Owen Hughes - Retro Gaming News Journalist

Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony, Steam

Lunar Remastered Collection: Physical Release Details for North America

Posted on February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 by Owen

The Lunar Remastered Collection, featuring updated versions of the classic JRPGs Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete, is set to launch on April 18, 2025. Publisher GungHo Online Entertainment has announced that in North America, the physical edition will be available exclusively through Amazon ($54.99). Notably, there will be no pre-order option; purchases can be made directly on the release day.

GungHo has assured fans that the physical release is not limited, stating, “There will be plenty of copies available for everyone interested.” However, it’s unclear if the physical edition will be available in brick-and-mortar stores. For European customers, Clear River Games will handle the physical distribution, with more details forthcoming.

The remastered collection offers enhanced graphics and audio, widescreen support, and both Japanese and English voice options. Players can choose between “Remastered” and original “Classic” graphics, and the games include quality-of-life improvements like sped-up battle animations.

Given the high resale value of the original PlayStation versions, this remastered collection provides an accessible way for both longtime fans and newcomers to experience these beloved titles.

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Uncategorized

Peter ‘Navy’ Tuiasosopo, ‘Street Fighter’ E-Honda Actor, Passes Away at 61

Posted on February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 by Owen

Peter ‘Navy’ Tuiasosopo, renowned for his portrayal of E. Honda in the 1994 Street Fighter film, passed away on February 10, 2025, at the age of 61 due to heart complications in Phoenix, Arizona.

Born on May 24, 1963, in San Pedro, California, Tuiasosopo began his career in the entertainment industry in the early 1990s. He made a memorable debut as Manumana in Necessary Roughness (1991), showcasing his talent and versatility. His role as E. Honda in Street Fighter further cemented his place in Hollywood, bringing the beloved video game character to life on the big screen.

Throughout his career, Tuiasosopo appeared in various films and television series, including The Scorpion King, The Fast and the Furious, Austin Powers in Goldmember, and NCIS. His diverse roles highlighted his adaptability and dedication to his craft.

Before venturing into acting, Tuiasosopo had a brief stint in professional football, signing with the St. Louis Cardinals and later playing for the Los Angeles Rams during the 1987 NFL players’ strike.

His son, Manoah, announced his passing on Facebook, stating, “My dad lived an amazing life and in no way does his impact stop here. We will continue to live with him in spirit.”

Tuiasosopo’s legacy as a trailblazer for Polynesian actors in Hollywood remains significant. His contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark, and he will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.

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Modern Retro Games, Steam

Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake Exceeds Sales Expectations

Posted on February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 by Owen

Square Enix’s Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake has surpassed initial sales projections, providing a bright spot in the company’s recent financial report. The game, which reimagines the classic 1988 RPG with modern HD-2D graphics, has resonated strongly with both longtime fans and newcomers.

In its latest earnings report, Square Enix noted that while some recent titles underperformed, Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake delivered “stronger sales” than anticipated. This success is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by other major releases in the same period.

The HD-2D style, which blends pixel art with 3D effects, has been praised for its nostalgic yet fresh aesthetic. This visual approach has been previously utilised in titles like Octopath Traveler, and its application to a beloved classic like Dragon Quest 3 has evidently struck a chord with players.

The original Dragon Quest 3 is often hailed as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, introducing features like a class system and a more open-world exploration compared to its predecessors. Its enduring popularity has made it a prime candidate for this modern makeover.

For those interested in experiencing this blend of classic gameplay and modern visuals, Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake is available on multiple platforms, such as Steam. Its success may also pave the way for similar remakes of other entries in the series, as Square Enix continues to explore the potential of its extensive back catalog.

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PC Gaming, Steam

Neverwinter Nights 2 Remaster Hinted by Steam Database Listing

Posted on February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 by Owen

Fans of Dungeons & Dragons-based RPGs have reason to be excited, as recent developments suggest that Neverwinter Nights 2 may be receiving a remastered edition and its first release on Steam. According to a report by GamesRadar+, a new listing titled “Dungeons & Dragons Neverwinter Nights 2” was recently added to the Steam Database, with updates as recent as February 11, 2025.

