MD console, blending creativity with retro fandom. [Time Extension] Link
🚫 Sega confirms no more mini consoles, exploring bold new ventures in retro gaming’s future. [GeekSided] Link
🤔 Sega confesses it’s unsure how many games it actually owns—some mysteries may remain forever unsolved. [Time Extension] Link
📦 Could Sega’s own game subscription service be on the horizon? Early hints point to a retro-inspired future. [Passionate Geekz] Link
🚀 “Sonic Robo Blast 3D 32X” brings a new dimension to the Sega 32X, with vibrant visuals and fast-paced gameplay. [RetroShell] Link
Features
🥌 Discover Japan’s hidden Sonic games, a treasure trove of forgotten adventures, and uncover what made these titles special and elusive. [RetroShell] Link
What’s the difference between a hedgehog and a police car? (Bad joke, google it)
📟 Witness Doom Eternal running on a Game Boy Color screen powered by a Raspberry Pi Pico in an incredible retro tech feat. [XDA Developers] Link
🪐 Dive into the rise and fall of Sega during the Saturn era, an odyssey marked by innovation, ambition, and bittersweet legacy. [RetroShell] Link
🎮 Do you really need to play the Virtual Boy? A humorous exploration of Nintendo’s most infamous console. [Nintendo Life] Link
🚀 Uncover Metroid Origins and the birth of Samus Aran, revealing the start of an iconic saga that defined generations. [RetroShell] Link
📺 Is this the ultimate CRT? A love letter to retro displays for enthusiasts who demand authenticity in gaming. [RetroShell] Link
🌟 Take a deep dive into overlooked video games, rediscovering hidden gems that are still worth playing today. [RetroShell] Link
There is one man who can solve this New Jersey drone problem.
🪱 Explore the untold story of Worms, where a simple idea revolutionised gaming with explosive results. [RetroShell] Link
🕹️ Miyamoto shares his son’s “frustrating experience” playtesting Super Mario 64, revealing valuable lessons in game design. [GameReactor] Link
📂 Go behind the scenes of game preservation with Square Enix, Capcom, Taito, and Sega, safeguarding retro gaming history. [RetroShell] Link
📈 Retro gaming sees a massive resurgence among Generation Z, with 70% showing interest in classic titles. [RetroShell] Link
🔮 Discover how the Zelda CD-i games inspire Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore, a spiritual successor for fans. [CBR] Link
🎮 Track the evolution of game controllers from A-B simplicity to X-Y complexity, celebrating decades of innovation. [RetroShell] Link
🎴 Relive the magic of the Super Game Boy, bringing Game Boy games to the SNES, complete with hidden secrets. [RetroShell] Link
Lists & Rankings
🎮Discover the best games exclusive to the Nintendo 64, ranked from fan favourites to hidden gems. [Game Rant] Link
🤖Ranking Robocop video game ports from the downright awful to the surprisingly awesome—don’t miss our breakdown![RetroShell] Link
Kind of hard to see with the urban camo.
🎂These early SNES classics still hold up today—proof that age is just a number in gaming! [CBR] Link
🤑From rare Pokémon cards to priceless collectables, dive into the world of Pokémon treasures that are worth a fortune. [The Gamer] Link
🛡️Relive the best Link moments across The Legend of Zelda franchise, ranked for their impact and nostalgia. [CBR] Link
🌟Take a deep dive into overlooked video game hidden gems—discover titles you might have missed but shouldn’t! [RetroShell] Link
📣Explore the most unforgettable video game marketing campaigns that redefined how we see games. [The Gamer] Link
🕹️A look at the best Game Boy games of each year—relive the iconic handheld’s golden moments. [The Gamer] Link
A dedicated fan has brought the iconic Grand Theft Auto III to the Sega Dreamcast, which is a thrilling development for retro gaming enthusiasts. This console missed out on this groundbreaking title back in the day. The fan-made port, recently showcased online, offers Dreamcast players a chance to experience the open-world freedom and chaotic adventures of Liberty City on their beloved console.
The project, spearheaded by an individual passionate about both the Dreamcast and the GTA series, demonstrates not only the enduring love for these gaming classics but also the remarkable capabilities of the Dreamcast hardware. This port isn’t just a simple emulation; it’s been adapted to make use of the Dreamcast’s unique features, including its VMU for saving game progress, offering a truly authentic experience.
The fan behind this ambitious project has shared insights into the development process, highlighting the challenges of porting a modern game to a system from the early 2000s. From texture compression to frame rate optimizations, the journey to get GTA III running smoothly on the Dreamcast has been both a technical marvel and a labour of love.
For fans of retro gaming, this port represents more than just another game to add to their collection; it’s a celebration of what could have been and a testament to the community’s creativity and dedication. While this port is still in its early stages and not officially endorsed by Rockstar Games, it serves as a beacon for what fan projects can achieve, potentially inspiring more developers to revisit and reimagine classics for older platforms.
The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their excitement over social media and forums, sharing gameplay footage, and discussing the implications of such fan-made projects for the preservation of gaming history.
