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Category Archives: Fun Things

Fun Things, Nintendo

Nike’s Latest Shoe Design Pays Homage to Donkey Kong Country

Posted on by Owen

Nike is no stranger to drawing inspiration from video game culture, and their latest sneaker release is turning heads with a design that subtly nods to Donkey Kong Country. The newly revealed footwear features a distinctive aesthetic reminiscent of the classic platformer, particularly its iconic character design and jungle-themed world.

Credit: Nike

The inspiration comes from the exaggerated proportions often seen in Donkey Kong Country’s character models, a trait that fans of the franchise will recognize immediately. The sneakers showcase bold, rounded shapes with an oversized silhouette, echoing the “big head” look that was a staple of Rare’s groundbreaking graphics in the 1994 SNES title.

Aside from the playful shape, the shoes incorporate earthy tones, referencing the lush environments of Donkey Kong Island. Hints of brown and green mimic the colour palette of the game’s levels, while subtle design elements—such as textured fabric resembling tree bark—add an extra layer of nostalgia for longtime fans.

While Nike has yet to confirm an official Donkey Kong collaboration, the resemblance has not gone unnoticed by gamers and sneaker enthusiasts alike. This wouldn’t be the first time the brand has leaned into gaming culture—past releases have included designs inspired by Super Mario, PlayStation, and other gaming icons. The name of the shoe is “SWOOSH x Nike Air Max 1” and it is due for a spring ’25 release priced at $150. For more details, you can check out the article on Hype Beast.

For fans of both retro gaming and stylish footwear, this sneaker release is a fun crossover between two beloved worlds. Whether you’re looking to add them to your collection or simply appreciate the gaming references, this latest Nike design is a testament to the lasting influence of Donkey Kong Country on pop culture.

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Fun Things, Nintendo

Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Achieve the Impossible—Blindfolded

Posted on by Owen

The Super Mario 64 speedrunning community has once again shattered expectations, successfully executing a trick so precise that it was once considered nearly impossible. To make things even more astonishing, it has now been achieved while blindfolded.

The trick in question involves landing Mario on an incredibly tiny in-game coordinate, roughly the size of a single red blood cell in real-world comparison. Previously thought to require frame-perfect accuracy and extensive trial and error, speedrunners have now proven that it can be accomplished without even seeing the game.

Blindfolded speedrunning is already an impressive feat, requiring players to rely entirely on sound cues, muscle memory, and deep knowledge of game mechanics. This latest breakthrough pushes those boundaries even further, demonstrating an almost superhuman level of precision. The accomplishment highlights not only the dedication of the Super Mario 64community but also the game’s enduring complexity, decades after its original release on the Nintendo 64.

Speedrunners have been experimenting with and refining various techniques for years, often uncovering new exploits and mechanics in the process. This blindfolded achievement could open the door for even more refined strategies in future speedrun attempts. It also underscores just how much Super Mario 64 continues to captivate and challenge players worldwide.

While this trick may not have immediate applications for casual play, it adds yet another layer of intrigue to the deep rabbit hole of Super Mario 64’s speedrunning scene. As techniques continue to evolve, it’s anyone’s guess what seemingly impossible feat will be conquered next.

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Fun Things

Timeless Games That Prove Graphics Aren’t Everything

Posted on by Owen

In an era of cutting-edge visuals and hyper-realistic game engines, some titles remain addictive despite their ageing graphics. A recent discussion on Reddit asked, “What’s an outdated game that’s still endlessly playable?” The responses show that, for many gamers, gameplay always trumps visual fidelity.

One of the most mentioned games was Age of Empires II. Originally released in 1999, this real-time strategy classic continues to engage players worldwide. Fans agree that its strategic depth and multiplayer appeal make it a title that never gets old. “If you have friends to play with, you can enjoy this game forever,” one user noted, echoing the sentiment of many RTS enthusiasts.

Credit: Steam

Another game frequently cited was Heroes of Might & Magic III. With its detailed pixel art and rich strategic gameplay, many players argue that its visuals have aged gracefully. “I still play this while drinking my morning coffee,” one fan shared, highlighting its lasting charm and replayability.

Credit: Steam

Tactical RPG fans also brought up Final Fantasy Tactics, a title lauded for its engaging battle system and compelling story. “This is my favourite game,” one commenter stated, with others praising its legendary soundtrack and deep mechanics that keep them coming back.

