Last, but by no means least, as part of our coverage on what is hot in the world of retro gaming across Reddit we cover some of the lesser-known consoles, so let’s begin with Atari.
In r/atari we have a redeployment of the console into a guitar, which looks great.
Finally, we look at r/3DO (let me know if you want me to cover any other consoles). The main news was a MKII port (but we covered that here) so the next best was someone sharing their FX11-, which is a sleek looking machine.
There you have the round-up – I hope you found it interesting – do let me know in the comments below.
Serious about retro gaming? Then you need RetroShell to keep your collection safe. And if you just love staying up to date, our free Substack will bring the latest retro gaming news straight to your inbox every Monday!
This week has not been very focused on gaming, as I built a new app (more details to be shared very soon), however, I did manage to play Marvel Snap a lot and also get my Analogue Pocket updated with a load of cores and I started to put some ROM’s on it for future reference. I also got accepted to “Stars Reach” pre-Alpha, but do not have a PC to run it. This looks like a good Star Wars Galaxy successor (the 🐐 in my opinion), but let’s see.
This week we have 40 entries to the newsletter, making it the biggest yet. We cover more “new” Game Boy games, updates on the Superstation One (FPGA PS1), a Tang $69 FPGA console, and a load more.
News
🎮 Embark on a Retro Adventure with PokettoHiro for Game Boy Color. A new retro-style game called PokettoHiro has been released for the Game Boy Color, offering an exciting mix of platforming and RPG mechanics. Retroshell.
🎵 Gimmick! Gets a New Arranged Album Featuring an All-Star Lineup. A newly arranged album for the NES classic Gimmick! is in production, featuring contributions from renowned musicians. Time Extension.
🕹️ Ultima VII Revisited: Version 0.1.0 Breathes New Life into a Classic RPG. A fan project updating Ultima VII has released version 0.1.0, introducing modern enhancements while preserving its classic RPG charm. Retroshell.
🎮 Balenciaga’s Limited Edition Game Console Misses the Mark. Balenciaga’s new luxury game console highlights the disconnect between high fashion and gaming culture. Yanko Design.
👻 The Demo for Cronela’s Mansion Has Dropped. A playable demo for Cronela’s Mansion is now available, teasing a spooky new experience for fans of indie horror games. Retroshell.
🎮 Metal Miracle: A New Game Boy Color Title from Hermano’s Creators(below). The developers of Hermanohave unveiled Metal Miracle, a fresh RPG for the Game Boy Color. Retrododo.
🕹️ Mega EverDrive Core: Affordable Flash Cartridge for Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. The Mega EverDrive Core is a cost-effective flash cartridge offering new accessibility for Sega Genesis and Mega Drive gaming. Retroshell.
⚔️ Game Boy Classic Ninja Five-O Returns February 25. Ninja Five-O, a beloved Game Boy Advance action game, will make a comeback on February 25. Hardcore Gamer.
⚔️ Ninja Five-O: Konami’s Forgotten GBA Gem Returns. Konami’s cult classic Ninja Five-O is being re-released, rekindling interest in the overlooked GBA title. Retroshell.
🎨 Limited Run Games Adds Phantasy Star Online Merch Line. Limited Run Games has launched new merchandise inspired by Phantasy Star Online. GoNintendo.
🔑 The New SEGA Account Connects Fans with Iconic Games. Sega introduces a unified account system to enhance access to its game ecosystem. Retroshell.
🕺 Dreamcast Dance Rhythm Game Puyo Puyo DA Now in English. The rhythm game Puyo Puyo DA for the Dreamcast has been translated into English, making it accessible to a wider audience. Time Extension.
🌟 The Meating Special Edition Glow-in-the-Dark Shell Unveiled. A glow-in-the-dark special edition shell for The Meating has been announced. Retroshell.
❄️ Snow Bros. 2 Special Brings Frosty Fun Back. The arcade classic Snow Bros. 2 is set to return with updated visuals and gameplay tweaks. Retroshell.
🎮 Super Technos World: River City & Technos Arcade Classics Gearing Up for Launch. Technos Japan’s arcade classics are bundled into Super Technos World, bringing nostalgic titles to modern platforms. Retroshell.
🤓 Angry Video Game Nerd 8-Bit Coming to Modern Consoles and NES. The Angry Video Game Nerd’s 8-bit game is launching soon for both modern consoles and the original NES. Retroshell.
