Tag Archives: gaming nostalgia

The Duchess Returns: Hyperkin Revives the Iconic Xbox Controller S

If you’ve ever gamed in the early 2000s, you probably remember the chunky yet lovable Original Xbox Controller S. Now, Hyperkin is bringing back this classic piece of gaming history with a modern twist. Dubbed “The Duchess,” this revamped version of the Controller S aims to capture the nostalgia of retro gaming while adding some contemporary enhancements.

Image from Hyperkin

A Modern Take on a Retro Icon

The Controller S was first introduced as a smaller alternative to the notoriously oversized “Duke” controller. It quickly became a favourite among gamers for its comfortable design and improved button layout. Hyperkin, known for its retro gaming peripherals, has announced that The Duchess will retain the original ergonomic shape while integrating modern updates like USB-C connectivity, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and compatibility with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC.

While Hyperkin’s design stays true to the essence of the Controller S, it’s clear they’re aiming for more than just a nostalgia trip. Gamers can now enjoy retro aesthetics with the convenience of modern technology. The Duchess is set to launch in four colourways: black, white, pink, and green, offering both purists and new fans a variety of options.

The Original

Why Does This Matter?

For retro gaming enthusiasts, this re-release isn’t just about playing games—it’s about reconnecting with a golden era of gaming. The Controller S represents a shift in Xbox’s design philosophy, one that resonated with fans and became the go-to choice for millions. Hyperkin’s reimagining feels like a love letter to that era, and for many, it’s a chance to relive cherished memories.

Of course, it’s not the first time Hyperkin has brought an iconic controller back to life. Their revival of the “Duke” in 2018 was well-received, and The Duchess feels like a natural continuation of their mission to celebrate gaming history.

If you’re planning to relive your Xbox classics or even try out The Duchess with newer titles, don’t forget to protect your collection. Premium RetroShell protectors (www.retroshell.com) ensure your games and gear stay in pristine condition for years to come.

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Building a Nintendo 64 Mini Classic Edition with Raspberry Pi 5

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. Retro Flag 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.

5. Nintendo 64 Controller ($19.99): To replicate the classic gameplay experience.

6. Batocera OS (Free): An emulation-focused operating system.

Retroflag N64 Pi Case

Assembly Steps

1. Prepare the Raspberry Pi: Remove any pre-installed heat sinks carefully to avoid damaging the board.

2. Install Cooling Components: Attach the new heat sinks and connect the fan to the Pi’s power supply.

3. Fit into the Case: Place the Pi snugly inside the Retro Flag case, ensuring all ports align correctly.

4. Insert Micro SD Card: Preloaded with Batocera, the card acts as the console’s “hard drive.”

5. Connect Peripherals: Plug in controllers and an HDMI cable.

Setting Up the Software

Installing Batocera

1. Download the OS: Get Batocera from its official website.

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!

The 10 Greatest Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Games as Officially Ranked by Nintendo!

Who did not love gaming magazines? Something was amazing about going to your local shop or having your favourite publication delivered to your home. The smell of the pages, the excitement of what might be coming and the promise of hints, tips and cheats for games that you might own. There was no internet for most of the retro gaming era, so magazines were all we had.

One of the most famous of these magazines was Nintendo Power. Nintendo Power was the official magazine of Nintendo and it ran from July 1988 until December 2012 (Future Publishing took over from 2007). Naturally, there was going to be a bit of bias towards their 1p games that they made themselves, and the NES had a catalogue of games that went back before the magazine started being published – but Nintendo Power did release a special supplement in issue 11 which contained the “Pak Source” which contained a review of most of the NES games.

The scores are broken down into 4 categories, and I have used the average to get the overall score.
• Graphics & Sound — Character and background graphics and background and special effects sounds.
• Play Control — Initial feel and overall play control.
• Challenge — Lasting interest and difficulty of play.
• Theme, Fun — Storyline, thrill, excitement, overall enjoyment.

I have taken a look back and aggregated these scores so you don’t have to, and without further ado, here are the top 10 best NES games, as per Nintendo Power.

10. Blades of Steel

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 4.0

• Play Control: 4.0

• Challenge: 4.0

• Theme & Fun: 4.5

Overall Score: 4.1

An arcade-style ice hockey game that brought fast-paced gameplay to the NES. Did you know Blades of Steel included a voice sample that said “Blades of Steel” at the title screen? This was a rare and impressive feature for the time.

