Owen Hughes - Retro Gaming News Journalist

Fun Things, Nintendo

Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Achieve the Impossible—Blindfolded

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

The Super Mario 64 speedrunning community has once again shattered expectations, successfully executing a trick so precise that it was once considered nearly impossible. To make things even more astonishing, it has now been achieved while blindfolded.

The trick in question involves landing Mario on an incredibly tiny in-game coordinate, roughly the size of a single red blood cell in real-world comparison. Previously thought to require frame-perfect accuracy and extensive trial and error, speedrunners have now proven that it can be accomplished without even seeing the game.

Blindfolded speedrunning is already an impressive feat, requiring players to rely entirely on sound cues, muscle memory, and deep knowledge of game mechanics. This latest breakthrough pushes those boundaries even further, demonstrating an almost superhuman level of precision. The accomplishment highlights not only the dedication of the Super Mario 64community but also the game’s enduring complexity, decades after its original release on the Nintendo 64.

Speedrunners have been experimenting with and refining various techniques for years, often uncovering new exploits and mechanics in the process. This blindfolded achievement could open the door for even more refined strategies in future speedrun attempts. It also underscores just how much Super Mario 64 continues to captivate and challenge players worldwide.

While this trick may not have immediate applications for casual play, it adds yet another layer of intrigue to the deep rabbit hole of Super Mario 64’s speedrunning scene. As techniques continue to evolve, it’s anyone’s guess what seemingly impossible feat will be conquered next.

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Retro Gaming News

Speedrunning Community Faces Challenges as Twitch Limits Video Storage

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

The speedrunning community is grappling with a major shift as Twitch introduces new restrictions on video storage, impacting highlights and past broadcasts. This change has sparked frustration among gamers who rely on archived footage for records, analysis, and historical documentation.

Under the new policy, Twitch will limit how long highlights and uploads are stored, meaning that many of the platform’s most iconic speedruns could be at risk of deletion. Speedrunners frequently use Twitch’s video-on-demand (VOD) feature to review gameplay, verify world records, and share their runs with the broader gaming community. With these limitations, there’s growing concern that valuable content could be lost if not backed up elsewhere.

Prominent figures in the speedrunning scene have voiced their disappointment, noting that Twitch has long been the preferred platform for streaming live gameplay and maintaining archives. While alternatives like YouTube exist, many speedrunners prefer Twitch for its built-in community features and integration with leaderboards. The change forces players and organizers to rethink how they preserve past achievements and share content going forward.

Some speedrunning groups are now urging players to manually save and re-upload their runs to more permanent platforms. Others are looking into external solutions for archiving, such as community-driven projects that aim to store records outside of Twitch’s ecosystem. Despite the frustration, speedrunners remain determined to adapt, as preserving the history of gaming achievements remains a priority.

For now, the Twitch update serves as a reminder of the importance of digital preservation. Whether the community finds a sustainable long-term solution remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—speedrunning will continue to thrive, even if it means adjusting to new challenges.

Rom Hack

Jurassic Park 2 for SNES Gets a Stunning Overhaul After 30 Years

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

More than three decades after its original release, Jurassic Park 2 for the SNES has been given a long-overdue upgrade, thanks to the dedicated efforts of BillyTime!Games. This fan-driven project enhances the classic title with refined visuals, smoother gameplay, and quality-of-life improvements, breathing new life into an often-overlooked sequel.

Originally developed by Ocean Software, Jurassic Park 2: The Chaos Continues launched in the mid-’90s, aiming to build on the success of its predecessor. However, while the game had an ambitious mix of side-scrolling action and top-down exploration, it suffered from clunky mechanics and frustrating difficulty spikes.

The overhaul introduces several key improvements, including infinite continues, More time in some timed missions, health packs giving full health and a few more adjustments.

