My Arcade has announced the upcoming release of the Super Retro Champ, a handheld console capable of playing original Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis cartridges. First introduced at CES four years ago, the device is now set to launch later this year for $149.99, an increase from the originally planned $110.
Console Wars Over? (Credit: My Arcade)
The Super Retro Champ features slots for both SNES and Genesis cartridges, accommodating international versions like Super Famicom and Mega Drive. Its design includes a six-inch screen with substantial bezels, and while it can function as a handheld with a rechargeable battery, it’s more suited for tabletop use with its folding stand, connected controllers, and power adapter. Additionally, the console offers an HDMI port for TV connection, though it doesn’t support high-definition output.
Portable, kind of. (Credit: My Arcade)
This device caters to retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a versatile way to enjoy their classic game collections. However, its bulky design and lack of HD support may be considerations for potential buyers.
For those looking to preserve their physical retro game collections, consider protecting your cherished games with a RetroShell premium game protector. Stay updated on the latest in retro gaming by subscribing to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.
In the world of video games, the humble game controller has undergone significant transformations, not just in design but in functionality, reflecting the evolution of gaming itself. One pivotal change was the transition from the “A/B” buttons of the original NES to the “X/Y” and “L/R” buttons introduced with the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). But why did we get “X/Y” instead of “C/D”? Let’s dive into this intriguing piece of gaming history.
The Birth of the Modern Controller
When the NES hit the markets in 1983, its controller was revolutionary. It featured a simple cross-shaped directional pad (D-pad) and two buttons, labeled A and B. This basic setup was enough to spawn a gaming revolution, offering gameplay mechanics that were novel at the time. The dual controller ports from the outset made multiplayer gaming accessible, contributing significantly to the NES’s success.
The Leap to More Buttons
By the time the SNES was released in 1990, the gaming landscape had changed. Games were becoming more complex, and the demand for additional controls was evident. Enter the SNES controller with its six buttons: A/B, X/Y, and L/R. This wasn’t just an upgrade; it was a response to the needs of gamers, particularly influenced by the success of arcade games like “Street Fighter II,” which required more buttons for its intricate move sets.
Shigeru Miyamoto, a key figure at Nintendo, attributed the increase to six buttons to the necessity of accommodating games like “Street Fighter II” in home consoles. But why choose “X/Y” over “C/D”?
Visual and Functional Differentiation
Miyamoto’s reasoning was simple yet profound: visual differentiation. He explained that while the fundamental gameplay could rely on the cross key and A/B buttons, adding more buttons needed to be intuitive. “A/B” and “X/Y” clearly separate into two distinct groups, making it easier for players to learn and remember the functions of each button without confusion. Using “C/D” would have muddled this distinction, potentially making games less intuitive.
Moreover, “L/R” for “Left/Right” was a straightforward choice, aligning with the physical placement of these buttons on the controller. This naming convention helped in understanding the role of these buttons in games like “F-ZERO,” where they provided additional control over the vehicle’s movements, enhancing the gameplay experience.
A Legacy of Innovation
This thoughtful approach to controller design has left a lasting impact on how games are developed and played. The “X/Y” buttons have become standard in many controller designs, not just for Nintendo but across the industry, proving the foresight in Miyamoto’s decision.
Today, controllers continue to evolve, with innovations like motion controls, touch interfaces, and specialized controllers like the “Ring-Con” for “Ring Fit Adventure.” Each new iteration aims to deepen immersion, increase accessibility, or cater to specific game genres, showing that the controller’s story is far from over.
The Future of Gaming Input
As we look to the future, one can only speculate how controllers might evolve. Will we see more ergonomic designs, haptic feedback beyond what we currently know, or perhaps interfaces that blend digital and physical interactions in new ways? Whatever the future holds, the legacy of the SNES controller’s design philosophy will undoubtedly influence it, emphasizing user experience, game design, and the joy of play.