🦆 Tiny Duck Hunt 3D Demo Available Now. A 3D reimagining of Duck Hunt has released its demo, showcasing a modern twist on the NES classic. Retroshell.
🎮 Three New SNES Games Join Switch Online Library. Nintendo has added three new SNES titles to its Switch Online service. Retroshell.
⚠️ Atari Warns Against Unauthorized Use of Pong Trademark. Atari has issued a warning to a cryptocurrency project for unauthorized use of the Pong trademark. Retroshell.
🥋 Mortal Kombat II Fan Project for 3DO Reaches New Milestone. A fan-made version of Mortal Kombat II for the 3DO has made significant progress, including gameplay refinements. Retroshell.
🕹️ Sipeed Introduces Tang Console: A $69 FPGA Device for Retro Gaming. The Tang Console is a $69 FPGA-based device aimed at retro gaming enthusiasts. Retroshell.
📚 Video Game History Foundation Opens Digital Library to the Public. The Video Game History Foundation is sharing its digital library, granting public access to rare game materials. Retroshell.
Features
🎮 Sega has launched a Japanese Game Centre Guide to help tourists navigate the vibrant arcade scene in Japan. Retroshell
🎸 A deep dive into the “Family Bass,” exploring the unique low-end sounds of the Famicom’s musical capabilities (below). Sonic State
🎨 Takaya Imamura, the artist behind Nintendo’s iconic worlds, is celebrated for his creative contributions to gaming. Retroshell
🕹️ A comparison of the Sega Saturn and PlayStation highlights the defining aspects of the 1990s console wars. CBR
🛠️ A Neo Geo Pocket Color modder has enhanced the handheld with a Raspberry Pi, expanding its capabilities. Retroshell
🚫 Lizardcube, the studio behind Wonder Boy and Streets of Rage, declined the chance to work on a Metal Slug title. Time Extension
🔫 Marvel’s The Punisher celebrates its 20th anniversary, reflecting on the legacy of the brutal vigilante in gaming. Inverse
Lists & Rankings
📚 A list of 10 books about retro gaming offers insights and knowledge for enthusiasts and historians. Retroshell
🎥 The best Super Nintendo movie-based games are ranked, highlighting their impact and quality. CBR
🍌 All mainline Donkey Kong games are ranked from best to worst, showcasing the franchise’s evolution. Augustman
🎯 A ranking of the best pinball video games of all time explores this unique gaming niche. CBR
🎮 The best video game controllers of all time are discussed, emphasizing design and innovation. Digital Trends
🕹️ The best Sega Genesis RPGs are ranked, celebrating the console’s standout role-playing games. CBR
🐵 Donkey Kong’s most iconic characters are ranked based on their contributions to the franchise. TheGamer
✨ A look at SNES RPGs that would benefit from HD-2D visuals highlights the potential for modern remakes. CBR
For many enthusiasts, nothing beats the nostalgic thrill of an SNK arcade cabinet—complete with those massive cartridges and the remarkable feel of a dedicated joystick. SNK was known for bold moves in the gaming realm, including their own line of home arcade systems and the underdog Neo Geo Pocket Color. While that little console never truly toppled Nintendo’s Game Boy empire, it left a lasting impression on fans. Now, decades later, one inventive modder known as YCL is rekindling that old arcade magic, shoehorning a Raspberry Pi into a Neo Geo Pocket Color and giving it a modern facelift.
The Spark of an Idea
It’s easy to forget how advanced SNK was back then. They created arcades, they released cutting-edge home consoles, and they tried (sometimes aggressively) to challenge Nintendo in the handheld market. Although those ventures didn’t always dethrone industry giants, SNK’s dedication to joystick design was top-notch. People still rave about the superb feel of Neo Geo controllers—the perfect partner for action and fighting titles.
But hardware that blew minds in the 1990s can feel a bit sluggish these days. That’s where YCL’s cleverness comes in. After tinkering with Raspberry Pi computers for other projects, they wondered: could you squeeze a full-blown arcade experience inside the Neo Geo Pocket Color shell? One that could smoothly run not just classic Neo Geo titles, but other platforms, too?