In the heart of Tokyo at the SIGGRAPH Asia 2024 conference, a remarkable endeavour was unveiled, one that delves into the rich cultural tapestry of video game creation. Four leading companies in the gaming world – Square Enix, Capcom, Taito, and Sega – have embarked on a journey to archive their historical development materials, transforming what was once deemed expendable into precious historical treasures for research and exhibition.
The Cultural Significance of Gaming Archives
Video games have evolved from mere pastimes to cultural phenomena, with their development materials from the 80s and 90s, like blueprints and sketches, becoming pivotal historical items. These artefacts provide insights into how games were conceptualized and crafted, fostering an understanding of the evolution of video game design, technology, and art.
Square Enix’s Trailblazing Archival Work
Square Enix, led by AI researcher Yoichiro Miyake, has been at the forefront of this archival movement. Since 2019, Miyake has been exploring the archives of Enix before its merger with Square, revealing materials previously undocumented. This discovery likened to finding a “treasure trove,” has sparked a project to digitize and manage these assets for future use, involving the photographing of physical items and their conversion into digital formats for research.
Capcom’s Archival System – CIAS
Capcom has developed the Capcom Illustrations Archives System (CIAS) to manage its historical assets, focusing on art and design elements for games like “Street Fighter” and “Rockman.” This system not only preserves these assets but also leverages them for current marketing and game development, showcasing a practical application of historical preservation.
Taito’s Challenges and Triumphs in Legacy Preservation
Taito, with its roots deep in arcade gaming history since 1953, faces unique challenges in preservation, including space and material deterioration. Despite these obstacles, they maintain a vast archive of arcade hardware, software, and even microfilms, which they proudly display at events commemorating their legacy.
Sega’s Recent Dive into Preservation
Sega, starting its preservation efforts in 2023, is now aggressively digitizing and cataloguing its past, from arcade machines to original artwork. This initiative includes plans to incorporate materials from subsidiaries like Atlus, aiming to create a comprehensive historical database.
Preserving the Physical: The Role of Game Boxes
The physical packaging of games, especially from the golden age of consoles like the NES and SNES, holds significant cultural and artistic value. These boxes are not just containers but pieces of art that reflect the era’s design and marketing ethos. Preserving them is crucial for collectors and historians to experience games as they were initially presented. For those keen on safeguarding these relics, RetroShell (www.retroshell.com) provides an array of display protectors designed to keep your collection safe from environmental damage, ensuring these artefacts can be enjoyed for years to come.
The Broader Impact of Preservation
The collective effort by these companies underscores a commitment to not just preserve history but to use it as a foundation for future innovation. This archival work teaches us about our past, informing current and future creators while also celebrating video games as cultural artefacts.
Envisioning the Future
As articulated by Yoichiro Miyake, the preservation of these materials is about building a bridge between generations of creators. By maintaining these archives, the industry ensures a continuous dialogue that honours its history while paving the way for future advancements.
This initiative highlighted at SIGGRAPH Asia 2024 not only showcases the industry’s dedication to cultural heritage but also serves as a model for preservation across various fields, safeguarding a slice of digital culture for future generations to study and enjoy.
Not every great game becomes a blockbuster. While the gaming world often celebrates high-profile franchises, countless gems remain tucked away, overshadowed by AAA titles. These games, rich in innovation and unique storytelling, deserve a second look. In this article, we shine a spotlight on these overlooked treasures from various eras and platforms, rediscovering their charm and showcasing their timeless appeal.
1. Rambo 3 (Genesis/Megadrive): Nostalgia with Firepower
Based on the iconic action film, Rambo 3 for the Sega Genesis is an adrenaline-filled run-and-gun experience. Players step into the boots of John Rambo, armed with an unlimited-ammo machine gun and a repertoire of explosive weapons.
Why It Stands Out:
• Gameplay Mechanics: Smooth controls, maze-like stages, and the innovative addition of first-person battle sequences elevate this game beyond its peers.
• Graphics and Sound: For a 2 Mega cartridge, the game delivers striking visuals in first-person mode, complemented by atmospheric, haunting melodies that immerse players in the action.
2. Choplifter HD (Xbox 360, PS3, PC): Rescuing Nostalgia
A modern twist on the arcade classic, Choplifter HD revives the charm of hostage rescue missions in a helicopter. Despite graphical limitations, its dual-stick shooter mechanics and engaging gameplay ensure hours of fun.
Unique Features:
• Gameplay Mechanics: Navigate complex terrain, dodge enemy fire, and manage limited resources while rescuing hostages.
• Audio Experience: Battlefield sounds enhance immersion, offering a pulse-pounding experience for players.
3. Guardian’s Crusade (PlayStation): A Whimsical RPG Adventure
This charming RPG combines a heartfelt story with engaging mechanics, as players guide a knight and his mysterious baby creature companion on a quest to save the world.
Why You’ll Love It:
• Gameplay Mechanics: Non-random battles and the introduction of living toys as allies make combat fresh and strategic.
