Mojang Studios has unveiled new content for Minecraft (PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android), introducing two new types of chickens, cactus flowers, and dead grass. These features are now available in the Java Edition snapshots and the Bedrock beta/preview versions.
Credit: Minecraft.net
The new chickens add more variety to the game’s ecosystems. Yellowish chickens now spawn in warm biomes, while greyish chickens appear in cold biomes. Like regular chickens, both types lay eggs and contribute to the game’s growing list of passive mobs.
Credit: Minecraft.net
Alongside these additions, the update brings more environmental details to desert biomes. Cactus flowers, which bloom on top of cacti, can now be harvested and used for dyes. Additionally, these flowers attract bees, adding a new dynamic for players interested in beekeeping and resource gathering.
Dead grass also makes its debut, appearing in tall and short variants within desert biomes. Players can use bone meal on short dead grass to grow it taller, while using bone meal on tall dead grass will cause additional short dead grass to grow nearby. Interestingly, dead grass functions similarly to regular grass and can be fed to sheep, making it a useful addition for players managing livestock in arid environments.
Credit: Minecraft.net
This latest Minecraft update continues the game’s tradition of expanding its natural landscapes with subtle but impactful details. Players can experiment with these new features in Java snapshots and Bedrock previews before they make their way into the full release.
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Welcome to this weeks newsletter, this week I started to play Elden Ring and wow, what a game – my retro gaming might get a little bit hampered by this game, but lets see.
This week we have 39 stories including some new games for the NES and Genesis/Megadrive, a new motherboard for the PS1 and one adaptor to power all your consoles – plus a lot more.
News
🕹️ A Famicom enthusiast in Japan is selling an almost complete collection of the console’s games before passing away, sparking significant attention online. Automaton Media
Got, got, need
🎵 “Banjo-Kazooie” composer Grant Kirkhope has cast doubt on the possibility of the beloved series making a return. Retroshell
🔥 The risqué shoot-’em-up “Steam Hearts” and fighting game “Advanced Variable Geo” are getting modern console releases. Time Extension
🚀 Sega has filed a new trademark for “Skies of Arcadia,” fueling speculation about a potential remaster. Retroshell
⛏️ Data Man: New NES Game Launches via Broke Studio. Retroshell
🎮 A determined modder has released a “GTA: Vice City” mod despite takedown threats. Retroshell
🐱 “SkateCat,” a retro-inspired adventure game, is rolling onto Nintendo Switch, Itch, and Steam. Retroshell
🔫 The indie shooter “Lethal Wedding” is gearing up for a Kickstarter campaign. Retroshell
🕹️ A custom PlayStation 1 motherboard, “NSOne,” has been unveiled, marking the first in 30 years. Retroshell
⌚ Atari has teamed up with Nubeo to launch a luxury watch inspired by the classic game “Asteroids.” Retroshell
👽 “The Thing: Remastered” has become Nightdive Studios’ fastest-selling game to date. Retroshell
🎮 Songbird Productions is reviving classic Atari Jaguar titles with high-quality reprints. Retroshell
🎼 The “Super Mario RPG” soundtrack is set to release on April 9, including a Super Famicom version in Japan. Retroshell
🔄 A roundup of the best Sega-related posts on Reddit from the past week. Retroshell
🎮 A collection of the most popular original Xbox, PS1, and PS2 posts on Reddit this week. Retroshell
🕹️ Highlights of the best retro Nintendo gaming posts on Reddit from the last week. Retroshell
📼 A roundup of this week’s best Reddit posts covering Atari, Neo Geo, WonderSwan, TurboGrafx, and the 3DO. Retroshell
🕹️ “Quarter Arcades” is adding “Bad Dudes vs. DragonNinja” and “Lunar Lander” to its collection of mini arcade cabinets. Retroshell
🧙 The “Elminage” series is making its way to modern consoles for the first time. Retroshell