Building the New Brain
The concept might sound daunting, but the Raspberry Pi is famously flexible—and smaller than you might expect. YCL took what they call an “intelligent design” approach with a custom VS redesign PCB (printed circuit board) that’s open source. The new board fits inside the Neo Geo Pocket Color’s cramped housing, replacing the older internals while maintaining the same general button layout.
But that’s only half the trick. A mere swap of circuit boards wouldn’t be enough to transform the entire handheld. So, YCL also:
• Upgraded the Screen: Out went the original display, in came a wide-angle LCD for bright, crisp visuals. The difference between an aging handheld screen and a modern LCD can be staggering, especially for vibrant arcade titles.
• 3D-Printed Components: From a mini arcade-style joystick to a custom dust cover, certain parts had to be designed from scratch. That includes a new button arrangement, ensuring there are extra inputs for the broader game library the Raspberry Pi can handle.
• Retained the Cartridge Slot: Pure nostalgia, right there. Even if it’s mostly decorative, this detail is a nod to the original design and keeps that retro flair.
• Kept the Battery Compartment: No weird external battery packs or endless wires. The mod still looks and feels tidy, like a commercial product you might’ve picked up off the shelf in 1999.
The Arcade Feel in Your Hands
One of the highlights of SNK’s legacy is the way their joysticks and buttons feel—clicky, sturdy, and ready for combos. YCL knew it was essential to capture that same tactile experience. While it’s challenging to replicate a full arcade stick on a handheld, the modder managed to craft something that comes close, providing a far snappier input mechanism than typical rubber-contact D-pads.
The addition of extra buttons also means you can play games from multiple consoles that often demand shoulder triggers or more face buttons. So whether it’s a classic Neo Geo fighting game, a Genesis platformer, or even older arcade titles, this modded unit is equipped to handle them.
Performance Beyond the Original
This new rig doesn’t merely run a few SNK titles. Thanks to the Raspberry Pi’s capabilities, YCL’s pocket console supports emulators for numerous platforms. Think everything from NES and Mega Drive to older arcade boards that might’ve been beyond the wildest dreams of an actual Neo Geo Pocket.
The modder also incorporated a dedicated audio solution to bring that arcade roar to life. Being able to hear those signature fighting game sound effects—punches, kicks, KOs—on a crisp speaker is a major upgrade compared to the original system’s modest audio output.
Nostalgic Looks, Modern Fun
A big part of the Neo Geo Pocket Color’s charm was its chunky build and distinct shape. Plenty of fans appreciate how comfortable it felt in the hand. YCL’s project remains faithful to the console’s overall look, but peeking inside reveals a powerhouse. It’s a bit like discovering a sports car engine inside an old family sedan: it may look familiar on the outside, but it’s got serious muscle hidden under the hood.
There’s even a nod to physical accessories: you can still connect an official arcade joystick or another controller if you’re hankering for the full arcade experience at home. Talk about bridging eras—a modern emulator hub that still welcomes real arcade sticks.
A Farewell to the Old Hardware
The original Neo Geo Pocket Color, while beloved, had fairly limited hardware. Over time, official support faded. But this modification breathes fresh life into a handheld many considered doomed to be a historical footnote. With today’s technology, you can carry around a mini arcade in your pocket—something that might’ve seemed unthinkable to 90s kids used to big cartridges and thick instruction manuals.
YCL’s mod is a testament to how the retro gaming scene isn’t just about collecting old hardware; it’s also about finding new ways to enjoy and preserve classics. By harnessing the Raspberry Pi and an open-source mindset, enthusiasts continue to prove that the best parts of gaming’s past can shine even brighter when paired with a sprinkle of modern tech.
Want More Retro Gaming Goodness?
If you’d like to read more stories about inventive consoles, rare titles, and the general mischief of retro gaming, visit our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack. There, you’ll find a host of articles that delve into everything from obscure Japanese exclusives to hardware hacks just like this one.
And if you’ve got a precious retro game collection of your own, why not protect them with the world’s finest retro game protectors? Head to RetroShell and give your beloved cartridges the royal treatment. After all, preserving our gaming heritage is half the fun!
Neo-Geo gaming enthusiasts have a reason to celebrate with the announcement of the BackBit Neo Geo ROM Cart, a game-changer for fans of SNK’s iconic Neo Geo platform. This versatile ROM cartridge allows users to load multiple games onto a single cart, simplifying the experience for Neo Geo console owners while preserving the authentic feel of classic gaming.
