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Collecting, Fun Things, Nintendo

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

Posted on March 5, 2025March 5, 2025 by Owen

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

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.

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Collecting, Fun Things

New Mario and Kirby-Themed Collectables from Bandai have just Dropped in Japan

Posted on March 4, 2025March 4, 2025 by Owen

Bandai has launched a fresh line of products in Japan featuring two of Nintendo’s most cherished characters: Mario and Kirby. Available now, these items include character magnets and gummy chocolates. This release underscores Bandai’s ongoing collaboration with Nintendo, a partnership that has long produced merchandise celebrating the company’s iconic franchises.

Mario, the plumber who leapt into fame with Donkey Kong in 1981, and Kirby, the pink hero of Kirby’s Dream Land from 1992, are cornerstones of gaming history. Created by Shigeru Miyamoto and Masahiro Sakurai respectively, both characters have evolved from their 8-bit origins into global icons, spawning countless games and collectibles. Bandai’s latest offerings tap into this legacy, blending nostalgia with modern appeal for players who grew up with these titles.

The Mario Character Magnets, now in their second series, cost 250 yen each—roughly €1.55, $1.65, or £1.30, based on exchange rates as of February 2025. Sold in blind bags, each pack includes a magnet, a memo card, and a piece of gum, with 22 designs featuring Mario and his universe’s characters. The Kirby gummy chocolates, priced at 200 yen per bag (about €1.25, $1.35, or £1.05), offer 11 distinct Kirby designs encased in a chocolate shell with a gummy centre. These prices reflect Japan’s retail market, though international fans may need to explore import options like HobbyLink Japan or Play-Asia, as direct purchase links from Bandai remain Japan-focused.

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Collecting, Fun Things

Magic: The Gathering Embraces Spider-Man in a Blockbuster 2025 Line-Up

Posted on March 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by Owen

Magic: The Gathering (MTG), the trailblazing collectible card game that reshaped gaming culture since its debut in 1993, is swinging into 2025 with a spectacular crossover featuring Marvel’s Spider-Man. Launching on September 26, 2025, this set introduces Spider-Man, Venom, and a rogues’ gallery of villains to MTG’s strategic battlefield. Preorders are live on Amazon, offering Play Boosters ($209.70 for a box), Collector Boosters, Scene Boxes ($41.99) which include six new-to-Magic cards like “Grasping Tentacles” and “Pumpkin Bombs” tailored for Commander play, and a MTG/Spider Man Bundle ($69.99). This collaboration, the first of several Marvel-themed expansions, blends retro gaming heritage with modern flair, appealing to collectors and players alike.

The Spider-Man set is fully draftable and Standard-legal, featuring mechanics that mirror the web-slinger’s agility—think cards with evasion abilities—and Venom’s brute force, possibly tied to black mana’s sacrifice themes. Scene Boxes add a collectible twist, with foil cards forming larger artworks, while the removal of the Universes Beyond frame ensures a cohesive MTG aesthetic. This isn’t just a nostalgic nod; it’s a calculated evolution of a game that pioneered the CCG genre, influencing everything from Pokémon to today’s digital card games.

Beyond Spider-Man, 2025 is a packed year for MTG. The Final Fantasy set, releasing June 13, brings materia and summons to the table, blending JRPG roots with MTG’s mechanics—a treat for fans of classic console gaming. August’s Bloomburrow introduces an animalfolk plane, offering fresh lore and draftable play. Meanwhile, Duskmourn: House of Horror, out September 26 alongside Spider-Man, delves into horror with haunted house-inspired cards, rounding out a diverse slate. Each release builds on MTG’s legacy, rooted in tabletop gaming’s golden age, while pushing boundaries with new IPs and designs.

For collectors of gaming history, these sets echo the creativity of MTG’s early days, when expansions like Arabian Nights set the stage for thematic storytelling. Today’s crossovers marry that spirit with cutting-edge card design, ensuring MTG remains a cornerstone of gaming culture.