• Visual Appeal: Simple yet endearing graphics and a delightful soundtrack evoke nostalgia for classic RPGs.
El Viento is an action-packed platformer that lets players wield boomerangs and magic in a fast-paced battle against evil forces. Its innovative mechanics and thrilling gameplay set it apart from other games of its era.
Highlights:
• Gameplay: The charging magic system adds depth and replayability, while responsive controls ensure a smooth experience.
• Music: Engaging tracks elevate the intensity of each stage.
5. Blur (PS3, Xbox 360, PC): A Racing Revolution
Blending the chaos of Mario Kart with the grit of Burnout, Blur offers a high-octane racing experience filled with power-ups and tactical gameplay.
Key Features:
• Gameplay Mechanics: Dynamic events, mini-objectives, and varied tracks keep races exciting and unpredictable.
• Graphics and Sound: While the color palette may lean toward the dreary side, licensed music and excellent sound design make it a sensory delight.
6. Gotcha Force (GameCube): Toy Robots Unleashed
Capcom’s Gotcha Force pits players against each other in toy-robot battles that combine strategy and chaos. Its colorful graphics and imaginative gameplay offer a refreshing experience for GameCube enthusiasts.
Standout Aspects:
• Gameplay: Dynamic arena combat and team-building mechanics ensure variety in every match.
• Replayability: Numerous robot configurations and battle modes keep players coming back for more.
7. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (NES): A Legendary Quest
This action-adventure brings the classic tale of Robin Hood to life, complete with top-down gameplay and strategic item management.
What Makes It Special:
• Gameplay Mechanics: Fluid combat sequences and a narrative-driven approach enhance engagement.
• Graphics and Sound: Though simple, the visuals and audio align perfectly with the game’s storytelling.
Gaming history is filled with hidden gems waiting to be rediscovered. From adrenaline-pumping action to heartfelt RPGs, these titles prove that greatness isn’t always found in the limelight. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these games offer something special for everyone.
The preservation of video game history often focuses on early builds and prototypes, but an equally valuable source lies in the documentation surrounding a game’s development. Recently, the Video Game History Foundation was gifted a remarkable collection of documents and files from Michael Manheim, a game developer whose career spans decades with companies like Sunsoft, EA, and 3DO. Among the gems of this collection are detailed records of Army Men: Sarge’s Heroes, revealing fascinating insights into its development.
Nine Fascinating Facts About Sarge’s Heroes
1. A Lightning-Fast Development Cycle
From pitch to store shelves, the development of Sarge’s Heroes took only 18 months—a remarkable feat considering it was one of five Army Men titles released in 1999.
2. Inspired by Tomb Raider and GoldenEye
Drawing inspiration from console hits like Tomb Raider and GoldenEye, the game shifted the series’ focus from strategy to a character-driven adventure, tailored for home consoles.
3. Simplified Gameplay for Development Feasibility
Initial ambitious plans included squad mechanics, vehicle controls, and co-op campaigns. Many features were cut to meet deadlines, though echoes of these ideas appeared in later titles.
4. The Creation of Vikki
The design of Vikki, the series’ lone female character, faced unique challenges. Early concepts struggled to balance her role as a character and as an appeal to the target audience.
5. Built with the N64 in Mind
The original pitch firmly positioned Sarge’s Heroes as an N64-focused title, leveraging the console’s strengths in rendering expansive 3D environments and supporting four-player split-screen gameplay.
6. A Name from Trip Hawkins
The name Sarge’s Heroes was suggested by EA and 3DO founder Trip Hawkins, aiming to give the game a unique identity while hinting at its narrative focus.
7. Robin Williams as Sarge?
Robin Williams, an avid gamer, was once considered for the role of Sarge. Ultimately, the character was voiced by the prolific Jim Cummings.
8. Aiming for a Multimedia Brand
Plans for Sarge’s Heroes extended beyond games to include action figures, a television series, and even a feature film. While some of these plans were unrealized, the IP became a cornerstone of the Army Men franchise.
9. Nintendo’s Behind-the-Scenes Input
Rare glimpses into Nintendo’s internal testing feedback highlight the depth of their involvement. Suggestions for graphical tweaks and design refinements helped shape the final product.
Why This Matters to Retro Gaming Enthusiasts
The insights from Manheim’s documents illustrate the creative and technical challenges of game development in the late 1990s. From ambitious pitches to hard decisions on cuts, these stories enrich our understanding of gaming history. Collectors and fans of retro gaming can also find joy in preserving these relics, much like the cartridges and consoles themselves.
Protect and Showcase Your Gaming Memories
For collectors of retro games like Army Men: Sarge’s Heroes, keeping your treasures in pristine condition is key. RetroShell’s protective cases provide durable, high-quality storage to safeguard your collection while showcasing your love for classic gaming.
Support the Video Game History Foundation
To continue exploring and preserving video game history, consider supporting the Video Game History Foundation through their YouTube channel or Patreon. Every contribution helps keep the stories of our gaming past alive.