The BackBit Neo Geo ROM Cart offers several standout features:
• Plug-and-Play Convenience: Easily load your favourite games via a microSD card.
• Wide Compatibility: Supports games for both AES (home console) and MVS (arcade) systems.
• Quick Load Times: Seamlessly switch between titles with minimal wait.
• Enhanced Preservation: Reduce wear and tear on original cartridges while still enjoying genuine hardware.
The device is especially appealing to collectors and gamers who want to streamline their Neo Geo experience without sacrificing the original console’s performance or nostalgia factor.
The BackBit Neo Geo ROM Cart is expected to be available for purchase soon, offering a modern solution for retro gaming aficionados. For more information, visit the official announcement on RetroRGB.
Preserve your gaming treasures with RetroShell™ premium protectors and stay updated with our weekly retro gaming newsletter – where nostalgia meets modern collecting.
The fourth generation of video game consoles marked a turning point in gaming history. The transition from 8-bit to 16-bit systems brought enhanced graphics, better sound, and more immersive gameplay, ushering in the golden era of retro gaming. Key players like the TurboGrafx-16, Sega Genesis, SNES, and Neo Geo defined this era, creating fierce competition and leaving a lasting legacy. Let’s dive into the history of these consoles, their technological innovations, and their cultural impact.
TurboGrafx-16: NEC’s Bold Leap
The Japanese Success of the PC Engine
The PC Engine, released in Japan in 1987, was NEC’s entry into the gaming market. Developed in partnership with Hudson Soft, it featured an innovative 8-bit CPU paired with 16-bit graphics processors. Compact and sleek, it became a massive success, selling over 500,000 units in its first week.
North American Expansion
Rebranded as the TurboGrafx-16, the console launched in the U.S. in 1989. However, NEC’s decision to redesign the system and delay its release to pack in the unfamiliar Keith Courage in Alpha Zones put it at a disadvantage. By the time it hit shelves, the Sega Genesishad already captured gamers’ attention.
Technological Firsts
Despite its struggles, the TurboGrafx-16 introduced the first CD-ROM add-on, revolutionizing gaming storage. Titles like Ys Book I & II showcased the potential of this technology, blending rich audio and expansive worlds. However, steep pricing and poor marketing in North America stymied its success.
Sega Genesis: Genesis Does What Nintendon’t
Breaking Into the Market
Launched as the Mega Drive in Japan in 1988, the Sega Genesis hit North America in 1989 with an aggressive marketing campaign. With slogans like “Genesis does what Nintendon’t,” Sega positioned itself as the edgier alternative to Nintendo.
Sonic the Hedgehog: A Game-Changer
The introduction of Sonic the Hedgehog in 1991 turned the tide for Sega. Sonic’s speed and attitude perfectly showcased the Genesis’s capabilities, appealing to a generation of gamers looking for something cool and fast-paced.
Innovations and Add-Ons
Sega didn’t stop with the Genesis itself. Add-ons like the Sega CD and 32X expanded its capabilities, while backward compatibility with the Sega Master System broadened its library. Despite these efforts, fragmentation and inconsistent quality plagued these peripherals.
Cultural Milestone
The Genesis became a cultural icon, selling over 30 million units worldwide. It also played a pivotal role in establishing the ESRBgame rating system during congressional hearings about violent video games like Mortal Kombat.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System: Nintendo Strikes Back
Delayed But Dominant
Nintendo responded to the 16-bit revolution with the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), released in Japan as the Super Famicom in 1990 and in North America in 1991. Despite arriving late, it quickly dominated with an exceptional library of games.
Innovative Technology
The SNES utilized advanced graphics chips, allowing for effects like Mode 7, which created pseudo-3D visuals in games like Super Mario Kart. Its sound capabilities, powered by Sony’s SPC700 chip, delivered unforgettable soundtracks.
The Console Wars
The rivalry between Sega and Nintendo reached its peak during this era. Marketing campaigns and exclusives like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and Donkey Kong Country helped the SNES outsell the Genesis globally, with nearly 50 million units sold.
