• GBPGBP
  • EuroEuro
  • USDUSD

Category Archives: Modern Retro Games

Modern Retro Games, Sega

Earnest Evans & Annet Returns Get Official English Releases

Posted on by Owen

Two Sega CD cult classics, Earnest Evans and Annet Returns, are finally receiving official English releases, thanks to Limited Run Games. These side-scrolling action titles, which originally launched in Japan in the early 1990s, have never been officially localized—until now.

Credit: Limited Run Games

A Long Time Coming for Earnest Evans & Annet Returns

Originally developed by Wolf Team, Earnest Evans (1991) and Annet Returns (1993) are part of the El Viento series, a lesser-known but beloved trilogy in retro gaming circles. Earnest Evans puts players in the shoes of an Indiana Jones-style adventurer with a unique, segmented sprite animation style that has divided players for decades. Meanwhile, Annet Returns follows the story of Annet Myer, a powerful sorceress wielding magic-infused weaponry in fast-paced side-scrolling combat.

Despite their niche appeal, these titles have remained largely inaccessible to Western audiences outside of fan translations. That changes now, as Limited Run Games has officially announced physical editions for the Sega CD, complete with English text and improved presentation.

Credit: Limited Run Games

Limited Run’s Physical Editions

Both games will be available in standard and collector’s editions, featuring restored artwork and special extras. Earnest Evans is listed at $59.99, while Annet Returns shares the same price point. Given the high demand for retro Sega CD titles, these are expected to sell quickly.

Credit: Limited Run Games

For collectors and fans of obscure Sega gems, this marks an exciting moment. The Sega CD library has long been overlooked, and official English releases of Japanese-exclusive titles are rare. With this move, Limited Run Games continues to support retro preservation in a way that few companies do.

Want to protect your classic game collection? RetroShell offers the best premium game protectors on the market—perfect for displaying and safeguarding your Sega CD gems. And for more retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack, delivering fresh updates every Monday!

Collecting, Fun Things, Modern Retro Consoles, Modern Retro Games, New Hardware For Retro

Why Physical Media Still Matters in Retro Gaming

Posted on by Owen

In an era dominated by digital downloads and streaming, a significant number of enthusiasts continue to cherish physical media, particularly in the realm of retro gaming. A recent survey by Consumer Reports highlights that millions still hold onto items like DVDs, vinyl records, and classic game consoles, underscoring a collective appreciation for tangible media formats.

The allure of physical media in gaming is multifaceted. For many, it’s about the tactile experience—the satisfaction of unboxing a new game, the distinct feel of a cartridge, or the nostalgia evoked by original packaging. Physical copies also offer a sense of ownership and permanence that digital versions can’t match. Unlike digital purchases, which can be delisted or become inaccessible due to licensing issues, physical games remain playable as long as the hardware endures.

Keep em protected!

Moreover, physical media often comes with unique collectibles, commonly known as “feelies.” These can include items like maps, posters, or themed accessories that enhance the gaming experience. For instance, companies like Limited Run Games specialize in producing physical releases of games, complete with such extras, catering to collectors and fans alike.

The resurgence of retro gaming has further fueled interest in physical media. Modern recreations of classic consoles, such as Analogue’s consoles – offer modern games the chance to use original games and media.

While digital gaming offers undeniable convenience, the enduring appeal of physical media lies in its tangibility, nostalgia, and the comprehensive experience it provides. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it’s evident that physical formats will maintain a cherished place among enthusiasts.

Preserve your gaming history! Protect your collection with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our Substack—it’s free!

Modern Retro Games, Nintendo, Retro Gaming News

MSX2 RPG Burai Joukan Heads to Switch in Japan This Summer

Posted on by Owen

Retro gaming fans in Japan will soon get their hands on a revived classic. Burai Joukan, a turn-based RPG originally released on the MSX2, is making its way to the Nintendo Switch in early summer 2025. The game, developed by Riverhillsoft and first released in 1989, is a lesser-known but visually striking RPG with a deep story rooted in Eastern mythology was announced here.

The original

This marks yet another MSX2 title finding new life on modern hardware. While Burai Joukan was later ported to platforms like the PC-98 and Sega CD, the original MSX2 version is remembered for its detailed pixel art and ambitious storytelling. The game follows a group of warriors known as the “Eight Heroes” as they battle against an evil force seeking to disrupt the balance of the world. Its combat system is a blend of strategic, turn-based mechanics with a focus on character-driven progression.

Credit: At Press Japan

While details on the Switch version remain limited, it’s expected to retain the original game’s visuals and gameplay while potentially incorporating quality-of-life improvements. Given the recent trend of MSX2 titles being re-released with modernized features such as save states and enhanced menus, Burai Joukan could receive similar treatment.