⚖️ A local supermarket has won a trademark dispute against Nintendo. Retroshell
🎲 Atari has launched 15 “mystery patch” packs for collectors and retro gaming fans. Retroshell
🏎️ “Dream Ride,” a Micro Machines-style party racer, is coming to the Dreamcast. Retroshell
Dream Ride
💰 Nintendo Switch Online is adjusting its regional pricing, affecting subscribers worldwide. Retroshell
🎮 “The Sims” nostalgia is in full swing with a new Y2K-themed website dedicated to the classic life-sim. Retroshell
🚗 “Ridge Racer 64” is drifting onto Nintendo Switch Online. Retroshell
🦤 A bizarre Kazooie puppet just sold for over $2,000, despite its unsettling appearance. Time Extension
Nightmare Fuel
🎮 A fan is developing an NES-style version of “Celeste,” and it’s already playable. Time Extension
Features
🎲 Technōs Japan’s Famicom RPG Sugoro Quest is finally receiving an official English translation next month. Destructoid
🎨 A look at how Kirby’s box art has evolved across cultures, from cute to combat-ready. Retroshell
🕹️ Megami Tensei’s author explains why the game had two distinct versions for the Famicom and Japanese computers. Time Extension
⚙️ A deep dive into the differences between FPGA hardware and traditional software emulation for retro gamers. Retroshell
📜 A complete timeline of video game consoles, from the industry’s origins to today. Digital Trends
🐵 Donkey Kong designer discusses the character’s iconic redesign and the creation of Diddy Kong. Retroshell
🦇 A look back at why Castlevania’s Nintendo 64 entries are considered some of the franchise’s biggest missteps. CBR
⚖️ Nintendo’s legal battle against emulators intensifies, raising concerns for preservationists and retro gamers. Android Police
🔌 The Retro-Tap lets users power up to 10 retro consoles with a single power block. Retro Dodo
📖 An excerpt from a book detailing the history of the Intellivision console and its impact on gaming. Polygon
🎮 A guide to modern retro gaming consoles, including top systems like the SuperStation One. GeekSided
Lists & Rankings
🛡️ A list of games where players must heavily rely on equipment to survive and progress. TheGamer
🎨 A showcase of SNES games with some of the most incredible box art designs. CBR
Fans of the classic dungeon RPG series Elminage have reason to celebrate. Developer Mebius has announced plans to release the first in a series of console ports for the STARFISH-SD-developed Elminage games, with an official announcement expected in mid to late February.
The Elminage series, known for its deep dungeon-crawling mechanics and homage to the Wizardry franchise, includes several titles:
• Elminage: Priestess of Darkness and The Ring of the Gods (2008)
• Elminage II: Twin Goddesses and The Land of Destiny (2009)
• Elminage III: Dark Apostle and The Palace of the Sun (2011)
• Elminage Gothic (2012)
• Elminage Ibun: Ame no Mihashira (2012)
Elminage Gothic
According to Mebius, the upcoming console ports will be based on the 3DS versions of these games, with adjustments made for easier playability. The first title is scheduled for release in early summer in Japan.
While the specific title for the initial port hasn’t been officially confirmed, a poll conducted by Mebius in May 2024 revealed that Elminage II was the top choice among fans, securing 66.9% of the votes. This suggests that Elminage IImight be the first to make its way to modern consoles.
For those unfamiliar, the Elminage series offers a rich blend of character customization and challenging dungeon exploration, reminiscent of classic RPGs. The games have garnered a dedicated following over the years, with titles like Elminage Original receiving “Very Positive” reviews on platforms like Steam.
As we await the official announcement, it’s clear that Mebius is committed to bringing these classic adventures to a new generation of gamers.
Another redditor is suggesting their perfect Saturday night (listening to Lil Wayne is a pass from me) nd asks others for theirs (mine would probably involve Guitar Hero, and some Pro Evolution with 3 other friends).
There you have the highlights from the subs, thanks for reading.
