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Author Archives: Owen

Fun Things, Modern Retro Games, Nintendo

Sakurai Teases Real-Life Characters in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – But Should They Join the Fight?

Posted on by Owen

When it comes to gaming legends, few names command as much respect as Masahiro Sakurai. The creative genius behind Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (SSBU) has built a legacy by uniting iconic fictional characters under one roof. From Mario to Solid Snake, SSBU celebrates gaming history like no other. But Sakurai’s recent comments about real-life characters entering the fray have sparked a fresh wave of curiosity – and controversy.

Masahiro Sakurai

The Legacy of Super Smash Bros.

Since its debut in 1999, Super Smash Bros. has been a celebration of fictional heroes. The series takes fan-favourite characters from across the gaming universe and pits them against each other in chaotic, joyous brawls. Sakurai has always been the mastermind of this incredible roster, ensuring that every character represents its source material authentically while blending seamlessly into the game’s mechanics.

The OG – 1999 Super Smash Bros.

So why mention real-life characters now?

Fiction Meets Reality

In a recent discussion, Sakurai mused about the idea of adding real-life characters to SSBU. While this is far from a concrete plan, it’s enough to get fans talking. Imagine iconic figures from history, esports legends, or even developers themselves standing shoulder-to-shoulder with gaming titans. It’s a thought-provoking idea, but it raises an important question: Does reality have a place in a game that celebrates fantasy?

The Challenges of Real-Life Characters

While some games, like Assassin’s Creed, weave historical figures into their narratives, SSBU’s core identity is rooted in fictional escapism. Introducing real people might feel jarring. There are also practical concerns: How do you balance a real-life character’s abilities in a universe with dragons, electric rodents, and intergalactic bounty hunters? And what about the cultural or ethical implications?

Fans Weigh In

The community has been buzzing with mixed reactions. Some fans love the idea of including real-life figures like esports icons or legendary creators, while others argue it would disrupt the game’s harmony. Would it be thrilling or cringe-inducing to see someone like Shigeru Miyamoto wielding a Master Sword?

Cultural and Ethical Questions

Adding real-life characters also invites scrutiny. Would their inclusion overshadow the fictional heroes? Would the game risk offending audiences by misrepresenting real people? Sakurai has always been a stickler for detail, so if anyone could pull it off, it’s him. But even he admits this idea is purely speculative – for now.

The complete canon roster – credit: Reddit

What’s Next for Smash?

Sakurai’s comments, while hypothetical, are a testament to his ever-evolving creativity. Whether or not real-life characters ever join the SSBU roster, one thing is certain: Sakurai knows how to spark a conversation.

Would you want to see real-life figures in SSBU? Or should the series stick to celebrating the worlds of fantasy and fiction? Let us know what you think – and in the meantime, keep your retro gaming treasures safe with a RetroShell premium protector.

Stay updated on the latest gaming news by subscribing to our Retro Gaming newsletter here: https://retrogamingnews.substack.com.

Nintendo, Rom Hack

Double Dragon II: The Revenge Ported from NES to SNES by Rumbleminze

Posted on by Owen

Renowned developer Rumbleminze has successfully ported the classic NES game Double Dragon II: The Revenge to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). This latest release enhances the original gameplay experience by leveraging the SNES’s advanced hardware capabilities.

Credit: Rumbleminze

Key Enhancements:

• Dedicated Jump Button: The SNES ‘A’ button now functions as a dedicated jump button, simulating the simultaneous press of ‘Y’ and ‘B’ buttons, thereby improving control responsiveness.

• MSU-1 Audio Support: Players can enjoy an enriched auditory experience with the inclusion of MSU-1 audio support, allowing for high-quality, CD-like music during gameplay.

• Simplified Continuation: The port removes the need for inputting continuation codes after game-overs, enabling players to resume progress seamlessly.

• Difficulty Adjustments: The game is now completable on all difficulty settings, offering a balanced challenge for both newcomers and veteran players.

• Visual Refinements: Updates to the title screen palettes provide a refreshed visual appeal, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the game.

These improvements are made possible by utilizing FastROM/HiROM techniques, which expedite data transfer and when combined with the SNES’s higher sprite limit, effectively reduce flicker and slowdown issues present in the original NES version.

