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Author Archives: Owen

Nintendo

Nintendo Successfully Blocks French File-Hosting Site from Distributing Pirated Retro Games

Posted on by Owen

In a significant victory against piracy, Nintendo has successfully blocked French file-storage website 1fichier from hosting unauthorised copies of its games. The ruling, issued by the Paris Judicial Court, mandates the site to implement measures that prevent users from uploading or sharing pirated versions of Nintendo’s classic and modern titles.

This court decision arrives as part of Nintendo’s ongoing campaign to protect its intellectual property, particularly targeting platforms facilitating widespread piracy. Nintendo has historically been assertive about safeguarding its gaming heritage, actively targeting piracy and emulation sites that illegally distribute ROMs.

1fichier had long been popular among players seeking easy access to downloadable game ROMs, becoming a hub for hosting retro titles across generations, including games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy Advance eras. The site’s accessibility made it an attractive destination, but the ease of obtaining these titles illegally undermined Nintendo’s official distribution channels, which rely on services like the Nintendo Switch Online retro library.

Historically, Nintendo has aggressively pursued piracy enforcement, often to protect its profitable back-catalogue. Notably, the company has repeatedly targeted ROM-hosting platforms, such as EmuParadise and ROMUniverse. The current victory over 1fichier continues this pattern, reflecting Nintendo’s unwavering stance on preserving both its current revenues and the heritage of its expansive game library.

Nintendo’s efforts have not always been popular with all gamers, particularly those who view ROM sites as crucial to game preservation. Critics argue Nintendo’s own efforts at preservation have been inconsistent, citing limited availability of older titles and periodic removals of classic games from its online stores.

Interestingly, Nintendo’s history of aggressive copyright enforcement dates back decades. In the late 1980s, Nintendo famously pursued legal actions against companies producing cartridges for the NES without permission, setting a precedent that still influences legal approaches to gaming IP today.

Ultimately, this latest legal victory reinforces Nintendo’s commitment to safeguarding its legacy, although debates about the role ROMs play in historical preservation continue.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell – the ultimate protection for your retro collection. For the latest news and insights in retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Fun Things

The Minecraft Movie’s Official Merchandise Now Available!

Posted on by Owen

Mattel is celebrating the upcoming Minecraft Movie (in theaters April 4) with a fresh lineup of Minecraft toys and plushies. While the big-screen debut is still a bit away, a few of these items are already available to order. Check out the list below to see what you can snag now—and stay tuned for updates on the elusive Jack Black action figure when it finally goes on sale.

• Overworld Encounters Pack (4 Figures) – $29.99

• Skeleton 4-Inch Action Figure – $15.99

• Dennis the Wolf 3.25-Inch Action Figure – $9.99

• Creeper 12-Inch Action Figure – $14.99

• Blast Attack Ghast Figure Set – $29.99

• Click and Switch Sword and Pickaxe – $29.99

• Minecraft: Bee Plush – $10.99

• Minecraft: Creeper Plush – $10.99

• Check out the entire range here!

Some of the most exciting items are part of the Minecraft: Core Figures collection. These $29.99 action figures come with articulated joints and fun accessories. You’ll find a Skeleton Archer, a Creeper, and a Wolf among the lineup.

For a more immersive play experience, check out the Minecraft Blast Attack Ghast playset. It includes both Piglin and Ghast figures. Pressing the top of the Ghast figure creates whooshing sound effects, activates lights, and fires a projectile. It’s $29.99 and pairs perfectly with any of the Core Figures to build out your Minecraft world.

If you prefer bigger collectibles, the Minecraft: Large Scale Figure Assortment offers a 12-inch version of either Steve or a Creeper for $15. They come with accessories and have articulated joints, just like their smaller counterparts.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell – the top choice for retro protection. For the latest retro gaming news and insights, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Collecting, Fun Things, Nintendo

Mario’s 40th Anniversary Time Cover: A Testament to Gaming’s Most Iconic Hero

Posted on by Owen

Time Magazine has released a Special “Mario” Edition of its famous magazine to celebrate 40 years of Nintendos legendary mascot.

Credit: Time Magazine

The decision to mark the plumber’s 40th anniversary by placing him on a special edition cover highlights Mario’s unrivalled influence on the world of gaming. Technically, Mario is 44 years old, his first appearance being as “Jumpman” for the arcade game Donkey Kong, but most people mark the start of the Mario era based on his first appearance in Mario Bros in 1985 on the NES.

For those who grew up with Mario, this cover signifies more than a pop-culture nod; it’s a celebration of an enduring legacy that helped shape side-scrolling platformers and established a high bar for game design and playability. Mario’s journey from 8-bit sprite on the original NES to the fully realised hero in today’s titles exemplifies the evolving technical landscape. From cartridge-based consoles that paved the way for speedy arcade ports to modern 3D worlds running on advanced hardware, Mario’s presence throughout gaming history has remained consistent, adaptable, and beloved.