Well, here it is. Its still a hard game but I feel some of the changes improved it somewhat. May revisit this in the future. Jurassic Park II – The Chaos Continues Redux is LIVE! pic.twitter.com/GF3ea46sI3
— BillyTime!Games (@BillytimeG) February 19, 2025

This project is just the latest example of the retro gaming scene’s commitment to preserving and improving classic games. With homebrew developers and hackers consistently revisiting older titles, forgotten gems like Jurassic Park 2 are getting the recognition and updates they deserve.

While there’s no official re-release in sight, those eager to experience this enhanced version can seek out the mod from Rom Hack Plaza. It’s a great time to revisit the Jurassic Park universe in 16-bit form—only this time, with a much-needed modern touch.

New Hardware For Retro

MSXbook: A Modern Laptop Inspired by a Classic Japanese Computer

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

The MSX standard, one of Japan’s most influential home computer platforms of the 1980s, is making a comeback in a surprising new form. The MSXbook is a newly announced laptop that pays homage to the MSX computing era while incorporating modern hardware, offering a fresh way to experience retro computing as shared by 4Gamer.

Developed as a spiritual successor to the MSX line, the MSXbook blends vintage aesthetics with contemporary functionality. The laptop aims to support classic MSX software while also running modern applications, making it a unique hybrid device for enthusiasts. Whether you want to boot up classic games like Metal Gear and Aleste or tinker with MSX BASIC, this device has you covered.

Designed with a sleek but retro-inspired look, the MSXbook comes with a built-in mechanical keyboard reminiscent of the classic MSX machines. It also boasts a range of connectivity options, including USB-C, HDMI, and even cartridge support for original MSX software. The hardware ensures compatibility with the original MSX code, making it a dream device for retro computing fans.

The resurgence of MSX-themed hardware reflects a growing demand for vintage computing experiences, especially in Japan and among international collectors. The MSXbook taps into this nostalgia while offering the convenience of modern technology, allowing users to enjoy the best of both worlds. It’s not just a tribute—it’s a fully functional, everyday-use machine tailored for retro enthusiasts and developers alike.

With a planned release later this year, and a price of $215 on Tindie the MSXbook is generating excitement among the retro tech community. Presently the MSXBook is out of stock, but you can join the waitlist (as we have) to get your hand on one by entering your email here. Whether you’re a longtime MSX fan or new to the platform, this laptop offers a rare opportunity to revisit one of gaming’s most influential home computing standards.

Fun Things

Timeless Games That Prove Graphics Aren’t Everything

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

In an era of cutting-edge visuals and hyper-realistic game engines, some titles remain addictive despite their ageing graphics. A recent discussion on Reddit asked, “What’s an outdated game that’s still endlessly playable?” The responses show that, for many gamers, gameplay always trumps visual fidelity.

One of the most mentioned games was Age of Empires II. Originally released in 1999, this real-time strategy classic continues to engage players worldwide. Fans agree that its strategic depth and multiplayer appeal make it a title that never gets old. “If you have friends to play with, you can enjoy this game forever,” one user noted, echoing the sentiment of many RTS enthusiasts.

Another game frequently cited was Heroes of Might & Magic III. With its detailed pixel art and rich strategic gameplay, many players argue that its visuals have aged gracefully. “I still play this while drinking my morning coffee,” one fan shared, highlighting its lasting charm and replayability.

Tactical RPG fans also brought up Final Fantasy Tactics, a title lauded for its engaging battle system and compelling story. “This is my favourite game,” one commenter stated, with others praising its legendary soundtrack and deep mechanics that keep them coming back.

For those who love hack-and-slash loot hunting, Diablo II was a common response. Some gamers even credited the game with teaching them about virtual economies. “I still play the remastered version—it’s just as fun as ever,” one player remarked, showing that its addictive gameplay loop remains intact.

However, the ultimate example of “graphics don’t matter” might be Tetris. Whether it’s in ASCII art or modern 3D, its fundamental mechanics remain unchanged and universally engaging. “The NES version is still the best,” one player insisted, while another called it “a legendary title.”