Rumbleminze has previously undertaken similar NES-to-SNES conversions, including titles like Rescue Rangers, Rygar, Super Dodgeball, and Kid Icarus, each benefiting from the SNES’s superior hardware to deliver smoother and more polished gameplay experiences.

You can download it from here, or here.

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Retro Gaming News, Rom Hack

“Castlevania Reincarnation” English Translation Now Available!

Posted on by Owen

Castlevania Reincarnation, a rare non-official and lesser-known entry in the Castlevania series, has been translated into English. The game, originally released in China for mobile devices, now offers English-speaking fans a chance to explore its haunting world with a freshly translated patch.

What Is Castlevania Reincarnation?

Castlevania Reincarnation is an unofficial spinoff in the iconic Castlevania series. Known for its challenging gameplay, gothic atmosphere, and classic soundtrack, the game draws players into a dark and sprawling castle filled with secrets, monsters, and legendary boss battles. Castlevania Reincarnation is a Chinese-developed entry into Konami’s franchise that was launched in the early 2000s for Java Phones.

Originally limited to Chinese audiences, this entry never officially saw a global release, leaving international fans looking for a way to experience it in their native language.

The Translation Effort

The English translation, spearheaded by Oersted, brings the core dialogue and menus into a legible format for non-Chinese speakers. However, some elements of the user interface could not be translated due to technical limitations. Despite this, the patch makes the game fully playable and accessible for English-speaking audiences.

You can view the translated game being played by Oersted here – Watch on YouTube.

How to Download the Patch

The English patch for Castlevania Reincarnation is available for download from two sources:

• Mega.nz

• Archive.org

A Nostalgic Adventure Rekindled

With this translation, fans can dive into Castlevania Reincarnation and experience its dark and mysterious world for the first time in English. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a retro gaming enthusiast, this release is a chance to rediscover a forgotten gem of the Castlevania franchise.

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Atari

Sega launches “Japanese Game Centres Guide” to give tourists the low down on Japanese arcades

Posted on by Owen

Today, January 20, 2025, SEGA Group’s Sega Feve Co., Ltd. unveiled the Japanese Game Centers Guide, a comprehensive website aimed at helping foreign tourists explore Japan’s vibrant arcade culture. Available in five languages—English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese—the guide offers a detailed introduction to the unique world of Japanese game centres.

Credit: Sega Gamecentre Guide

A Deep Dive Into Japanese Arcade Culture

The guide categorises Japanese arcade games into six distinct genres: crane games, music games, racing games, video games, photo booths (purikura), and medal games. For each genre, SEGA provides recommendations for must-play games, step-by-step instructions on how to play, and tips for winning prizes in crane games.

The website also explains the rules and manners unique to Japanese game centres. Visitors will find information on exchanging money, using electronic payment methods, and the etiquette expected within arcades—essential knowledge for tourists unfamiliar with Japan’s cultural nuances.

Credit: Sega Gamecentre Guide

Why It Matters

Japanese arcades are an iconic part of the country’s gaming culture, offering experiences that differ significantly from those in other parts of the world. SEGA’s Japanese Game Centers Guide bridges the gap for foreign visitors, making arcades more accessible and enjoyable.

Whether you’re a fan of classic racing games or curious about purikura photo booths, this guide ensures you won’t miss a thing.

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Atari, Modern Retro Games, New Games

FASTER: A New High-Speed Racing Game for the Atari STE

Posted on by Owen

FASTER, a 2.5D racing game developed by Jonathan Thomas, designed specifically for the Atari STE. This game delivers a smooth and rapid racing experience, running at 50 frames per second on the standard 8MHz Atari STE.

Credit: Jonathon Thomas / Itch

Key Features:

• High Performance: Achieves 50 frames per second on an 8MHz Atari STE, providing fluid gameplay.

• Enhanced Graphics: Utilizes the STE’s Blitter chip to render over 15 large, full-colour sprites simultaneously, displaying more than 30 colours on screen.

• Dynamic Environment: Features a full 24-hour day/night cycle, adding depth to the racing experience.

• Immersive Audio: Offers simultaneous digital engine noises, sound effects, and a YM soundtrack.

• Classic Arcade Feel: Embraces pure 1980s-style arcade action without modern complexities like multiple game modes or tutorials.

