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Author Archives: Owen

Fun Things, Nintendo

Metroid Prime’s Legacy Bound in Print: A Visual Retrospective Unveiled

Posted on by Owen

Today, we’ve got a cracking bit of news that’ll thrill anyone who’s ever donned Samus Aran’s Varia Suit in virtual battle. On February 27, 2025, Piggyback and Nintendo unveiled an official release date for Metroid Prime 1–3: A Visual Retrospective, a lavish art book celebrating over two decades of the iconic first-person adventure series. Slated to hit shelves on June 24, 2025, this 215-page hardcover promises a deep dive into the artistry and development of Metroid Prime, Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, and the stunning Metroid Prime Remastered. For fans of vintage Nintendo brilliance, this is a must-have.

The Metroid Prime saga began in 2002 on the GameCube, a bold shift from the series’ 2D roots to a 3D masterpiece crafted by Retro Studios. It was a gamble that paid off, blending atmospheric exploration with technical wizardry that pushed the console’s limits—think 60 frames per second and texture work that still holds up today. The trilogy continued with Echoes in 2004 and Corruption on the Wii in 2007, each refining the formula while introducing innovations like motion controls. The 2023 Switch remaster of the original only cemented its status as a timeless classic. Now, this book—priced at £39.99/$49.99/ C$69.99—offers concept sketches, developer notes, and a foreword by producer Kensuke Tanabe, peeling back the curtain on a franchise that redefined retro gaming’s potential. Amazon already has pre-orders open and you can get 10% discount ($44.99).

What makes this announcement timely is the buzz around Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, still pegged for a 2025 Switch release. With its predecessor’s art book dropping just weeks before summer, speculation is rife that Nintendo’s aligning its ducks—or rather, its Space Pirates—for a blockbuster year. Piggyback, known for their sumptuous Zelda guides, brings their A-game here, with premium paper and a metallic foil cover that’ll gleam on any collector’s shelf. For those who’ve scoured Tallon IV or battled Phazon corruption, this is more than a book—it’s a tribute to a golden era of gaming heritage.

So, preserve your treasured classics with RetroShell, the ultimate shield for your retro collection. For more vintage gaming scoops, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh to your inbox every Monday!

Modern Retro Games

Gex Trilogy Set for Summer 2025: A Nostalgic Return Beckons

Posted on by Owen

Limited Run Games has confirmed that the Gex Trilogy—comprising Gex, Gex: Enter the Gecko, and Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko—will leap onto modern platforms in summer 2025. Announced via a vibrant trailer at IGN Fan Fest 2025, this compilation promises to revive the wisecracking gecko’s adventures for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. As of February 27, 2025, the news has sent ripples of excitement through the retro gaming community, offering both a faithful preservation of a 32-bit classic and a polished experience for today’s players.

The Gex series first emerged in 1995 on the 3DO, a console ahead of its time yet overshadowed by the PlayStation’s rise. Created by Crystal Dynamics, the original Gex was a 2D side-scroller that stood out with its TV-channel-hopping gimmick, skewering pop culture with levels themed around horror flicks and cartoons. Voiced by comedian Dana Gould, Gex’s sardonic quips were a perfect match for the mid-90s zeitgeist. The sequels, Enter the Gecko (1998) and Deep Cover Gecko (1999), embraced the 3D revolution, joining the likes of Banjo-Kazooie in the collect-a-thon craze. Technically, these titles pushed their platforms—the PlayStation and N64—to their limits, with sprawling levels and animations that dazzled at the time.

Limited Run’s revival leverages their Carbon Engine, a tool designed to breathe new life into retro titles. Expect modern touches like save states, rewind features, and widescreen support for the 3D entries, all while retaining the pixel-perfect charm of the originals. The trailer, brimming with Gould’s iconic voice work, suggests a balance of nostalgia and accessibility—ideal for veterans reminiscing about Blockbuster rentals and newcomers curious about gaming’s past. Physical editions, a Limited Run hallmark, will also cater to collectors eager to hold a piece of history.

As summer 2025 approaches, the Gex Trilogy stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic platformers. Protect your treasured games with RetroShell, crafted to shield your retro collection. For more on gaming’s storied past, subscribe to our free Substack newsletter, landing in your inbox every Monday.