For those who love hack-and-slash loot hunting, Diablo II was a common response. Some gamers even credited the game with teaching them about virtual economies. “I still play the remastered version—it’s just as fun as ever,” one player remarked, showing that its addictive gameplay loop remains intact.

However, the ultimate example of “graphics don’t matter” might be Tetris. Whether it’s in ASCII art or modern 3D, its fundamental mechanics remain unchanged and universally engaging. “The NES version is still the best,” one player insisted, while another called it “a legendary title.”

The discussion proves that great gameplay stands the test of time. Whether it’s an RTS, RPG, or puzzle game, these classics continue to captivate players, reinforcing the idea that visuals are just a small part of what makes a game great.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Collecting, Fun Things

Final Fantasy Joins Magic: The Gathering in an Epic Crossover

Posted on by Owen

Two of the biggest fantasy franchises in gaming history are colliding as Final Fantasy makes its debut in Magic: The Gathering. Wizards of the Coast has revealed a first look at the upcoming Final Fantasy crossover set, bringing iconic characters, spells, and lore from Square Enix’s legendary RPG series into the world of collectable card gaming.

Credit: Wizards of the Coast

The announcement was made at MagicCon Chicago, where fans got an exclusive preview of the upcoming set. The cards will span multiple Final Fantasy titles, from the early NES-era classics to modern blockbusters like Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy XIV. Expect to see legendary figures such as Cloud Strife, Sephiroth, and Terra Branford translated into beautifully illustrated Magic: The Gathering cards.

Credit: Wizards of the Coast

Beyond just character representation, the set will also introduce spells and mechanics inspired by the Final Fantasyuniverse. Summons like Ifrit and Shiva may appear as powerful creature cards, while signature magic like Ultima and Meteor could become game-changing spells. The crossover aims to capture the essence of both franchises, blending the deep lore and strategy of Magic: The Gathering with the beloved characters and worlds of Final Fantasy.

Credit: Wizards of the Coast

This is part of Wizards of the Coast’s ongoing expansion of Magic: The Gathering’s crossover series, which has already included properties like The Lord of the Rings and Warhammer 40,000. Given the passionate fanbase of both Magic and Final Fantasy, this collaboration is expected to be a major hit among collectors and competitive players alike.

The Final Fantasy set is slated for release in June 2025, with more details expected to emerge as the launch approaches. Whether you’re a longtime Magic player or a Final Fantasy enthusiast looking to experience the franchise in a new way, this crossover is shaping up to be one of the most exciting card game events in recent memory.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Fun Things, Nintendo

Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Discover Bizarre Underwater Standing Trick

Posted on by Owen

Speedrunners and glitch hunters in Super Mario 64 continue to push the game to its limits, and their latest discovery is as impressive as it is seemingly pointless. A recently unearthed trick allows Mario to stand motionless underwater—a feat that requires an astonishingly precise sequence of 41 button inputs.

The technique, uncovered by dedicated members of the Super Mario 64 speedrunning community, demands an extraordinary level of dexterity and timing. While it currently serves no practical purpose in speedrunning or casual play, it stands as yet another example of the game’s deep and complex mechanics, even decades after its release.

This glitch joins a long list of intricate exploits that fans have found over the years. Super Mario 64 remains one of the most dissected games in history, with speedrunners continuously discovering new ways to manipulate its physics and behaviour. From wall-clipping tricks to movement exploits, each new find contributes to the game’s rich legacy within the speedrunning world.

The discovery of this underwater standing technique may not revolutionize the speedrunning meta, but it highlights just how much Super Mario 64 still has to offer for those willing to dig deep. Whether future research into the glitch leads to a useful application remains to be seen, but for now, it’s a fascinating display of skill, patience, and sheer dedication to uncovering the game’s hidden possibilities.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Fun Things, Microsoft

Building the Ultimate Xbox 360: A Modder’s Dream Console

Posted on by Owen

The Xbox 360 remains one of the most beloved gaming consoles of all time, but what if you could take it to the next level? With the right mods, hardware upgrades, and a bit of patience, you can transform a stock 360 into the ultimate custom console. This guide walks you through the process of turning a Trinity model Xbox 360 Slim into a powerhouse of gaming potential.

Why the Trinity Model?

