This week we have the return of Jaleco sports, a gazillion lists, the Evercade nexus, Donut Dodo in the N64, more Genesis/Megadrive games and a load more (lists)

A special thanks to those amazing people that drop a cheeky little like, its like a heart shaped gift that keeps on giving.

Subscribe now

News

⚽ The retro football title Jaleco Sports Goal! 2 (below) has been re-released for modern audiences on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch consoles. Essential Japan

🛡️ A native PC port of the classic handheld title Link’s Awakening DX has reappeared online following its previous removal. Retro Handhelds

📟 A physical edition of a previously digital-only Game Boy title has been announced, marking a rare new hardware release for the platform. ComicBook

🐒 An exceptionally rare competition version of Donkey Kong Country for the Super Nintendo was recently appraised on the television programme Antiques Roadshow. Kotaku

💿 A custom-engineered PlayStation motherboard has been developed that enables the original console to load software from microSD cards and output digital video. Engadget

🏹 The interconnected Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages titles are identified as the most underappreciated entries in the Legend of Zelda franchise. CBR

🕹️ The Evercade Nexus has been unveiled as a new handheld device capable of running Nintendo 64 classics through official cartridge collections. TweakTown

💾 A firmware update for the Analogue 3D console has introduced individual save tracking for ROM files to improve compatibility with flash cartridges. NotebookCheck

📼 The GB Operator device allows users to play original Game Boy cartridges on modern computers while maintaining save file integrity. GameIndustry

🐬 The Dolphin emulator has integrated support for the Game Boy Player, allowing for enhanced connectivity between emulated GameCube and handheld software. Retro Dodo

🏎️ A classic Konami racing title has been unofficially ported to the Sega Master System, providing the vintage hardware with a new software addition. Time Extension

🐱 Mega Cat Studios and Retrosouls have collaborated to release a new collection of software developed specifically for the Sega Genesis and Mega Drive. Final Weapon

👟 Sega and the apparel brand Fila have announced a partnership to produce a commemorative range of sporting goods and footwear. Time Extension

🌸 Plans for a 30th anniversary celebration and a new line of commemorative merchandise for the Sakura Wars franchise have been confirmed. Siliconera

📺 A new Nintendo 64 flash cartridge features an integrated OLED screen that displays the artwork of the currently selected game. Time Extension

Features

🥚 Revisiting Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg on the Nintendo GameCube (below) is suggested as an ideal activity for the Easter period. GamesRadar

🎮 This list ranks the greatest retro video game consoles ever produced based on their historical impact and software libraries. CBR

🎬 Reports indicate that Nintendo is not currently developing a Super Smash Bros. film following the release of the Super Mario movie. SlashFilm

💻 Benchmark results have been released for the AceMagic mini PC, which features an AMD Strix Point processor and a design inspired by the NES. NotebookCheck

📺 Director Aaron Horvath discusses the creative process and the cinematic influences behind the adaptation of the Super Mario Bros. Movie. IMDb

🦍 The legacy and production history of the Donkey Kong Country animated television series are examined in detail. CBR

🧝 Discussion surrounding a potential remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time has increased following rumours of a Nintendo Switch successor. TheGamer

🍩 The arcade-style platformer Donut Dodo is scheduled to receive a physical release for the Nintendo 64 console. Retro Dodo

🕹️ The Retro-Bit Sega Saturn Pro Controller is reviewed for its performance and modern enhancements to the classic gamepad design. GamesRadar

🧟 A new 3D survival horror title has been announced for development on the Virtual Boy, a platform rarely targeted for new software releases. ComicBook

Lists & Rankings

🎮 A retrospective list highlights five of the most unconventional and peculiar titles ever released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. ComicBook

🕹️ Several overlooked Nintendo Entertainment System titles are identified and ranked as essential experiences for fans of retro gaming. CBR

🏃 The premier platforming titles from every console generation are categorised and reviewed based on their historical impact and gameplay. ComicBook

📦 An analysis (below) explores the most unusual hardware and consumer products developed by Nintendo throughout its corporate history. BGR

⚔️ A ranked selection of Game Boy Advance titles examines the most challenging games ever released for the handheld platform. CBR

📚 A curated collection of literature offers insights into the history, development, and cultural influence of Nintendo. ShortList

👾 A comprehensive tier list evaluates and ranks the library of games available for the Game Boy and Game Boy Color. Giant Bomb

🌟 Several high-quality Super Nintendo titles that have faded from mainstream memory are revisited for their near-perfect design. CBR

📜 A report details several Nintendo 64 Japanese role-playing games that remain exclusive to their original hardware without modern ports. DualShockers

💿 A selection of GameCube titles is highlighted for providing immediate engagement and entertainment from the beginning of gameplay. DualShockers

🕹️ An examination of 1987 arcade releases identifies several titles that featured technological innovations ahead of their time. SVG

📉 A critical review lists seven PlayStation 2 titles that failed to meet expectations upon their initial release. ComicBook

⏱️ A list features several highly-rated PlayStation 2 games (below) noted for their exceptional quality despite their brief completion times. CBR

In this week’s news letter we cover Fox McCloud makes an appearance as does Zool, the SNES in 1080p, the Dreamcast getting a new survival horror, the N64 to get its Skyrim and a lot more.

I appreciate you all for taking the time to read, like and share this newsletter.

Subscribe now

News

🌙 Developer Philippe Nguyen has announced the start of development for The Darkness Is Coming, a new 3D survival horror title featuring fixed cameras and a dark atmosphere for the Sega Dreamcast. Time Extension

🎬 The upcoming Super Mario Galaxy film has officially added Star Fox protagonist Fox McCloud to its character roster, fueling further speculation regarding a potential Super Smash Bros. cinematic universe. Variety

🥷 33 Games and Umbra Dynamics have teased a definitive physical revival for the 1990s Amiga mascot platformer Zool. Time Extension

📜 A prominent fan translator is officially assisting with the revival of a mascot platformer that has remained exclusive to the 1990s. GamesRadar

🚀 The Kickstarter campaign for Annalog, a new Metroidvania adventure for the NES, successfully reached its initial funding goal within a single day of launching. COGconnected

📺 A new hardware modification called Super Switch HD allows the Super Nintendo to output a native, lag-free 1080p digital signal by tapping into the console’s internal video bus. NotebookCheck

🎶 Square Enix has released a comprehensive four-disc vinyl LP box set of the Chrono Trigger original soundtrack in Japan, featuring artwork by Akira Toriyama. RPG Site

💰 Reports indicate that Nintendo is currently developing a new entry in the Wario Land series for a scheduled release in 2027. ComicBook.com

🥊 A homebrew developer has demonstrated that a faithful port of The King of Fighters is technically achievable on the Super Nintendo without the requirement of enhancement chips. Time Extension

🤖 Developer Infidelity is working on a comprehensive 16-bit upgrade for Mega Man 2 on the SNES, featuring custom graphics and a native SPC700 soundtrack. Time Extension

🌍 A new homebrew project for the Nintendo 64 has implemented a Skyrim-sized open world that eliminates the console’s traditional distance fog using a custom engine. GamesRadar

⚔️ The Japan-exclusive PlayStation sequel Blaze and Blade Busters has received a full English fan translation, making the action RPG playable for Western audiences. Time Extension

🔪 WESN has launched a Retro Collection of everyday carry knives featuring translucent scales inspired by 1990s electronics and gaming hardware. T3

🪓 The notorious 1989 Friday the 13th NES title has been recreated from scratch as a fan-made project for the Game Boy Color, 37 years after its original release. Time Extension

🎮 Blaze Entertainment has released a teaser for a new hardware addition to the Evercade family of retro gaming consoles. Time Extension

Features

🎮 This article examines various technically demanding PC titles that were ported to the Nintendo 64, including StarCraft and Duke Nukem (below).

🛠️ A discarded Game Boy Advance was restored and enhanced with modern upgrades, including an IPS display and a rechargeable battery (below).

🕹️ Following the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Game Boy Advance, several contemporary retro handheld devices continue to provide high-quality ways to experience the platform’s library (below).

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ The year 1987 is identified as a pivotal era for the video game industry due to the release of several titles that established long-standing genre conventions SVG.

🏚️ Various factors, including hardware failure and limited production runs, have contributed to the disappearance of several classic arcade cabinets from the public domain SVG.

📉 Certain critically acclaimed video games are now considered difficult to play due to evolving design standards and technical limitations Game Rant.

🏎️ The Sega Dreamcast featured a variety of racing titles that remain technically impressive and playable by modern standards DualShockers.

😞 Several high-profile Super Nintendo Entertainment System titles failed to meet contemporary expectations despite the console’s overall success ComicBook.

💎 A selection of Super Nintendo Entertainment System games are highlighted for being overlooked despite their quality and contribution to the platform CBR.

🇯🇵 A community-driven list details Nintendo 64 titles originally exclusive to Japan that have received unofficial English fan translations Giant Bomb.

🏆 The Sega Saturn’s library contains several highly-ranked titles that define the console’s legacy in 2D and 3D gaming CBR.

🏗️ Multiple Sega Genesis games introduced mechanics and design philosophies that significantly influenced the development of modern gaming DualShockers.

🏗️ Multiple Sega Genesis games introduced mechanics and design philosophies that significantly influenced the development of modern gaming DualShockers.

⏱️ A number of classic Sega Genesis titles are noted for their brief completion times compared to modern gaming experiences CBR.

🔒 Several Japanese role-playing games released for the Sega Saturn have never been ported and remain accessible only on the original hardware DualShockers.

🕵️ Analysis of the Sega Genesis library reveals several high-quality games that failed to achieve mainstream popularity during their initial release CBR.

💀 The PlayStation 1 library includes several titles widely recognised for their extreme difficulty and unforgiving gameplay mechanics ComicBook.

🌀 The Sega Dreamcast possesses a collection of underrated titles that contributed to the platform’s cult status despite its short lifespan CBR.

📺 Various PlayStation 1 games have seen a decline in playability and visual appeal when viewed through the lens of modern technology CBR.

In this week’s article we cover such things as Sega helping to develop the Bleemcast, Zelda turns 40 and we get a free game, ultimate NES pimping, the sealed game visionary, powering a game boy using a candle - and lots more.

Thanks for those of you that read each week, double thanks for those that like the post. You all rock. ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🛠️ Damian Rogers has released Megadev, a development kit for the Sega Mega Drive and Mega CD that includes utilities and documentation for C and assembly programmers. Adafruit Blog

🎮 GameStop has officially classified the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii U as retro consoles and is offering a 10% trade-in bonus for the hardware and associated software. Nintendo Everything

🗡️ A fan-made 40th-anniversary remake of the original Legend of Zelda is available to play for free through a browser-based interpretation featuring new secrets and areas. Screen Rant

🏰 The 1985 MSX2 version of the action-RPG Hydlide has been ported to the Nintendo Switch as part of the EGG Console series. RPG Site

🎬 A new promotional video for the upcoming Super Mario Galaxy movie confirms that Pikmin and R.O.B. will appear alongside the established cast. Technobezz

📈 The retro gaming market has seen a surge in 2026 with factory-sealed consoles such as the NES Deluxe Set reaching auction valuations of $120,000. Athlon Sports

📱 A leaked video reveals a new Anbernic handheld featuring a rotating square screen design reminiscent of the Motorola FlipOut mobile phone. TechEBlog

👾 The PicoPal is a new transparent handheld mod based on the Raspberry Pi Pico 2 that is capable of emulating Game Boy and Game Boy Colour titles. TechEBlog

🎥 Nintendo and Illumination have released a new teaser for the Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel confirming cameos from the Pikmin and R.O.B. franchises. IMDb

📊 Developer Mike Wolak has created a real-time stock ticker application for the Sega Genesis that utilizes a MegaWiFi cartridge to display financial data. Hackaday

🚀 Homebrew developer Jenovi has announced SignalFall, an ambitious space exploration title for the Sega 32X inspired by the classic game Elite. Time Extension

Features

🎮 New footage of Super Mario 64 running on the GameCube marks a significant milestone for homebrew developers working on the platform Time Extension.

🕹️ Reports indicate that Sega secretly assisted in the development of the Bleem! PlayStation emulator that Sony famously (below) Gamereactor.

📜 A new visual guide documents the evolution and technological leaps across nine generations of video game console history Time Extension.

🎨 New third-party dock covers allow users to customise the aesthetic of the Switch 2 with designs inspired by the PlayStation 1 and NES GoNintendo.

🕹️ The 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller offers a modernised take on the classic Nintendo 64 gamepad with enhanced build quality and wireless connectivity Time Extension.

💻 Retro emulation has transitioned from a niche novelty to a primary method for experiencing classic video game titles on modern hardware XDA Developers.

🔧 A retro gaming enthusiast has showcased a heavily modified Nintendo Entertainment System featuring extensive aesthetic and functional upgrades Time Extension.

📦 An industry visionary discusses the historical significance and market growth of collecting factory-sealed vintage video games Intelligent Collector.

🕯️ An innovative hardware modification demonstrates a Nintendo Game Boy powered entirely by thermal energy from a burning candle TechEBlog.

🤝 A fan-made hardware project imagines a hybrid handheld console resulting from a hypothetical collaboration between Sony and Nintendo Yanko Design.

🚀 The enduring legacy and historical impact of Super Metroid continue to be celebrated as a definitive achievement in game design ComicBook.com.