Originally developed by Obsidian Entertainment and released in 2006, Neverwinter Nights 2 is based on the D&D 3.5 edition ruleset. The game offers a rich narrative experience, separate from its predecessor, and features a character creation process, companion system, and turn-based combat mechanics that fans of titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 would find familiar.

The potential remaster follows the precedent set by the original Neverwinter Nights, which received an Enhanced Edition in 2018, making its way to PC, PS4, Xbox One, and mobile platforms. This move not only modernized the classic but also introduced it to a broader audience. The absence of Neverwinter Nights 2 from Steam has been a notable gap for RPG enthusiasts, and this development could signify a long-awaited update.

While official confirmation from the developers or publishers is pending, the SteamDB listing has ignited speculation and anticipation within the gaming community. If the remaster comes to fruition, it would provide both longtime fans and newcomers an opportunity to experience the game with enhanced features and accessibility.

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Modern Retro Games, Nintendo

‘Save Me Cows!’: A New Game Boy Action Puzzle Adventure

Posted on February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 by Owen

In a delightful nod to retro gaming, developer Danny Bliss has launched a Kickstarter campaign for Save Me Cows!, an action-puzzle game designed for the original Game Boy and compatible systems. Drawing inspiration from Sega’s classic ChuChu Rocket!, this title replaces the original’s mice and cats with cows and UFOs, offering a fresh yet nostalgic experience.

Players assume the role of a cowpoke employed by Edgar, a renowned rancher and four-time alien abductee. The objective is to guide Edgar’s prized cattle through 100 challenging levels, ensuring they reach safety before being abducted by alien UFOs. The gameplay involves strategic planning and quick reflexes to outmaneuver the extraterrestrial threats.

The Kickstarter campaign aims to raise $21,138 to fund the project’s development. As of now, it has garnered $5,338, with 17 days remaining. Backers can choose from various reward tiers, starting with a $13 digital ROM version of the game. For collectors, a $74 limited edition boxed version is available, featuring a physical cartridge with a metal shell, a manual, a sticker sheet, and digital files, including the game’s soundtrack.

Notably, Save Me Cows! has been tested on all original Game Boy models, the Analogue Pocket, and Modretro’s Chromatic handheld, ensuring compatibility across a range of devices. This dedication to quality and authenticity highlights the developer’s commitment to delivering a polished product to both retro enthusiasts and new players alike.

For those interested in supporting this project or learning more, the Kickstarter campaign provides detailed information and updates. The campaign is set to conclude on February 28, 2025, leaving a limited window for potential backers to contribute.

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Nintendo, Rom Hack

F-Zero SNES Receives Fan-Made ‘Bower League’ Expansion

Posted on February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 by Owen

The classic Super Nintendo racing game F-Zero has been revitalised by the fan community with the introduction of the “Bower League,” a custom league featuring five new courses. This project emerged from a month-long challenge within the F-Zero Online Discord community, where participants utilised the FZEdit tool to design tracks using only assets from the original SNES game and its BS-X sequel.

The newly crafted courses are:

1. MUTE CITY V by Zephyrum and Erik64

2. SAND STORM III by Moshikomi

3. SILENCE III by Vulduv

4. RED CANYON III by Zephyrum

5. SAND OCEAN II by Fennor

Each track was designed to match the original game’s difficulty level while introducing unique features to enhance the racing experience. The hack was initially released on Satellaview+, a fan-made recreation of Nintendo and St. Giga’s satellite service from the mid-‘90s. It’s now accessible for players to download and apply to a U.S. version of the game.

For those interested in experiencing the Bower League, the patch is available for download at RomHack Plaza.

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PC Gaming

Tibia Introduces New Monk Class After 28 Years

Posted on February 12, 2025February 12, 2025 by Owen

After nearly three decades, the free-to-play MMORPG Tibia is set to expand its roster with a new playable class: the Monk. This addition marks the first new vocation since the game’s launch in 1997.

