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Author Archives: Owen

Modern Retro Games, Retro Gaming News

New Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Remaster Possibly on the Way

Posted on by Owen

Fans of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series might have something to get excited about, as a fresh remaster could be in the pipeline. The news didn’t come from an official announcement but rather a casual slip-up by one of the game’s voice actors, leading to immediate speculation among fans.

The Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise has seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks in part to the critically acclaimed remaster of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2. The 2020 release was well-received, with its blend of nostalgic gameplay and modern enhancements. However, Activision has remained tight-lipped about further entries—until now.

According to the unnamed actor, on the Breakfast Show podcast, a new remaster is “about to come out,” though details remain scarce (credit Gematsu). This statement has left fans wondering whether the next title in line is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4, or perhaps another classic entry in the franchise getting the remake treatment.

Given the strong sales of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2, it wouldn’t be surprising if Activision has quietly greenlit another project. The skateboarding series holds a special place in gaming history, and with the growing interest in revitalizing retro franchises, a new instalment could be a major win for both long-time players and newcomers.

While we wait for official confirmation, it’s clear that enthusiasm for the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games remains high. Whether or not this new remaster will live up to expectations is yet to be seen, but the possibility alone is enough to get fans talking.

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Fun Things, Microsoft

Building the Ultimate Xbox 360: A Modder’s Dream Console

Posted on by Owen

The Xbox 360 remains one of the most beloved gaming consoles of all time, but what if you could take it to the next level? With the right mods, hardware upgrades, and a bit of patience, you can transform a stock 360 into the ultimate custom console. This guide walks you through the process of turning a Trinity model Xbox 360 Slim into a powerhouse of gaming potential.

Why the Trinity Model?

Not all Xbox 360s are created equal. The Trinity model is one of the most reliable versions, boasting improved cooling and significantly reduced risk of the infamous Red Ring of Death. Additionally, it offers excellent compatibility with modding kits, making it an ideal choice for this project.

The Trinity Mobo

Essential Mods for the Ultimate Xbox 360

1. RGH 3.0 – Unlocking the Console’s Full Potential

The foundation of any fully modded 360 is the Reset Glitch Hack (RGH 3.0). This allows you to run unsigned code, opening the door to custom firmware, homebrew applications, and backup game installations. The process involves soldering a Quick Solder Board (QSB $5) to specific points on the motherboard, a delicate task requiring some soldering expertise.

The Quick Solder Board – from Phenm Mod.

2. Viper Pro Dual NAND – Dual Boot Like a Pro

A Viper Pro ($35) module adds a second NAND to the console, enabling dual boot functionality. This means you can have one profile running a modified dashboard like Aurora for homebrew and emulators while keeping another profile stock for safe online gaming. Switching between these modes is as simple as pressing a button on the Viper Pro’s daughterboard.

3. Storage Upgrade – 1TB SSD for a Library of Games

Stock hard drives are outdated, and an SSD upgrade dramatically improves load times and storage capacity. Installing a 1TB SSD* (Amazon / ~$44.97) allows you to store a vast collection of games, emulators, and media, eliminating the need for physical discs.

4. Optical Drive Mod – The LTU2 Board

This modification replaces the stock DVD drive board with an LTU2 replacement, allowing custom firmware installation for playing burned games. However, this is a finicky process, and success isn’t guaranteed. Thankfully, alternative methods exist for playing backups through software solutions.

The LTU2 Board

5. Custom Shell – A Visual Masterpiece

A fully upgraded console deserves an aesthetic to match. There are a number of 3rd party options from the likes of Etsy and eBay – but Phenom Mod also do a great clear shell which will set your console apart.

The Final Build: A Gamer’s Dream Machine

With all the modifications complete, the final result is an Xbox 360 unlike any other. Features include:

  • Custom firmware and homebrew support
  • Dual NAND setup for safe online gaming
  • Massive storage with instant game access
  • The ability to run emulators for classic consoles
  • A custom shell to give your machine a fresh new look

Still looking for more upgrades, you can upgrade the RAM

Final Thoughts

Modding an Xbox 360 takes time, skill, and patience, but the results are worth it. Whether you’re a collector, a homebrew enthusiast, or just looking to breathe new life into a classic console, these upgrades transform the Xbox 360 into the ultimate gaming machine.