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Arcade, Collecting, Fun Things

Unreleased Commodore 64 Game Magnum Force Discovered After Decades

Posted on February 27, 2025February 27, 2025 by Owen

In a thrilling find for lovers of classic gaming and C64 fans, an unreleased Commodore 64 title, Magnum Force, has surfaced after more than 30 years in obscurity. Unearthed on a Codemasters 30 games CD pack, this scramble-like clone never hit the shelves as a standalone release, making its discovery a delightful surprise. Preservationists, notably from the Games That Weren’t project, have brought this hidden piece of history to light, offering fans a chance to peek into the past.

The game draws inspiration from Scramble, a landmark title released by Konami in 1981. As one of the earliest side-scrolling shooters, Scramble had players piloting a spaceship through hazardous landscapes, taking down enemies in a fast-paced challenge. Its influence rippled through the gaming world, shaping the shoot ‘em up genre. Magnum Force, crafted by Gavin Raeburn for Codemasters, sought to echo that excitement on the Commodore 64—a machine celebrated in the 1980s for its remarkable visuals and audio.

What makes this find curious is its unreleased status. Codemasters, known for budget-friendly offerings, might have shelved Magnum Force for quality concerns or strategic reasons, only slipping it onto a compilation disc as an extra. Described as a “sooped up Scramble clone,” it boasted end-of-level bosses and power-ups—features that spiced up the original formula. Yet, its obscurity persisted, likely because few snapped up that particular CD pack.

This discovery highlights the vital work of preserving gaming’s legacy. Efforts by groups like Games That Weren’t ensure these forgotten titles aren’t lost forever, giving us insight into the creativity and hurdles of early developers. For those who cherish the Commodore 64’s golden era, Magnum Force is a fascinating artefact, sparking wonder about other lost games still out there.

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Collecting, Fun Things

eBay Launches Exclusive Eevee Shop for Pokémon Day 2025

Posted on February 25, 2025February 25, 2025 by Owen

Online marketplace eBay has introduced a special “Evolving Shop” to mark Pokémon Day on 27 February 2025, celebrating the popular Pokémon character Eevee and its eight evolutions. The initiative, which began on 25 February, features a curated selection of rare trading cards and merchandise, available through a series of 24-hour auctions. Bidding starts at just 9 cents—a nod to Eevee’s nine distinct forms—and new items are released daily at 06:00 PT until the event concludes on 28 February.

The shop caters to Pokémon enthusiasts with a mix of modern and vintage collectibles. Highlights include high-value trading cards such as a PSA 10-graded 1999 Pokémon TCG Jungle Vaporeon Test Proof and a 2021 SWSH Evolving Skies Secret Full Art Sylveon VMAX, also PSA 10-graded. Merchandise spans nearly three decades of Pokémon history, offering items like plush toys and figurines featuring Eevee and its evolved forms, including Jolteon, Umbreon, and Glaceon. In the United States, trading cards valued over $250 come with eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee, ensuring buyer confidence.

This year, dubbed “The Year of Eevee” by Pokémon fans, aligns with the release of the Pokémon Trading Card Game expansion Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions in January 2025. The set has driven significant collector interest, with eBay reporting over 2,700 hourly searches globally for “Prismatic Evolutions” following its launch. Demand for Eevee-related items has also surged, with searches for “Umbreon” rising nearly 500% compared to January 2024, according to eBay data.

Beyond auctions, eBay is hosting live events on its interactive platform, eBay Live, from 24 February to 2 March. Fans can participate in real-time shopping, watch vintage Pokémon box breaks, and join $1-start auctions. The events will feature appearances from prominent Pokémon collectors and offer the Prismatic Evolution Elite Trainer Box at or below its recommended retail price. Additionally, a collection of over 1,000 Japanese-edition trading cards became available from 21 February, broadening the appeal for international collectors.

Pokémon Day commemorates the original release of Pokémon Red and Green in Japan on 27 February 1996. Eevee, ranked as the eighth most-searched Pokémon from the original 151 characters on eBay in 2024, remains a fan favourite due to its unique evolutionary versatility. The Pokémon Company International has also planned related activities, including in-game events for Pokémon GO and new merchandise releases at Pokémon Center stores, as reported on their official website.