FASTER secured first place in the Silly Venture 2024 WE Atari ST/STE games competition, highlighting its excellence in design and performance.

System Requirements:

• Atari STE with at least 1MB of RAM.

• Compatible with Atari TOS or EmuTOS operating systems.

• Requires a double-sided floppy drive or equivalent, such as a Gotek drive.

• A digital joystick connected to port 1.

For those without original Atari STE hardware, FASTER can be played using emulators like Steem SSE or Hatari.

The game is available for free download on Itch.io, with the developer encouraging players to share their experiences and reviews across social media platforms to help spread the word.

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Retro Gaming News

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0132

Posted on by Owen

This week in gaming I have been playing around with the Analogue Handheld and the Chromatic, getting all of the ROMS I want to try running on the former (any hidden gems for the handheld retro consoles – let me know in the comments).

We have 36 hand-picked stories for you this week, covering such things as a Saturn Sat Nav system, Game Boy modding a 32x deep dive and a whole lot more.

News

🐿️Embark on a charming new Game Boy adventure with Squirrel Falls, a delightful addition to the classic handheld’s library. [RetroShell] Link

🐬Sega’s recent trademark filing hints at a possible revival for Ecco the Dolphin—time to dive into nostalgia! [DualShockers] Link

💿A rare Hitachi Sega Saturn has surfaced for sale, offering collectors a chance to own a unique piece of gaming history. [RetroShell] Link

📀Unreleased Atari Jaguar title LiveWire is finally getting a physical release decades after its development. [Time Extension] Link

📚The Hand-Drawn Game Guides: Mega Man Kickstarter smashed its funding goal in just 12 minutes! [RetroShell] Link

🕹️Golden Axe fans rejoice—a fan-made Neo Geo port of the arcade classic appears to be in the works. [Time Extension] Link

🚀The long-lost Jaleco shoot-’em-up P-47 II MD is back, revived for the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis after 35 years. [RetroShell] Link

⚡Gradius II lands on Analogue Pocket and MiSTer FPGA, bringing classic space battles to modern platforms. [Time Extension] Link

🔫Step into the gritty world of Annihilator, a thrilling top-down shooter for the Game Boy Colour. [RetroShell] Link

🏰Prince of Persia finds a new home on the Sega Dreamcast, thanks to an unofficial port. [Time Extension] Link

📜GOG strengthens game preservation efforts by joining the European Federation for Video Game Preservation. [RetroShell] Link

🎵The Super Metroid soundtrack has been beautifully reimagined in the From the Depths of Zebes LP—now available! [RetroShell] Link

💾The MemCard Pro series gets even better with exciting new firmware updates for retro gaming enthusiasts. [RetroShell] Link

🎮The Dreamcast is alive! Counter-Strike 1.6 runs on the console via the new Xash3D engine port. [RetroShell] Link

Features

🚗Discover how to transform your GBA into a car speedometer in this ingenious retro hardware hack. [RetroShell] Link

🎶Learn to create authentic 8-bit video game sounds in your DAW using a free synth, perfect for retro-inspired tunes. [MusicRadar] Link

🛠️Take a look at the EZdmg-103 Nintendo Game Boy mod—a sleek transformation into a DS-like gaming experience. [TecheBlog] Link

👓Enhance your Virtual Boy gameplay with SSF Designs’ Virtual Lens Set, now available for retro enthusiasts. [RetroShell] Link

📚Explore the staggering number of games made for the Game Boy—Nintendo’s most iconic handheld. [The Gamer] Link

🗺️Check out a handcrafted 3D map of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past—a stunning tribute to Hyrule. [RetroShell] Link

⚖️A Nintendo lawyer explains the company’s aggressive stance on emulator takedowns—here’s why they do it. [Glitched] Link

🎮Play retro games on Apple TV with an Xbox controller—or any other controller—following these simple steps. [RetroShell] Link

🎥David Lynch’s surreal PS2 adverts remain unforgettable in the world of gaming marketing—relive them here. [Eurogamer] Link

🐉Fans were devastated by the cancellation of the Pokémon RPG for the N64—uncover why it remains a sore spot. [CBR] Link

🌟Celebrate the legacy of Super Mario Land, Nintendo’s underrated Game Boy classic that captured hearts. [RetroShell] Link