Modern Retro Games

Terminator 2D: NO FATE Brings Retro Action to Modern Consoles

Posted on by Owen

In a thrilling blast from the past, Terminator 2D: NO FATE is gearing up to hit screens on 5 September 2025, reimagining the blockbuster Terminator 2: Judgment Day as a pixel-perfect, side-scrolling adventure. Developed by Bitmap Bureau and published by Reef Entertainment, this retro-inspired title will launch on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. It’s a game that bridges decades, blending the gritty essence of 80s arcade classics with the enduring appeal of the Terminator franchise—perfect for those who cherish gaming’s golden era.

Credit: Reef.direct

The Terminator saga has long captivated gamers, starting with the 1991 MS-DOS release The Terminator, a clunky yet ambitious effort limited by its era’s hardware. The franchise evolved through titles like the Sega Mega Drive’s Terminator 2: Judgment Day, a 1992 hit that nailed the film’s tense action. Now, Terminator 2D: NO FATE takes a deliberate step back, embracing a 2D aesthetic with meticulously crafted sprites and a reimagined T2 soundtrack that echoes Brad Fiedel’s iconic score. Players can dive into Story, Arcade, and Boss Rush modes, guiding Sarah Connor, John Connor, and the T-800 through familiar scenes and fresh twists, complete with multiple endings.

Credit: Reef.direct

I remember the original Terminator 2 game for the Sega Megadrive/Genesis and this has a similar look and feel.

Credit: Reef.direct

Protect your beloved classics with RetroShell, the ultimate shield for retro collections. Stay in the loop with gaming heritage by subscribing to our free Substack newsletter, landing in your inbox every Monday.

Gaming History

BAFTA Calls for Votes: What’s the Most Influential Video Game Ever?

Posted on by Owen

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has launched an exciting initiative to determine the most influential video game of all time, and they’re calling on gamers everywhere to cast their votes. Known for its prestigious Games Awards, BAFTA is now turning to the public to celebrate the rich legacy of gaming, with the results set to spark lively debate among fans of classic titles. The poll, detailed on their website, invites players to nominate their picks and explain what makes them stand out in gaming history.

Credit: Bafta

Video games have evolved dramatically since their early days. Arcade pioneers like Pong and Space Invaders hooked players with simple yet captivating mechanics, paving the way for home consoles. Then came Super Mario Bros., which burst onto the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1985, transforming platformers with its smooth scrolling, vivid colours, and iconic soundtrack. Equally impactful, Tetris turned minimalism into a global obsession, its addictive block-stacking gameplay thriving on everything from the Game Boy to MS-DOS. These games didn’t just entertain—they redefined what the medium could achieve.

Technically, Super Mario Bros. pushed the NES to its limits, using clever programming to deliver seamless movement and a vibrant world, setting a benchmark for design. Tetris, meanwhile, proved that genius lies in simplicity, its elegant code adaptable across countless platforms. Beyond tech, their influence endures: Doom ignited the first-person shooter craze, while The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time elevated storytelling in games. So, what’s your choice for the most influential title? A genre trailblazer or a narrative masterpiece? I voted for Super Mario 64.

As we honour these classics, keep your collection safe with RetroShell, the ultimate shield for retro gamers. For more insights and updates on gaming’s golden age, subscribe to our free Substack newsletter, landing in your inbox every Monday.

Nintendo

Super Mario Collection 40th Anniversary Book: A Nostalgic Journey Through Mario’s History – Relaunches on Mar10 Day

Posted on by Owen

The Super Mario Collection 40th Anniversary Book is poised for a reprint, contingent on the success of its soon to be launched Kickstarter campaign. This coveted collector’s item, first published in 2024 and swiftly sold out, chronicles four decades of Super Mario—a franchise that has delighted players since its debut in 1985. Compiled by dedicated collector Oscar Bown, the book is a treasure trove of memorabilia gathered over 20 years, featuring rare merchandise, early game artwork, and exclusive insights into Mario’s storied legacy. Each copy even includes a special Gold Mario Pin, elevating its appeal for devotees of the plumber’s adventures.