Beyond pure nostalgia, this Time Magazine feature underlines Mario’s international reach and commercial success. Few gaming characters have made the leap from classic games on platforms such as the Game Boy, SNES, and even the occasional PC port, to still remain relevant decades later. This milestone acknowledges how retro gaming continues to inspire current titles, captivating both new players and those who fondly remember the 8-bit era and the early years of gaming.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Fun Things, Nintendo

Nintendo Marks Mario Day 2025 with Special Switch Deals and Celebratory Events

Posted on by Owen

Nintendo has officially unveiled a range of discounts for Mario Day, celebrated annually on 10 March. This beloved tradition pays tribute to gaming’s most recognisable plumber, who first appeared in the 1981 arcade classic Donkey Kong, albeit under a different name—Jumpman. For 2025, the promotions spotlight a selection of Mario-centric Nintendo Switch titles, including price reductions on Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. Some retailers are also bundling themed Joy-Con controllers, making it a convenient time for fans and collectors to grab these signature games.

Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD– $39.99 (normally $59.99)
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe– $39.99 (normally $59.99)
Mario vs. Donkey Kong– $29.99 (normally $49.99)
Princess Peach: Showtime!– $39.99 (normally $59.99)
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury– $39.99 (normally $59.99)
Super Mario Odyssey– $39.99 (normally $59.99)
Super Mario RPG– $39.99 (normally $59.99)

Credit: Nintendo

Beyond the discounts, Nintendo has organised a series of events to mark the occasion such as a Mario Kart Tournament, GameStop and BestBuy demo events and even a Jet Blue A320 (below) – amongst a host of other activities and offers.

Credit: Jetblue/Nintendo

Since Mario’s earliest days, enthusiasts have praised the series’ accessible gameplay, charming worlds, and memorable soundtracks. In fact, the character’s creation by legendary designer Shigeru Miyamoto helped shape the foundation of platform gaming. It’s a testament to the series’ legacy that Mario remains a cultural icon more than four decades after his debut.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday! Interestingly, Mario was named after Mario Segale, the landlord of Nintendo of America’s early warehouses.

Rom Hack, Sega

Sega Megadrive/Genesis Puyo Puyo Now Translated to English

Posted on by Owen

The Sega Genesis version of Puyo Puyo has officially been translated into English for the first time, offering English speaking JRPG fans a chance to play this for the first time. Originally developed by Compile in the early 1990s, Puyo Puyoquickly gained recognition in Japan for its fast-paced puzzle mechanics and whimsical cast of characters. Western audiences, however, were mostly introduced to the franchise through Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine, a rebranded adaptation for Sega’s systems.

This translation project has been spearheaded by RadioTails, who aimed to preserve the essence of the puzzle classic and make it accessible to a broader audience of retro gaming devotees. The new patch offers fully localised text and menus, ensuring newcomers can navigate the game comfortably . On top of that, the iconic chain combos and distinct cartoonish aesthetics remain intact.

Despite its age, Puyo Puyo stands out for its addictive gameplay loop. Players strategically stack Puyos to set off chain reactions that send “garbage” to their opponent’s grid. This core mechanic has influenced numerous titles, highlighting the game’s enduring impact on the puzzle genre. Intriguingly, Puyo Puyo first began life as a spin-off of the Madō Monogatari RPG series, giving the puzzle game a rich backstory that many fans outside Japan never experienced until now.

You can grab the patch and all the details on how to apply it on Rom Hack Plaza.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Arcade, Modern Retro Games, Nintendo, Sega

Acclaim: The Return of a Retro Giant in 2025

Posted on by Owen

Acclaim, once a powerhouse of 1980s and 1990s gaming, has officially returned to the spotlight under the leadership of new CEO Alex Josef. Industry reports suggest that this revival will focus on supporting independent developers and rekindling beloved classic franchises. For gamers who remember Acclaim’s heyday, this news represents a new lease of life for titles that once defined console gaming.

This is what I’m hoping for…

In its original form, Acclaim was a major name in publishing and distributing on systems such as the NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis. Perhaps best known for its home-console versions of arcade hits like Mortal Kombat (under licence from Midway), Acclaim also boasted original ventures, including the dinosaur-hunting adventure Turok (which recently had a remaster including a few enhancements). During the 1990s, the company experimented with an array of genres—from sports titles, such as All-Star Baseball and NBA Jamcollaborations, to action-heavy adaptations like WWF WrestleMania. While arcade conversions made Acclaim a household name, the publisher proved it could excel at original games too, catering to varied gaming tastes.