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ The original PlayStation’s library is evaluated to determine the greatest titles of the era, ranking iconic games based on their historical impact and quality. CBR

📺 Several classic gaming consoles from manufacturers like Nintendo and Sega are analysed for how poorly their hardware and libraries have aged compared to modern standards. CBR

🌟 A selection of five retro video games is highlighted for maintaining exceptional playability and visual appeal in the modern era (below). Metro

🎮 The current library of GameCube titles available on the Nintendo Switch Online service is ranked to identify the most essential classics for subscribers. ComicBook

📈 A comprehensive ranking identifies the most played video games in history by examining lifetime player counts and enduring global popularity. CBR

📉 Three specific video games are examined for their significantly poor quality and the subsequent negative impact they had on their respective franchises. ComicBook

A busy week this week, with stories including an upgrade for the Famicom keyboard, a Lego PlayStation incoming, Mod Retro seeks a $1b valuation, a look back at Mar10 day - and a ton more (and a load of lists).

If you can take a second to subscribe, like or share it would be very much appreciated ❤️

Subscribe now

News

⌨️ An enthusiast has developed a new modification that upgrades Nintendo’s 1980s Family Basic keyboard with a modern USB-C interface. Hackaday

🧱 A detailed LEGO replica of the original PlayStation console is set for release later this year, allowing fans to build the iconic hardware themselves. T3

🖱️ 8BitDo has expanded its peripheral lineup with a Commodore 64-inspired edition of the Retro R8 Mouse, featuring the classic breadbin-style colour scheme. NotebookCheck

🛩️ The classic PlayStation 1 vertical shooter Sonic Wings Special is scheduled for a re-release on modern platforms including the PS5 and Switch 2 this week. Video Games Chronicle

📸 A new DIY adapter has been created that enables users to wirelessly transmit photos from a Game Boy Camera directly to a smartphone. Retro Handhelds

🍄 Nintendo celebrated Mario Day 2026 by announcing a series of updates for current titles and offering various discounts across the eShop. The Toy Book

📈 Palmer Luckey’s hardware startup ModRetro has achieved a valuation of 1 billion dollars following a significant new funding round focused on retro gaming technology. Tech Funding News

🎬 Donald Glover has been officially cast to provide the voice for Yoshi in the upcoming animated Super Mario Galaxy film. Pitchfork

🖥️ A new technical guide details how users can leverage Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices to host and emulate GameCube software directly on their home networks. Android Authority

🧩 Mega Cat Studios has announced the upcoming launch of three new puzzle games developed specifically for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. Bleeding Cool

🎮 A third-party manufacturer has released a new Sega Dreamcast controller that finally introduces a second analogue stick to the console’s traditional layout. Retro Dodo

🕹️ After 35 years, a homebrew developer has released a high-quality port of Street Fighter II for the ZX Spectrum that significantly improves upon previous attempts. Time Extension

📱 The developer of the popular PlayStation emulator DuckStation has announced the end of official support for the Android version of the application. Android Authority

🔋 Original Xbox emulation has become accessible on Android devices via a new experimental translation layer, though performance remains in early stages. XDA Developers

Features

⚔️ Fans have expressed disappointment following the lack of official announcements or acknowledgements from Nintendo regarding the 40th anniversary of The Legend of Zelda (below). NoobFeed

🕹️ The Hyperkin RetroN HD is being reassessed as a viable budget-friendly entry point for playing original NES cartridges on modern displays nine years after its initial release. GamesRadar+

🎨 Research into the technical output of the Nintendo Entertainment System suggests that there is no objective standard for colour accuracy due to the variations in NTSC signal processing. GamesRadar+

🏪 A rare Super Nintendo M80C countertop kiosk featuring an integrated CRT monitor and illuminated header is currently being offered at auction. Retro Dodo

⌚ Developers have successfully demonstrated a technical port of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time running on an Apple Watch. Hackaday

🍩 The Simpsons showrunner Matt Selman has stated that a revival of the cult classic game The Simpsons: Hit & Run remains a possibility if fan demand is sufficiently demonstrated. Nintendo Everything

🇰🇷 Historical records highlight Samsung’s previous involvement in the video game hardware market, including its production of licensed consoles and semiconductor components. Samsung Magazine

🪐 Newly revealed details from a former engineer confirm the existence of Sega’s 1996 “Trip Accelerator” project, which was designed to enhance the 3D performance of the Saturn console. Tom’s Hardware

🦊 Crash Bandicoot co-designer Charles Zembillas has criticised the management of the franchise, questioning the absence of a dedicated film or television adaptation for the character. Time Extension

🧛 The upcoming title ReVamp is described as a “Castlevania in reverse” where players assume the role of Dracula to defend his castle against invading heroes. Time Extension

🐊 A new cheat code for the original PlayStation version of Croc: Legend of the Gobbos has been discovered by the gaming community 29 years after the game’s release. Retro Dodo

🎮 Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma showcased a heavy aluminium prototype of the original Xbox ahead of a session at the Game Developers Conference. Sportskeeda

Lists & Rankings

🎮 Minecraft leads the list of the ten highest-selling video games in history based on total units moved (below). TVOvermind

🍄 This list identifies the most influential titles in Nintendo’s history that fundamentally altered the landscape of the gaming industry. Screen Rant

🕹️ Several Super Nintendo Entertainment System titles are ranked by their high level of difficulty and the challenges they present to players. DualShockers

💾 Various SNES games are analysed for their significant but often overlooked contributions to the development of modern gaming mechanics. DualShockers

❌ Certain 1990s retro video games are identified as the final entries that effectively ended their respective franchises. SVG

🌟 Every Super Nintendo game featuring Mario is evaluated and ranked according to its overall quality and legacy. CBR

🎨 A selection of ten Nintendo 64 game covers are ranked based on their visual impact and artistic design. Gamereactor

📖 The Nintendo 64 library is explored to highlight titles featuring the most compelling and high-quality narrative experiences. Game Rant

📖 The Nintendo 64 library is explored to highlight titles featuring the most compelling and high-quality narrative experiences. Game Rant

🌀 Every Sega console released is ranked from the least successful to the most impactful hardware in the company’s history. ComicBook

🔍 This collection features several high-quality Sega Genesis titles that have largely been forgotten by the broader gaming public. CBR

💿 The original PlayStation launch lineup is assessed to determine which titles provided the strongest start for the console. CBR

This weeks news is a little lighter for some reason, maybe due to Mar10 week this week and potentially some big announcements?

Regardless, this weeks newsletter covers the Nintendo Playstation gets a new home, SNES games that still hold up, more plans for ModRetro, a GameCube in a briefcase, playing 2p Game Boy games on the VMP Pro and much more.

Subscribe now

News

🎮 The Pokémon Company is marking its 30th anniversary with the release of retro-styled, sepia-toned merchandise inspired by the franchise’s original pixelated Game Boy aesthetics (below). DesignTaxi

🚀 The NES shoot ‘em up Changeable Guardian: Estique is receiving a modern sequel currently in development for the Nintendo Switch. Time Extension

🕹️ The National Videogame Museum has officially acquired the rare Nintendo PlayStation prototype, a significant artifact from the aborted partnership between the two electronics giants. Dexerto

📜 Koei’s classic 8-bit historical simulation title is being re-released for the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch platforms. Time Extension

⚔️ The original Nobunaga’s Ambition has been added to the Console Archives collection, making the strategy classic available on modern hardware this month. Niche Gamer

🔧 Palmer Luckey has announced a 1 billion dollar investment through ModRetro to revitalise and manufacture hardware for 1990s-era gaming consoles. NewsBytes

🛠️ Developer Moss has issued an apology regarding the technical state of the Raiden Fighters Remix Collection and confirmed that a fix is currently in progress. Time Extension

🔋 A new modification for the Sega Dreamcast Visual Memory Unit enables wireless multiplayer functionality for Game Boy titles. Retro Handhelds

📟 Analogue has announced a restock of its FPGA-based Game Boy handheld, the Pocket, alongside a revised retail price. MMORPG

📖 Independent magazine Sega Mania is celebrating its fifth anniversary with a special issue featuring cover art by renowned illustrator Wil Overton. Time Extension

⚾ A series of hidden developer codes for the Super Nintendo title Ken Griffey Jr.’s Winning Run have been discovered decades after the game’s release. Nintendo Everything

🥊 A previously unreleased Sega Saturn version of the FMV boxing game Prize Fighter has been discovered and preserved online. Time Extension

🍄 Nintendo is celebrating Mario Day by adding three classic titles to its retro gaming library for Switch Online subscribers. Rolling Out

🤠 The FMV western Mad Dog McCree and six other titles are now compatible with the ScummVM emulation software. Time Extension

📱 The original Xbox emulator Xemu is reportedly being ported to Android devices, potentially allowing for high-performance mobile emulation of the console. Android Authority

Features

🎮 An analysis reveals that the SNES controller protocol is nearly compatible with the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) Mode-1 standard, requiring only a minor hardware buffer to function correctly with modern microcontrollers. Hackaday

📺 The 1986 animated film Super Mario Bros.: The Great Mission to Rescue Princess Peach! is identified as the first isekai anime to feature a protagonist trapped within a virtual video game world. CBR

🔧 A hobbyist successfully restored the majority of 23 broken Nintendo handheld devices, ranging from the original Game & Watch to various DS models, documenting the process of cleaning corrosion and replacing screens. Supercar Blondie

📖 This educational guide provides a comprehensive overview of the history of video games, tracing the evolution of the medium from early laboratory experiments to modern high-definition consoles. BBC Bitesize

💼 A Reddit user has constructed a custom portable GameCube system integrated into a stylish briefcase, featuring a seven-inch IPS screen and internal storage for accessories. GoNintendo

🕹️ Recent hardware releases from China, including the SOGGY-1000 and the MD3, demonstrate the ongoing international effort to keep legacy Sega consoles alive through modern, optimized PCB designs and 3D-printed cases. Adafruit

🔍 A former Sega employee has confirmed the existence of a cancelled graphics accelerator for the Saturn, codenamed “TRIP”, which was originally intended to bolster the console’s power to handle ambitious titles like Shenmue. Time Extension

Lists & Rankings

🎮 Ten classic Super Nintendo Entertainment System titles are highlighted for maintaining high quality and playability decades after their original release DualShockers.

🕹️ This retrospective identifies the premier Nintendo Entertainment System title released during each year of the console’s active lifespan Gamerant.

🏰 Six influential Nintendo titles from the 1980s are recognized for their enduring design and continued relevance in the modern era ComicBook.

⚔️ The classic Super Nintendo action RPG Secret of Mana is noted for delivering a powerful and bittersweet concluding narrative (below) CBR.

❄️ Several commercially successful Nintendo 64 titles, including 1080° Snowboarding and Wave Race 64, are identified as significant releases that have largely faded from public memory SVG.

📟 The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap leads a ranking of the ten most exceptional and mechanically sound titles released for the Game Boy Advance Sportsdunia.

🌀 Every major Sega home and handheld console is ranked according to its commercial impact, technical capabilities, and software library ComicBook.

This week we cover the return of a number of Marvel games, The Legend of Zelda hit 40, which gaming franchise is the most prolific, the Pokemon gameboy jukebox is announced, forgotten Mario Kart is now playable again - and much much more.

Thanks for reading, you all rock ❤️.

Subscribe now

News

🎮 Marvel is officially re-releasing several iconic video games in a single collection (below). Bam Smack Pow

🕹️ A new Game Boy ROM hack that took four years to develop serves as an entirely new entry in the Mana series. Time Extension

📺 The Disney Afternoon Collection on the Nintendo Switch 2 provides updated performance and features for classic titles. Shacknews

🎶 A compact Game Boy-inspired jukebox device has been designed as a tribute to Nintendo-related nostalgia. Digital Trends

⚔️ The PC Engine version of Popful Mail is now partially playable in English following a new translation project. Time Extension

🌳 The Secret of Mana Reborn update restores two previously lost areas that were removed from the original 1993 SNES release. Notebookcheck

🍄 A fan-made project has recreated Super Mario Bros. Wonder for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Game Rant

🐻 Banjo-Kazooie is being included in the new Rare Edition Super Pocket handheld by Hyper Mega Tech. Retro Handhelds

🚀 Technical fixes are currently being developed for R-Type Delta HD Boosted following its difficult launch last year. Time Extension

🏎️ A forgotten Nintendo Mario Kart title is playable again after two decades due to advancements in GameCube emulation. GamesRadar+

🇯🇵 The English translation of the cult Dreamcast RPG Segagaga is finished, though its distribution faces specific limitations. Time Extension

🔫 Sunsoft has announced the release of a new City Hunter game for modern platforms. Saiga NAK

🎮 Former Xbox executive Seamus Blackley and Asha Sharma discussed the evolving landscape of the gaming industry. Shacknews

Features

🚗 An analysis of a 1989 Nintendo collaboration reveals how a supercharged station wagon was equipped with an integrated NES console. HotCars

🛡️ The Legend of Zelda franchise is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades since the original title launched on the Famicom Disk System. Retro Handhelds

🐹 Twelve Tales: Conker’s 64, the wholesome predecessor to the mature Conker’s Bad Fur Day, is being released on a $70 retro handheld after 27 years of unavailability. GamesRadar+

🎮 A new DIY project demonstrates how to construct a portable NES retro handheld console using an ESP32 microcontroller and a custom PCB. TecheBlog

📟 A rare Game Boy unit discovered at an antique fair has garnered significant attention from the Nintendo retro gaming community. Click Petróleo e Gás

🕹️ The Analogue 3D is a high-end reimagining of the Nintendo 64 that offers 4K output and original controller port compatibility. Retro Dodo

🏗️ Dreamcast enthusiasts have utilised modern connectivity to establish a global leaderboard for the forklift racing minigame in Shenmue. Time Extension

🧩 An exploration of Nintendo 64 hardware reveals how two specific internal components function in tandem to manage game data processing. Digg

🚫 The original creator of Project Owl has publicly distanced themselves from a controversial attempt to revive the software for the Atari Jaguar. Notebookcheck

📉 A retrospective examines the history and commercial failure of the NEC PC-FX, a 1990s Japanese console that prioritised full-motion video over 3D graphics. Time Extension

👾 A personal reflection details how the Sega Master System influenced a lifelong approach to gaming through its unique library and hardware features. Thumbsticks

🥝 Initial feedback regarding The NewZealand Story: Untold Adventure suggests the remake lacks the charm of the original arcade title. Time Extension

🐬 Famitsu has confirmed that the upcoming Ecco the Dolphin remaster will be available on the Nintendo Switch at launch with new gameplay details. Nintendo Wire

🥊 Following a successful unofficial port of Mortal Kombat to the Atari Jaguar, the developer has announced plans to begin work on a sequel. Time Extension

🧸 A brief historical account details the development and eventual fate of Cuddles, an obscure project for the Nintendo 64. Digg

🦆 A retrospective review argues that Disney’s Goin’ Quackers for the PlayStation 2 features a difficulty level that rivals modern challenging action titles. inkl

Lists & Rankings

🎮 Several early Nintendo Entertainment System titles are credited with establishing the fundamental mechanics and design principles that continue to influence the modern gaming industry, according to DualShockers.