The discussion proves that great gameplay stands the test of time. Whether it’s an RTS, RPG, or puzzle game, these classics continue to captivate players, reinforcing the idea that visuals are just a small part of what makes a game great.

Collecting, Fun Things

Final Fantasy Joins Magic: The Gathering in an Epic Crossover

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

Two of the biggest fantasy franchises in gaming history are colliding as Final Fantasy makes its debut in Magic: The Gathering. Wizards of the Coast has revealed a first look at the upcoming Final Fantasy crossover set, bringing iconic characters, spells, and lore from Square Enix’s legendary RPG series into the world of collectable card gaming.

The announcement was made at MagicCon Chicago, where fans got an exclusive preview of the upcoming set. The cards will span multiple Final Fantasy titles, from the early NES-era classics to modern blockbusters like Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy XIV. Expect to see legendary figures such as Cloud Strife, Sephiroth, and Terra Branford translated into beautifully illustrated Magic: The Gathering cards.

Beyond just character representation, the set will also introduce spells and mechanics inspired by the Final Fantasyuniverse. Summons like Ifrit and Shiva may appear as powerful creature cards, while signature magic like Ultima and Meteor could become game-changing spells. The crossover aims to capture the essence of both franchises, blending the deep lore and strategy of Magic: The Gathering with the beloved characters and worlds of Final Fantasy.

This is part of Wizards of the Coast’s ongoing expansion of Magic: The Gathering’s crossover series, which has already included properties like The Lord of the Rings and Warhammer 40,000. Given the passionate fanbase of both Magic and Final Fantasy, this collaboration is expected to be a major hit among collectors and competitive players alike.

The Final Fantasy set is slated for release in June 2025, with more details expected to emerge as the launch approaches. Whether you’re a longtime Magic player or a Final Fantasy enthusiast looking to experience the franchise in a new way, this crossover is shaping up to be one of the most exciting card game events in recent memory.

Modern Retro Games

Gold Master Series Brings Classic Games Including Tetris Forever to Physical Form including an Exclusive Handheld

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

For fans of classic gaming, there’s exciting news on the horizon. Digital Eclipse has announced that its Gold Master Series will be receiving physical editions, allowing collectors to own high-quality versions of these carefully curated retro game releases due for release on the 25th of February 2025 from Atari’s website, Limited Run Games, and select retailers internationally.

The Gold Master Series is a line of games dedicated to preserving and celebrating gaming history. Each release is more than just a game—it’s a deep dive into the title’s development, legacy, and impact on the industry. Featuring behind-the-scenes content, developer insights, and historical context, these releases offer a unique look at some of these influential games.

For those looking to grab a copy, multiple editions will be available. The Standard Edition includes the game, a collector’s booklet, and digital extras, priced at $39.99. The Deluxe Edition, priced at $69.99, comes with exclusive packaging, an art book, and a behind-the-scenes documentary. Finally, the Ultimate Collector’s Edition, at $129.99, features all Deluxe Edition content plus a numbered certificate, premium display case, and limited-edition physical memorabilia.

Now, with physical editions confirmed, fans will be able to add these historical collections to their shelves. While details on the packaging and additional content are still forthcoming, expectations are high for premium releases that reflect the same level of care Digital Eclipse has shown in past projects.

This move is particularly exciting for preservationists and collectors who value owning tangible copies of gaming history. In an era where digital distribution dominates, physical releases provide a sense of permanence that many retro gamers appreciate.

With the Gold Master Series already showcasing some of gaming’s greatest titles, these physical editions are shaping up to be must-have additions for fans of video game history.

Nintendo

Pokémon GO Developer Reportedly Nears $3.5 Billion Deal to Sell Games Division

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

Niantic, the studio behind Pokémon GO, is reportedly close to finalizing a $3.5 billion deal to sell its gaming division as reported by Bloomberg (non-paywall version of the story here). While details remain scarce, sources suggest that the sale is part of a strategic shift for the company, which has struggled to replicate the massive success of its hit augmented reality (AR) title.