The transition from A/B to X/Y was more than a simple change in nomenclature; it was a step towards making gaming more accessible, intuitive, and enjoyable for players around the world. As gaming continues to grow, so too will the tools we use to engage with these digital worlds, forever changing how we interact with entertainment.
If you are in to retro game collecting, check out RetroShell premium game display protectors, they are of the finest quality and the best way to protect your valuable collection.
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.
In the mid-’90s, Nintendo delivered one of its most groundbreaking peripherals: the Super Game Boy. Designed for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), this add-on was nothing short of revolutionary, allowing players to enjoy their Game Boy games on the big screen. Released in 1994, the Super Game Boy bridged the gap between handheld and console gaming, offering a whole new dimension to fans of classics like Metroid II: Return of Samus and Killer Instinct.
A Technical Marvel
Unlike modern emulators, the Super Game Boy wasn’t just software running on the SNES. Instead, it contained nearly identical hardware to an original Game Boy. The add-on housed the same CPU, RAM, and VRAM as its handheld counterpart. This design allowed for full compatibility with Game Boy games, including those compatible with the Game Boy Color—a significant feat for the time.
One fascinating detail was how the Super Game Boy synchronized its processing speed with the SNES’s internal clock. However, this setup caused a slight speed difference, making the Super Game Boy run about 2.4% faster on NTSC systems and 1.5% faster on PAL systems. While most players didn’t notice, this discrepancy was significant enough to ban the peripheral from official speedrunning competitions.
Enhanced Gaming Experiences
The Super Game Boy wasn’t just a tool for playing handheld games; it elevated them. Players could customise the colour palette, choosing from 32 predefined options or creating unique combinations. Some games even detected the Super Game Boy to display enhanced visuals, including custom borders and expanded colour palettes. Notably, Kirby’s Dreamland 2 and Pokémon Yellowshowcased improved colour integration, adding layers of depth to their visuals.
Other titles, like Donkey Kong (1994), went a step further by dynamically changing palettes for different levels and menus. And for the few games that embraced the SNES’s superior audio capabilities, the results were stunning—Animaniacs replaced its entire soundtrack with an enhanced version, while Bomberman GB introduced upgraded sound effects.
Multiplayer and Hidden Surprises
One often overlooked feature was the second controller support. This allowed for multiplayer experiences in games like Killer Instinct, without the need for a link cable. And then there was Space Invaders, which included a hidden SNES game that transformed the humble Game Boy title into a 16-bit arcade masterpiece when accessed through the Super Game Boy.
A Legacy of Innovation
Though the Super Game Boy’s original iteration had some quirks, Nintendo refined it with the Super Game Boy 2, released exclusively in Japan. This updated version corrected clock speed issues and added link cable support, ensuring even better compatibility.
Today, the Super Game Boy remains a beloved relic of Nintendo’s innovative history. Whether you’re a retro collector or simply looking to revisit your childhood favourites, it’s a device that continues to impress.
So, what’s your favourite memory of the Super Game Boy? Whether it’s creating custom palettes or discovering hidden features, there’s no denying this peripheral’s impact on retro gaming culture.
This is the last newsletter before Christmas, so I wish you all a merry Christmas wherever you are in the world and however, you are spending it. I hope you get lots of time to play some retro games.
My week in gaming this week has revolved around hacking a PS3 Slim and getting every conceivable Guitar Hero/Rock Band game installed on it, then realising I did not have a PS3 Guitar (only an Xbox 360 one) and appreciating how slow the network functionality is on the PS3 as I try and transfer files 🫠. Also, I have been working on making RetroShell a news website and sourcing and writing many news articles that we have been writing on X (so it looks like the sources are very RetroShell-heavy this week).
The latest newsletter includes 33 stories, featuring pre-orders for retro gems like Slipstream Deluxe Edition, a Shenmue fangame’s festive update, Sega’s Netflix-style service, and rankings of gaming’s iconic moments.