🕹️ A comprehensive ranking evaluates the greatest titles released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, highlighting the definitive library of the 16-bit era, according to The Phrase Maker.

⚔️ Every entry in the long-running Shining series has been ranked to determine the best titles within the celebrated tactical and action RPG franchise, according to Time Extension.

📈 Ten specific video game franchises have been identified as the most prolific in the industry based on the sheer volume of titles released over several decades, according to ComicBook.

🔋 While many Game Boy titles remain beloved, several classic games for the handheld system are noted for having aged poorly due to outdated mechanics and hardware limitations, according to CBR.

🏰 The Nintendo 64 library has been analysed to rank the greatest games released for the console, focusing on those that defined the early 3D gaming era, according to CBR.

🔧 The Nintendo 64 featured several innovative hardware and software characteristics that distinguished it from its competitors during the late 1990s, according to Game Rant.

🌀 A selection of high-quality Sega titles are highlighted for being underrated or forgotten by the general public despite their initial critical success, according to Screen Rant.

🏃 Numerous retro platformers are described as mechanically perfect yet frequently overlooked in modern discussions regarding the history of the genre, according to CBR.

👥 The Sega Dreamcast featured a variety of local multiplayer titles that transformed couch co-op into a significant social event for players, according to DualShockers.

🏆 A professional gamer has achieved a significant milestone or record within the competitive retro gaming community, according to Twin Galaxies.

🗳️ A large-scale poll involving 25,000 retro gaming enthusiasts has determined the single best PlayStation 1 game of all time, according to Retro Dodo.

📺 Certain PlayStation 2 games are recognised for their exceptional art direction and technical achievement, allowing them to maintain a high visual standard by modern criteria, according to Military.com.

In a packed newsletter with a lot of lists we have stories such as programming on the Famicom, R.O.B to hit the silver screen, new Castlevania’s, a new way to build N64 games at home, Egg to Steam and Sega loses a legend plus a lot more.

Also a thanks to all that like the newsletter (or share it) - I am thinking of a way to create some way of recognising people that subscribe and like on a regular basis. I know I sound like a broken record, but this really helps the visibility. The retro gaming community is truly one of the best. ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🕯️ Sega issued a tribute after the death of longtime hardware designer and former president Hideki Sato, crediting him with shaping consoles from the SG-1000 through Dreamcast. GamesIndustry.biz

🎬 A leaked toy set for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie reportedly suggests R.O.B. will appear, ahead of the film’s planned April 1, 2026 release date. My Nintendo News

🧛 A fan-made Castlevania Sega Master System port released its first proper demo (below), featuring original/enhanced visual modes and all stages playable despite incomplete elements and bugs. Time Extension

📉 Nintendo’s upcoming Switch/Switch 2 release of Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen is cited as a potential factor that could push down resale prices for older Pokémon games. ComicBook

🆓 Unreal Tournament 2004 is now available to download for free via OldUnreal, alongside a new public patch preview described as the first in over 20 years. Time Extension

🍬 Gumball in Trick-or-Treat Land, an RPG built for Game Boy Color, launched on February 19, 2026 via Mega Cat Studios and Exquisite Laundry Pet. GoNintendo

📱 Sega has signaled it will discontinue support and delist the mobile “Sega Forever” versions of Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic the Hedgehog 2. Time Extension

🦇 A separate fan project is underway to port Castlevania: Symphony of the Night to the SNES, with early footage showing progress despite being at an early stage. Time Extension

🛠️ Pyrite64 is a new open-source engine and visual editor aimed at helping creators build real N64 homebrew 3D games for actual hardware (or accurate emulators) without legacy toolchain friction. Retro Handhelds

🇬🇧 Treasure’s Japan-only N64 game Bangai-O has received two new English fan translations released around the same time by different teams. Time Extension

💾 D4 Enterprise says it plans to bring its EGGCONSOLE reissues of classic Japanese computer games to Steam, starting with Hydlide 3: The Space Memories (PC-8801). Time Extension

🕹️ Twin Galaxies spotlighted Eye Brawls, a free 2026 homebrew port released for the ColecoVision console. Twin Galaxies

🕹️ Dolphin’s mainline builds have regained Triforce arcade platform support via merged emulation work, with the update shipping in a recent development build. Time Extension

📦 The City Hunter PC Engine game remaster (Revival Edition) is set for a February 26, 2026 digital launch with new modes/features, plus physical editions planned for September 17, 2026. Final Weapon

🎮 Evercade announced a wireless controller for VS/VS-R and Alpha (with broader compatibility noted), priced at £34.99 and slated for September 2026. Time Extension

Features

🕹️ A video walkthrough shows how Nintendo’s Family BASIC cartridge, keyboard, and cassette interface let Famicom owners write and save their own programs in the 1980s. Hackaday

🎮 Pittsburgh’s Mega Cat Studios reportedly partnered with Sony Santa Monica on a surprise God of War prequel after pitching the idea, developing it in tandem with the franchise studio. Pittsburgh Business Times

🏂 The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics broadcast presentation—drone chase cams, advanced replays, and energetic commentary—is likened to the feel of classic 1990s snowboarding video games. The Guardian

🎵 Ubisoft says it understands fan disappointment with Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition’s “reimagined soundtrack,” and suggests original tracks could still return. GoNintendo

🤖 Gun Nose is revealed as a GBA-inspired robot mystery game emphasizing standout pixel art and retro handheld vibes. Time Extension

🟥 The Independent rounds up how Virtual Boy-style 3D and red-tinted nostalgia is being “revived” for Switch players via modern options. The Independent

⏱️ A top Mario speedrunner is offering cash bounties for others to beat specific records, saying he’s bored of holding the top times. Dexerto

🎾 A retrospective argues that Mario Tennis’ earlier JRPG-style progression and stat-building campaigns gave the series a distinct appeal that later entries lack. Game Rant

🧙 A look back contends Phantasy Star IV still stands as a defining Sega Genesis RPG decades later, highlighting its lasting strengths. CBR

📺 A guide explains how to set up RetroArch on Apple TV for retro gaming, covering installation basics and controller setup. AppleInsider

🧠 An interactive simulation visualizes how an 8-bit-era CPU fetches instructions and data from ROM, spotlighting low-level timing and bus behavior. PC Gamer

🧃 A nostalgia feature revisits lesser-remembered corners of 1990s gaming culture and the oddities that shaped the era beyond the biggest hits. The Escapist

🕯️ A retrospective claims the original Silent Hill remains one of the PS1’s darkest experiences and singles out a standout boss encounter as historically great. CBR

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ A ranked look at standout 1980s home consoles—spanning Nintendo, Atari, Sega, and more—highlighting the systems that defined the era and why they still matter. CBR

🚀 A roundup of five 1990s sci-fi games the author says remain highly playable today, including Super Metroid, MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries, Final Fantasy VII, Star Fox 64, and F-Zero X. SVG

🧩 A ranked top five of the author’s favorite NES games—Mega Man 2, Contra, Tetris, Super Mario Bros. 3, and The Legend of Zelda—as enduring pillars of the console’s legacy. SVG

🗡️ A full-series ordering of The Legend of Zelda games (with honorable mentions), presented from worst to best as the franchise approaches its 40th anniversary. CGMagazine

😈 A list of five notoriously tough SNES platformers—The Lion King, Donkey Kong Country 2, Hagane, Castlevania: Dracula X, and Super Ghouls ’N Ghosts—picked for their punishing difficulty. ComicBook.com

🎮 A retrospective list arguing certain GameCube titles influenced modern game design more than players may realize, with entries including Metroid Prime, Pikmin, and Kirby Air Ride. DualShockers

🦸 A ranked overview of every major Superman video game, ordered using a mix of contemporary critic scores, popularity, and play experience. ComicBook.com

🛋️ A list of nine GameCube games framed as peak “couch co-op event” experiences, spanning action, sports, and party favorites like Serious Sam: Next Encounter and Mario Power Tennis. DualShockers

🎛️ A nostalgia-driven list of eight PS2 games remembered for especially wild cheat codes—like big-head modes and other exaggerated modifiers—paired with notes on why that era of cheats is missed. DualShockers

In this weeks newsletter we feature stories including the return of Rayman, as is Belmont, Temco Bowl - the film, playing BOTW on the Virtual Boy(?!), and the PS2 and N64 Mario coop plus a stack more.

Thanks for reading, and double thanks if you take a second to like share or tell a friend ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🎉 Ubisoft and Digital Eclipse released Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition, bundling multiple classic versions alongside 120+ extra levels and an exclusive documentary. MixVale

🧛 FilmoGaz reports Sony revealed a new 2D entry, Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse, during a State of Play presentation. FilmoGaz

🦖 Limited Run Games’ Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection is set to be delisted a little over two years after launch, with the publisher saying it’s providing advance notice this time. GamesRadar+

🎲 Square Enix and KessCo announced Final Fantasy: The Board Game, starting with content based on Final Fantasy I–III and targeting a Q3 2026 release. Vijesti

🎲 ScreenRant says Square Enix and KessCo are launching a cooperative Final Fantasy board game inspired by the Pixel Remaster era, planned for 2026. ScreenRant

🎬 A Tecmo Bowl movie is in development at Tongal, with reporting describing it as a hybrid live-action/animated project. Final Weapon

🎮 Konami confirmed Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 is coming to Switch and Switch 2 on August 27, 2026, including MGS4, Peace Walker, and Ghost Babel. My Nintendo News

🕹️ Wheeze! is a newly announced Game Boy game drawing inspiration from Super Mario Land and James Pond. Retro Dodo

📟 Hyperkin’s long-delayed portable Genesis/Mega Drive device, the Mega95, is reportedly nearing release as the company shares updated progress. Time Extension

🥽 A new Virtual Boy-style headset accessory is reported to support Switch VR-enabled titles like Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey. TheGamer

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 A modder connected a Nintendo 64 and a PlayStation 2 online so two players could run through Super Mario 64 in synchronized co-op. TechEBlog

🕹️ Hamster’s latest Arcade Archives release is Konami’s 1984 tank shooter Mega Zone, credited to staff who later worked on series like Contra and Ghosts ’n Goblins. Time Extension

🕯️ Sega hardware figure Hideki Sato, described as a key engineer behind systems from the SG-1000 through the Dreamcast, has died at 77. Kotaku

🚀 A fan-made Parodius port for Sega Genesis/Mega Drive continues to progress, with new updates showing the project’s ongoing improvements. Time Extension

🌀 CBR argues Sonic Adventure 2 is the standout Dreamcast title, highlighting its story setup and broader appeal on the platform. CBR

🗝️ A playable beta of Rogue 7800, a new roguelike homebrew for the Atari 7800, is now available. Time Extension

⌚ Sega is marking its 65th anniversary with two limited-edition Seiko collaboration watches featuring Sonic-themed details. Dexerto

🏐 The PS1 puzzle game Kula World is being unofficially ported to the Sega 32X, according to a new fan project update. Time Extension

⛏️ Craft Mines has been demonstrated running on Sega Saturn hardware, highlighting another modern-style fan project on the console. Retro Handhelds

📼 Rare footage of a Space Channel 5 and MTV crossover segment has resurfaced online after roughly 25 years. Time Extension

🧩 A fully reverse-engineered, commented source code release for Atari 2600’s Raiders of the Lost Ark has been published on GitHub. Adafruit

🃏 A new fan translation patch makes the Japan-only bonus board game mode bundled with Project Justice: Rival Schools 2 playable in English. Time Extension

Features

🎮 A historical look at how Nintendo’s NES helped revive the U.S. console market after the early-’80s crash through tight licensing control, smart rebranding, and flagship games that established long-running franchises. TechSpot

🗿 A rare four-foot 1990s Super Mario N64 promotional statue—one of roughly 400 produced by Dutchland Plastics—is being auctioned, highlighting the scarcity of surviving retail marketing displays from the era. Retro Dodo

🕹️ A Twin Galaxies feature spotlights “Aquarius Master System,” a project focused on playing Sega Master System games on the modern Aquarius Plus (AQ+) retro computer platform. Twin Galaxies

🌀 CBR revisits Sonic 3D Blast, framing it as an unconventional Genesis-era Sonic entry that still holds up better than many expect years later. CBR

📼 Twin Galaxies highlights the launch of SegaLordX’s “Sega Game Gear Spotlight” series, starting with a Part One overview focused on lesser-known Game Gear titles. Twin Galaxies

💎 A roundup explains why certain retro games command intense collector demand, pointing to factors like tiny production runs, unusual releases, and surviving complete-in-box scarcity. Go2Tutors

🧩 An impressions piece says Atari’s Intellivision Sprint is a focused nostalgia device with HDMI, two wireless controllers, and a library of 45 built-in games designed around Intellivision-style overlays and controls. GamesBeat

🗡️ CBR looks at The Legend of Zelda franchise’s longevity and discusses which incarnation of Princess Zelda is portrayed as the most powerful in the series’ history. CBR

Lists & Rankings

🎮 A roundup of five pre-2000 “must-play” classics—Super Mario Bros., Tetris, Street Fighter II, Chrono Trigger, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time—framed as essential retro-game experiences. SVG

🛋️ A list of nine Nintendo 64 titles that captured the “couch co-op event” feel, including picks like Super Smash Bros., Perfect Dark, Diddy Kong Racing, and Gauntlet Legends. DualShockers

🧩 A ranked selection of games described as only available on Nintendo 64, featuring lesser-seen picks such as Quest 64, Rakugakids, the Mario Artist collection, Buck Bumble, and Body Harvest. Game Rant

🎲 A ranked list of the greatest GameCube games that spotlights standout releases like Super Mario Sunshine and Resident Evil 4 among the console’s best. CBR

🕹️ An overview of retro-era habits and formats many younger players missed, from blowing cartridges and renting games to password saves, CRT TVs, demo discs, and couch multiplayer. Gaming Lyfe

📆 A year-by-year rundown naming the most popular game for each year of the 1980s, using sales and cultural impact as the guide (e.g., Space Invaders for 1980 and Super Mario Bros. for 1985). ComicBook.com

Covered herewith are stories such as running PokeMon in Excel, a health tracking controller from Anbernic, more Analogue 3D options, PokePark Kanto opens in Japan, and lot more.