Credit: Kickstarter

The Kickstarter, which kicked off on Mario Day—March 10, 2025—invites fans to fund this updated edition, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. As of February 27, 2025, the campaign is gaining momentum, a testament to the enduring love for Mario among gamers worldwide. This reprint not only offers a chance to own a piece of gaming history but also underscores the franchise’s monumental impact, from its NES origins to its sprawling influence across consoles, TV screens, and cinemas.

Since bursting onto the scene in 1985, Super Mario has evolved into a cultural juggernaut, spawning iconic titles, spin-offs, and a vast array of collectibles. This book captures that journey, spotlighting artefacts that are increasingly rare in today’s digital age. For collectors and nostalgists alike, it’s a fitting tribute to a character who has shaped gaming for generations. The Kickstarter’s success could also signal a broader trend, with similar retro gaming projects—like recent reprints of Sega and Nintendo books—finding enthusiastic support online.

Don’t miss your chance to back this nostalgic gem. Protect your classic games with RetroShell, crafted to safeguard your retro collection. For more retro gaming news, join our free Substack, delivered fresh to your inbox every Monday!

Atari, Modern Retro Games, New Games

“Old Towers” Expands to Atari Jaguar: A New Chapter for Retro Gaming

Posted on by Owen

RetroSouls’ fast-paced action title Old Towers is gearing up for a grand revival, this time landing on the Atari Jaguar. First launched in 2018 for Windows and later adapted for the Sega Genesis, Old Towers won over retro gaming fans with its blend of puzzle-platforming chaos, drawing comparisons to timeless classics like Tetris and Lode Runner. Now, Songbird Productions has unveiled an expanded port for the Atari Jaguar, set to refresh this modern retro gem for a new audience.

Credit: Song Bird Productions

This isn’t just a nostalgic rehash. Songbird Productions promises enhancements tailored to the Jaguar’s quirky hardware, including sharper graphics, extra levels, and a punchy soundtrack that taps into the console’s 64-bit potential. The original Old Towers thrived on its relentless pace—players raced to stack blocks and outwit enemies in a pixel-perfect frenzy—and this port aims to amplify that thrill while staying true to its roots. The Atari Jaguar, a system often celebrated for its ambition rather than its market success, gets a rare chance to shine with a release that honours its unique place in gaming lore.

Credit: Song Bird Productions

Eager players can secure their copy now, with pre-orders open on Songbird Productions’ website for $79.99. The physical cartridge, due in April 2025, will be a limited run—a tantalising prospect for collectors and Jaguar devotees alike. It’s a fitting move for a console that, since its 1993 debut, has cultivated a loyal following despite its rocky commercial past.

RetroSouls, the indie outfit behind Old Towers, has form in this space, having delivered retro-inspired hits like Alter Ego. Teaming up with Songbird Productions, a stalwart of Atari homebrew, they’re proving the Jaguar’s enduring appeal. Launched as Atari’s final home console, the Jaguar aimed to outmuscle Sega and Nintendo but faltered. Yet, its legacy lives on through projects like this, keeping the flame alive for a niche but passionate crowd.

Preserving gaming’s past takes effort, and releases like Old Towers keep that heritage accessible. Protect your own classics with RetroShell, a service built to shield your retro treasures. For more on the vintage gaming scene, sign up for our free Substack newsletter, landing in your inbox every Monday.

New Hardware For Retro

8BitDo Unveils Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller: A Modern Twist on Retro Gaming

Posted on by Owen

8BitDo, a name synonymous with retro-inspired gaming gear, has just unveiled the Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller—a device that marries the charm of yesteryear’s gaming with today’s technological prowess. Boasting ultra-low latency 2.4G wireless connectivity, precision TMR joysticks, switchable triggers, and a snazzy customizable RGB Lighting Fire Ring, this controller is poised to elevate the experience of classic game lovers everywhere. Compatible with Windows and Android, it’s now available on Amazon ($59.99), in Purple, Black and White ready to bring next-level performance to your retro adventures.