Blades of Steel stood out for its unique fighting mechanic, which allowed players to duke it out mid-game, a feature that became a fan favourite. The game’s blend of sportsmanship and roughhousing made it a thrilling pick for multiplayer sessions.

9. Ninja Gaiden

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 4.5

• Play Control: 4.5

• Challenge: 4.5

• Theme & Fun: 4.0

Overall Score: 4.4

Known for its cinematic cutscenes and high difficulty, Ninja Gaiden pushed storytelling in games to new heights. Fun fact: the North American version is far harder than its Japanese counterpart due to enemy placement changes.

The game’s fast-paced action and fluid animation were groundbreaking for its time. With its intense boss battles and gripping narrative, Ninja Gaiden became a cult favourite and a benchmark for challenging gameplay.

8. Super Mario Bros. 3

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 4.5

• Play Control: 4.5

• Challenge: 4.5

• Theme & Fun: 4.5

Overall Score: 4.5

Widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time, this classic introduced the overworld map and the legendary Tanooki Suit. An interesting fact: its launch was teased in the movie The Wizard before the game was released.

Super Mario Bros. 3 also introduced varied worlds, each with unique enemies, themes, and mechanics. The addition of secret areas and warp whistles added layers of depth, encouraging exploration and replayability.

7. Super Mario Bros.

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 4.5

• Play Control: 4.5

• Challenge: 4.5

• Theme & Fun: 4.5

Overall Score: 4.5

The game that started it all for Mario and Luigi. This legendary title was bundled with the NES and sold millions, revolutionising platformers. Did you know the clouds and bushes in the game share the same sprite, just recoloured?

Its tight controls, iconic power-ups, and memorable music created a formula that inspired countless platformers. Super Mario Bros. remains a masterpiece, often replayed by retro enthusiasts and speedrunners alike.

6. Bases Loaded

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 5.0

• Play Control: 4.0

• Challenge: 4.5

• Theme & Fun: 4.5

Overall Score: 4.5

This baseball simulation was a home run for sports fans, featuring detailed animations and player stats. It was one of the first games to include an over-the-pitcher’s-shoulder perspective, adding to its realism.

Bases Loaded also introduced voice commentary, an impressive feature for an NES game. The realistic depiction of the game brought players closer to the ballpark, setting a new standard for sports simulations.

5. Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!!

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 4.5

• Play Control: 4.5

• Challenge: 4.5

• Theme & Fun: 4.5

Overall Score: 4.5

Step into the ring with Little Mac and face off against the charismatic Mike Tyson. Did you know this game was originally called Punch-Out!! but was rebranded with Tyson after his rise to fame?

The unique boxing mechanics and quirky opponents, like King Hippo and Glass Joe, made each fight feel fresh. The game’s charming graphics and subtle humour turned it into one of the most beloved NES titles.

4. Double Dragon

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 4.5

• Play Control: 4.5

• Challenge: 4.5

• Theme & Fun: 4.5

Overall Score: 4.5

This co-op brawler let players take on gangs to rescue Marian, a classic damsel-in-distress story. Despite being a port of the 2 player arcade game, due to the NES limitations, the console version is only a one player game.

Its gripping combat system and variety of moves, including grabbing weapons, made it endlessly replayable. The game’s urban setting and engaging level design kept players coming back for more.

3. Mega Man 2

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 5.0

• Play Control: 4.5

• Challenge: 4.5

• Theme & Fun: 5.0

Overall Score: 4.6

Capcom’s blue bomber hit his peak in this sequel, delivering tight controls and memorable boss fights. Fun fact: the developers worked on the game in their spare time after Capcom initially refused to fund a sequel!

The ability to choose stages in any order, coupled with the introduction of the iconic Robot Masters, made Mega Man 2 a trailblazer in its genre. The unforgettable soundtrack is still celebrated by fans.

2. Super Mario Bros. 2

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 4.5

• Play Control: 4.5

• Challenge: 5.0

• Theme & Fun: 5.0

Overall Score: 4.8

This sequel took Mario and friends in a new direction with unique character abilities and mechanics. Did you know that this game was originally a reskin of Doki Doki Panic for the Western market?

The game introduced vertical scrolling and a vegetable-throwing mechanic, adding variety to its gameplay. Its dreamlike world and vibrant characters made it a memorable entry in the Mario series.