As ever, thanks to you all, the readers - for taking a moment to read these emails or posts and giving me a cheeky like or share. You rock.

*probably the only as well

Subscribe now

News

🎮 Hamster has announced a new “Console Archives” series for PS5 and Switch, aiming to revive classic console games with modern features. Gematsu

💣 A Bomberman Collection is reportedly in development for Switch 2, with potential remasters and online play. GameRant

🗾 Japan is receiving an exclusive Ganbare Goemon retro collection for Switch, stirring envy among international fans. Time Extension

🦇 A new physical retro collection including Aero the Acro-Bat, Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel, and other Sunsoft titles has been announced. Games Asylum

🥋 Street Fighter 6 sales have now surpassed Street Fighter II, while the Marvel vs. Capcom collection also sees a major sales boost. Wadena News

🌌 A Super Mario Galaxy movie is rumored to be in development, with a focus on Luigi and potential new power-ups. The Direct

📟 Anbernic’s new health-tracking controller is now available for pre-order, blending fitness and retro gaming. Retro Handhelds

📊 A fan-made emulator allows users to play Game Boy titles directly inside Microsoft Excel. GoNintendo

🟨 Analogue reveals new color variants for its upcoming 3D N64 console, now shown in prototype form. Kotaku

🎢 The world’s first Pokémon theme park has opened in Tokyo, launched during Japan’s record-breaking tourism boom. VN Express

👾 Stranger Things: Tales from 85 receives its first trailer, teasing a nostalgic, horror-filled adventure. Cosmic Book News

🚁 Kickstarter campaign launched for Jett Rider Mini, a H.E.R.O.-inspired Game Boy title aiming for a physical release. GoNintendo

🎥 English Patch for Tales of Phantasia Cross Edition Revitalizes PSP Classic. FilmoGaz

🌐 EmulatorJS now supports thousands of retro games playable directly in the browser. Gigazine

🏒 A newly released SNES ROM hack adds 5-player support and enhanced gameplay to classic 16-bit hockey. Retro Handhelds

🛰 Space Station Silicon Valley receives a recompilation alpha release for PC, reviving the cult N64 title. GBAtemp

🕶 Perfect Dark’s N64 campaign is being rebuilt as a standalone Quest VR experience. Retro Handhelds

🎈 Balloon Kid and Yoshi have been added to the Game Boy Nintendo Switch Online Classics lineup. Vooks

🎮 Analogue 3D firmware update 1.2.0 introduces new N64 core enhancements and quality-of-life improvements. NoobFeed

🕹 ABXYLUTE’s new retro-style N6 and N9C controllers support Switch 2, GameCube, and modern platforms. The Verge

💿 The Simpsons: Hit & Run is being unofficially ported to Sega Dreamcast by modders. Time Extension

💾 FlipperMCE adds custom boot screens and unlimited save slots to GameCube consoles. Retro Handhelds

🛰 A prolific Saturn modder unveils a spiritual successor to one of Sega’s rarest consoles. Time Extension

💡 A homebrew demo showcases real-time ray tracing running on 1994-era hardware. TechSpot

🎲 Two Culdcept titles are confirmed for release this July, continuing the cult board/card game hybrid franchise. Time Extension

🥊 Zuiki is reviving three Fatal Fury games for the X68000 computer platform. Retro Handhelds

Features

🎠 A Derby Stallion developer reflected on the unexpected success of Uma Musume while revisiting the struggles and legacy of horse racing games in Japan — GoNintendo

🕶️ Nintendo gave a private Virtual Boy demo to a journalist in 2024, showcasing emulation capabilities and sparking renewed interest in the long-abandoned platform — Game File

📉 In 2025, U.S. gamers purchased exactly one copy each of several obscure Nintendo titles across Wii, Wii U, 3DS, Game Boy, GameCube, and DS platforms — GoNintendo

🦍 A fan-built Donkey Kong Country remake in Unity delivers a modern look while preserving its classic gameplay — TechEBlog

🕹️ Classic Virtual Boy games will soon be playable on Nintendo Labo VR headsets, offering a new way to experience the rare system’s library — GamesBeat

🛠️ A new HDMI mod for the Nintendo 64, combined with custom shell designs, provides both visual and physical upgrades for retro enthusiasts — Digg

💿 As digital media dominates, a columnist defends the irreplaceable tactile and emotional experiences offered by CDs and DVDs — The Guardian

📄 A tech enthusiast managed to run Super Mario 64 from within a PDF file, demonstrating the growing complexity of embedded exploits — TechEBlog

📺 A roundup of the best CRT TVs for retro gaming highlights which models deliver the most authentic visuals and lowest latency — Editorialge

🧠 Digital Foundry tests NVIDIA’s new DLSS 4.5 L-preset, analyzing how well 720p content can be upscaled to 4K with minimal loss — Digital Foundry

🐉 The canceled PC port of Panzer Dragoon Saga may be revived as its developer expresses renewed interest in the project — Time Extension

🎮 Marvel vs. Capcom 2, once hailed as a Dreamcast gem, is quietly making waves again in the retro gaming community — CBR

🍕 A recent test shows that ordering pizza on a Sega Dreamcast browser still technically works—though it’s far from convenient — Hackaday

🎬 Jonah Hill’s Superbad character was nearly rewritten to use a PlayStation instead of a Sega Genesis, reflecting last-minute product placement changes — VICE

Lists & Rankings

🎲 A ranked list highlights five of the most poorly received Dungeons & Dragons video games, citing issues ranging from bugs to lackluster gameplay – ComicBook.com

🕹️ Several beloved SNES titles are reevaluated for gameplay flaws and design choices that haven’t aged well in modern gaming – CBR

🚫 A retrospective explores ‘90s video games with controversial themes or mechanics that would prevent their release in today’s industry – SVG

❌ A breakdown of major video games that were unexpectedly canceled just before launch, despite hype and near-completion – SVG

Covered this week, Yoshi appears in the new Mario trailer, Ren & Stimpy return, Donkey Kong Country as you have never seen it, retro gaming is the future - and a whole lot more.

I know I have been saying it a lot of late, but thanks to everyone that supports me by giving this a like/shares - I wish there was an easy way to recognise you good folk - I have been doing the newsletter now for 186 weeks consecutively andknowiyng it is well received makes it all worthwhile.

Subscribe now

News

🎬 Nintendo fans relieved as Yoshi avoids 1 major movie change in new trailer – AllOut Gaming

🖼️ GOG has removed a game’s key art after being criticized for using AI-generated imagery in promotional materials – Kotaku

🎮 The Disney Afternoon Collection arrives on Nintendo Switch, now featuring two additional SNES titles – Retro Handhelds

🕹️ Mega Cat Studios has launched two new NES games and one SNES game, all playable on original hardware – GoNintendo

📼 Limited Run Games unveils The Ren & Stimpy Show: Time Warp Collection, a retro compilation for modern platforms – Games Asylum

👓 Nintendo reveals the initial lineup of Virtual Boy games coming to its online service at launch – Notebookcheck

🕹️ 8BitDo launches a translucent purple leverless controller, inspired by retro aesthetics – Notebookcheck

🎮 Analogue 3D now supports wireless Nintendo 64 controllers thanks to a new software update – Notebookcheck

⚙️ A new MiSTer FPGA N64 Turbo Core update delivers a 17.5% performance boost – Time Extension

🛠️ A new PS2 decompilation project is underway to improve game preservation and modding efforts – Escapist Magazine

💾 The Atari ST is being revived in mini FPGA form, though supply may be limited – GamesRadar

🐻 Banjo-Kazooie has been ported to PC, bringing the classic N64 title to a new platform – DSOGaming

🧩 Hewson’s classic puzzle-platformer Nebulus is getting a new physical release on the Game Boy Advance – Time Extension

🚛 SEGA’s obscure arcade game Yakuza: Magical Truck Adventure resurfaces in a new retrospective feature – ComicBook

🕹️ A new batch of officially licensed 16-bit games is arriving on PS5 this week – Push Square

🔍 Virtua Racing Deluxe on Sega 32X has been fully decompiled, aiding preservation efforts – Retro Handhelds

🌀 SEGA teases upcoming developments for the Sonic the Hedgehog film franchise – The Direct

🏛️ The Strong Museum of Play acquires a vast collection of Atari-related materials for archival purposes – Time Extension

📚 Bitmap Books reveals a new volume chronicling nine generations of video game history – Retro Dodo

Features

🎮 A fan-made AI-powered remake of Donkey Kong Country showcases enhanced visuals and animations built from scratch using OpenAI’s Sora model and Unity engine — but lacks gameplay (below). DSOGaming

🧪 Before Splatoon, Nintendo experimented with a colorful multiplayer shooter called “Cabbage” for the 64DD, aiming to create a chaotic, family-friendly action game decades ahead of its time. Time Extension

🏆 Super Smash Bros. Melee is hailed as the GameCube’s defining title due to its competitive depth, devoted community, and enduring influence in fighting game tournaments. CBR

🔊 Researchers analyzed over 93,000 sounds from Sega Mega Drive/Genesis games to identify common audio patterns, instruments, and compression techniques used in classic 16-bit titles. Adafruit

🕹️ A reader reflects on the timeless appeal of retro games, arguing they offer more character, creativity, and lasting fun than many modern AAA titles. Metro

🎅 Santacorps 4 is a holiday-themed indie game that nails the look and feel of Dreamcast-era Sonic, blending retro flair with modern level design. Rock Paper Shotgun

🚗 An obscure PlayStation racer, Simple 1500 Series Vol. 68: THE Race, was Sony’s overlooked attempt to rival Daytona USA with arcade-style driving and drift-heavy mechanics. Top Gear

🖌️ Metal Slug artist Tonko shared a 1990s concept doodle for a humorous sci-fi game based on Samurai Shodown, originally pitched but never produced. Time Extension

🧔 A Japanese shooter studio initially doubted the PlayStation’s viability due to Sony’s corporate appearance and lack of arcade credibility in the 1990s. Se7en.ws

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ Several beloved NES games from the 1980s, including Duck Hunt and Kid Icarus, are highlighted as prime candidates for modern remakes due to their lasting appeal and outdated mechanics — Ranker.

🔥 A curated list showcases the most iconic and challenging SNES boss fights, featuring unforgettable encounters from Super Metroid, Final Fantasy VI, and others — ComicBook.

🎮 Several once-celebrated platformers like Ristar and Plok have faded from memory despite their innovation and charm, warranting renewed attention — DualShockers.

💥 Hardware limitations of past consoles significantly impacted game performance and design, with titles like GoldenEye 007 and Sonic the Hedgehog affected by these constraints — SVG.

In this week’s newsletter, we feature stories including an 8k Ocarina of Time, Yap and the Enchanted Bubbles for the Game Boy Color, the best SNES game of all time(?), 1,750,000 FPS on the Virtual Boy - and lots more.

As always, a huuuuuge thanks to you all for reading, and a massive thanks for all the likes you have been giving the newsletter each week - it really inspires me and seems to lead to more subscribers, which is great. Wishing you all a wonderful week. ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🎮 A new fan remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time reveals a previously unseen area, adding to its ambitious reimagining project — GamingBible

🏎️ LEGO is teasing a large-scale Mario Kart Luigi set, expected to complement the earlier Mario version — Video Games Chronicle

🕹️ Hyperkin confirms a handheld N64 is being considered, but it’s unlikely to be released in the near future — Time Extension

⌚ A fan-mod has brought Super Mario 64 to the Apple Watch, running the game using emulation tech (below) — TechEBlog

💻 A new PC fan port of Super Mario 64 has been released by the Harbour Masters team — Time Extension

🎉 Rayman 30th Anniversary Edition has been surprise-rated, hinting at a possible upcoming release — Nintendo Life

🥋 Konami’s classic Yie Ar Kung-Fu is being unofficially ported to the Sega Genesis by fans — Time Extension

📉 Anbernic’s RG34XXSP model quietly received a RAM downgrade, sparking concerns among retro handheld enthusiasts — Android Authority

🕹️ A teen modder turned Hytale into a multi-platform emulator, capable of running everything from Windows 95 to Game Boy — NotebookCheck

🧼 Yap and the Enchanted Bubbles, a new title with retro flair, is heading to the Game Boy Color — GoNintendo

🎉 Death metal band Party Cannon was gifted a Nintendo 64 customized for partying by fans — The Mosh

🛠️ A prolific Sega Saturn modder has developed a spiritual successor to one of Sega’s rarest consoles — Time Extension

🌀 Retro Fighters is preparing to launch a GameCube-themed dock for the upcoming Switch 2 — GoNintendo

🤖 Cyber Doll, a Saturn JRPG with anti-AI themes, is receiving a fan translation—but it comes with limitations — Time Extension

🏨 The futuristic design for the long-teased Atari Hotel in Phoenix has been officially revealed — The Independent

📱 The Trimui Brick retro handheld is receiving a new Pro version with improved features — Time Extension

🔊 A new Sonic the Hedgehog audio drama podcast titled Chaotix Casefiles has been announced — GameRant

🛠️ A new development framework for Sonic fangames is being built by the creator of Sonic CDX — Time Extension

🎯 Tomb Raider’s Lara Croft is getting new collectible Funko Pop! figures — TheGamer

⌚ Nubeo has released a retro-style wristwatch inspired by the Atari 2600 as a tribute to classic gaming — iXBT Games

Features

🎮 Disney achieved major success in 1990s gaming with a series of acclaimed titles across platforms, establishing a legacy of licensed video game excellence — ComicBook.