Credit: 8BitDo

Controllers have come a long way since the days of the Atari 2600’s rudimentary joysticks and the NES’s iconic rectangular pads. For those who cherish the golden age of gaming—the 80s and 90s when Super Mario Bros. and Doom ruled supreme—the right hardware can make all the difference. The Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller steps into this nostalgic space with finesse. Its wireless design frees players from the tether of short cables that once kept us huddled near CRT televisions, offering instead the liberty to kick back and enjoy a more social, arcade-like vibe from anywhere in the room.

What sets this controller apart for retro fans? The ultra-low latency 2.4G connection ensures every jump in Super Mario Bros. or shotgun blast in Doom feels spot-on, mimicking the responsiveness of vintage hardware. The TMR joysticks provide pinpoint accuracy—ideal for navigating the analogue-heavy worlds of Nintendo 64 classics—while the switchable triggers adapt to varied playstyles, from rapid-fire shooters to smooth racing titles. And on Android, it transforms your mobile into a portable retro powerhouse, perfect for emulating MS-DOS gems like Commander Keen on the go.

Credit: 8BitDo / Amazon

As you dive into classic gaming with the Ultimate 2, keep your treasured collection pristine with RetroShell, offering bespoke protection for your retro haul. For the latest scoop on gaming’s past, sign up for our free Substack, landing in your inbox every Monday.

Nintendo

Pokémon Boss Eyes Century of Gaming Legacy

Posted on by Owen

Pokémon, the iconic franchise that has enthralled gamers since its 1996 debut, could be poised to entertain for another 50 to 100 years, according to The Pokémon Company CEO Tsunekazu Ishihara. Speaking to BBC News, Ishihara expressed confidence that continued innovation could secure the series’ place in gaming history well into the next century. As Pokémon nears its 30th anniversary, this bold claim highlights its evolution from a humble Game Boy title into one of the world’s most valuable media empires.

Launched on Nintendo’s Game Boy with Pokémon Red and Green, the series pioneered a unique blend of collecting, battling, and trading creatures that captivated players globally. Those early games, constrained by the Game Boy’s modest hardware, still managed to craft an expansive world that redefined handheld gaming. Today, Pokémon spans video games, anime, films, toys, and a trading card game that’s recently exploded in popularity—though not without attracting scalpers and counterfeit woes. Ishihara credits the franchise’s longevity to its ability to “enrich both the real and virtual worlds,” a vision brought to life by the augmented reality hit Pokémon GO.

Yet challenges persist. The trading card game’s resurgence has seen resellers snap up rare packs, driving up prices and frustrating collectors. The company has also fought legal battles to protect its intellectual property, including a recent lawsuit against the makers of Palworld for alleged patent infringement. Despite these hurdles, Pokémon’s private company status—unlike publicly traded giants like Nintendo—allows it to reinvest all profits back into the franchise, fostering a laser focus on its future. This dedication resonates with a multigenerational fanbase, evident at events like the Pokémon International Championships, where thousands gather to celebrate their shared love.

Looking ahead, the departure of Ash and Pikachu from the anime in 2023 has sparked curiosity, while rumours swirl of 30th-anniversary plans—perhaps remakes of the original Game Boy classics. For Ishihara, complacency is the only threat to Pokémon’s enduring legacy.

To safeguard your own slice of gaming history, RetroShell offers custom protection for your classic collection. And for more retro gaming insights, subscribe to our free Substack, landing in your inbox every Monday.

Uncategorized

AYANEO Clarifies Production Status and Future Plans for FLIP Handheld

Posted on by Owen

AYANEO has stepped forward to dispel rumours swirling around the fate of its FLIP handheld, a device that’s captured the hearts of retro gaming fans with its nostalgic dual-screen design. Addressing recent confusion, the company confirmed that the FLIP is not discontinued—production is merely on a temporary hiatus. This news should reassure enthusiasts who feared the innovative clamshell console had been shelved for good. Instead, AYANEO is gearing up to produce several hundred more units within the next three months, with a global restock planned through official channels.

Credit: Ayaeo

The FLIP, unveiled in 2024 via an Indiegogo campaign, harks back to the golden age of portable gaming. Its dual-screen setup echoes the beloved Nintendo DS, a staple of the mid-2000s, while packing modern muscle with an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor. The 7-inch 1080p IPS display, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, promises crisp visuals whether you’re revisiting retro classics or tackling newer titles. It’s a love letter to gamers who grew up with Game Boys and PSPs, blending vintage vibes with cutting-edge tech—a perfect fit for emulating everything from MS-DOS gems to PlayStation 2 hits.