1. Metroid

Scores:

• Graphics & Sound: 5.0

• Play Control: 4.5

• Challenge: 5.0

• Theme & Fun: 5.0

Overall Score: 4.9

The crown jewel of the NES library, Metroid introduced players to the mysterious world of Zebes and its haunting soundtrack. Interesting fact: Samus Aran’s identity as a woman was a major twist, shattering stereotypes in gaming.

Metroid’s non-linear exploration, combined with its foreboding atmosphere, set a new standard for adventure games. Its influence is seen today in the “Metroidvania” genre, a testament to its groundbreaking design.

So, there you have it, from Nintendo themselves – what do you think? Any glaring omissions that should be on the list?

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Never stop playing!

Retro Gaming’s Frosty Revival: Snow Bros. Deluxe Edition Hits NES / Genesis / Megadrive / Game Boy

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.

Pre-order now at Limited Run Games

A Deep Dive into Overlooked Video Games: Hidden Gems Worth Playing

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.

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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.

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4. El Viento (Genesis): Platforming Perfection

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 BurnoutBlur 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.

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Conclusion

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.

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The Hidden Secrets of the Nintendo 64’s Memory: Exploring Its True Potential

Unveiling the Mystery of the N64’s “Hidden Bits”

The Nintendo 64, marketed with 4 MB of RAM and expandable to 8 MB via the Expansion Pack, might not be what it seems. Recent findings reveal that the N64 actually possesses an additional 0.5 MB of “hidden” memory, bringing its true capacity to 4.5 MB (and 9 MB with the Expansion Pack). These hidden bits, buried deep within its architecture, have sparked intrigue among retro gaming enthusiasts and hardware developers.

What Are These Hidden Bits?

The N64’s memory operates on a unique system where each memory cell holds 9 bits of data instead of the standard 8. While most games only utilize 8 bits per cell, the ninth bit is reserved for specific rendering processes. This extra data has largely remained untapped, with only a handful of games—such as The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask—making purposeful use of it.

Why Were These Hidden Bits Added?

The additional bits were designed for the N64’s advanced anti-aliasing capabilities. By calculating how much of a screen pixel is covered by a rendered triangle, the system can blend colors for smoother visuals. These calculations require three “hidden” bits per pixel:

• Two for coverage percentage.

• One visible bit for blending.

This innovative approach allowed the N64 to achieve its signature smooth graphics, but it also left developers with a hidden resource that could theoretically be harnessed for other purposes.

Can Developers Use These Hidden Bits?

Yes—but with limitations. Here’s how the hidden bits can be accessed:

1. GPU-Based Techniques

The GPU can read and write these bits for rendering effects, as demonstrated by Majora’s Mask in its Lens of Truth effect.

2. CPU-Based Methods

Through a technique involving “invisible geometry,” developers can write specific data to the hidden bits. However, this method is slow and complicated, limiting its practicality.

3. EBUS Mode

A more efficient approach leverages the N64’s EBUS mode, allowing developers to read and write these bits more effectively. While this method sacrifices some visible memory, it offers a way to access extra storage in specific scenarios.

Practical Applications and Challenges

While the extra memory can theoretically provide a 5-10% boost in usable RAM, its real-world application is niche:

• Ideal for rarely accessed data like dialogue, save files, or static assets.

• Requires careful memory management to avoid corrupting visible data.

• Not supported by most emulators, making it inaccessible to many players.

A Glimpse into Development

For developers like the video’s creator, these techniques present exciting opportunities. Working on an N64 game that pushes the console’s limits, they’ve explored every quirk of the hardware, including the hidden bits. While these tricks offer unique advantages, they also underline the ingenuity required to develop on retro platforms.

Conclusion: Unlocking the Potential of Hidden Memory

The discovery of the N64’s hidden memory highlights the depth and complexity of retro gaming hardware. While its practical use remains limited, it showcases the creative potential of developers who continue to push the boundaries of what classic consoles can do.

Whether you’re a developer or a retro gaming enthusiast, the N64’s hidden bits offer a fascinating glimpse into the innovative spirit of gaming’s golden era.

Source: The Hidden Secrets of the Nintendo 64 by @KazeN64.

Revolutionising Sega Saturn Gaming: The Saru Cartridge Explained

Rediscovering the Sega Saturn Library

The Sega Saturn, while home to an impressive catalogue of games, poses a challenge for modern gamers due to the skyrocketing prices of its original titles. Enter the Saru cartridge, a groundbreaking solution that makes accessing Sega Saturn games affordable and convenient.

What is the Saru Cartridge?