🕹️ The Retroid Pocket 6 handheld delivers strong performance, a vibrant display, and Android 11 support at a budget-friendly price — TechEBlog.

🧝‍♂️ The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is praised as the Game Boy’s finest title due to its emotional depth, design, and innovation — CBR.

🧩 A new mod enables ASUS ROG Ally and Xbox users to play physical Game Boy cartridges via an external USB device — XDA Developers.

🐉 Pokémon’s Game Boy development was marked by technical constraints and prolonged trial-and-error before achieving its iconic success — Nintendo Life.

🌾 Harvest Moon is remembered as an ideal SNES game, blending life simulation and farming mechanics in a then-unique genre experience — CBR.

🏆 Over 30,000 retro gamers voted The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past as the best SNES game of all time — RetroDodo.

📺 The original Japanese design for Lara Croft featured exaggerated proportions, including oversized eyes and head, but was ultimately scrapped — Filmogaz.

📼 The Intellivision Sprint handheld faithfully emulates Mattel’s long-overlooked console, delivering accurate performance and retro appeal — Digital Foundry.

👀 Lara Croft’s Japanese market redesign nearly featured an anime-style look before being replaced with a globally unified model — Time Extension.

💡 New research reveals the Sega Saturn’s potential for ray tracing, showcasing capabilities far beyond what was realized during its lifespan — Gamereactor.

🎵 Fatboy Slim shared that financial need drove his initial interest in composing a soundtrack for a Smurfs video game, which ultimately went unused — Time Extension.

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ A full ranking of every game included in official Super Nintendo Entertainment System bundles highlights the variety and legacy of the console’s most promoted titles — ComicBook.

📉 Several Sega Genesis games that once stood out are now seen as outdated due to gameplay issues, visual limitations, or design flaws — CBR.

📖 A selection of SNES titles with standout narratives showcases fan-favorite games known for emotional depth and memorable storytelling — ComicBook.

🕵️‍♂️ A list of lesser-known but nearly flawless Sega Genesis games highlights forgotten gems that delivered high-quality gameplay and design — CBR.

🧱 The top 3D platformers on the Nintendo 64 are ranked based on innovation, control, and lasting influence on the genre — ComicBook.

🌀 A roundup of bizarre unlicensed games on retro consoles showcases unconventional titles that bypassed official approval — ComicBook.

Contained herewith are stories such as the new old NES mouse, a PS1 mini-pc, Link lego, the hardest Game Boy games, the worst football game ever, multi player Mario 64 - and lot more.

Thanks for opening this email each week. - if I can do things better, please let me know how - if you like it how it is, a like or a share if a wonderful virtual power up for me. ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🖱️ 8BitDo has unveiled the N30 Wireless Mouse, a retro NES-inspired device featuring mechanical buttons and a scroll wheel disguised as a D-pad, available now at a discounted price – Techeblog

🕹️ ACEMAGIC has revealed a PS1-inspired mini PC and new Panther Lake models at CES 2026, offering retro aesthetics with modern performance – XiaomiToday

🧱 A LEGO set based on The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time final battle has leaked, including price and release details ahead of its official announcement – Dexerto

🟥 Virtual Boy owners finally have access to a long-awaited flashcart, offering expanded functionality and game loading for the retro console – RetroHandhelds

🎮 A compact mod project has turned a real PSone into a functional handheld, combining original hardware with 3D-printed design – Hackaday

🤖 Super Robot Wars 64 has received a complete English fan translation, bringing the Nintendo 64 mecha strategy game to new audiences – RetroHandhelds

🧙 Quest 64 is being recompiled from scratch with new improvements, now available in early alpha stages for testing (below) – GBAtemp

👥 A fan-made multiplayer version of Super Mario 6 is now available for download, allowing cooperative play – Screen Rant

📼 Yakuza Kiwami 3 will include 12 playable Sega Game Gear games, continuing the series’ tradition of integrating retro titles – VGC

🚫 The next numbered entry in the Psyvariar shoot-em-up series has been delayed, with no confirmed release window – Time Extension

📦 Hyperkin has expressed interest in developing a portable N64 handheld with potential cartridge support, though no official plans have been confirmed – GamesRadar

🐬 Ecco the Dolphin is making a return with new projects in development, as revealed in a recent interview with the original creator – Netto’s Game Room

🌐 Another classic Dreamcast title has come back online with restored multiplayer functionality – Time Extension

🎲 Three additional Sega classics have launched in the West, continuing a wave of nostalgic re-releases – DualShockers

🔫 The LightConn, a wireless Dreamcast light gun, is getting a laser-guided upgrade for improved accuracy and performance – Time Extension

📅 Xbox Game Pass is adding several retro classics to its January 2026 lineup – TrueAchievements

🚧 Hyperkin has delayed the launch of its Mega95 handheld Sega Genesis console, citing production issues and quality concerns – Time Extension

🕊️ Tenshi no Uta: The Angel Verse Collection has been officially released in English, making the classic RPG series accessible to a broader audience – RPGamer

🧝 A fan-made remaster of The Zelda Adventure, the CD-i game Nintendo prefers to forget, is currently in development – Time Extension

Features

🎮 Animal Crossing: New Horizons now unlocks retro Nintendo toys when connected to classic consoles via the Switch Online service, offering nostalgic items for in-game use — Polygon

🗡️ A retrospective on The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Adventure highlights its challenging mechanics, divisive legacy, and lasting influence on the franchise — ComicBook

🧩 MangoPi’s open-source alternative to Raspberry Pi offers strong retro gaming capabilities at a lower price point, appealing to hobbyists and tinkerers — How-To Geek

⚽ A roundup of the worst football video games ever made contrasts them with the more competent Football Manager 2026 — FRVR

🌀 SEGA marks 35 years of Sonic the Hedgehog with commemorative celebrations highlighting the franchise’s enduring legacy — TechPowerUp

🕵️ IO Interactive confirms 007: First Light will differ significantly from GoldenEye 007, aiming for a distinct gameplay experience — Time Extension

🏴‍☠️ The cult animated series The Pirates of Dark Water may be making a comeback, with potential for a new adaptation in development — Giant Freakin Robot

🕹️ Samsung’s brief foray into gaming consoles produced oddly named devices like the “Sammy Atomiswave,” now remembered more for novelty than impact — SamMobile

🔍 A new breakdown explains how Nintendo’s Virtual Boy used stereoscopic 3D and internal mirrors to deliver its signature red-and-black visuals — Gamereactor

📺 Ultra-rare Sega Saturn game based on a Japanese game show receives an English translation patch, making it accessible to international players (below) — NotebookCheck

🌌 A fan-made Dreamcast port of Sonic Mania cleverly handles 3D sections using visual tricks to preserve smooth gameplay — Time Extension

🚓 A late Game Boy Color entry in the Chase H.Q. series showcases high-speed action with notable polish for its platform — Games Asylum

🎣 About Fishing merges the narrative style of Shenmue with Sega Bass Fishing mechanics for a quirky, genre-blending experience — Time Extension

💾 The Atari 400 and 800 computers laid the groundwork for home computing in the 1980s with versatile gaming and productivity capabilities — TechEBlog

🆓 A developer is giving away dozens of Super Nintendo and PlayStation 2-style games for free, preserving the spirit of retro gaming — GamingBible

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ A roundup of seven brutally difficult Game Boy titles highlights how these games challenged and frustrated players with unforgiving mechanics and high difficulty. ComicBook

🎮 The best GameCube games of all time are ranked, showcasing the console’s standout titles across genres and fan favorites. Dexerto

🎯 A ranked list explores the top South Park video games, evaluating their gameplay quality and faithfulness to the show’s signature humor. Collider

🕘 The most iconic Sega Genesis games are ranked, reflecting the system’s influential legacy and standout classics in the 16-bit era. Dexerto

In this week’s issue, we delights such as turning your phone into a Game Boy, a Sega legend dies 😕, Mario 64 on the Dreamcast, retro CES announcements and a load more.

Every time I see someone like the newsletter, or a new subscription, it feels like a power up.

Subscribe now

News

🕊️ David Rosen, co-founder of Sega and a key figure in the company’s early global expansion, has died at age 90. The Guardian

🎮 The Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster collection is coming to Xbox and Game Pass in Spring 2026. Inverse

🕹️ GameSir has announced the Pocket TACO, a compact, foldable mobile gaming controller designed for portability and performance. Hypebeast

📱 8BitDo’s new controller design transforms smartphones into a Game Boy-style handheld using a sliding, clamshell form factor. Android Headlines

🕹️ Mega Cat Studios will release two new NES games and one SNES game on January 29, 2026 (below). GoNintendo

🌟 A cult-favorite indie JRPG inspired by SNES classics is being re-released eight years after its original launch. ComicBook

🌀 A fan has ported Super Mario 64 to the Dreamcast, offering what some describe as AAA native performance. Time Extension

🎮 GameSir and Hyperkin have unveiled a modular controller featuring interchangeable layouts for GameCube and N64-style play. Nintendo Life

🏎️ A fan has created an HD version of Ridge Racer within Dreams, filling the gap left by Bandai Namco. Time Extension

🕹️ The SuperStation One FPGA console has finally begun shipping after major development delays. NotebookCheck

🎉 A new Mario 64 PC mod introduces mini-games styled after WarioWare, adding fast-paced challenges to classic levels. Time Extension

📉 A recent update regarding the Nintendo GameCube hints at disappointing news for fans awaiting future developments. ComicBook

🕹️ My Arcade’s long-delayed Sega mini arcades are now confirmed for release later in 2026 after a year of silence. Time Extension

📼 A DIY cassette player can now record Spotify sessions in real time, bringing digital music to analog tape. NotebookCheck (not retro but retro cool)

🌴 A new Sega Saturn FPS titled Vigilant Paradise channels Miami Vice aesthetics and retro shooter vibes. Time Extension

🎨 8BitDo’s NES 40th Collection has been praised as a stylish and high-quality tribute to the classic console. RetroDodo

🚀 Nearly 37 years after its original release, Zero Wing is getting an unofficial Neo Geo port by fans. Time Extension

🛸 The Japan-only Dreamcast game Macross M3 has received a complete English fan translation for global audiences. NotebookCheck

🧩 Evercade’s first firmware update of 2026 adds support for Neo Geo and Atari 2600 titles. Time Extension

Features

🧟‍♂️ Battletoads, which debuted on the NES in 1991, rapidly expanded across platforms due to Rare’s push for cross-platform success and marketing adaptability — Games Asylum

🎯 Gail Tilden, a key figure in Nintendo of America’s marketing team, reflects on her role in the NES launch and the strategy of avoiding the term “video game” to rebuild consumer trust post-crash — Time Extension

🕹️ Four decades on, the Sega Master System is remembered for its technical strengths and unique regional success, despite being overshadowed by the NES globally — CBR

💾 The Turbo EverDrive Core & Pro offers robust performance for PC Engine fans, though limitations in CD-ROM support and audio playback may impact user experience — Time Extension

🌙 Kazuyuki Hoshino explains that the “NiGHTS” acronym stands for “Night into Dreams,” reflecting the game’s surreal aesthetic and narrative depth — Gamereactor

🕹️ The Atari GameStation Go is a modern handheld tribute to retro gaming, offering wide compatibility and preloaded titles despite some interface and emulation flaws — GamesHub

👾 The Atari 2600+ Pac-Man Edition celebrates the iconic console and its most infamous game with a nostalgic design, improved ports, and collector appeal — TechRadar

💿 (Duplicate) The Turbo EverDrive Core & Pro review is covered above — Time Extension

♟️ KEX is a newly developed abstract board game inspired by PC Engine aesthetics and mechanics, offering a fresh take on retro gaming design — Retro Handhelds

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ A roundup of affordable retro and modern game consoles highlights budget-friendly options from Nintendo, Atari, and others, catering to gamers seeking value and nostalgia — CBR.

🎮 Six Nintendo 64 titles are spotlighted for their memorable and beloved storytelling, including fan favorites that helped define the console’s legacy — ComicBook.com.

🧩 Five underrated GameCube games are recognized for their overlooked innovation and gameplay, showcasing hidden gems from Nintendo’s early 2000s lineup — ComicBook.com.

🔄 A look back at forgotten video game crossovers reveals surprising collaborations that once brought together major franchises across genres — CBR.

🌍 A critique of modern JRPG design argues that open worlds are not essential for creating expansive, immersive experiences, citing strong linear alternatives — DualShockers.

This weeks newsletter contains a smattering of turning your PC into a SNES with a USB C cable, using your NES inspired PC Case, how Amiga outsmarted the SNES and a little more (slow news week).