Protect your collection! If you’re serious about retro gaming, safeguard your valuable consoles and games with RetroShell—the world’s finest game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered fresh every Monday!

*Affiliate link

Source.

Modern Retro Games, Nintendo

Limited Run Faces Backlash Over Faulty NES Cartridges

Posted on by Owen

Limited Run Games, a company known for publishing physical editions of modern and retro-inspired titles, is under fire for allegedly producing NES cartridges that could potentially harm consoles. Reports from collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts suggest that these new cartridges may cause damage to the internal components of original NES hardware, sparking concerns across the community.

Rugrats may harm your console, picture credit Limited Run Games

The issue first came to light when multiple users reported their NES systems malfunctioning after using Limited Run’s cartridges. Some claim that improper voltage regulation or poor manufacturing could be to blame, with affected consoles showing symptoms ranging from graphical glitches to complete hardware failure. Given that many retro gamers rely on original hardware for an authentic experience, this controversy has raised serious alarm.

Limited Run Games contacted John Riggs who shared the content of the email (below) where they confirmed that “due to an issue with the voltage regulation, there is a small chance that prolonged use of these titles could result in damage to either the cartridge or the console hardware” 😳. The blame has been put on a supplier that is not their regular partner. The games in question are RugRats and PiioPow, both of which have sold out and are no longer available.

My email from Limited Run. Looks like my copy of Rugrats will just stay in the box.

[image or embed]

— JohnRiggs (@johnriggs.bsky.social) 19 February 2025 at 02:20

This incident underscores the risks associated with modern reproductions of retro hardware. While many companies have successfully released high-quality cartridges in recent years, quality control issues can still arise, and collectors are now questioning whether enough testing was conducted before these products hit the market.

For now, affected users are advising others to avoid inserting these cartridges into their NES systems until further investigation clarifies the risks. The retro gaming community will be closely monitoring the situation, waiting to see if Limited Run responds with a solution or refund policy.

Credit to TimeExtension for breaking this story.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Fun Things, Nintendo

Squaresoft’s Push for CDs on the N64: A Lost Opportunity?

Posted on by Owen

The Nintendo 64 is often remembered for its groundbreaking 3D graphics, iconic games, and enduring legacy. However, one of its most debated design choices was Nintendo’s insistence on sticking with cartridges instead of embracing CDs—a decision that ultimately led to a major rift between Nintendo and one of its biggest third-party developers, Squaresoft.

Recently resurfaced information from an interview with Venturebeat reveals that Squaresoft actively lobbied Nintendo to adopt CD technology for the N64, believing it was the superior format for the future of gaming. At the time, CDs offered vastly greater storage capacity, allowing for high-quality audio, full-motion video, and expansive game worlds—features that the cartridge format simply couldn’t match. Squaresoft, known for its ambitious RPGs like Final Fantasy VI, saw this as a crucial opportunity to push the medium forward.

Nintendo, however, remained firm in its commitment to cartridges, prioritizing faster load times and lower piracy risks over storage concerns. This decision ultimately pushed Squaresoft toward Sony and the PlayStation, where it would go on to develop Final Fantasy VII, a title that became a defining moment in gaming history and a massive blow to Nintendo’s dominance.

Had Nintendo agreed to Squaresoft’s proposal, the N64’s library could have looked drastically different. Imagine Final Fantasy VII on a Nintendo console, alongside the likes of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64. Instead, the divide between Nintendo and Squaresoft lasted for years, only beginning to mend in the early 2000s.

While the N64 still produced legendary titles, the absence of major third-party RPGs left a gap in its library that Sony readily filled. This episode serves as a reminder of how a single hardware decision can reshape the gaming industry for decades to come.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Nintendo, Rom Hack

Argos no Senshi Gets Full English Translation for the NES

Posted on by Owen

JRPG fans have another reason to celebrate, as Argos no Senshi—the Japan-exclusive NES classic—has finally received a full English translation. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the ROM hacking community, players can now experience this action-packed adventure without the language barrier.