Developed by CipSoft, Tibia has maintained a dedicated player base with its existing four vocations: Druid, Knight, Paladin, and Sorcerer. The upcoming Monk class is described as a melee fighter proficient in martial arts and mystical abilities, capable of supporting and healing allies. Unique features such as harmony, virtues, and serene are expected to set the Monk apart, while ensuring it complements the existing classes without rendering them obsolete.

The Monk is scheduled to be available later this year, with external testing beginning on February 25. CipSoft plans to release more details about the class in the coming weeks.

Nintendo

Nintendo Expands Mobile Gaming Efforts Amid Switch 2 Buzz

Posted on February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 by Owen

Nintendo has reaffirmed its commitment to mobile gaming, even as it gears up for the launch of the Switch 2. In a recent investor call, President Shuntaro Furukawa emphasised that the company will continue to develop and release new mobile titles alongside its console endeavours.

“Nintendo has released mobile apps in many parts of the world, including countries and regions we have not reached with our dedicated video game platform business. As of the end of September 2024, cumulative downloads of Nintendo apps exceeded 900 million (Total number of unique users for apps released so far by Nintendo.). I believe this has increased the opportunities for more people to access Nintendo IP and characters.”

Currently, Nintendo operates several mobile games, including “Fire Emblem Heroes,” “Mario Kart Tour,” and “Super Mario Run.” Additionally, “Pikmin Bloom,” developed in collaboration with Niantic, remains active. Notably, “Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp” transitioned to a paid model, rebranded as “Pocket Camp Complete,” eliminating microtransactions in favor of a one-time purchase.

This sustained focus on mobile platforms indicates Nintendo’s strategy to reach a broader audience by leveraging its popular franchises in the mobile gaming market. While specific details about upcoming mobile projects are under wraps, the company’s ongoing efforts suggest that fans can anticipate new mobile experiences in the future.

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Fun Things, Nintendo

Massive Mario Kart LEGO Set Rumoured to Be on the Way

Posted on February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 by Owen

A new rumor suggests that LEGO and Nintendo might be gearing up for one of their biggest collaborations yet: a massive Mario Kart LEGO set. According to sources, this unannounced set is expected to include iconic characters, vehicles, and tracks from the beloved racing franchise.

LEGO and Nintendo have already partnered on several successful sets, including Super Mario interactive playsets and detailed recreations like the Mighty Bowser. However, a fully-fledged Mario Kart set could take things to another level. Fans are speculating about potential builds, such as a detailed Rainbow Road, Bowser’s Castle, or even a modular track system that allows for real racing-style mechanics.

While there’s no official confirmation yet, the rumor aligns with LEGO’s trend of expanding into more ambitious video game-themed sets. If true, it could be one of the most anticipated releases for both LEGO and Nintendo fans in 2025.

Credit: Brickfanatics

Fun Things, Nintendo

Nintendo Music App Adds Golden Sun Soundtrack, Expanding Retro RPG Selection

Posted on February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 by Owen

Nintendo has expanded its Nintendo Music app by adding the soundtrack of the classic Game Boy Advance RPG, Golden Sun. This addition marks the 38th soundtrack available on the app, bringing the total listening time to over 93 hours.

Golden Sun’s soundtrack features 54 tracks, totaling nearly two hours of music. Notably, the app offers an “Extend To…” feature, allowing users to loop many of these tracks for 15, 30, or 60 minutes—perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Motoi Sakuraba’s legendary compositions.

Released in October 2024, the Nintendo Music app is available to Nintendo Switch Online members. It provides access to a curated selection of soundtracks from various Nintendo games, spanning multiple generations and consoles. Nintendo has committed to regular additions over time, with soundtracks from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Metroid Prime already in the mix.

Developed by Camelot Software Planning, Golden Sun launched in 2001 for the Game Boy Advance and quickly gained a cult following. Its blend of turn-based combat, puzzle-solving, and deep lore made it one of the most beloved RPGs on the system. With fans still hoping for a new entry in the series, this soundtrack addition is a welcome nod to the franchise’s lasting legacy.

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