Thanks for reading each week, double thanks for giving the newsletter a like and sharing this with others. You all rock. ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🎮 A new USB-C dock from Epilogue, the SN Operator, allows modern PCs and Macs to function as SNES hubs with original controllers and cartridges — Hypebeast

🔥 A developer has managed to run the intro of Diablo on the Sega Dreamcast using Go, demonstrating surprising cross-platform potential — Retroshell

🕹️ The Amiga roguelike Roguecraft DX is being ported to Game Boy Color, Amiga, and Mega65, expanding access to the indie favorite — Notebookcheck

📼 A rare promotional Green Day Game Boy cartridge, featuring unreleased content, is now up for sale — Retrododo

🛠️ The Japan-only Dreamcast title Macross M3 has received a full English fan translation, making it accessible to a wider audience — Time Extension

🌐 Noclip, a new website tool, allows users to freely explore levels from classic and modern video games in-browser — Instant Gaming

🕹️ The latest MAME update includes support for an unreleased Atari arcade game and other rare software additions — How-To Geek

💻 Enthusiasts are reviving Microsoft’s defunct WebTV service, bringing it back online for nostalgic and preservation purposes — Hackaday

🗡️ The 1994 PC Engine RPG Emerald Dragon has been fully translated into English for the first time — Time Extension

📦 The Tenshi no Uta RPG trilogy is officially coming to the West in 2026 via the Tenshi no Uta Collection — Niche Gamer

🏪 Retro game store Super Potato’s Osaka branch is reducing its selection due to rising tourist demand and inventory challenges — Retroshell

Features

📰 Japan’s NHK says it will stop producing 4K/8K satellite channels by 2030 amid budget concerns and shifting viewer habits — Asahi Shimbun

🕹️ An in-depth look at how the Amiga’s advanced sprite capabilities compared to SNES hardware limitations during the 16-bit era — TechEBlog

📺 Stranger Things Season 5 will continue to showcase classic video game influences, deepening ties to 1980s gaming culture — mxdwn Games

🎮 The Video Game History Foundation reveals hidden details about Nintendo’s NES development in a newly uncovered story — Nintendo Life

🥊 Final Fight 3 marks its 30th anniversary, highlighting the SNES brawler’s legacy and rare improvements over its predecessors — Inverse

👋 Limited Run Games co-founder Josh Fairhurst announces his departure after a decade leading the company’s retro revival efforts — Time Extension

💾 The Commodore 64 Ultimate review explores how modern upgrades preserve the classic computer’s legacy with enhanced usability — WIRED

🔥 Three decades later, one Sega Genesis title stands out as the most powerful and iconic game in the console’s history— CBR

🧪 A breakdown of key innovations introduced with each console generation, from early pioneers to modern advancements — ComicBook.com

🚀 ZPF, a new retro-style shoot ‘em up, impresses with tight gameplay and visual flair on original Sega Genesis hardware — Forbes

🥚 The long history of video game Easter eggs reveals their roots and cultural significance across generations — ComicBook.com

🛠️ An extremely rare East German console from the 1970s is tested, offering a glimpse into gaming behind the Iron Curtain — Tom’s Hardware

🔧 A former id Software developer reflects on the technical challenges of porting Doom to the Atari Jaguar in the 1990s— TweakTown

Lists & Rankings

🎮 A look at the best fighting games from each console generation highlights iconic titles that shaped the genre over time — from the NES to modern platforms — emphasizing their lasting influence on gameplay and culture. ComicBook

👾 A ranked list of the top 10 NES games celebrates classic titles that defined Nintendo’s early home console success and continue to be revered today. ComicBook

🕹️ A roundup of overlooked Nintendo games explores hidden gems across the company’s history that received little fanfare but offered unique gameplay experiences. CBR

🧠 An analysis of Nintendo’s strangest video game patents reveals unusual concepts and prototypes that reflect the company’s long-standing experimental approach to gaming. SlashGear

📉 A ranking of the five worst handheld systems identifies key missteps in portable gaming history, citing flawed design, weak libraries, and poor market reception. ComicBook

🕰️ Greg Sewart’s retrospective list showcases his favorite 2025 video games that evoke the style and spirit of 1990s classics, blending nostalgia with modern design. Giant Bomb

In this weeks issue we have how retro gaming helps fight burnout , is the Analogue 3D retro gaming hardware of the year(?), an even bigger Lego Game Boy and a lot more.

Thats as ever to you all for reading, there have been times this year when I have come close to stopping this (the amount of time it takes versus the number of subscribers I have hardly makes it worthwhile, but I am very determined to continue) - but a like, comment (feel free to let me know how I can make this better) or an email alert for a new subscriber, gives me a power up ❤️.

Subscribe now

News

🕹️ New gameplay footage of the unreleased Famicom JRPG Dream Traveler: Midnight Adventure has surfaced online, showcasing turn-based battles and anime-style graphics — unseen for over 30 years. GoNintendo

🛫 Boston Logan Airport has installed free-to-play arcade cabinets featuring retro games to entertain travelers during layovers and delays. Retroshell

🐉 Dragon Ball Super Saiyan Goku: Kakusei — an unreleased Famicom RPG — revealed a drastically different original character design for Goku in newly discovered assets. CBR

👻 ESP Soft has released Sweet Horror, a haunted house text adventure game for the Amstrad CPC, complete with sound effects and hand-drawn graphics. Retroshell

🎮 The Analogue 3D is praised as the best retro gaming hardware of 2025, offering FPGA-based N64 gameplay with modern enhancements. Time Extension

🏍️ A new Super Hang-On-style racing game titled Speed Racing has arrived for the Commodore 64, featuring smooth scrolling and multiple tracks. Retroshell

🦁 Sabre Wulf has received a visually impressive remaster for the Commodore 64, courtesy of the Genesis Project team. NotebookCheck

📼 Lost ZX Spectrum prototypes Thomas the Tank Engine and Sooty & Sweep 2 have been recovered and released by preservationists. Retroshell

🎲 The Super Game Boy has been reimagined as a massive handheld device capable of playing original arcade titles (below). Yanko Design

🔧 A teardown of the Analogue 3D reveals its use of an open-source Bluetooth stack, allowing for extensive controller compatibility. Retroshell

🧪 An unofficial PC port of Dr. Mario 64 is now available for download, featuring improved resolution and performance on modern systems. DSOGaming

🧝 The full decompilation of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess paves the way for native ports and modern enhancements. Retroshell

👕 UNIQLO is launching a Pokémon 30th Anniversary UT Collection featuring designs inspired by every generation of the franchise. Lifestyle Asia

🧩 Classic PlayStation puzzle game Intelligent Qube is returning on April 26, remastered with updated graphics and new features. Retroshell

⚠️ The upcoming sequel to the controversial SNES game Harvester has been delisted from Steam due to undisclosed reasons. OpenCritic

🧛 A new ROM hack of Gargoyle’s Quest adds full Super Game Boy support with custom palettes and borders. Retroshell

📦 The Analogue Pocket now supports cartridge dumping, allowing users to back up their Game Boy games digitally. Time Extension

⚾ A rare Hanshin Tigers-themed GameCube console has surfaced online, showcasing unique branding and packaging. Retroshell

Features

🎮 Shuntaro Furukawa’s rise from a childhood Famicom enthusiast to the CEO of Nintendo highlights a lifelong passion turned leadership at one of gaming’s most iconic companies — The Tradable

🥋 After leaving Capcom, Street Fighter creator Takashi Nishiyama launched Fatal Fury, a 1991 arcade hit that helped redefine fighting games — ComicBook.com

🎄 A long-time Nintendo fan reflects on a cherished holiday ritual of replaying a specific SNES game every Christmas — Nintendo Life

🧠 A recent study suggests that revisiting nostalgic 1980s video games can help reduce burnout and boost mental well-being — Newsweek

🕹️ Released 37 years ago, Mega Man 2 is credited with rescuing the franchise from cancellation and establishing its long-term success — ComicBook.com

⚔️ Frequently cited as the best SNES game ever, Chrono Trigger remains one of the most powerful and influential RPGs in gaming history — CBR

🚫 The fan-made web version of GTA: Vice City has been taken offline following a DMCA takedown request — Yardbarker

📈 The Evercade handheld and console ecosystem saw its strongest year in 2025, with significant releases and growing community support — Games Asylum

Lists & Rankings

🎮 A look at Nintendo’s lesser-known pre-Mario titles highlights the company’s early ventures into arcade and console gaming, from games like Sheriff and Devil World to Urban Champion — SVG

🐵 Every Donkey Kong game is ranked, showcasing the franchise’s evolution from arcade roots to modern platformers and spin-offs — ComicBook

🧩 A scrapped data transfer feature in Banjo-Kazooie called Stop ‘N’ Swop was originally intended to connect with Donkey Kong 64, revealing deeper ties between Rare’s N64 games — GoNintendo

🧻 A retrospective on South Park for the Nintendo 64 revisits the controversial FPS’s crude humor, unique snowball mechanics, and impact on adult-themed gaming in the late 1990s — ComicBook

📘 Five standout GameCube games are explored for their surprisingly deep narratives, with titles like Baten Kaitos and Eternal Darkness receiving praise for storytelling — ComicBook

🎬 A roundup of the top 10 movie-based video games highlights titles that managed to rise above typical licensed fare, including GoldenEye 007 and Spider-Man 2 — Yardbarker

🕹️ A look at canceled game consoles reveals obscure systems like the Sega Neptune and Nintendo PlayStation that never reached the market — GameRant

⚠️ A list of controversial retro games explores titles like Night Trap and Custer’s Revenge, which drew criticism for violence, sexual content, or cultural insensitivity — SVG

🧠 Twenty must-play tactical RPGs are showcased, covering classics from Final Fantasy Tactics to Tactics Ogre for fans of turn-based strategy — Time Extension

In this weeks bumper issue we have a half of lost Megadrive/Genesis games gets preserved, Resident Evil - on the GBC, is the Analogue 3D that accurate, goody to the Dreamcast browser - and loads more.

Thanks for the regulars that take a second to like the post on Substack, you know who you are, and you are awesome.

Subscribe now

News

🎮 An Xbox enthusiast has documented 630 unreleased original Xbox game projects, preserving development details and builds that never reached retail release, shedding light on the console’s unseen history. Retroshell

🥊 Street Fighter creator Takashi Nishiyama’s departure from Capcom led to the release of one of the most influential fighting games of the 1990s, marking its 34th anniversary this year. ComicBook

⌚ Bandai Namco has unveiled a limited 30th anniversary Tales of Phantasia chronograph watch celebrating the long-running RPG series with themed design elements. Essential Japan

🤖 A revamped Mega Man ROM hack has completed an enhanced reworking of the original NES trilogy, featuring gameplay refinements and visual updates. Retroshell

🧟 A near-complete beta demo dump of Resident Evil for the Game Boy Color has been recovered, offering new insight into the cancelled handheld version. GBATemp

🔥 Pokémon FireRed has been reimagined as an open-world experience while retaining the visual style of the original Game Boy Advance release. Retroshell

🎨 The classic Game Boy title Tiny Toon Adventures is now available in a fully colourised DX edition, enhancing the original game for modern players. Time Extension

🛠️ ModRetro has announced an unusual collaboration with a defense contractor as part of its expanding retro hardware and preservation efforts. Retroshell

📖 The Sega Dreamcast visual novel Di Gi Charat Fantasy has received an official English release, making the previously Japan-only title accessible to new audiences. Time Extension

🏨 Atari has opened investment opportunities to fans for its upcoming Atari-branded hotels, with entry starting at $500. Retroshell

🎵 Nintendo has updated its Nintendo Music app with tracks from Super Mario Land, adding the franchise’s original Game Boy soundtrack. Nintendo Life

🕹️ The iconic QuickShot II joystick is set to return in 2026 with modern features while preserving its classic design. Retroshell

🚁 A record-breaking Tetris game was commemorated with a synchronized drone show featuring 4,000 drones lighting up the sky. Yardbarker

📡 The Video Game History Foundation has recovered 144 previously lost Sega Channel ROMs for the Genesis, preserving digital-only titles from the 1990s service. Retroshell

🎮 Xbox Game Pass has quietly expanded its retro library to nearly 100 titles, including games from the SNES era. ComicBook

💣 A beta version of Infidelity’s SNES port of Contra Force is now available, offering an early look at the long-criticized NES title on new hardware. Retroshell

🧨 A playable SNES port of Contra Force has been released, reviving one of the NES’s most maligned action games. Time Extension

🥋 Virtua Fighter 4 has been successfully rendered on Sega Dreamcast hardware, demonstrating the console’s untapped technical potential. Retroshell

🥁 A Super Mario 64 speedrunner has set a new record using a drum kit as the game controller. TheGamer

🎼 FirebrandX has released remastered music tracks for the Steam version of Final Fantasy VII, enhancing the classic RPG’s audio presentation. Retroshell

🧪 New research has challenged Analogue’s claims regarding the accuracy of its upcoming Analogue 3D console. Time Extension

🎨 Nintendo veteran Takaya Imamura has entered Capcom’s Mega Man boss design contest, marking a rare crossover between the two companies. Retroshell

📀 A new feature highlights notable Nintendo GameCube games that have faded from mainstream attention over time. DualShockers

🏆 Hamster has teased a major Arcade Archives release to coincide with the series’ 500th title milestone. Retroshell

📊 New sales data indicates that the Xbox Series consoles have surpassed the lifetime sales of the Sega Genesis / Mega Drive. VGChartz

📱 Mangmi has teased its upcoming Pocket Max handheld, powered by a Snapdragon 865 chipset. Retroshell

🏐 A fan-made Sega Mega Drive / Genesis port of Windjammers has received its first development update in over a year. Time Extension

⚙️ The SuperSega FPGA console project has been cancelled following trademark disputes, questionable demos, and backlash from backers. NotebookCheck