Credit: Rom Hack Plaza

Originally released in Japan for the Famicom, Argos no Senshi is known in the West as Rygar on the NES. However, the two versions differ significantly, with the Japanese release featuring a more arcade-like progression rather than the RPG-style mechanics of its Western counterpart. This new translation preserves the original gameplay while making the story and dialogue fully accessible to English-speaking audiences.

The translation project not only converts the game’s text but also fine-tunes certain aspects to improve the overall experience. Menu options, in-game prompts, and item descriptions have all been localized, allowing players to navigate the game with ease. The translation team has also worked to maintain the game’s original charm while enhancing clarity for modern players.

This effort highlights the continued passion of the retro gaming community, ensuring that hidden gems like Argos no Senshi reach a broader audience. Now, players who may have been hesitant to dive into the Japanese version can enjoy the game as it was originally intended, you can find the game at Rom Hack Plaza.

For those eager to try it out, the translated ROM can be patched onto the original Japanese version using standard translation tools. With this release, Argos no Senshi is finally breaking language barriers, bringing a piece of gaming history to a whole new audience.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Fun Things, Sony

GTA 3 Almost Penalized Players for Running Red Lights

Posted on by Owen

The open-world chaos of Grand Theft Auto 3 could have been a little stricter—at least according to early development plans. Originally, players were meant to receive a wanted level simply for running a red light. However, the idea didn’t sit well with the development team, leading to its swift removal.

According to former developer insights, this mechanic was scrapped because it conflicted with the game’s overall design philosophy. While realism has always played a part in the GTA series, the goal was to encourage freedom rather than restrict it with minor infractions. Getting a wanted level for something as trivial as ignoring a traffic signal would have significantly slowed down the pace of gameplay, leading to frustration rather than fun.

At its core, GTA 3 revolutionized the gaming landscape by introducing a fully explorable 3D city where players could engage in mayhem at their own pace. The decision to remove penalties for red lights allowed for smoother, more dynamic movement through Liberty City, ensuring that the action never felt bogged down by unnecessary rules. Instead, the game focused on rewarding player agency—whether that meant evading the cops after a major heist or simply cruising through the streets without fear of petty violations.

This anecdote serves as an interesting look at the design choices that shaped one of gaming’s most influential titles. While the GTA series has since evolved with more immersive mechanics, it continues to prioritize open-ended gameplay over rigid realism. And given the franchise’s massive success, it’s clear that the developers made the right call.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Modern Retro Games

New 4-Player Puzzle Action: Block Panic DX Arrives on Neo Geo

Posted on by Owen

Neo Geo fans have a new multiplayer experience to dive into with Block Panic DX, a fast-paced puzzle game that now supports up to four players. Designed for the AES, MVS, and Neo Geo CD, this title brings fresh energy to the classic competitive puzzle genre, offering intense battles with friends and family.

Developed by blastar, Block Panic DX blends quick reflexes with strategic thinking. Players must clear blocks efficiently while managing on-screen chaos, using power-ups and chains to outmanoeuvre their opponents. The addition of four-player support makes it a standout in the Neo Geo library, where multiplayer puzzle games are relatively rare.

Graphically, Block Panic DX embraces the bold and colourful aesthetic synonymous with the Neo Geo, featuring vibrant sprites and smooth animations. The soundtrack delivers an energetic mix of tunes that enhance the game’s frantic pace. Combined with tight controls and accessible mechanics, it’s an inviting experience for both casual and competitive players.

The game is available across all Neo Geo formats, ensuring that whether you own an AES, MVS, or a Neo Geo CD, you can enjoy the action. Physical copies are planned for release, making it a great addition for collectors looking to expand their library with new homebrew titles.

For those who love retro puzzle games and competitive couch co-op, Block Panic DX is shaping up to be a must-have. With its unique four-player mode and classic arcade charm, it offers a compelling reason to dust off your Neo Geo. Whether or not you are able to able to try it in 4 player mode will depend on whether you are lucky enough to have an adaptor for your original hardware, or a MiSTer which supports 4 players natively.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Modern Retro Games, Nintendo

Reviving the Game Boy Advance e-Reader with New Games

Posted on by Owen

The Game Boy Advance e-Reader was one of Nintendo’s more unusual peripherals—an add-on that allowed players to swipe special cards to unlock content in compatible games. Despite its innovative concept, it never gained widespread popularity, especially outside Japan. But in 2025, the e-reader is making an unexpected comeback, thanks to a passionate group of developers creating brand-new games for the long-dormant accessory.