Despite Pokémon GO maintaining a loyal player base and generating significant revenue, Niantic has faced challenges in expanding its portfolio. Attempts to launch other AR-based experiences, including Harry Potter: Wizards Unite and Pikmin Bloom, have seen mixed results, with some projects failing to capture long-term interest. This potential sale could indicate a move toward restructuring the company’s focus, possibly prioritizing technology and platform development over direct game publishing.

Industry analysts speculate that a major player in the gaming or tech sector may be involved in the acquisition. Companies with an interest in AR and mobile gaming could find Niantic’s expertise and intellectual property valuable, particularly as AR continues to evolve and merge with emerging technologies like mixed reality.

If the deal goes through, it will mark one of the biggest acquisitions in recent gaming history. Niantic has yet to officially comment on the reported transaction, but the industry is watching closely to see what impact this could have on the future of Pokémon GO and other existing titles.

With the gaming landscape constantly shifting, this sale could be a significant moment for the mobile and AR gaming sectors. Whether this means new developments for Pokémon GO or a shift in Niantic’s overall strategy remains to be seen.

Nintendo

Mario & Luigi: Brothership Receives First Update – Here’s What’s New

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

The latest entry in the Mario & Luigi RPG series, Mario & Luigi: Brothership, has just received its first post-launch update, bringing a range of fixes and improvements. Version 1.0.1 is now available for download, addressing some early issues reported by players and refining the overall gameplay experience.

Among the most notable changes are stability improvements, which should help prevent occasional crashes that some users encounter. Additionally, the update includes various bug fixes, such as resolving certain dialogue errors and improving the consistency of character animations in specific cutscenes.

One of the more welcome tweaks is a minor balance adjustment, particularly in some of the game’s more challenging encounters. Some enemies had been slightly overturned in difficulty, and this patch makes battles a bit more manageable without sacrificing the game’s strategic depth. Players have also reported that certain side quests and collectables had minor glitches, and the patch notes confirm that these issues have now been addressed.

Beyond these technical updates, Mario & Luigi: Brothership remains a vibrant and engaging RPG that continues the legacy of the beloved series. With its signature humour, clever combat mechanics, and charming story, fans have been eager to dive into the latest adventure featuring the iconic duo.

While this patch focuses on fixes rather than new content, it’s reassuring to see that the developers are actively supporting the game. Future updates may bring additional enhancements or even new features, but for now, Version 1.0.1 ensures a smoother and more polished experience for players. Here is a link on how to update.

Fun Things, Nintendo

Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Discover Bizarre Underwater Standing Trick

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

Speedrunners and glitch hunters in Super Mario 64 continue to push the game to its limits, and their latest discovery is as impressive as it is seemingly pointless. A recently unearthed trick allows Mario to stand motionless underwater—a feat that requires an astonishingly precise sequence of 41 button inputs.

The technique, uncovered by dedicated members of the Super Mario 64 speedrunning community, demands an extraordinary level of dexterity and timing. While it currently serves no practical purpose in speedrunning or casual play, it stands as yet another example of the game’s deep and complex mechanics, even decades after its release.

This glitch joins a long list of intricate exploits that fans have found over the years. Super Mario 64 remains one of the most dissected games in history, with speedrunners continuously discovering new ways to manipulate its physics and behaviour. From wall-clipping tricks to movement exploits, each new find contributes to the game’s rich legacy within the speedrunning world.

The discovery of this underwater standing technique may not revolutionize the speedrunning meta, but it highlights just how much Super Mario 64 still has to offer for those willing to dig deep. Whether future research into the glitch leads to a useful application remains to be seen, but for now, it’s a fascinating display of skill, patience, and sheer dedication to uncovering the game’s hidden possibilities.

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