🎬Revisit a PS2 adaptation of your favourite movie from 21 years ago—a nostalgic dive into gaming’s tie-in era. [GamesRadar] Link

🔍A Super Mario 64 player discovers a new log-clipping glitch—proof that this classic still surprises us. [RetroShell] Link

🔪Resident Evil 4 turns 20! Celebrate the game that redefined the survival horror genre. [Gamereactor] Link

🌀Explore Sega’s 32X—the ambitious add-on that aimed high but fell short of expectations. [RetroShell] Link

🎞️Dive into the wild 1980s era of video games based on 18-rated films—unrated chaos and creativity. [Film Stories] Link

Lists & Rankings

🎮Check out the best video games created by developers before they hit the big leagues—hidden gems galore! [CBR] Link

🎮Ranking the top 10 8BitDo controllers based on review scores—find your next favourite retro gaming accessory! [RetroShell] Link

🔥The best SNES action games of all time, ranked—find out which classic tops the list. [CBR] Link

⚔️Step into rebellion with these JRPGs where you play as a rebel, fighting against the odds. [DualShockers] Link

📺Take a nostalgic journey from the NES to the Switch 2 by watching all of Nintendo’s console launch commercials. [IGN] Link

🎮Discover the best video game consoles of all time—does your favourite make the list? [Digital Trends] Link

Modern Retro Games

Vampire Survivors Developer Teases Major Updates for 2025

Posted on by Owen

The developer behind Vampire Survivors, Poncle, has outlined ambitious plans for 2025, including a new expansion, online co-op, and potential new projects.

Credit: Poncle

Key Highlights:

• New Expansion: Following the success of the Castlevania crossover DLC, Poncle plans to release at least one more original expansion for Vampire Survivors.

• Free Updates: The focus will be on substantial free updates, including new Adventures for existing expansions like Tides of the Foscari and possibly Ode to Castlevania.

• Online Co-op: Building on the couch co-op introduced in 2023, Poncle is working to implement online multiplayer, aiming for a release within the year.

• New Projects: The studio hints at non-Vampire Survivors projects, suggesting that 2025 will be its “biggest, chaotic-est, surprising-est” year yet.

These developments indicate a commitment to expanding the Vampire Survivors universe and exploring new creative avenues.

Stay tuned for all things retro gaming—sign up for Retro Gaming News on Substack!

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Fun Things

Greggs Unleashes Humor with “Sausage Roll 32X” Tweet

Posted on by Owen

In a delightful twist of humour, Greggs, the beloved British bakery chain, has once again captured the hearts and laughter of its followers with a witty social media post.

@GreggsOfficial amusingly responded to a query about compatibility between their ‘Sausage Roll 2’ and the original Sausage Roll, referencing gaming console history with the tweet, “

@cynog Yes it can be combined with Sausage Roll 1 to create the Sausage Roll 32X”.

A staple of the UK – The Greggs Sausage Roll

This playful response was a nod to the Sega 32X, an add-on for the Sega Genesis that aimed to bridge the gap between 16-bit and 32-bit gaming but ultimately became a commercial disappointment. By likening their sausage roll iterations to this piece of video game history, Greggs not only entertained but also showcased their keen sense of cultural reference, connecting food with tech nostalgia.

The tweet was a reply to a user, @cynog, who humorously inquired if the new ‘Sausage Roll 2’ was ‘backwards compatible’ with the original, sparking a chain of playful exchanges. The mention of creating a “Sausage Roll 32X” by combining the two versions cleverly merges the world of fast food with the gaming community, a blend that has resonated well with fans online.

Not a sausage roll

Greggs has a history of engaging with its audience through clever marketing and social media interactions, and this recent post is yet another example of its creative approach to customer engagement. The company, known for its iconic sausage rolls, has managed to keep the conversation lively and light-hearted, reinforcing its position not just as a food retailer but as a brand with personality.

The response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans enjoying the blend of humor and pop culture, further solidifying Greggs’ reputation for fun and engaging social media presence.

For more updates on Greggs’ humorous takes and delicious offerings, keep an eye on their official X account.