RetroDotCards, a company dedicated to reviving classic gaming experiences, has launched a new series of e-reader-compatible cards. Their Series One collection features freshly developed mini-games and utilities that breathe new life into the GBA’s overlooked peripheral. Players can swipe these new cards through the e-Reader to access exclusive content, much like they would have back in the early 2000s.

Unlike the original e-reader cards, which were primarily used for small NES game downloads and Pokémon bonuses, RetroDotCards aims to push the limits of what the accessory can do. Their new releases include fast-paced arcade-style games, puzzle challenges, and even homebrew applications that enhance the GBA’s functionality.

I'm making new games for the Nintendo GBA E-Reader. Here's a sampling of the games scheduled for the first pack. More details at retrodotcards.com

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— retrodotcards.com (@retrodotcards.com) 5 January 2025 at 21:31

The project has sparked excitement among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the ingenuity behind these modern retro releases. Given how scarce e-reader content was outside Japan, this new wave of support is particularly significant for Western fans who never had the chance to explore the add-on’s full potential.

With physical media and retro hardware seeing a resurgence in popularity, projects like this highlight the ongoing dedication of the retro gaming community. Whether you missed out on the e-reader the first time or still have one collecting dust, RetroDotCards offers a compelling reason to dig it out and give it another shot.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Sega

Sega Dreamcast Receives Cloud Save Support in 2025

Posted on by Owen

In a surprising but welcome development, the Sega Dreamcast is getting modernized with cloud save support. Just like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch, Sega’s final console is receiving a feature that was once thought impossible for legacy hardware. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of indie developers and the retro gaming community, Dreamcast owners will soon be able to back up and access their saved data online.

The cloud save functionality is being implemented via a new homebrew software initiative, developed by Robert Dale Smith – enabling Dreamcast users to store their VMU (Visual Memory Unit) data on a dedicated server. This advancement means no more worrying about lost or corrupted save files, a common issue with ageing VMU batteries. With cloud integration, players can now switch between consoles and restore their progress seamlessly.

This update breathes new life into the Dreamcast, which remains a fan-favourite console due to its innovative library of games like Shenmue, Jet Set Radio, and Skies of Arcadia. The cloud save feature will be accessible through a simple online setup, with initial reports suggesting it will be compatible with original hardware and modified Dreamcast units.

While the Dreamcast may have been discontinued in 2001, its enduring fanbase continues to keep it relevant through advancements like this. The addition of cloud saves marks another milestone in the system’s impressive afterlife, proving once again that retro gaming isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about innovation, too.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Modern Retro Games

Special Ninja Squad Brings 16-Bit Action to the TurboGrafx-16

Posted on by Owen

Retro gamers and PC Engine fans take note—there’s a new 16-bit action platformer hitting your favourite NEC console. Special Ninja Squad, developed by Game Castle, is a fresh addition to the TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine library in 2025, proving that the homebrew and indie scene for classic hardware is alive and well.

Credit: Indie Retro News

The game promises a fast-paced ninja adventure packed with slick pixel art, fluid animations, and a classic side-scrolling combat system. Players take control of a skilled ninja warrior battling through enemy-infested landscapes, dodging obstacles, and slicing foes with precision. If the early footage is anything to go by, expect tight controls reminiscent of Ninja Spirit or Shinobi but with a modern indie polish.

Special Ninja Squad features multiple levels with distinct environments, from bamboo forests to ancient temples, each with unique enemy types and hazards. There’s also a power-up system, allowing players to upgrade their weapons and abilities as they progress. The developers have confirmed that the game will be available in both digital and physical formats, with a cartridge version planned for dedicated collectors.

With the TurboGrafx-16 already known for its impressive arcade-style action games, Special Ninja Squad looks like a worthy addition to the system’s legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the PC Engine scene, this is one to keep an eye on.

For more details, check out the full coverage on Indie Retro News.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!