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In a significant shift within the gaming industry, US spending on physical video games has declined by more than half since 2021, according to recent data from market research firm Circana. This trend underscores the accelerating consumer preference for digital formats over traditional boxed copies.
This echoes my experience with gaming, I am a die-hard physical media kind of person. I like to physically have my games, to collect and share (well, I am a collector). It has made me a little bit sad in recent times that my friends who I used to borrow and exchange games with, now – no longer have physical media to trade. I do understand the convenience, but rarely do I need a game there and then – and your purchase is lost forever once the servers shut down.
Several factors contribute to this decline. The widespread availability of high-speed internet has facilitated easier access to digital downloads, while online marketplaces on consoles have made purchasing games more convenient. Additionally, the rise of live service games, which often rely on microtransactions, has further propelled the digital shift.
Circana’s analysis indicates that the move towards digital consumption has gained momentum since the pandemic. Their data reveals that physical game spending is now over 85% below its 2008 peak. Despite this, overall content spending—including both physical and digital purchases, as well as subscriptions and microtransactions—has seen an uptick since 2019.
The rate of decline in US physical video game software spending accelerated in 2024.
Spending on physical video game software in the US has been cut in more than half since 2021 and is now more than 85% below its 2008 peak.
We'll see if Switch 2 can help slow/reverse this trend in 2025.
It’s noteworthy that in 2024, a lighter release schedule for the Nintendo Switch, which traditionally bolsters a significant portion of physical game sales, may have contributed to the accelerated decline in physical purchases.
While the overarching trend leans towards digital, the rate of this transition varies across platforms and game series. For instance, in Europe last year, the overall digital share rose to 68% from 60%. Xbox’s digital share increased to 75% (up from 70%), PlayStation 5’s to 64% (up from 55%), while Nintendo’s remained steady at 22%.
As the industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how upcoming hardware releases, such as the anticipated Switch 2, will influence consumer purchasing habits in 2025.
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Retro gaming isn’t just about dusting off old cartridges, trying to hook up an ageing console or grabbing a handful of coins for the local arcade. For me, it is a story of how the industry became the juggernaut that it is today, the more basic times when gaming was still a niche hobby. It’s a journey through the stories, innovations, and cultural moments that shaped the massive video game industry we know today.
The more I write about retro, covering news stories and carrying a flame to support the communities that are keeping the retro scene not just surviving, but thriving. Whilst replaying the classics can bring back fond memories, there’s no better way to uncover the behind-the-scenes drama and unsung heroes than reading books dedicated to gaming’s golden eras. In an era of dopamine overload, what better way to give yourself a detox and uncover some of the fascinating stories that made the gaming industry?
Below, you’ll find 10 recommended reads, in no particular order—each offering a unique perspective on the games and consoles that defined generations. Lets begin.
The Ultimate History of Video Games by Steven L. Kent
Why You’ll Love It: This hefty tome covers everything from the earliest computer experiments to the modern console battles. Kent explores iconic companies like Atari, Sega, Nintendo, and more, unveiling how each shaped the industry’s highs and lows. I love the pixel art cover and this book (the first of two) will take pride of place on any coffee table.
Key Takeaway: If you want a thorough overview—complete with anecdotes about the arcade boom, the rise of home consoles, and the role of major players—this is your all-in-one starting point.
It has 847 reviews, giving it 4.6 stars at Amazon and 4.13 ⭐️ from over 2,900 review at Goodreads.
Console Wars: Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation by Blake J. Harris
Why You’ll Love It: Get ready for an intense business showdown. Harris weaves a narrative about the cutthroat competition between Sega and Nintendo in the 16-bit era, focusing on Sega of America’s bold marketing tactics and Nintendo’s iconic family-friendly approach. The 90’s console wars were a wild ride.
Key Takeaway: You’ll see how characters like Sonic and Mario weren’t just mascots—they were front-line soldiers in a global corporate battle for gamers’ hearts, and how this battle played out, with Sega being the plucky underdogs taking a great fight to Nintendo.