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New Games, New Hardware For Retro, Nintendo

Mario Kart 9: Nostalgia Meets Innovation on the Switch 2

Posted on by Owen

Nintendo has been hard at work revving up excitement for Mario Kart 9, and recent glimpses of the game suggest it could be one of the most nostalgic entries in the franchise. Set to launch with the much-anticipated Switch 2, the next instalment in this iconic series promises a perfect blend of classic charm and modern gameplay innovations.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

A Blast from the Past: Princess Peach’s Classic Outfit

One of the most striking nods to nostalgia is Princess Peach’s return to her debut outfit from Super Mario Kart (1992). Gone is the sleek racing suit seen in more recent iterations; instead, Peach will don her original pink gown and tiara.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

This aesthetic shift mirrors the game’s broader vibe, which seems to lean heavily into retro-inspired elements. Longtime fans of the franchise will appreciate the throwback, while new players can experience the charm of Mario Kart’s early days.

Yoshi’s Roadside Diner: A Sweet Tribute to the SNES Era

Another delightful addition is the inclusion of a Yoshi-shaped roadside diner named “Yoshi’s.” This cheerful track-side landmark pays homage to Yoshi’s Cookie, a 32-year-old SNES puzzler that holds a special place in Nintendo history.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

The diner isn’t just a backdrop—it’s fully integrated into the gameplay. Players can zip through the parking lot, dodging cars, while a neon-lit sign glows above the course. Details like this elevate the game world, making it feel alive and connected to Nintendo’s broader legacy.

Gameplay Innovations and Switch 2 Features

While Nintendo has yet to confirm all details, Mario Kart 9 is expected to take full advantage of the Switch 2’s improved hardware. Enhanced graphics, smoother performance, and more interactive tracks are just some of the features teased.

The game will also reportedly expand on its track roster with circuits inspired by classic Nintendo games, merging nostalgia with fresh experiences. Combined with its subtle yet powerful nods to history, Mario Kart 9 feels like a celebration of everything the series has achieved over the decades.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

Nostalgia and Fresh Thrills

Between Princess Peach’s retro look, the charming Yoshi’s Diner, and the promise of cutting-edge features, Mario Kart 9 is shaping up to be an unforgettable entry in the franchise. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this release on the Switch 2 is sure to have something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on the latest updates for Mario Kart 9—subscribe to our Retro Gaming Substack for more Nintendo news. And if you’re a collector, keep your retro games safe with RetroShell premium game protectors.

New Hardware For Retro, Nintendo, Sony

MemCard Pro Series Receives Exciting Firmware Updates

Posted on by Owen

8Bit Pro’s MemCard Pro lineup, renowned for revolutionizing memory solutions for classic gaming consoles, has recently introduced several firmware updates, enhancing functionality and user experience across its products.

Credit: 8BitMods

MemCard Pro GC Firmware v2.0.2

The GameCube variant of the MemCard Pro has been updated to firmware version 2.0.2, introducing:

• Default Boot Card Selection: Users can now designate a default memory card to load upon startup, streamlining the gaming experience.

• Card Template Feature: An existing card can serve as a template for new cards, preserving preferred settings and configurations.

• Bug Fixes: Enhancements include improved on-screen error handling and resolution of issues related to specific games like “Puyo Pop Fever.”

MemCard Pro2 Firmware v1.2.0

The MemCard Pro2, compatible with PlayStation 1, 2, and 3, has been updated to firmware version 1.2.0, featuring:

• Card Templates: Users can create templates for new virtual memory cards, ensuring consistency across multiple cards.

• OLED Display Rotation: The display can now be flipped 180 degrees, accommodating various hardware setups.

• Enhanced Cloud Backup Setup: The WebUI now provides guidance on configuring cloud backups, simplifying data preservation.

• Additional Improvements: Faster firmware installation, increased drive strength for better compatibility with third-party peripherals, and various bug fixes.

MemCard Pro GC Cloud Saves

A significant update for the MemCard Pro GC introduces cloud backup capabilities:

• Cloud Backups: Users can back up their memory cards to Google Drive, with plans to support additional providers in future updates.

• Screen Rotation: The OLED display can be flipped 180 degrees, beneficial for Nintendo Wii users.

• Performance Enhancements: Overall performance improvements, including faster SD card access and reduced firmware update times.

These updates demonstrate the ongoing commitment to enhancing the MemCard Pro series, providing retro gaming enthusiasts with modern features and improved performance. You can get the beta firmwares on the 8bitMods Discord server.

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