Not all Xbox 360s are created equal. The Trinity model is one of the most reliable versions, boasting improved cooling and significantly reduced risk of the infamous Red Ring of Death. Additionally, it offers excellent compatibility with modding kits, making it an ideal choice for this project.

The Trinity Mobo

Essential Mods for the Ultimate Xbox 360

1. RGH 3.0 – Unlocking the Console’s Full Potential

The foundation of any fully modded 360 is the Reset Glitch Hack (RGH 3.0). This allows you to run unsigned code, opening the door to custom firmware, homebrew applications, and backup game installations. The process involves soldering a Quick Solder Board (QSB $5) to specific points on the motherboard, a delicate task requiring some soldering expertise.

The Quick Solder Board – from Phenm Mod.

2. Viper Pro Dual NAND – Dual Boot Like a Pro

A Viper Pro ($35) module adds a second NAND to the console, enabling dual boot functionality. This means you can have one profile running a modified dashboard like Aurora for homebrew and emulators while keeping another profile stock for safe online gaming. Switching between these modes is as simple as pressing a button on the Viper Pro’s daughterboard.

3. Storage Upgrade – 1TB SSD for a Library of Games

Stock hard drives are outdated, and an SSD upgrade dramatically improves load times and storage capacity. Installing a 1TB SSD* (Amazon / ~$44.97) allows you to store a vast collection of games, emulators, and media, eliminating the need for physical discs.

4. Optical Drive Mod – The LTU2 Board

This modification replaces the stock DVD drive board with an LTU2 replacement, allowing custom firmware installation for playing burned games. However, this is a finicky process, and success isn’t guaranteed. Thankfully, alternative methods exist for playing backups through software solutions.

The LTU2 Board

5. Custom Shell – A Visual Masterpiece

A fully upgraded console deserves an aesthetic to match. There are a number of 3rd party options from the likes of Etsy and eBay – but Phenom Mod also do a great clear shell which will set your console apart.

The Final Build: A Gamer’s Dream Machine

With all the modifications complete, the final result is an Xbox 360 unlike any other. Features include:

  • Custom firmware and homebrew support
  • Dual NAND setup for safe online gaming
  • Massive storage with instant game access
  • The ability to run emulators for classic consoles
  • A custom shell to give your machine a fresh new look

Still looking for more upgrades, you can upgrade the RAM

Final Thoughts

Modding an Xbox 360 takes time, skill, and patience, but the results are worth it. Whether you’re a collector, a homebrew enthusiast, or just looking to breathe new life into a classic console, these upgrades transform the Xbox 360 into the ultimate gaming machine.

Protect your collection! If you’re serious about retro gaming, safeguard your valuable consoles and games with RetroShell—the world’s finest game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered fresh every Monday!

*Affiliate link

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Fun Things, Nintendo

Squaresoft’s Push for CDs on the N64: A Lost Opportunity?

Posted on by Owen

The Nintendo 64 is often remembered for its groundbreaking 3D graphics, iconic games, and enduring legacy. However, one of its most debated design choices was Nintendo’s insistence on sticking with cartridges instead of embracing CDs—a decision that ultimately led to a major rift between Nintendo and one of its biggest third-party developers, Squaresoft.

Recently resurfaced information from an interview with Venturebeat reveals that Squaresoft actively lobbied Nintendo to adopt CD technology for the N64, believing it was the superior format for the future of gaming. At the time, CDs offered vastly greater storage capacity, allowing for high-quality audio, full-motion video, and expansive game worlds—features that the cartridge format simply couldn’t match. Squaresoft, known for its ambitious RPGs like Final Fantasy VI, saw this as a crucial opportunity to push the medium forward.

Nintendo, however, remained firm in its commitment to cartridges, prioritizing faster load times and lower piracy risks over storage concerns. This decision ultimately pushed Squaresoft toward Sony and the PlayStation, where it would go on to develop Final Fantasy VII, a title that became a defining moment in gaming history and a massive blow to Nintendo’s dominance.

Had Nintendo agreed to Squaresoft’s proposal, the N64’s library could have looked drastically different. Imagine Final Fantasy VII on a Nintendo console, alongside the likes of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64. Instead, the divide between Nintendo and Squaresoft lasted for years, only beginning to mend in the early 2000s.