The eBay Evolving Shop offers collectors a limited window to acquire rare Eevee-themed treasures, blending nostalgia with the excitement of the chase. Fans can explore the full range of items on eBay’s dedicated event page.

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Collecting, Fun Things, Nintendo

Preorders Open for Totally Rad Official Vinyl Soundtrack

Posted on February 24, 2025February 24, 2025 by Owen

Respawned Records, in partnership with Retro‐Bit, has unveiled a limited edition release that promises to excite both collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts. The new offering – the “Totally Rad Official Vinyl Soundtrack” – revisits the distinctive 8‐bit soundscape of the classic 1991 NES game, Totally Rad, celebrated for its dynamic chiptune compositions and high-energy melodies.

The record is pressed on neon‐yellow vinyl adorned with magenta, orange and green splatters, a design choice that mirrors the game’s vibrant, California‐cool aesthetic. Encased in a high-gloss jacket featuring artwork inspired by the surreal visual style of the game, the release is as much a visual statement as it is an auditory one. Each copy is individually numbered, underlining its status as a collector’s item and ensuring that no two records are identical.

Pre-orders for the soundtrack are now open, with the preorder window set to close on 22 March. Following this period, full production will commence, with shipping expected to begin in June 2025. At a price of $29.99, the record is positioned as an accessible yet exclusive addition for fans of both vinyl and the retro gaming era.

This release is being hailed as a significant nod to the preservation of video game history, capturing the unique spirit of early NES titles through modern production techniques. Music aficionados and collectors alike are invited to secure their piece of nostalgia before the limited run sells out, ensuring that the legacy of Totally Rad is enshrined in both sound and style.

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Collecting, Fun Things

Collector Digitally Preserves Iconic Street Fighter II Figures

Posted on February 24, 2025February 24, 2025 by Owen

A prominent digital archivist, known online as KeshiCorner, has successfully 3D scanned the complete set of 20 figures from the renowned Street Fighter II series. The project, announced via social media four days ago, utilises advanced 3D scanning technology to create detailed digital replicas of the collectable figures, preserving them for future generations.

The Street Fighter II series, which played a pivotal role in defining the arcade era of the early 1990s, remains a cultural touchstone for both gamers and collectors. By digitally capturing every nuance of these figures, KeshiCorner aims to safeguard these artefacts against the inevitable deterioration of time, while also providing enthusiasts and historians with an opportunity to study the intricate details of the collectables without risking damage to the originals.

I'm happy to announce that I've 3D scanned the full set of 20 figures in the Street Fighter II keshi figure series released by Bandai in Japan in 1992!

You can download the full set of 3D scanned figures here: https://t.co/I2FtZiyhzK pic.twitter.com/5BtjtPTor6
— Keshi Corner (@KeshiCorner) February 20, 2025

The scanning process employs high-resolution imaging and precise laser measurement, ensuring that even the smallest features are meticulously recorded. This digital archive is expected to serve as an invaluable resource, offering a permanent record of a significant piece of video gaming history and setting a benchmark for future preservation projects.

KeshiCorner is no stranger to such projects. In a previous initiative, the digital archivist completed a similar 3D scanning project for Amada’s 1985 “Super Mario Bros. Color Pose Doll” series, one of the earliest collections of Super Mario memorabilia. This earlier work further highlights a growing trend among collectors to leverage modern technology in the conservation of cultural and historical artefacts.

The initiative not only underscores the importance of digital preservation in maintaining cultural heritage but also illustrates how technology can bridge the gap between physical memorabilia and its virtual preservation. As interest in such projects continues to grow, similar ventures will become increasingly vital in protecting and celebrating the legacy of popular culture for years to come.

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Collecting, Fun Things

Retro Gaming Thrives Among Gen Z in the UK, New Study Finds

Posted on February 21, 2025February 21, 2025 by Owen

A recent study in the Metro has revealed that retro gaming is alive and well among younger generations, with one in four Gen Z Brits owning a classic gaming console. Despite growing up in an era dominated by digital downloads and high-end graphics, many younger gamers are gravitating towards the nostalgia and simplicity of older systems.