Released in 1990, the Neo Geo AES (Advanced Entertainment System) brought the arcade experience to living rooms. With a price tag of $649.99, it was a luxury item, offering unmatched graphics and sound through games like Metal Slug and King of Fighters.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Neo Geo’s high price limited its reach, but its quality earned it a dedicated fanbase. It became a symbol of gaming excellence, providing arcade-perfect ports that other systems couldn’t match.
Technological Advancements and Cultural Impact
The Rise of CD-ROM
The TurboGrafx-16 and Sega CD showcased the potential of CD-ROM technology, offering larger games with enhanced audio and video. While adoption was slow, it laid the groundwork for future consoles.
Console Wars: Sega vs. Nintendo
The battle between Sega and Nintendo defined the era. From aggressive marketing to exclusive titles, the rivalry pushed both companies to innovate, elevating gaming to new heights.
Game Ratings and Industry Standards
The fourth generation also saw the birth of game rating systems. Public outcry over violent games like Night Trap led to the creation of the ESRB, ensuring age-appropriate content for gamers.
The Enduring Legacy of the 16-Bit Era
The fourth generation of video game consoles set the stage for modern gaming. The innovations introduced during this time—CD-ROMs, advanced graphics chips, and immersive sound—reshaped the industry and inspired future generations of consoles.
Each system left a unique legacy: the TurboGrafx-16 as a technological pioneer, the Sega Genesis as a cultural phenomenon, the SNES as a benchmark for quality, and the Neo Geo as the pinnacle of arcade gaming at home. Their contributions continue to resonate with gamers and collectors alike.
🎮 Sega Teases New Persona Games for 2024 [Exputer] Link
Features
💥 Sega and Nintendo’s Explosive Showdown in 1993: The Battle Heard Around the World – Take a trip down memory lane and relive the legendary showdown between Sega and Nintendo in 1993. [Super Jump Magazine] Link
A solid weekend in.
🍄 Super Mario RPG Review: A Classic RPG Collaboration Between Nintendo and Square Enix – Dive into a review of Super Mario RPG, a beloved collaboration between Nintendo and Square Enix. [Wired] Link
🌟 Super Mario RPG Review: A Nostalgic Journey Back to a Nintendo Classic – Revisit the classic Super Mario RPG with this nostalgic review. [Nintendo Insider] Link
🕹️ Check Out This Gigantic Raspberry Pi Game Boy – Discover an incredible Raspberry Pi-powered Game Boy that promises hours of retro gaming fun. [HowToGeek] Link
💾 Steam Deck Owners Mostly Use It for Emulating PlayStation 2, Nintendo Switch, GameCube, and Game Boy – Steam Deck owners are turning to emulation to enjoy a wide range of classic games on this handheld device. [Ruetir] Link
🎮 How Much RAM Did the SNES Have? – Uncover the technical details of the SNES and learn how much RAM it had during its heyday. [Robots.net] Link
🚀 From ‘Spacewar!’ to ‘Starfield’: A History of Video Gaming – Take a journey through the history of video gaming, from the early days of “Spacewar!” to the highly anticipated release of “Starfield.” [LI Herald] Link
🔄 Sega Saturn: A Seriously Underrated Console – Explore why the Sega Saturn is often considered an underrated gem in the world of gaming consoles. [CBR] Link
✨ Aladdin for Sega Genesis Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary – Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the classic Sega Genesis game, Aladdin. [Inverse] Link
A whole new world of platform games 🥁
📼 Remembering Philips CD-i in Chocheluismos: The Revolution of Multimedia – Delve into the world of the Philips CD-i and its impact on multimedia gaming in this nostalgic article. [Ruetir] Link
🎮 Jaguar’s Graphic Power Marked in Its Classic Games – Learn about the graphic prowess of the Atari Jaguar through a look back at its classic games. [Gear Rice] Link
Lists & Rankings
🎮 Relive the ’80s: Top 25 Video Games That Defined a Decade – Take a nostalgic journey back to the ’80s with a list of the top 25 video games from that iconic era. [Wealth of Geeks] Link
If you know this, then you are old.