🧱 Metal Mack, a new large-scale Genesis homebrew title, has been released, showcasing ambitious design for Sega’s 16-bit console. PopGeeks

🌍 Tail of the Sun, a PS1-era cult classic from the creators of Doshin the Giant, has launched on Steam with notable limitations. Time Extension

🌐 Google service changes have rendered the Sega Dreamcast’s PlanetWeb 3.0 browser unable to access major sites, effectively ending its remaining functionality. Tom’s Hardware

🦖 Wolf Team’s dinosaur-themed pinball game Dino Land has been re-released on consoles and PC in a restored modern edition. Time Extension

⌚ Sony has announced a limited-edition mechanical PlayStation watch to celebrate the console’s 30th anniversary. TechnoBaboy

Features

🎮 Street Fighter creator Takashi Nishiyama left Capcom in the late ’80s and went on to develop Fatal Fury, a defining 1990s fighting game released 34 years ago today — ComicBook

🍄 Nintendo marked the 25th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. with a major re-release and retrospective celebration back in 2010 — CBR

📊 The Final Fantasy franchise has now sold over 185 million units worldwide across all its titles — Tech4Gamers

🛍️ A shopper discovered a rare boxed Game Boy Color in a UK charity shop for just £20, highlighting the potential of second-hand treasure hunts — LancsLive

🧱 The Trial of Kharzoid, a new NES homebrew, combines Arkanoid-style gameplay with Castlevania-inspired boss battles — NotebookCheck

🚗 Upcoming rally racing spin-off Rallyallyally embraces arcade-style fun over realism in a nostalgic twist on the genre — Time Extension

🕹️ A fan-made SNES demake of Super Mario Bros. Wonder reimagines the game with impressive authenticity and charm — Retro Dodo

🐉 The original concept for ActRaiser was a traditional JRPG similar to Dragon Quest, before it evolved into its genre-blending final form — Time Extension

📅 Tales of Phantasia, the first game in the long-running Tales series, celebrates its 30th anniversary this month — Inverse

🔊 A longtime Konami fan shares their surprise at discovering a hidden detail in the classic Konami logo screen — Time Extension

💾 The Commodore 64 Ultimate is a powerful modern tribute to the classic system, praised for its design and emulation accuracy — GamesRadar

😓 SEGA’s Yosuke Okunari reflects on the challenging process behind relaunching the SEGA Ages series and working with M2 — Time Extension

📱 A new poll reveals Dolphin Emulator and PPSSPP as Android users’ top choices for game emulation on mobile — Android Authority

🌀 A new video explores how to fix and enhance Knuckles’ Chaotix, one of the most polarizing titles in the Sonic franchise — Time Extension

🕹️ Fans can now legally build and play ports of GTA III and Vice City on the SEGA Dreamcast thanks to new community tools — Gameranx

🧰 The Taito Evercade Alpha is a compact arcade-style console praised for its design, performance, and faithful emulation — Express

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ Street Fighter creator Takashi Nishiyama left Capcom and released Fatal Fury—one of the 1990s’ most influential fighting games—exactly 34 years ago today. ComicBook.com

1

📖 Final Fantasy VI is highlighted as the greatest SNES game of the 1990s due to its complex characters and emotionally rich storytelling. CBR

🕹️ Five SNES titles, including Super Metroid and Chrono Trigger, are recognized as defining the 1990s era of gaming. ComicBook.com

🧩 Over 20 Mega Drive titles are planned for release in 2026, showcasing Sega’s continued support for retro gaming. Gamereactor

🎮 Five standout GameCube games are praised for pairing solid gameplay with exceptional narrative depth. ComicBook.com

🕳️ A selection of GameCube titles that have faded from mainstream memory are revisited for their unique gameplay and charm. DualShockers

♻️ Neo Geo games with strong replay value, such as Metal Slug and The King of Fighters, are celebrated for their enduring appeal. DualShockers

🚫 A list of five ambitious Super Mario Bros. concepts that were ultimately canceled before release. ComicBook.com

🕰️ Several forgotten video game masterpieces from the 1990s are highlighted for their innovation and legacy. GameRant

In this weeks newsletter we see the return of of Jaws, the NES gets Xcavator as a physical release, the new Street Fighter film gets a trailer, a look at the best Virtual Boy games (as the hardware goes on sale), transparent Analogue 3D’s and a whole lot more.

Thanks to all of you legends whom read every week wherever you are in the world!

Subscribe now

News

🎵 Nintendo has released a comprehensive list of games featured in its new official music soundtracks collection. Final Weapon

🦈 Jaws: Retro Edition has been announced for PS5 and Nintendo Switch, bringing a reimagined take on the 1987 NES title. Gematsu

💾 A sealed NES copy of Xcavator was discovered and showcased at Day of the Devs, shedding light on a long-lost game. Shacknews

🧨 Oblast is a new C64 homebrew that reimagines the 1978 arcade game Blasto with fresh visuals and gameplay. Retroshell

🎬 The upcoming Street Fighter movie gets its first trailer, cast details, and a confirmed release date (below). Kotaku

🚀 A fan-developed Star Fox 64 Dreamcast port has been released, bringing the N64 classic to Sega’s console. Retroshell

🕹 Two classic N64 platformers are coming to Nintendo Switch Online later this month. Eurogamer

👾 R-Type III is getting a full remake titled Dimensions III, slated for release in 2026. Retroshell

🟥 Nintendo has unveiled a Virtual Boy-inspired Switch Online controller, reviving the system’s design in hardware form. 9to5Toys

🎻 Mariachi Legends is a new Metroidvania with PS1 and DS-era Castlevania influences and a unique Mexican folklore style. Retroshell

💞 A fan translation is underway for the Dreamcast visual novel based on Love Hina, making it accessible in English. Time Extension

⌨️ Sega and Higround have launched limited-edition Sonic Dreamcast keyboards with themed designs and mechanical switches. Retroshell

📼 Evercade will retire its Intellivision and Irem cartridge lines in 2026, phasing out select classic game compilations. Retroshell

🎮 An open-source adapter revives Nintendo’s WaveBird controller for modern use on PCs and other devices. Hackaday

📱 AYA Neo has teased the Pocket Play, a modern gaming phone inspired by the Xperia Play. Retroshell

💿 The final officially released Sega Dreamcast game is set to arrive on Steam next year. Time Extension

🕰 A full fan translation of the Japan-only 3DS title Time Travelers has been completed. Retroshell

🎮 The Anbernic RG477V handheld has been showcased running PS2, GameCube, and Wii games at up to 4× resolution. Notebookcheck

🧪 A YouTuber got hands-on with a rare all-metal original Xbox prototype, revealing design details never seen before. Retroshell

🎄 The Shenmue-inspired fangame Dreams of Saturn is getting a festive Christmas update this year. Time Extension

🧙 Ziona Quest 2: Part 2 has launched for the ZX Spectrum 128K, continuing its retro-style RPG adventure. Retroshell

🧴 Hawthorne has teamed up with Sega for a Jet Set Radio-themed cologne collaboration. Anime News Network

🌀 Sonic the Hedgehog is getting an unofficial port to the Commodore Amiga. Retroshell

🚫 The rumored Shenmue 4 trailer has been confirmed to be fake. Time Extension

🛠 GammaOS’s upcoming firmware update resolves screen bugs on the RG-DigitalStation handheld. Retroshell

📀 A previously lost PS1 game has been re-released with full remastering and modern platform support. ComicBook

🐉 Bad Dudes vs. Dragon Ninja has received an unofficial Sega Genesis/Mega Drive port. Retroshell

🎯 Arcade Archives is teasing a major announcement ahead of its 500th release. Time Extension

🧩 The FPGA-powered Sega Neptune clone has been delayed to 2026 for final polishing. Retroshell

🇯🇵 A Japan-exclusive PS1 game has received an English release after 26 years—and it’s available on Xbox too. Pure Xbox

📘 A fan translation of Segagaga has entered its final phase, bringing the Dreamcast cult classic closer to a full English release. Retroshell

Features

🎮 Gunpei Yokoi’s improbable rise from factory worker to Nintendo legend shaped iconic hardware like the Game Boy and Game & Watch — ETNowNews

🧩 Cassette Boy is an inventive Fez‑like puzzle RPG where you rotate the world to solve spatial puzzles in a 3D environment hidden in 2D — RockPaperShotgun

🛠️ A decade‑long retrobrighting test suggests the popular method might worsen yellowing and potentially damage vintage console plastic over time — RetroShell

🕹️ A collector’s room houses over 12,000 video games spanning consoles from Atari to PS5, started by a $6 Sega Model 3 purchase — Vice

📺 GoldenEye 007 looks dramatically sharper at 640×480 forced HD on the Analogue 3D retro console — RetroShell

🎮 The 8BitDo 64 controller revives the classic N64 layout in new transparent retro‑style colorways for modern retro play — TrendHunter

🕹️ A look back at Sega’s post‑Mega Drive missteps shows how ambitious add‑ons like the Mega CD and 32X failed compared to rivals — Gamereactor

📀 Current consoles’ backward compatibility varies widely, with many systems lacking native support for older generations — GameSpot

🎶 Furnace Tracker now emulates over 60 classic sound chips from retro systems for chiptune music creation — SonicState

🕹️ Despite years of delays and company struggles, the Intellivision Amico hasn’t been officially cancelled, though its future remains uncertain — GamesHub

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ A curated list of Virtual Boy games noted for their enduring playability and replay value — DualShockers

🎮 A ranked rundown of the top Nintendo 64 titles based on quality and legacy — ComicBook

🕹️ A selection of Master System games that helped define 1980s gaming culture — ComicBook

🕹️ An exploration of 1990s video games that have not aged well in hindsight — CBR

🎮 A guide to Sega Saturn games with notable replay appeal — DualShockers

👻 A cross‑generation list of standout horror games from various consoles — DualShockers

🎮 A list of lesser‑remembered Bethesda games that many fans have overlooked — ComicBook

🔥 A compilation of inexpensive boss battles in games that are notorious for inducing rage quits — WhatCulture

In this weeks edition we feature stories including using AI to decompile N64 games fast, another retro Lego handheld, Stranger Things in retro mess up and a load more (lots of lists this week).

Thanks to all of you that read, like and spread the word each week - you all rock. ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🧟 A cancelled Splatterhouse RPG titled Splatter World is now fully playable in English thanks to a fan translation patch — Time Extension

🕹️ AYANEO has unveiled a silver limited edition of its Game Boy-inspired handheld, the Pocket DMG — YugaTech

📦 Edia is releasing a new Nintendo Switch collection based on Wolf Team’s Zan series, a set of historical strategy games from the ’90s — Time Extension

🎃 The Game Boy Color RPG Gumball in Trick-Or-Treat Land is set to launch in February 2026 — Forbes

🧱 LEGO is preparing to release another buildable retro handheld kit, continuing its series of nostalgic tech replicas — Retro Handhelds

🌱 A fan is working on an early-stage project to recreate Secret of Mana on the PC Engine, despite technical and memory limitations — Time Extension

🧠 A new AI-powered tool enables rapid one-shot decompilation of N64 games, significantly accelerating reverse engineering efforts — WebProNews

🎮 A Banjo-Kazooie-style fan game has appeared on PlayStation’s Dreams platform, showcasing familiar characters in a new setting — Inverse

🚗 Cult-favorite N64 game Body Harvest — a spiritual precursor to GTA — is now available on an emulation-based console, though it comes at a high cost — GamesRadar

🦖 Multiple Turok games are reportedly in development for a 2026 release on modern platforms — ComicBook

⚔️ Queen’s Domain is a newly announced action RPG that draws inspiration from FromSoftware’s classic King’s Field series — Time Extension

🌀 A fan-made Dreamcast port of Star Fox 64 is now available, unofficially bringing the Nintendo classic to Sega’s console — Time Extension

Features

🕹️ A British collector has spent over £2,000 on retro video games since 2020 and insists he will never sell his prized collection, including rare Japanese titles – The Telegraph

🎮 The Llamasoft Collection for Evercade highlights Jeff Minter’s unique contributions to gaming history, featuring titles like Gridrunner and Attack of the Mutant Camels – Time Extension

🧱 The NES is named the most important gaming console of all time for revolutionizing home entertainment and shaping the modern gaming industry – CBR

👻 Stranger Things Season 5 features a Ghosts ‘n Goblins arcade cabinet on set, continuing the show’s tradition of 1980s gaming references – Kotaku

💼 A community poll reveals the best retro handheld consoles at different price tiers, reflecting broad user preferences across budget and performance – Retro Handhelds

🧩 A console modder has created the smallest known PlayStation motherboard using advanced miniaturization techniques – TechSpot

🎭 Trey Parker and Matt Stone say they despise South Park 64, despite its cult following among fans – Cracked

🌱 PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny describes playing Pikmin on GameCube as a transformative moment that deepened his appreciation for storytelling in games – GamesRadar

🕹️ A recently surfaced pitch reveals Sega nearly launched a handheld to compete with the Game Boy, with analysts believing it could have been a major success – Time Extension

✨ Square Enix hints at potential HD-2D remakes for classic titles like Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI, following success with past remakes – Polygon

💾 A developer has successfully run Sonic the Hedgehog on the Amiga, merging two iconic 16-bit gaming legacies – Hackaday

💸 The voice actor behind NBA Jam’s iconic “Boomshakalaka!” catchphrase reveals he was paid only $800, despite the game generating over $1 billion in revenue – NotebookCheck

📉 Xbox lost its lead in the console war due to strategic missteps in game development, hardware perception, and ecosystem limitations – GamingBolt

📰 Nintendo’s dominance in the handheld gaming market persists even amid rising competition and shifting industry dynamics – National Post

🕹️ Atari is re-releasing the 1981 version of Pac-Man for the 2600 as part of its ongoing retro revival strategy – AV Club

📱 Anbernic announces the RG 477V, a new vertical-format retro handheld with upgraded specs and compatibility – Android Authority

🔤 A fan translation patch is being developed for Gunslinger Girl, a PS2 rail shooter based on the anime series, which was previously Japan-only – Time Extension

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ A look back at several obscure 1985 arcade games reveals how many once-prominent titles have faded from public memory, despite their historical significance in gaming. SVG

🎮 A ranked list spotlights the 10 best Super Nintendo games, highlighting iconic titles that defined the SNES era. ComicBook.com

🕹️ Several 1987 video games are revisited for their innovation and quality, despite being underrated or overlooked at the time. SVG

🧢 Nintendo is called out for sidelining 15 notable franchises that once played a key role in its legacy. EarlyGame

👾 A curated list celebrates some of the best video games from the 1980s, praising their enduring influence and gameplay excellence. CBR

🎮 A ranked list spotlights the 10 best Super Nintendo games, highlighting iconic titles that defined the SNES era. ComicBook.com

🎨 A collection of visually stunning GameCube games is highlighted for their artistic direction and technical achievements. TheGamer

🕹️ All Sega Genesis launch titles are ranked, providing a retrospective on how each game contributed to the system’s early identity. CBR

🔥 A ranking of the top 10 Sega Genesis games features standout titles that helped define the 16-bit generation. ComicBook.com

💥 The 10 best Neo Geo games are ranked, showcasing the platform’s arcade legacy and technical prowess. ComicBook.com

In this weeks newsletter, the biggest story has been the announcement of the Chromatic M64, a loopback at the Famicom Karaoke cartridge, the Game Boy loading screen easter egg, Spyro on the N64 and much more.