News
🎮 Pre-orders for Slipstream Deluxe Edition are now live for the Nintendo Switch and PS5, offering the ultimate arcade-racing nostalgia! [RetroShell] Link
🐛 Celebrate the 25th anniversary of Worms Armageddon with a special Collector’s Edition packed with nostalgic goodies! [Otaku Study] Link
🎉 Celebrate the legacy of Gimmick! 2 with its stunning Collector’s Edition, now open for pre-orders on Switch and PS5. [RetroShell] Link
🎄Shenmue Fangame: Dreams of Saturn gets a festive update with bonkers new features for Christmas! [TimeExtension] Link
📖 Dive into The SNES Pixel Book, a beautifully illustrated celebration of the Super Nintendo’s glorious 16-bit era. (below) [RetroShell] Link
🎧 Onkyo teams up with Sega Saturn to release true wireless earphones, designed for fans of retro audio perfection. [TechEBlog] Link
🦁 A prototype of The Lion King SNES game from March 22, 1994, has been released, offering a fascinating glimpse into its development. [RetroShell] Link
📺 Sega considers launching a Netflix-style subscription service for its games, potentially changing the way retro titles are enjoyed. [GameRant] Link
🎲 Super Tilt Bro for the NES receives its first online update, marking a milestone for Wi-Fi cartridges in retro gaming. [RetroShell] Link
🎶 Sega fans rejoice! The SG-1000 30th Anniversary Collection takes you on a nostalgic musical journey through Sega’s early console era. [RetroShell] Link
🚗 BattleTanx for the N64 is back, with Limited Run Games opening pre-orders for a new cartridge release. [RetroShell] Link
🌍 Sam PR Explorer invites players on an Egyptian adventure with its brand-new MSX2 game. [RetroShell] Link
📱 A new multi-emulator for retro gaming has been launched on iOS, making it easier than ever to relive classics on the go. [Gearrice] Link
🌀 Relive the chaos! Sonic the Hedgehog 4 brings fresh adventures to the iconic blue blur’s legacy. [ScreenCrush] Link
🎅 The Shenmue fan game Dreams of Saturn is getting a crazy new Christmas update, packed with festive surprises! [Time Extension] Link
Features
🎮 Darkstalkers fans, rejoice! A developer shares exciting progress on a Sega Genesis fan project, breathing new life into the classic fighter. [RetroShell] Link
🕹️ Curious about playing SNES games on your Steam Deck? Here’s a guide to bringing your retro favourites to the modern handheld. [TechStory] Link
📦 ModRetro Chromatic Review: Is this modern device every retro gamer’s dream or just another pixelated promise? Find out! [Yahoo Tech] Link
🔫 Doom 64 stands tall as one of the best in the series—discover why it’s a must-play on Nintendo’s iconic console. [CBR] Link
🛠️ Hidden gems: An N64 modder uncovers extra RAM in the Expansion Pak, sparking fresh possibilities for retro enthusiasts. (below) [GoNintendo] Link
📺 Sega Mini Consoles may not be done yet—insights into the company’s roadmap for tapping into nostalgia. [Rolling Out] Link
📖 Relive Hideo Kojima’s early brilliance—30 years ago, Snatcher debuted in America with its sole official release. [Paste Magazine] Link
⏳ Sega’s future lies in its past? A bold statement from the company as it balances innovation with nostalgia. [The Guardian] Link
🥋 Rise of the Robots and its lesser-known sequel—how a forgotten fighter became the talk of fans for all the wrong reasons. [EventHubs] Link
Lists & Rankings
🎮 Ever wondered which Mario games appeared on non-Nintendo systems? Explore the plumber’s unexpected cameos across the gaming world. [CBR] Link
🚀 Some consoles were so ahead of their time they confused the market—discover the tech marvels that were misunderstood in their era. [CBR] Link
💪 The SNES boasted strong female leads—ranked here are the most iconic games showcasing their stories and impact. [GameRant] Link
🧛 Step into Dracula’s castle to rank the most intricately designed bosses from the Castlevania series—gory, gothic, and glorious. [CBR] Link
💰 Selling retro this Christmas? Here’s the golden list of the most expensive vintage consoles to flip for festive profits. [Golden Gate Media] Link
🎵 Retro consoles didn’t just play games—they were symphonies of sound. Dive into the best audio experiences of the golden age. [CBR] Link