Its a “Goodreads Choice” award nominee and has a rating of 4.4⭐️ from over 3,700 reviews on Amazon, and 3.97⭐️ from over 11,500 reviews on Goodreads.
Game Over: How Nintendo Conquered the World by David Sheff
Why You’ll Love It: Sheff’s book zooms in on Nintendo’s journey from a humble playing card company to a juggernaut of interactive entertainment. It provides insight into the company’s inner workings, strategies, and the people behind the Mario and Zelda phenomena. Its quite an old book so getting a copy might be a challenge, bit it talks about a time before the modern console wars with Sony and Microsoft taking over from Sega and Atari as Nintendo’s challengers.
Key Takeaway: Learn how Nintendo’s innovations—and sometimes controversial business tactics—reshaped the entire gaming landscape and forced competitors to catch up.
It has 4.6⭐️ from a feeble 28 reviews on Amazon, but a score of 4.1⭐️ from over 1,500 reviews on Goodreads.
Masters of Doom by David Kushner
Why You’ll Love It: Travel back to the early ’90s PC revolution with John Carmack and John Romero, the rockstar developers of Doom and Quake. Kushner’s fast-paced storytelling shines a light on the creative frenzy that turned first-person shooters into a worldwide obsession which is still finding ports to weird and wonderful devices today.
Key Takeaway: Witness how garage start-ups and coding genius changed the face of gaming—sometimes literally overnight—and paved the way for eSports and modding communities.
It has a whopping 4.6 ⭐️ from over 3,300 reviews on Amazon and 4.3 from over 19,000 reviews on Goodreads.
Replay: The History of Video Games by Tristan Donovan
Why You’ll Love It: Donovan’s global perspective sets this book apart. Rather than centring only on North America, it delves into arcade scenes in Europe and Japan, uncovering overlooked pioneers and cultural influences that shaped game design.
Key Takeaway: If you’re curious about the worldwide tapestry of retro gaming—beyond the usual Sega vs. Nintendo focus—this book is a must-read to give you an expanded view.
It has 4.5⭐️ from over 250 reviews on Amazon, and 4.04⭐️ from over 1,400 reviews on Goodreads.
Power-Up: How Japanese Video Games Gave the World an Extra Life by Chris Kohler
Why You’ll Love It: Kohler uncovers how Japanese culture and design philosophies became a driving force in video game innovation. From RPGs like Final Fantasy to Nintendo’s family-friendly hits, you’ll discover what makes Japanese titles so influential and also so different from Western styles.
Key Takeaway: A fantastic read if you love JRPGs, the creativity behind Nintendo’s classics, or the cultural crossover that turned Japanese games into global phenomena.
It gets 4.5⭐️ from over 100 reviews on Amazon and 3.99⭐️ from over 430 reviews on Goodreads.
The CRPG Book: A Guide to Computer Role-Playing Games edited by Felipe Pepe
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for those who spent hours exploring dungeons on classic PC titles. This community-driven project covers the evolution of role-playing games, from text-based adventures on mainframes to groundbreaking hits like Baldur’s Gate and The Elder Scrolls.
Key Takeaway: You’ll discover hidden gems, learn how mechanics evolved, and see how CRPGs paved the way for today’s sprawling open-world epics.
It has a strong 4.8⭐️ from 130 reviews on Amazon and 4.45 reviews from over 240 reviews on Goodreads.
Sega Mega Drive/Genesis: Collected Works by Darren Wall
Why You’ll Love It: A deep dive into the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis era (which for me was the best era of gamine, the Megadrive being my first proper console), this beautifully compiled collection includes artwork, developer insights, and fan-favourite game retrospectives. It also highlights how Sega’s edgy approach contrasted with Nintendo’s family-friendly image.