While the N64 still produced legendary titles, the absence of major third-party RPGs left a gap in its library that Sony readily filled. This episode serves as a reminder of how a single hardware decision can reshape the gaming industry for decades to come.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Fun Things, Sony

GTA 3 Almost Penalized Players for Running Red Lights

Posted on by Owen

The open-world chaos of Grand Theft Auto 3 could have been a little stricter—at least according to early development plans. Originally, players were meant to receive a wanted level simply for running a red light. However, the idea didn’t sit well with the development team, leading to its swift removal.

According to former developer insights, this mechanic was scrapped because it conflicted with the game’s overall design philosophy. While realism has always played a part in the GTA series, the goal was to encourage freedom rather than restrict it with minor infractions. Getting a wanted level for something as trivial as ignoring a traffic signal would have significantly slowed down the pace of gameplay, leading to frustration rather than fun.

At its core, GTA 3 revolutionized the gaming landscape by introducing a fully explorable 3D city where players could engage in mayhem at their own pace. The decision to remove penalties for red lights allowed for smoother, more dynamic movement through Liberty City, ensuring that the action never felt bogged down by unnecessary rules. Instead, the game focused on rewarding player agency—whether that meant evading the cops after a major heist or simply cruising through the streets without fear of petty violations.

This anecdote serves as an interesting look at the design choices that shaped one of gaming’s most influential titles. While the GTA series has since evolved with more immersive mechanics, it continues to prioritize open-ended gameplay over rigid realism. And given the franchise’s massive success, it’s clear that the developers made the right call.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

Fun Things, Nintendo

Blindfolded Super Mario 64 Speedrunner’s Near-Record Run Invalidated by Webcam Failure

Posted on by Owen

In the world of speedrunning, precision and adherence to rules are paramount. Blindfolded speedrunner Bubzia, renowned for his expertise in Super Mario 64, recently experienced a heartbreaking incident where a technical glitch nullified a near-record-breaking run.

On 10th February 2025, during an attempt to surpass his own blindfolded 70-star world record, Bubzia was on an impressive pace. Approximately 24 minutes into the run, unbeknownst to him, his webcam ceased functioning. In blindfolded speedrunning, continuous visual proof is essential to validate that the player is indeed not seeing the game. Without this verification, runs are deemed invalid. Bubzia, unable to notice the malfunction due to his blindfold, continued the run, ultimately finishing just seconds shy of the world record. It was only after completing the run that he realised the webcam had failed, rendering his effort void.

This incident underscores the unique challenges faced by blindfolded speedrunners, where not only in-game performance but also reliable equipment play crucial roles in successful attempts.

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Collecting, Fun Things, Nintendo

Mario Hanafuda: Nintendo’s Latest Fusion of Tradition and Nostalgia

Posted on by Owen

Nintendo is blending history with its beloved Mario franchise in a new collection of “Mario Hanafuda” goods, launching on February 17, 2025. The lineup, available at Nintendo TOKYO, OSAKA, KYOTO, and the My Nintendo Store, celebrates the rich heritage of Hanafuda—a traditional Japanese card game—with a Super Mario twist.

Credit: Nintendo

The collection features intricate designs inspired by classic Hanafuda cards, each reimagined with iconic Mario characters. Yoshi is represented in the “February Plum” pattern, Donkey Kong takes the spotlight in “April Wisteria,” while Princess Peach is beautifully depicted in “March Cherry Blossom.” Other designs include Mario’s “June Peony” and Boo’s hauntingly elegant “August Mang.”

Beyond the stunning card designs, Nintendo is offering a range of stylish merchandise incorporating these unique motifs. The collection includes:

  • T-Shirts (Black) – 3,960 yen
  • Half Towel Handkerchiefs – 715 yen
  • Face Towels – 1,375 yen
  • Reversible Azuma Bags – 3,520 yen
  • Mini Letter Sets – 770 yen
  • Pair Glasses (Moon Viewing & Cherry Blossom Viewing Editions) – 3,080 yen

This collection is a nod to Nintendo’s deep roots in Hanafuda manufacturing before it became a global gaming powerhouse. It’s a perfect fusion of classic artistry and modern gaming nostalgia, making it a must-have for collectors and fans alike.

For those interested, these goods will be available in limited quantities. Be sure to check Nintendo’s stores or online marketplaces like Amazon and Rakuten to secure your favourites.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday at Retro Gaming News.