The Saru cartridge is an innovative accessory for Sega Saturn enthusiasts, providing access to a vast game library without the need for expensive physical copies or extensive system modifications.

Key Features:

Affordable Access: At around $75, it’s a fraction of the cost of many Saturn games.

Pre-loaded Games: Comes with a Micro SD card stocked with popular titles.

Simple Drag-and-Drop Functionality: Adding new games is as easy as transferring files on your computer.

Easy Setup and Compatibility

Setting up the Saru cartridge is beginner-friendly:

1. Remove the included Micro SD card.

2. Connect it to your computer.

3. Drag and drop game files into the designated ISO folder.

4. Reinsert the card into the cartridge and start gaming!

The cartridge supports a variety of content, including:

Classic Sega Saturn Games

Fan-Made Homebrew Titles

Japanese Games with Translation Patches

Superior Performance

The Saru cartridge enhances the gaming experience with faster loading times and reliable hardware-level emulation. Here’s a glimpse at how it performs:

Game Title Load Time (Seconds)

Panzer Dragoon 2

X-Men vs. Street Fighter 3

Christmas Nights 1

Why the Saru Cartridge Stands Out

1. No System Modifications: Works with the Sega Saturn straight out of the box, no tinkering required.

2. Firmware Updates: Regular updates improve compatibility and add new features.

3. Enhanced Gameplay: Nostalgic classics like Christmas Nights can be experienced with minimal load times and no input lag.

A Must-Have for Sega Saturn Fans

For Sega Saturn owners, the Saru cartridge is a game-changer. It combines affordability, convenience, and performance, making it an essential accessory for collectors and newcomers alike.

Why Choose the Saru Cartridge?

• Access a diverse range of Sega Saturn games without the hefty price tag.

• Enjoy a user-friendly setup with no modifications needed.

• Enhance your experience with homebrew games and translation patches.

For retro gaming enthusiasts who want to explore Sega Saturn’s rich history, the Saru cartridge delivers a cost-effective and seamless solution. Revisit the classics and rediscover the joy of Sega Saturn without the financial strain.

Source: Exploring the Saru Cartridge for Sega Saturn by RGT85.

Darkstalkers on the Sega Genesis? Developer Shares Exciting Update on Fan Project

Darkstalkers Reimagined for Retro Hardware

For retro gaming fans, the idea of bringing Darkstalkers to the Sega Genesis is a dream come true. In a recent update video, Daniel from Retro Reloaded shared his progress on a fan project that aims to reimagine the beloved Capcom fighter for the classic 16-bit console. While the project is making headway, Daniel also highlighted some significant challenges in adapting the game to the Genesis’s limitations.

Progress Report: Characters and Animations

Daniel has completed most of the character animations, with all moves—except special attacks—successfully implemented. From Dimitri to Sasquatch, the roster is shaping up nicely. However, timing adjustments and hitbox refinements are still needed to bring the gameplay to life.

Key Milestones Achieved:

• Character animations are nearly finalized.

• Most stages are functional, though some require optimization.

• Work on special moves and balancing is scheduled next.

Challenges with VRAM Limitations

Adapting Darkstalkers to the Sega Genesis presents unique technical hurdles. Daniel discussed how the system’s limited VRAM (Video RAM) has forced compromises in stage design and even character inclusion.

Notable Issues:

Stage Glitches: Some backgrounds disappear or exhibit visual glitches due to insufficient VRAM.

Character Cuts: Acarus, a character with massive sprites and screen-wide moves, may need to be replaced by smaller, more manageable characters like BB Hood or Q-Bee.

These adjustments are critical to ensuring the game runs smoothly on Genesis hardware.

A Fan-Led Labor of Love

This project is a solo effort, with Daniel managing every aspect of development. Despite the challenges, he remains optimistic about completing the game, potentially by next Christmas. Fans of Darkstalkers are encouraged to provide feedback on character roster decisions, as these will impact the project’s timeline and final quality.

Preserve Your Retro Gaming Memories

For collectors excited about Darkstalkers and other retro gems, keeping your cartridges and consoles in top condition is essential. RetroShell’s protective cases are the perfect way to showcase and safeguard your collection, offering durable and stylish protection for your gaming treasures.

Stay Tuned for Updates

As the project progresses, fans can follow Daniel’s journey on Retro Reloaded’s YouTube channel. Whether you’re a Darkstalkers enthusiast or just love fan projects that push retro hardware to its limits, this project is one to watch.

Source: Darkstalkers Genesis Update by Retro Reloaded.