🍄 Weirdest Mario Games: Exploring the Quirky Side of the Mushroom Kingdom – Discover the quirkiest and most unusual Mario games that have graced the gaming world. [GameRant] Link
The crew were shocked by Mario’s porn collection
🌟 2D RPGs That Deserve HD Remakes: A Nostalgic Journey Awaits – Dive into the world of 2D RPGs and explore titles that are ripe for HD remakes. [CBR] Link
🔵 Best Sega Genesis Platform Games: Jump, Run, and Explore – Explore a selection of the best platform games on the Sega Genesis console. [GameRant] Link
🎮 Blast from the Past: Best Intellivision Games Worth Revisiting – Rediscover the magic of classic Intellivision games that continue to hold up today. [GamesRadar] Link
Not quite as good looking as the arcade version.
🚀 Turbocharge Your Gaming: Best PC Engine Games for Classic Fun – Dive into the world of PC Engine gaming with these outstanding titles. [GamesRadar] Link
Issue #70 – The PowKiddy X70 is a retro gaming console that kind of looks like a Switch.
In this week’s edition we cover a the Zelda film has been announced, unknown Japanese RPG’s gets a new port, forgotten Star Wars games – and much more.
News
Heritage Auctions smashes records by selling vintage video game consoles and arcade cabinets at eye-watering prices – proof that in the world of collectibles, old games never lose their value. [ArtDaily] Link
This, even now, would be top of my Christmas want list.
Link may be a fictional knight in ‘The Legend of Zelda’, but the game’s lead, Eiji Aonuma, has been knighted for real in France – a fitting honour for a true gaming legend. [GamesRadar+] Link
Here is the official announcement for the up-coming Zelda game [Nintendo] Link
The remaster of ‘Turok 3: Shadow of Oblivion’ faces a delay, now set to unleash its prehistoric action on November 30 – a slight detour on the road to dino-blasting nostalgia. [Final Weapon] Link
Features
Essentially Sports delves into the realm of what-could-have-been, listing the top five cancelled Nintendo games – a nostalgic journey through the Nintendo universe that almost existed. [Essentially Sports] Link
Cancelled to focus on the N64
Vigour Times takes us on a trip down memory lane, showcasing how Nintendo changed the pop culture landscape 38 years ago – a testament to the power of a plucky plumber and his pixelated pals. [Vigour Times] Link
Niche Gamer spotlights 20 obscure and mysterious JRPGs, offering a treasure trove for gamers looking to delve into the lesser-known realms of the genre – a must-read for seekers of hidden gaming gems. [Niche Gamer] Link
PopTopic delves into the intersection of pop culture and video games, highlighting iconic references and Easter eggs – it’s a pixelated tour of pop culture’s influence on our favourite games. [PopTopic] Link
PC Invasion provides a guide to finding all the Sega Master System games hidden in ‘Like a Dragon: Gaiden’, perfect for gamers aiming to complete their in-game retro collection. [PC Invasion] Link
Money Inc. showcases the most expensive gaming console ever, a journey into the world of luxury gaming where the price tag is as eye-catching as the graphics. [Money Inc.] Link
Gearrice rounds up the five Atari Lynx games you can snag for less than the price of a coffee – proving retro gaming can still be a pocket-friendly adventure. [Gearrice] Link
Lists & Rankings
TheGamer blasts off into a galaxy far, far away, revisiting Star Wars games that have slipped through the cracks of our collective memory – it’s a nostalgic hyperspace jump for Star Wars enthusiasts. [TheGamer] Link
GameRant throws a punch into the world of fighting games, spotlighting those that split opinion with their innovative mechanics – a celebration of the genre’s bold attempts at shaking up the arcade status quo. [GameRant] Link
The ruby slippers made Ryu feel like a real woman,
Exploring the curious case of failed consoles with dedicated fanbases, GameRant takes a look at systems like the Dreamcast and PS Vita – a tribute to the consoles that didn’t make it, but made their mark. [GameRant] Link
Wealth of Geeks jumps into the Mushroom Kingdom, ranking the best Mario spin-off games of all time – a trip down the warp pipe into Mario’s versatile and ever-entertaining universe. [Wealth of Geeks] Link
Issue #69 – World 6-9 is the ninth main level of Super Mario Bros. 3.
In this week’s edition we cover a new Tetris world champion, Perfect Dark gets a new port, a wooden Game Boy – and much more.
News
Pre orders are now live for the Atari 2600+ for launch on the 17th November ($129.99) – US only and the games are announced below [YouTube]. Link
Dr. Eggman is switching gears from world domination to men’s health advocacy, pledging to part with his iconic mustache if fundraising goals are met – it’s all for a good cause, but one must ponder, will he look more dastardly or less without it? [Dot Esports] Link
Definitely less..