By the early 2000s, Acclaim faced mounting financial pressures, leading to its eventual closure in 2004. The rights to certain properties were sold off, and for years, the once-distinctive Acclaim logo faded into industry memory. As of 2025, the brand’s re-emergence signals a determined effort to capitalise on rising nostalgia for classic games and new opportunities in the indie market. According to newly released statements, Acclaim’s strategy involves leveraging modern distribution platforms while also offering development support to small studios interested in working with legacy IPs. This might open doors for reimaginings of fondly remembered titles—an enticing prospect for enthusiasts of classic games who crave updates on storied franchises.

Historically, Acclaim’s success lay in its ability to bring arcade-quality gameplay to home systems, often bridging the gap between coin-op experiences and living room consoles. With the resurging interest in retro gaming and platforms like IOS now open for emulation and mini-consoles, the potential for revisiting Acclaim’s back catalogue is evident.

Now, under fresh leadership, the publisher is ready to make the most of today’s retro gaming resurgence. Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz, Josef explained: “Acclaim’s legacy stretches back to a golden era for console gaming. We want to reinvigorate that legacy by partnering with indie studios that share our passion for timeless gameplay.” He also noted a commitment to modernising fan-favourite series: “Players remember the thrill of discovering Turok’s hidden levels or mastering combos in Mortal Kombat. We aim to harness that nostalgia while incorporating fresh ideas for contemporary audiences.”

Reportedly the company’s strategy involves offering developmental resources to smaller studios interested in working with legacy IPs, rather than simply re-releasing classic titles: “Our plan is to go beyond mere remasters. We’re looking at how to introduce new mechanics, deeper narratives, and polished visuals, but without losing that retro spark,” Josef said. Several key franchises—dormant for years—are set to be revisited, and there are hints of new projects inspired by the spirit of Acclaim’s original catalogue.

We are very excited to see what legendary franchises might get the remaster treatment in the coming months.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Interestingly, Acclaim once produced motion-sensing game controllers in the 1990s, demonstrating an early foray into technology now commonplace in modern gaming peripherals.

Modern Retro Games, New Games

Suikoden I & II Return: Konami Breathes New Life into a Classic JRPG Series

Posted on by Owen

Konami has confirmed that it has spent more than five years carefully reviving its iconic Suikoden series, with the upcoming Suikoden I & II HD Remaster poised to introduce modern refinements while preserving the charm that defined the original titles. Released on the PlayStation in the mid-1990s, the first two Suikoden games quickly earned a loyal following thanks to their expansive storytelling, compelling cast of recruitable allies, and an art style that showcased the capabilities of 2D sprites during the console’s early 3D era.

The Original

Industry insiders note that Konami’s methodical development approach has been crucial. Given that Suikoden is regarded as one of the more underappreciated JRPG gems, the company recognises how important it is not to rush the process. Early glimpses of the HD Remaster highlight improved character portraits, reorganised interface elements, and subtle enhancements to the soundtrack—small but meaningful tweaks designed to maintain the authenticity of the original PlayStation releases.

Fans can also anticipate several quality-of-life updates, such as the option to adjust battle speed and the addition of an expanded save system. These refined features aim to welcome a fresh generation of players without alienating long-time enthusiasts. Konami’s decision to pour years of careful effort into this project underscores its respect for gaming history—a sentiment echoed by veteran developers who remember the uniquely warm narrative threads and rich world-building that have made Suikoden so enduring.

Credit: Steam

One fascinating detail about the original Suikoden is that it features 108 recruitable characters, a concept directly inspired by the classic Chinese novel Water Margin. This intricate gameplay dynamic remains one of the series’ most celebrated hallmarks, ensuring that the HD Remaster will resonate with both newcomers and those who treasured the 90s experience.

Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is due to launch on the 6th March on Windows (via Steam), PS4/PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Fun Things, Microsoft, Rom Hack

New Tool Paves the Way for Xbox 360-to-PC Ports

Posted on by Owen

Xbox 360 fans are celebrating a significant breakthrough in video game preservation, following recent reports of a new tool developed called “Xenon Recomp” that could potentially enable native PC ports of Xbox 360 titles. While technical details remain in flux, the basic concept is that original code from older Sonic games—and possibly any Xbox 360 release—can be adapted to run on modern personal computers without the need for complicated emulators. As stated on Github – the tool “converts Xbox 360 executables into C++ code, which can then be recompiled for any platform.”

Sonic Unleashed is called “Sonic World Adventure” in Japan

This project is seemingly inspired by the N64 Recompiled project, which does a similar thing for Nintendo 64 games. However, before we get too excited it is worth noting that, even though the N64 project has been out for almost a year and there has only been a small selection of games which have made the leap on the PC from the N64.