AYANEO also updated backers on the crowdfunding front: 98% of FLIP orders have shipped, leaving just 18 pending. The company’s been in touch with those affected, offering refunds or swaps to keep everyone happy. Looking ahead, the FLIP series isn’t just a one-off. AYANEO plans to refine it with community feedback, enhancing hardware and adding features while preserving that iconic clamshell charm.

For classic gaming fans worried about their collections, keep them pristine with RetroShell, built to safeguard your retro treasures. Want more retro gaming news? Sign up for our free Substack, landing in your inbox every Monday!

Game Port, Rom Hack

Translator Responds to Claims of Using Fan Translations in Retro-Bit Retro Game Releases

Posted on by Owen

Roberto Mérida Fernández, the translator for Retro Bit, has addressed allegations that the company incorporated fan translations without permission or credit in their re-releases of classic games, including Gleylancer, Assault Suits Valken, Majuu Ou (also known as King of Demons), and Shockman Zero. The claims, published in our article here, suggested similarities between Retro Bit’s English versions and existing fan translations. In an email, Mérida Fernández, a self-taught Japanese speaker and experienced romhacker who operates the YouTube channel La Meca del Clásico, outlined his translation process and responded to the accusations.

In this example Mérida Fernández shows the difference between the fan translation (left) and Retro-Bits translation (right).


Mérida Fernández stated that he translated all four games from Japanese to English independently. He described using emulators and longplays to access the original Japanese scripts, transcribing them into a Word document, and then inserting the English text into the game ROMs. This process involved technical adjustments, such as modifying pointers and creating double-byte character tables to fit the translations within the ROMs’ space constraints.

Examples of the fonts being used.

On the noted similarities between Retro Bit’s translations and fan translations, particularly for Gleylancer, Mérida Fernández explained that Retro Bit had permission from the licensor, Extreme, to use materials from official releases, including the 2021 Nintendo Switch version of Gleylancer. Fernández said he was instructed to adopt elements from these official translations where they aligned with or enhanced his work. He acknowledged that the Switch version resembles a fan translation by romhacker Mijet but maintained that any overlap in Retro Bit’s release resulted from using this official source, not from copying the fan translation directly.


Addressing the use of fonts, Mérida Fernández clarified that those in Retro Bit’s releases were sourced from official materials or generic options common in other games. For Assault Suits Valken, he used the font from the SNES game Cybernator, owned by Konami and permitted by the licensor. For Majuu Ou, the font came from Wild Arms 1 & 2, while for Gleylancer, it was adapted from the U.S. version of Final Fantasy VI, with his own modifications. He noted that font usage was not closely monitored by Retro Bit during these projects but has since been reviewed more carefully.

Regarding an issue with the Gleylancer end credits, where the name “Mijeto” appeared in the Japanese text, Mérida Fernández said space limitations led him to revert to the original Japanese credits. He admitted to inadvertently copying them from Mijet’s fan translation ROM rather than the original game, calling it an oversight he did not correct, partly due to its coincidental link to his former nickname, “Mid Jet.”

Mérida Fernández also confirmed that the dual language boot-up feature in Gleylancer was inspired by Mijet’s fan translation but said he implemented it independently, using technology from Light Crusader. He denied directly copying code or text from fan translations, asserting that similarities were either coincidental or tied to officially approved materials.

Retro Bit has previously acknowledged using “elements” from fan translations in their releases. Mérida Fernández’s statements indicate that any such use was indirect and largely unintentional, stemming from official sources or shared inspiration. The situation reflects broader discussions in the gaming community about the role of fan-made content in commercial retro game projects.

If you want to follow more from Mérida Fernández, you can follow his YouTube channel here, where he talks about retro and his efforts in translation of classic games, and you can find his website here.

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell – the ultimate way to protect your retro collection. For the latest retro gaming news and insights, subscribe to our free Substack and get fresh updates every Monday!