The Nintendo Switch Online library gets a juicy update with an infusion of nostalgia, featuring the whip-cracking ‘Castlevania Legends’, amongst others – subscribers get ready for some classic monster hunting. [Destructoid] Link
For Tetris fans, it’s a dream come true as Justin Yu stacks his way to victory, clinching the Tetris World Championship – who knew those tetrominoes could be arranged for glory? [MIT News] Link
Perfect Dark, the Nintendo 64 classic, leaps onto PC with a fan-made port that’s polished for 4K 60 FPS gameplay – with keyboard and mouse support, it’s like seeing Joanna Dark through a new lens. [TweakTown] Link
Atari is going retro-rogue by reissuing ‘Dark Chambers’ on an actual Atari 2600 cartridge, giving old school gamers a tangible slice of the dungeon-crawling action. [Destructoid] Link
In a play for the retro revival market, Atari has snapped up Digital Eclipse, marking its second acquisition of a vintage-focused studio this year – a clear sign that the past is a playground for the future. [GameCrate] Link
‘Dead of the Brain’, a gory PC-98 adventure game, now speaks English thanks to fan translators – brace for a horror-filled narrative that’s lost nothing in translation. [Game News 24] Link
Features
Take a nostalgic tour with the ‘Sport Industry Socials’ as they preview the evolution of sports video games – it’s pixelated history where the grass is always retro green. [Sport Industry Group] Link
A DIY enthusiast has turned a wooden block into a fully functional Game Boy – it’s a marvel of craft and nostalgia, proving once again that woodwork and retro gaming are a match made in heaven. [Hackaday] Link
Got wood?
After 39 years, Nintendo’s ‘Devil World’, often seen as the demonic cousin of Pac-Man, finally haunts North American shores with its official release – retro gaming’s forbidden fruit is now ripe for the picking. [GamesRadar+] Link
IGN stomps through the history of Godzilla games, chronicling every city-crushing, monster-battling title ever released – a monstrous walk down memory lane for kaiju fans. [IGN] Link
Before the internet exploded, Japan’s Sega Mega Drive users were already dabbling in online gaming via modems – a throwback to 1990, reminding us that Sega did what Nintendidn’t with online play. [Ruetir] Link
Way ahead of the curve.
Appuals dives into the world of ColecoVision, celebrating the system that brought arcade realism to living rooms in the 80s – it’s a flashback to the days of high scores and simple joys. [Appuals] Link
The ‘Visco Collection’ review over at Games Asylum reminds us that hidden gaming gems can still sparkle decades later, compiling rare arcade titles that could’ve been lost in the digital void. [Games Asylum] Link
Lists & Rankings
Diving into the peculiar corner of Square Enix’s library, Gamerant spotlights ‘Square’s Tom Sawyer’ – a title where literary classics meet 8-bit quirks, proving that not all RPGs are born equal. [GameRant] Link
Yardbarker jumps into the punishing pixel pits of the original NES, listing the 20 hardest games that tested the mettle and patience of gamers – a true salute to the era of brutal difficulty curves. [Yardbarker] Link
Classic.
GameRant tunes into the easter eggs of gaming with a list of secret songs hidden in games – it’s a lyrical loot hunt where the soundtrack holds more than meets the ear. [GameRant] Link
Den of Geek embarks on an archaeological dig through gaming’s attic, dusting off forgotten consoles that didn’t survive the digital Darwinism – a tech-nostalgia trip for the console connoisseur. [Den of Geek] Link
Over at GameRant, it’s a showcase of overpowered multiplayer weapons that had gamers either grinning with glee or gritting their teeth in frustration – a homage to the game-changers of PvP combat. [GameRant] Link
The blue shell, you either love it, or hate it (usually depends on your position)
GameRant dives into the virtual playground of Disney Channel games, ranking the best digital diversions that let fans step into the shoes of their favourite tween idols – nostalgia’s magic kingdom. [GameRant] Link
Issue #66 – The term “video game” was coined in 1967 by Ralph Baer, the inventor of the first home video game console, the Magnavox Odyssey, which was released in 1972.
In this week’s edition we cover lots about the new Analogue N64, lists galore, working at Nintendo in the 90’s – and much much more.