For fans of Japanese retro RPGs, this re-release is an opportunity to experience a title that never saw an official Western release. Whether this signals more MSX2 classics making the jump to Switch remains to be seen, but it’s a promising sign for enthusiasts of classic Japanese RPGs.

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!

Modern Retro Games, Sony, Steam

PlayStation Strikes Down Bloodborne PSX Demake, But Nightmare Kart Races On

Posted on by Owen

As reported yesterday, PlayStation has issued a DMCA takedown against the beloved Bloodborne PSX demake, forcing its complete removal from Itch.io and other platforms. The project, a passion-driven recreation of Bloodborne in the style of a PlayStation 1-era game, has built a devoted following since its release in early 2022. Fans of the demake praised its authentic retro aesthetic and faithful reinterpretation of Bloodborne’s opening sections.

Credit: Itch.io

The takedown, however, does not affect developer Lilith Walther’s other project, Nightmare Kart, a gothic racing game that began as an April Fools’ joke but evolved into a standalone title. Originally conceived as a Bloodborne Kart fangame, Nightmare Kart has since transformed to distance itself from Sony’s intellectual property, with original character designs and worldbuilding.

Credit: b0tster

Walther confirmed that development on Nightmare Kart continues, and the game will receive a DLC expansion, despite the legal roadblock on Bloodborne PSX. This news comes as a disappointment to fans who had hoped Sony might embrace the Bloodborne demake, particularly in the absence of an official PC or PS5 remaster of the game.

While Sony’s crackdown is unsurprising given its IP protection stance, it does little to alleviate the ongoing frustration among Bloodborne fans who have been clamouring for a modern re-release. For now, Nightmare Kart lives on, ensuring that the spirit of Walther’s work isn’t entirely lost.

Preserve your gaming history! Protect your collection with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered every Monday!

Modern Retro Games, Nintendo

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD Demo Now Available on Switch

Posted on by Owen

Nintendo has released a demo for Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on the Nintendo Switch via the eShop. The full game, which launched on January 16, 2025, is a high-definition update of the original Wii title, featuring enhanced visuals and additional content.

Credit: Nintendo.com

In this adventure, Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong set out to reclaim their stolen banana hoard from the mischievous Tiki Tak Tribe. Players can navigate through 80 levels across nine diverse worlds, including content from the Nintendo 3DS version. The game offers both solo and two-player local cooperative modes, allowing friends to team up and tackle challenges together.

The gameplay involves classic platforming elements such as stomping enemies, blasting through barrels, and riding vehicles like mine carts and rockets. Players can also ride Rambi the Rhino to smash through obstacles. The game introduces various moves, including the Ground Pound, Roll, Blow, and Grab and Cling, to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.

Credit: Nintendo

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the game offers an option to reduce difficulty, providing extra hearts and other aids to make the journey smoother. This feature makes the game accessible to a wider audience, ensuring that both newcomers and veterans can enjoy the adventure.

Since its release, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD has seen significant success, with over 107,000 retail copies sold in Japan during its opening week.

For those interested in trying out the game before purchasing, the demo provides a glimpse into the vibrant world of Donkey Kong and the challenges that await. It’s a great opportunity to experience the enhanced graphics and refined gameplay that this HD version offers.

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!

Modern Retro Games, Nintendo

Cronela’s Mansion: A Retro Revival on Kickstarter NOW!

Posted on by Owen

We have talked about Cronela’s Mansion before, and we are pleased to say that it is now live on Kickstarter, bringing a fresh yet nostalgic take on the genre. Developed by Straynus, this new title pays tribute to classics like Maniac Mansion and Monkey Island, promising a blend of humour, mystery, and intricate puzzles.

Credit: Kickstarter

What makes Cronela’s Mansion stand out is its dedication to retro gaming. Unlike most modern indie projects, this game is designed for multiple classic platforms, including the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and even PC and Nintendo Switch. The developer has gone the extra mile, ensuring each version is optimized for its respective system, with unique sprite work and adaptations.

Credit: Kickstarter

Set in a mysterious mansion filled with odd characters, supernatural occurrences, and plenty of puzzles, Cronela’s Mansion embraces the quirky, narrative-driven spirit of its inspirations. The game has already been showcased at MAGFest 2025, where it won Best Sound Design, further cementing its potential.

Credit: Kickstarter

The Kickstarter campaign is ambitious, with a funding goal of £103,966. As of now, the project has raised over £46,000 with 27 days remaining. Backers can choose from various editions, including digital copies, physical cartridges, collector’s items, and even a behind-the-scenes art book. Demos for multiple platforms are available, allowing players to get an early taste of what’s in store.

If you’re a fan of classic LucasArts-style adventure games or just love the idea of a new title built for retro hardware, Cronela’s Mansion is a campaign worth backing. The project will only be funded if it reaches its goal by March 6, 2025. You can check it out and support the game on Kickstarter.