Key Takeaway: A visual feast and a historical record for anyone who ever popped in a cartridge to play Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage, or Golden Axe.
It has a solid 4.6⭐️ from over 200 reviews on Amazon and 4.5⭐️ from over 50 reviews on Goodreads.
Arcade Perfect: How Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat, and Other Coin-Op Classics Invaded the Living Room by David L. Craddock
Why You’ll Love It: Craddock focuses on the beloved arcade-to-home conversions that fueled the console wars. From Pac-Man’s bumpy journey to the Atari 2600 to the faithful (and not-so-faithful) ports of Mortal Kombat, it’s a fascinating snapshot of how developers tackled arcade magic on limited hardware.
Key Takeaway: Learn about the technical tricks—and occasional flops—behind bringing arcade hits into living rooms, plus the cultural ripple effects of each release.
It gets 4.1⭐️ on Amazon from over 40 reviews and 4.15⭐️ also from over 40 reviews on Goodreads.
The Game Console 2.0: A Photographic History from Atari to Xbox by Evan Amos
Why You’ll Love It: Evan Amos’s updated photographic encyclopedia offers high-quality images and essential details for consoles spanning generations—from the earliest Ataris to modern Xboxes. It’s both a nostalgic trip through gaming hardware and an informative reference that highlights each console’s design and evolution with beautiful photography.
Key Takeaway: If you love the look and feel of classic hardware (or want a visual refresher on every major console in gaming history), this book’s stunning photos and concise summaries make it a perfect coffee-table companion.
It has a stellar 4.9⭐️ from over 650 reviews on Amazon, and 4.45⭐️ from over 140 reviews on Goodreads.
So there you have it, it is not an exhaustive list as there are several amazing books coming out all of the time. Publishers such as Bitmap Books are constantly releasing beautiful new publications celebrating retro games and gaming history. As I try and spend less time glued to my mobile, I al finding a lot of enjoyment in carving out some time to get my kindle and expand my knowledge of gaming history with a good book.
What are your favourite books, have I missed anything – please do let me know in the comments below. Thanks for reading.
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It’s hard to believe, but nearly a year has passed since Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves was officially revealed. Now, SNK has announced the Open Beta Test, giving fans their first hands-on experience with the long-awaited sequel.
Credit: SNK
The beta kicks off on Thursday, February 20, and runs until Sunday, February 24. It will be available across all platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. No active PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass membership will be required to join the fight online.
The beta includes 8 playable characters from the confirmed roster of 13 fighters. Players can face off in three online modes—Ranked Match, Casual Match, and Room Matches—or hone their skills in the included Training Mode. However, progress made during the beta won’t carry over to the full release this spring.
The roster revealed so far includes returning favourites like Terry, Rock, B. Jenet, and Hotaru, alongside newcomers such as Vox Reaper and Preecha. Gato, now sporting a fresh new look, was also recently confirmed as part of the cast.
For those looking to pre-order, physical copies of the Special and Deluxe Editions are now available at Best Buy in the United States. Digital pre-orders include a bonus: a few days of early access to the game.
Credit: SNK
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is due out for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store on April 24.
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Fans of both Minecraft and Hello Kitty have reason to rejoice: the official Hello Kitty and Friends DLC launched on 19 January 2023, bringing the beloved Sanrio universe to the blocky world of Minecraft. This collaboration offers players a chance to explore an adorable new cityscape teeming with pastel hues, collect exclusive items, and interact with iconic characters like Hello Kitty, My Melody, Keroppi, and more.
Credit: Sanrio
For those eager to purchase, the DLC is currently available on the Minecraft Marketplace. Priced at $7.99 in the United States, €7.49 in most European regions, £6.49 in the UK, and ¥1,000 in Japan, it’s designed to be accessible worldwide. This price includes a collection of skins, decorative blocks, and special missions, ensuring that every corner of your Minecraft realm can adopt the colourful Hello Kitty aesthetic.