News
Get ready for a nostalgic treat as the Nintendo 64 gets a 4K upgrade in 2024 with a new Analogue console, promising to deliver classic gaming experiences with modern visual enhancements. [Decrypt] Link
Analogues’s CEO believes that not even Nintendo could beat its new N64 console, highlighting the innovative features and capabilities of this upcoming device for retro gaming enthusiasts. [Nintendo Life] Link
Amazon has got some great prices on the Hallmark console ornaments (USA Only). Link
Features
Explore a quarter-century of the Game Boy Color, reflecting on the evolution of colour in Nintendo handhelds and its impact on gaming. Nintendo Life
The Gameboy is the console of a Jedi, an elegant weapon of a more civilized age.
Delve into the perspective that Nintendo deserves more credit for delivering flawless, bug-free games to its dedicated fanbase, highlighting the company’s commitment to quality. Essentially Sports
Discover the net worth of Alexey Pajitnov, the creator of the iconic puzzle game Tetris, and learn more about the financial success of this gaming legend. Domain Trip
Gain insights into Analogue’s N64 and what can be expected next from this innovative gaming company, as they continue to bring retro gaming experiences to a modern audience. Essentially Sports
Take a trip back in time to the inside story of Nintendo in the 1990s, including Star Fox, late nights, and the development of the iconic N64 gaming console. Eurogamer
Discover the best 16-bit horror games that have thrilled and chilled gamers with their spooky and suspenseful experiences, showcasing the darker side of retro gaming. The Gamer
Babies and Chainsaws – not sure this would be allowed today.
Sonic Timeline: Explore the Sonic timeline as [TheGamer] reveals how Sonic Superstars takes place after Mania and before Adventure. Link
Greatest Retro Video Games: Dive into a nostalgic journey through the greatest retro video games of all time, celebrating the timeless classics that have left an indelible mark on gaming history. [Wealth of Geeks] has the scoop. Link
Gargoyles Remastered: Revisit the past with Gargoyles Remastered, a nostalgic blast from Disney’s gaming past that brings back memories of this classic animated series. Discover more at [Game is Hard]. Link
Ugliest Consoles: Explore the world of gaming hardware with a look at the ugliest consoles in history, highlighting some of the worst console models ever created. [Gear Rice] has the details. Link
Sega Genesis 25th Anniversary: Reflect on the 25th anniversary of the Sega Genesis, a console that had a significant impact on gaming but also marked its eventual decline in the gaming market. Read more at [The Emu Paradise]. Link
Atari 2600 Plus Preorder: Stay informed about the pre-order options for the Atari 2600 Plus, a new version of the classic console that fueled the gaming industry’s early days. [The Manual] provides the latest updates. Link
Game Gear’s Sonic Blast: Delve into the history of Game Gear’s Sonic Blast and discover just how bad this Sonic adventure really was. [Games Asylum] takes you back in time. Link
Generous at #8
Celebrate the nostalgia as [XDA Developers] takes us back to the day the NES was released in North America, a significant moment in gaming history. Link
Ever wondered how much an original Atari is worth today? [Investor Times] provides insights into the value of this iconic gaming console. Link
Lists & Rankings
5 Mario Games With the Best Soundtracks, Ranked – Dive into the melodious world of Mario with this ranking of the games boasting the catchiest tunes. [Sportskeeda] Link
Discover the Best RPGs on NES – Unearth the top role-playing games that graced the classic NES console. [Gamerant] Link
Orko was well out of his depth
Video Games That Are Actually Better Than Movies Based on Them – See how some video game adaptations outshine their cinematic counterparts. [TheGamer] Link
Watch the Evolution of Nintendo Consoles, Ranked – Take a trip down memory lane as Nintendo’s best consoles are ranked based on their impact. [Stuff.tv] Link
N64’s Best Debut Characters – Explore the memorable characters that made their debut on the Nintendo 64, including the imaginative Buck Bumble. [Gamerant] Link
Ranking the Top 2D Sonic the Hedgehog Games – Speed through the best 2D Sonic adventures in this thrilling ranking. [Insider Gaming) Link
Top 10 Super Mario Characters Ranked by Popularity – Find out who’s the most beloved character in the Mario universe based on popularity. [Sportskeeda] Link