The research highlights a growing appreciation for vintage gaming, with consoles like the PlayStation 1, Super Nintendo, and Game Boy remaining popular choices among younger players. The appeal appears to stem from a mix of factors, including an interest in gaming history, a love for pixel art aesthetics, and the desire for a more straightforward, pick-up-and-play experience compared to modern, complex titles.

Another contributing factor is the rising trend of second-hand and refurbished console markets, making it easier for younger generations to access older hardware. Many online retailers and independent sellers cater specifically to the demand for classic gaming, offering refurbished consoles and cartridge-based games in near-original condition.

Social media and content creators have also played a major role in fueling the resurgence. Popular YouTubers and TikTok influencers frequently showcase retro games, sparking curiosity among their followers. Additionally, modern re-releases and mini-console versions, like the SNES Classic Edition, have made it even more convenient for newcomers to experience old-school gaming without hunting down original hardware.

This study reinforces the idea that retro gaming isn’t just for those who grew up in the ’80s and ’90s—it’s a timeless hobby being rediscovered by new audiences. With gaming history becoming more accessible and celebrated, it’s clear that classic consoles and their iconic games will continue to find a place in the hearts of future generations.

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Collecting, Fun Things

LEGO Nintendo Game Boy Set, Launching This October

Posted on February 21, 2025February 21, 2025 by Owen

LEGO has partnered with Nintendo to announce a new LEGO set modelled after the iconic Nintendo Game Boy, revealed on January 9, 2025, via Nintendo’s social media channels. According to a leak from Falcon Brick Studios—a renowned LEGO news source known for accurate leaks—on February 20, 2025, the set, identified as LEGO Nintendo Game Boy (72046), is scheduled for release on October 1, 2025, with a price of $59.99 and 421 pieces. This brick-built tribute taps into the nostalgia of retro gaming fans and LEGO collectors.

This isn’t LEGO’s first collaboration with Nintendo, as previous sets have featured everything from a fully interactive NES console to Super Mario-themed playsets. However, the Game Boy holds a unique place in gaming history as one of the most successful handhelds of all time, making it a particularly exciting addition for collectors and nostalgic gamers alike.

Given the popularity of past LEGO gaming collaborations, this one is likely to sell out quickly when it hits shelves later this year.

For longtime Nintendo fans and LEGO enthusiasts, this Game Boy set is a perfect blend of two beloved brands. Whether you grew up with the classic handheld or just appreciate well-crafted LEGO designs, this is one retro gaming tribute that’s worth keeping an eye on.

Collecting, Fun Things

Marvel Rivals Funko Pops Are Flying Off the Shelves

Posted on February 20, 2025February 22, 2025 by Owen

The highly anticipated Marvel Rivals Funko Pop collection is proving to be a massive hit, with preorders selling out rapidly across multiple retailers. These collectable figures, based on the Marvel Rivals game, bring fan-favourite superheroes and villains to life in Funko’s signature style, making them a must-have for both collectors and gaming enthusiasts.

The Marvel Rivals Funko Pop line includes characters from across the Marvel universe, featuring iconic heroes like Spider-Man, Iron Man, and Black Panther, alongside notorious villains such as Venom and Thanos. Each figure is designed with intricate details inspired by their in-game appearances, adding an extra layer of appeal for fans eager to get their hands on them.

With demand surging, many online retailers have already run out of stock for key figures, prompting collectors to scramble for remaining inventory or look to secondary markets. Given the popularity of both Marvel and Funko Pop figures, this frenzy isn’t surprising. Past limited-edition Marvel Funkos have appreciated significantly in value, making them not just cool display pieces but also desirable collector’s items.

Presently there is a Dr Doom, Magneto, Iron Man and Galacta available at Amazon for $12.99, with the Galacta one showing as unavailable for pre-order at Amazon.

If you missed out on the initial preorder wave, don’t panic just yet—additional stock is expected to become available closer to the official release date. However, based on early sales trends, these figures are likely to be hot commodities, so keeping an eye on restocks will be essential.

For Marvel and gaming fans alike, the Marvel Rivals Funko Pops are a fun way to celebrate the upcoming game. Whether you’re an avid collector or just looking for a standout figure to display, these highly detailed Funkos are sure to be a highlight in any collection.

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