Credit: Minecraft.net
At its heart, this DLC introduces a fully realised Hello Kitty-themed city map, complete with pastel-hued roads, quaint shops, and whimsical architecture straight out of Sanrio’s design playbook. Players can stroll the city streets, snap screenshots with life-sized character statues, or gather materials to craft unique items like pink bows and kitty-shaped cakes. The environment blends seamlessly with Minecraft’s existing blocks, making it feel both fresh and familiarly charming.
The stars of the show are, of course, the skins featuring Hello Kitty, My Melody, Pompompurin, and several other fan-favourite Sanrio friends. Each skin captures the character’s signature look, letting you hop around your Minecraft worlds as a giant-headed cat or a pastel-hued bunny. Despite the whimsical designs, the developers have integrated them neatly, ensuring that gameplay fundamentals remain unchanged while still adding a burst of cuteness to every interaction.
Several new mobs are also rumoured to be part of the mix, each decked out with charming Sanrio details. Although the creators have been tight-lipped about exact behaviour changes, speculation points to these mobs offering small interactive moments, such as trading limited-edition items or handing out adorable stickers in exchange for basic Minecraft resources. It’s yet another layer of engagement designed to make the world feel more alive and distinctly Sanrio.
Credit: Minecraft
Whether you’re a Sanrio aficionado or a casual Minecraft fan, this DLC serves as a charming cross-section of two beloved worlds. The official launch date of 19 January 2023 gives players ample time to explore all the new content. With brand-new missions, stylish outfits, and an immersive city map, the Hello Kitty and Friends DLC stands ready to add a dose of pastel sweetness to your crafting and exploration adventures.
Before you jump into this delightful new world, consider subscribing to our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack. You’ll get curated updates on classic titles, hidden gems, and upcoming DLCs that keep old-school vibes alive. And if you’re keen on preserving your physical collection of games—retro or otherwise—look no further than RetroShell. Their premium protectors ensure your favourite cartridges and discs stay in pristine condition for years to come.
Ultimately, this collaboration highlights Minecraft’s ongoing evolution, uniting creative building with the timeless charm of Hello Kitty and friends.
If you’ve ever gamed in the early 2000s, you probably remember the chunky yet lovable Original Xbox Controller S. Now, Hyperkin is bringing back this classic piece of gaming history with a modern twist. Dubbed “The Duchess,” this revamped version of the Controller S aims to capture the nostalgia of retro gaming while adding some contemporary enhancements.
Image from Hyperkin
A Modern Take on a Retro Icon
The Controller S was first introduced as a smaller alternative to the notoriously oversized “Duke” controller. It quickly became a favourite among gamers for its comfortable design and improved button layout. Hyperkin, known for its retro gaming peripherals, has announced that The Duchess will retain the original ergonomic shape while integrating modern updates like USB-C connectivity, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and compatibility with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC.
While Hyperkin’s design stays true to the essence of the Controller S, it’s clear they’re aiming for more than just a nostalgia trip. Gamers can now enjoy retro aesthetics with the convenience of modern technology. The Duchess is set to launch in four colourways: black, white, pink, and green, offering both purists and new fans a variety of options.
The Original
Why Does This Matter?
For retro gaming enthusiasts, this re-release isn’t just about playing games—it’s about reconnecting with a golden era of gaming. The Controller S represents a shift in Xbox’s design philosophy, one that resonated with fans and became the go-to choice for millions. Hyperkin’s reimagining feels like a love letter to that era, and for many, it’s a chance to relive cherished memories.
Of course, it’s not the first time Hyperkin has brought an iconic controller back to life. Their revival of the “Duke” in 2018 was well-received, and The Duchess feels like a natural continuation of their mission to celebrate gaming history.
If you’re planning to relive your Xbox classics or even try out The Duchess with newer titles, don’t forget to protect your collection. Premium RetroShell protectors (www.retroshell.com) ensure your games and gear stay in pristine condition for years to come.
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