🏢 Remember the studios that defined our childhoods? It’s a nostalgic tribute to the gaming legends that sadly closed their doors. [DualShockers] Link
📀 The Atari Lynx might’ve been overshadowed, but its game library was legendary. Here’s the definitive ranking of its best titles. [CBR] Link
🎨 The Game Boy Color isn’t just retro—it’s a treasure trove. Check out the hidden gems that still sparkle today. [Shacknews] Link
Limited Run Games has announced that pre-orders for the Jelly Boy Standard Edition cartridges are now open for both Game Boy and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). Originally developed by Probe Software and published by Ocean Software in 1995, Jelly Boy is a platformer that puts players in control of a jelly baby with morphing abilities, navigating through various levels to collect items and overcome obstacles. This re-release offers retro gaming enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the classic game on original hardware. Pre-orders are available until January 19, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
A previously unreleased prototype of The Lion King for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), dated March 22, 1994, has been made available for public download by Codebound. This early build offers insights into the game’s development process, showcasing differences from the final retail version, including unfinished levels, alternative graphics, and varying gameplay mechanics. Preservationists and retro gaming enthusiasts can now explore this piece of gaming history, providing a unique opportunity to study the evolution of this classic title.
A previously unreleased prototype of The Lion King for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), dated March 22, 1994, has been made available for public download. This early build offers insights into the game’s development process, showcasing differences from the final retail version, including unfinished levels, alternative graphics, and varying gameplay mechanics. Preservationists and retro gaming enthusiasts can now explore this piece of gaming history, providing a unique opportunity to study the evolution of this classic title.
Bitmap Books presents The SNES Pixel Book, a 272-page hardcover tribute to the golden age of 16-bit gaming on Nintendo’s Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). This meticulously crafted volume showcases thousands of screenshots, sprites, and level maps from iconic titles such as Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Super Metroid. Grouped by genre, the book offers thoughtful insights into the evolution of game design and its lasting impact on today’s video game landscape. Authored by Robert Bannert and Christine Bauer, with translation by Thomas Nickel, the book is encased in a spot-varnished protective slipcase, reflecting Bitmap Books’ commitment to high-quality publications.
This week’s newsletter was a challenge, being written from the Dominican Republic using only my mobile as I forgot my laptop 🫠. Apologies in advance if it’s a bit below par.
My week in gaming has been Rollercoaster Tycoon, a scrabble like game called Letterlike on IOS and more Marvel Snap as I try to hit infinite again (still some spots in the alliance available [LFC] open to readers!
This week’s newsletter features 34 stories covering retro gaming updates like NES Tetris on Switch, the Wonderswan Color’s 25th anniversary, and Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. updates. Subscribe now for all the nostalgia!
News
📺 RetroLDTech unveils stunning handcrafted miniature PVM monitors for retro enthusiasts – small in size, big on nostalgia. [RetroShell] Link
🎸 RIKI’s 8-bit Game Collection rocks retro fans with a chiptune compilation that’s pure nostalgic bliss. [Siliconera] Link
🎮 Atari celebrates its golden years with the release of the M Network Collection for the Atari 2600 – a retro gift to gamers. [RetroShell] Link
🧩 Nintendo Switch Online expands its library with the addition of classic NES and Game Boy Color Tetris titles. [Eurogamer] Link
✨ Konami reveals the full lineup for the Yu-Gi-Oh Early Days Collection and opens digital pre-orders – let the duels begin! [RetroShell] Link
🎮 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