Thanks for reading, liking and supporting this newsletter ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🕹️ ModRetro reveals the M64, a 4K FPGA-powered Nintendo 64–compatible console aimed at delivering modern accuracy and performance. The Verge

🕹️ Palmer Luckey’s ModRetro M64 targets the N64 market with a $160–$199 FPGA-driven system built to resolve long-standing hardware grievances. Retroshell

🎮 ModRetro hints that new and previously unreleased N64 titles may come to the M64, expanding its software library beyond legacy games. RetroDodo

🔧 Krikzz issues a patch to enable EverDrive compatibility on the Analogue 3D, though with limitations affecting certain features. Retroshell

🌿 Petal Runner is announced as a cozy, Game Boy–style indie adventure set for release in 2026. Forbes

👊 Karate Blazers brings four-player arcade beat-’em-up action to Nintendo Switch and PS4 this week. Retroshell

🚀 A spiritual successor to Star Fox from one of the original SNES developers receives a fresh gameplay re-reveal showcasing major improvements. GamesRadar

💥 Mighty Final Fight Forever is set to launch just before Christmas, continuing Capcom’s retro-inspired beat-’em-up revival. Retroshell

🐉 A modder successfully gets Spyro the Dragon running on Nintendo 64 hardware (below). GoNintendo

🚀 R-Type Delta returns in a reimagined form that departs from the original’s look while preserving its core identity. Retroshell

✨ A Cardcaptor Sakura RPG for WonderSwan is about to receive a full fan translation, making the once-Japan-exclusive title accessible. Time Extension

🔄 A modder creates an automatic converter enabling Game Boy Advance games to run on Game Boy Color hardware via on-the-fly patching. Retroshell

🕸️ The ARMsx2 PS2 emulator introduces online multiplayer support, allowing networked play for supported titles. SteamDeckHQ

🎮 Nintendo adds four tougher retro titles to Switch Online, increasing the service’s lineup of challenge-focused classics. Retroshell

👟 A Singapore designer fits a fully functional SNES inside a Nike trainer, creating a compact and wearable mod system. Retroshell

🕗 TimeSplitters Rewind sees its community stepping up to continue development after years of uncertainty. Retroshell

💾 The ExoWin9x project preserves 662 Windows 95 games in a single portable archive for long-term accessibility. Retroshell

Features

🎤 A rare karaoke studio built around the Nintendo Famicom has resurfaced, showcasing an obscure piece of Japan’s gaming and music crossover history — Techeblog

🌆 A look into Barcelona’s vibrant retro gaming scene reveals its cultural and pixelated heartbeat — Retroshell

🎮 The Super Famicom launched in Japan 35 years ago, marking a pivotal moment in Nintendo’s console history — Inverse

🧱 A fan-made LEGO tribute to the ZX Spectrum has gained attention online, with hopes it could become an official set — Time Extension

🕹️ A full-size Nintendo M82 kiosk in exceptional condition is now up for auction, offering a rare glimpse into classic retail gaming hardware — WGNO

📱 A never-released Sega handheld designed to rival the Game Boy has been revealed in a behind-the-scenes pitch — Time Extension

🧲 The BrickBoy Kickstarter aims to blend LEGO-style customization with Game Boy functionality, featuring swappable magnetic buttons — The Verge

💾 The 8BitMods VMU Pro offers a modern upgrade to the Dreamcast memory card with expanded storage and new features — Time Extension

🥚 A hidden boot screen Easter egg has been discovered in the latest update to the Game Boy Classics app — Vooks

🎼 Donkey Kong Country’s composer believed Nintendo would replace his soundtrack before the game’s release — Time Extension

🗡️ Chrono Trigger remains a top contender for the greatest fantasy RPG of all time, according to fans and critics — CBR

🕹️ The Mangmi Air X is a budget-friendly emulation handheld offering solid performance for retro gaming — Time Extension

🎯 Analogue 3D’s N64 compatibility list highlights the best titles to revisit in high-fidelity — IGN

💜 Despite losing the console war, the Nintendo GameCube continues to resonate with nostalgic gamers — DualShockers

📺 A blooper involving the NES appears in Stranger Things Season 5, catching the eye of retro fans — Time Extension

🎮 The Atari Gamestation Go is reviewed as a portable solution for retro game fans, albeit with some limitations — Tom’s Hardware

🏠 A retro gaming enthusiast shares their picks for transforming a living room into a full arcade experience — GamesRadar

🎂 The PlayStation 2 celebrates its 25th anniversary, remembered for its deep library of hidden gaming gems — Eurogamer

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ A look back at five lesser-known but standout games from the 1980s that offered unique gameplay and nostalgic value — ComicBook

🎮 This list highlights NES titles with high replay value, showcasing games that remain engaging decades after their release — DualShockers

📺 A ranked overview of The Simpsons video games, comparing decades of releases to determine which titles captured the show’s spirit best — Collider

👾 An exploration of SNES classics that redefined gaming and are still regarded as masterpieces today — CBR

🕰️ A ranking of N64 games that have aged remarkably well, demonstrating timeless design and enduring fan appeal — CBR

Contained herewith are such delights as Game Boy Advance mod that allows for 17 days solid gameplay, the Analogue 3D is here, the Zelda film first look, why the US got a NES not a Famicom and tons more.

Thanks for reading, liking and supporting this newsletter ❤️

Subscribe now

News

🕹️ The Analogue 3D console will be restocked on November 24 with a new price of $249.99, marking a $50 increase from its original cost — NotebookCheck

🧩 The Darksoft Neo Geo MVS Multi-Meta cartridge is entering its final production run, signaling the end of its availability — Retroshell

🎬 A first look at Link and Zelda has been shared from the upcoming live-action Legend of Zelda film, offering fans a glimpse of the main characters — Flickering Myth

🧼 A Reddit user has shared a powerful new method for de-yellowing SNES consoles using simple materials and sunlight — Retroshell

🎶 A Kickstarter campaign is reimagining classic Legend of Zelda tracks as 8-bit chiptune EDM compositions — EDM.com

🕹️ Konami’s arcade fighter Battle Tryst has become the first home port of a 3DO M2 title, arriving decades after the platform’s cancellation — Time Extension

📦 The BrickBoy retro handheld console has extended its Kickstarter campaign to December after surpassing the €500,000 funding milestone — Retroshell

🎮 GameMT is a new retro gaming handheld that features a physical Game Boy Advance cartridge slot and an unusual design — NotebookCheck

🌈 The cult PC Engine title Cho Aniki is returning with a re-release on Steam — Retroshell

🧪 Two Baroque spin-offs are launching in the West for the first time next month via Nintendo Switch — Time Extension

🚗 A port of Ridge Racer has achieved a technical feat by running on the Game Boy Advance — Retroshell

⚽ Two classic Jaleco Sports titles — Bases Loaded and Goal! — are now available on Nintendo Switch — GoNintendo

🕰️ The 1995 RPG Dark Seraphim has been revived for Windows 11 with an EU5 price point — Retroshell

🏁 Daytona USA is making a comeback, returning to its arcade-style “body sensation” gameplay roots — Time Extension

🔊 Audio modder FirebrandX has introduced a low-cost method for digitally ripping SNES audio for under €18 — Retroshell

🕯️ Pioneering game developer Rebecca Heineman, known for her work on early computer games, has passed away — GameSpot

📼 Geometry Dash has been unofficially ported to the NES in a fan-made demake called FamiDash — Retroshell

🧯 The MiSTer FPGA competitor Mars FPGA has been discontinued, marking the end of its development — Time Extension

💾 Floppy Flopper challenges users to archive digital data as fast as possible using floppy disks in a timed setting — Retroshell

🎮 A PS2 emulator for Android now supports online multiplayer, enabling classic titles to be played online — Android Authority

🗡️ Nihon Falcom’s 1987 classic Xanadu has returned on modern consoles for a new generation of players — Retroshell

📱 A rare mobile spin-off of the PS2 RPG Stella Deus is being re-released on Nintendo Switch and PC — Time Extension

🛠️ A new open-source 8-bit console called GameTank is planned for a 2025 launch — Retroshell

📦 Over 130 original Xbox games and the console itself are now available again in a major reissue effort — XboxEra

⚡ Moddern Castle has released the Delta Island switchless overclocking kit for the Nintendo 64, enabling performance boosts without physical switches — Retroshell

Features

🕹️ A South African team built a DIY gaming arcade using leftover tech and old equipment, showcasing a creative repurposing of retro and modern hardware — MyBroadband

🔋 A modder repurposed a cylindrical lithium battery into a unique portable gaming console, highlighting innovation in battery form factors — Core77

🎮 The RG35XX H emerges as the ideal handheld for Pokémon ROM hacks thanks to its horizontal layout, HDMI support, and balanced emulation power — Retrododo

🔁 GameStop now accepts virtually any item for trade-in, including gaming memorabilia, as part of a new, unrestricted promotion — The Escapist

🧪 Bethesda unveiled a highly detailed Pip-Boy 3000 replica wearable device, blending retro-futuristic design with functional display elements — TrendHunter

👾 A former Rare developer revealed how lunchtime GoldenEye 007 sessions directly shaped multiplayer features in Banjo-Tooie — NotebookCheck

🕹️ The Guardian revisits the rivalry between Sega Master System and Nintendo Entertainment System, highlighting their 1980s console war — The Guardian

💥 Dragon Ball Z: Buu’s Fury stands out as the best GBA RPG due to its compelling mechanics, story integration, and franchise fidelity — CBR

👑 Kirby Super Star’s battle with Marx is hailed as the greatest ’90s boss fight for its surprise difficulty and dramatic design — CBR

🗑️ Kingdoms of the Dump, a SNES-style JRPG set in a trash-filled fantasy world, has officially launched on Linux — GamingOnLinux

📦 Xbox Game Pass Retro Classics expands to 95 games, adding seven vintage Activision Blizzard titles from the 1990s — NotebookCheck

⚙️ The Analogue 3DS reveals an overclocked mode mimicking a hypothetical “Nintendo 64 Pro,” offering enhanced visuals and smoother performance — Time Extension

📺 The Analogue 3D delivers a faithful Nintendo 64 experience on modern 4K TVs, blending sharp visuals with authentic cartridge support — CNET

🎉 The NES celebrates its 40th anniversary, honoring its legacy as the console that revitalized the video game industry — GIGAZINE

💿 Sonic CD remains a divisive but influential Sonic entry, recognized for its animated cutscenes and experimental time-travel gameplay — ComicBook

🏎️ Top Gear spotlights Rad Mobile, a rare 1990s arcade game featuring an early Sonic cameo, as a forgotten gem in racing history — Top Gear

🖌️ Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 revealed a female-led surrealist RPG with painterly visuals and a dark, fantastical premise — Yahoo!

💔 Despite losing its generation’s console war, the Nintendo GameCube earned lasting fan affection for its unique design and strong library — OpenCritic

🐠 Seaman is named the most underrated Dreamcast title, praised for its bizarre virtual pet mechanics and unconventional voice interaction — CBR

Lists & Rankings

🕹️ A retrospective list highlights standout games from every genre on the elusive, high-priced Neo Geo console of the 1990s — a dream machine for arcade-perfect gaming at home. NotebookCheck

🎮 IGN curates the best Nintendo 64 titles to experience on the Analogue 3D, emphasizing classic gameplay and hardware compatibility. IGN

🧩 This collection showcases NES games with high replay value, focusing on enduring gameplay mechanics and nostalgic appeal. DualShockers

📼 A look at the earliest officially released PlayStation titles reveals the origins of Sony’s gaming legacy from the 1990s. GameRant

🎁 A gift guide presents 12 fun and nostalgic ideas tailored for retro gaming enthusiasts. CreativeBloq

🔁 Military.com lists PS1 games that could benefit from the modern remake treatment pioneered by Final Fantasy VII Remake. Military.com

🧙 A roundup of the best RPGs on PlayStation 2 highlights the system’s strong legacy in storytelling and immersive gameplay. Sportsdunia

🏁 This feature revives five overlooked PS2 racing games that still offer compelling action and unique mechanics. CarThrottle

🔄 DualShockers compiles the most replayable GameCube titles, emphasizing their lasting appeal and gameplay depth. DualShockers