The implications of this development are considerable. Xbox 360 hardware, which first debuted in 2005, has had a long and storied history, but it faces inevitable decline as parts wear out over time (or death by RROD 💀). For historians, collectors, and general admirers of retro gaming, a reliable way to bring 360-era favourites to PC represents a significant leap forward in preserving these interactive works. Removing hardware limitations also opens the door for enhancements such as improved frame rates, higher resolutions, and the preservation of the original.

From a historical perspective, this effort sits alongside longstanding attempts to keep classic games alive. In the 1990s, enthusiasts used DOSBox to preserve MS-DOS releases, ensuring these foundational PC titles would remain accessible. Console gamers have similarly embraced community-driven tools, from chip-based modifications of the NES to custom firmware on handhelds. In each case, the goal is the same: safeguarding our collective gaming heritage.

If this latest tool proves viable on a larger scale, we could see a renaissance of Xbox 360 classics—both mainstream hits and more obscure gems—brought back for modern hardware. With such projects gaining traction, publishers might begin collaborating with fan communities to tap into renewed demand for older catalogue titles.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Modern Retro Games, Nintendo, Steam

ZX Spectrum and C64 Classic “Head Over Heels” Steps Back into the Spotlight on PC and Switch

Posted on by Owen

Originally released in 1987, Head Over Heels first captured the imaginations of gamers on the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64 with its inventive isometric puzzle-platform gameplay. Created by developer Jon Ritman and artist Bernie Drummond, it stood out for its dual-character mechanic: players could switch between “Head,” known for impressive jumps, and “Heels,” who excelled in speed. By working in tandem, the pair navigated a labyrinth of cleverly designed rooms, solving puzzles that demanded equal parts timing and strategy.

Over time, Head Over Heels gained cult status among enthusiasts of 8-bit computing, thanks to its charming graphics, distinctive abilities system, and a depth of play that rivalled many contemporary releases. Even decades later, it is often cited as a quintessential example of isometric design done right, alongside other legendary titles such as Batman (1986), which shared similar mechanics.

Now, according to recent updates, this classic is returning for a new generation on PC and Nintendo Switch. The remaster promises polished visuals that retain the game’s original feel, while introducing a smoother framerate, refined controls, and enhanced audio. Early demonstrations suggest that the developers have been careful to preserve the spirit of the original, ensuring that each puzzle remains faithful to its 8-bit roots. Additional checkpoints, a more intuitive item-collection system, and a dynamic help feature are also rumoured, aiming to keep the experience accessible without sacrificing the core challenge.

This revitalised release illustrates a wider movement in retro gaming: bringing classic titles to modern platforms while respecting their heritage. In the case of Head Over Heels, fans can look forward to reliving an iconic puzzle adventure, while newcomers will get a taste of 1980s innovation in a freshly updated format.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!

Nintendo

Masahiro Sakurai Celebrated for Influential Game Designs and Timeless Legacy

Posted on by Owen

Masahiro Sakurai, the visionary behind many of Nintendo’s iconic properties, has recently been recognised by the Japanese government for his pioneering game design tutorials. Known for co-creating the Kirby series and masterminding the Super Smash Bros. franchise, Sakurai’s work has had a far-reaching impact on the retro gaming landscape, inspiring new generations of developers and players alike.

The man, the legend

Sakurai’s career began at HAL Laboratory in the early 1990s. It was here he introduced the world to Kirby, a character whose deceptively simple mechanics brought accessibility to classic games on the original Game Boy. Kirby’s Dream Land, released in 1992, remains a cornerstone of retro gaming, often praised for its whimsical design and intuitive controls. Despite primarily creating titles for Nintendo consoles rather than MS-DOS or other home computer platforms, Sakurai’s design ethos has transcended hardware boundaries, influencing gameplay across the entire gaming industry.

Perhaps his most influential creation is the Super Smash Bros. series, first launched on the Nintendo 64 in 1999. By blending different Nintendo characters into a unique fighting experience, Sakurai bridged the gap between casual and competitive players. He introduced streamlined controls, dynamic stages, and an iconic roster of familiar faces, forever changing how fighting games were perceived. His focus on accessible tutorials helped ensure that newcomers could grasp the fundamentals without complex manuals or steep learning curves.

This recent recognition by Japanese authorities underscores Sakurai’s dedication to teaching the art of game creation. Through his YouTube channel and various speaking engagements, he has continued to share in-depth analyses of design principles, championing clarity and enjoyment in all gaming experiences. Such efforts ensure the preservation of classic titles, spotlighting the continuing relevance of beloved properties like Kirby and Smash Bros. in modern gaming culture.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!