Retro games deserve the best protection! Get RetroShell to keep your collection pristine with the world’s finest game protectors—perfect for display and preservation. And if you love retro gaming news, make sure to subscribe to our free Retro Gaming Weekly newsletter for all the latest updates, delivered every Monday!

Modern Retro Games, New Games, Nintendo, Sega

Flea 2 Brings More Retro Platforming Madness to the Dreamcast and NES

Posted on by Owen

Indie developer Lowtek Games is back with Flea 2, a sequel to their 2020 retro platformer, bringing even more flea-jumping action to the Dreamcast and NES. Continuing the adventures of Henry the flea, this installment introduces new mechanics, levels, and characters while keeping the challenging, fast-paced gameplay intact.

Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, Flea 2 offers tight, responsive controls and a unique jumping mechanic where Henry bounces uncontrollably, requiring precise timing to navigate obstacles and enemies. This time around, the game features a branching level system, allowing players to explore different paths as they collect blood packs and avoid deadly hazards.

Credit: Steam

The game is being developed for both the NES and Dreamcast, with physical copies available for collectors. NES cartridges are being made in limited batches, while Dreamcast editions come with a full-colour manual and case, embracing the spirit of classic releases.

Reviews from early players highlight Flea 2’s quirky pixel-art style, catchy chiptune soundtrack, and satisfying difficulty curve. The game maintains the retro aesthetic while introducing quality-of-life improvements, including optional paths for less experienced players.

Credit: Steam

Flea 2 is currently available on Steam as well, making it accessible to a wider audience beyond the original hardware. For fans of NES-style platformers and those who appreciate the thriving homebrew scene, this is one to watch.

Protect your collection with RetroShell’s premium game display protectors, and stay updated with retro gaming news by subscribing to the Retro Gaming Weekly Substack.

Game Port, Modern Retro Games, Rom Hack

Doomlings: A Dark Twist on Lemmings for the MSX

Posted on by Owen

In a nostalgic twist for MSX enthusiasts, developer Totta has unveiled “Doomlings,” a game that flips the classic “Lemmings” concept on its head. Unlike the original, where players aimed to guide the creatures to safety, “Doomlings” challenges you to eliminate as many of these determined beings as possible in each level.

Credit: Indie Retro News

The game introduces a unique mechanic: while traditional Lemmings mindlessly march into danger, Doomlings actively strive to reach the exit, adding a layer of complexity to your task. Equipped with a variety of tools that change with each level, players must interact with the environment to ensure the Doomlings meet their demise. As the game progresses, levels become more intricate, demanding quick thinking and strategic planning.

“Doomlings” is part of the MSXdev competition, celebrating the enduring appeal of the MSX platform. For those eager to experience this darkly humorous puzzle challenge, the game is available for download on the MSXdev website.

Protect your collection with RetroShell’s premium game display protectors, and stay updated with retro gaming news by subscribing to the Retro Gaming Weekly Substack.

Modern Retro Games, PC Gaming

The Sims Nostalgia Ramps Up With a Y2K-Themed Website

Posted on by Owen

As previously reported – Electronic Arts (EA) has announced the re-release of The Sims and The Sims 2 for Windows 10 and 11 PCs, scheduled for January 31, 2025. This move comes as part of the franchise’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, rekindling fond memories for longtime fans.

To amplify the nostalgia, EA launched a Y2K-themed website, www.the-sims-y2k.com, reminiscent of the internet’s early days. The site features playful elements like “Sim Urself,” allowing users to create retro-style selfies with iconic Simsimagery, and the “Meme Jacuzzi,” offering a collection of Sims-inspired memes. The design, complete with Comic Sans font and vintage graphics, captures the style of the era.

Credit: Sims Y2K Meme Jacuzzi

The re-releases will include numerous expansion packs. For The Sims, this encompasses expansions such as Livin’ Large, House Party, and Hot Date. The Sims 2 re-release will feature eight expansion packs and nine stuff packs, providing a comprehensive experience for players.  

These re-releases not only offer a trip down memory lane but also provide an opportunity for a new generation to experience the charm/chaos of the original Sims games.

Protect your collection with RetroShell’s premium game display protectors, and stay updated with retro gaming news by subscribing to the Retro Gaming Weekly Substack.

Modern Retro Games, Sega

Dream Ride: A New Micro Machines-Style Party Racer for the Dreamcast

Posted on by Owen

The Sega Dreamcast continues to defy time, with a steady flow of new indie releases keeping the console alive. The latest addition is Dream Ride, an arcade-style party racer inspired by the classic Micro Machines series. Developed by Dream Quest Games, the title promises fast-paced, top-down multiplayer racing with chaotic twists.

“Dream Ride” supports single-player and multiplayer modes, accommodating up to four human players and eight CPU opponents. The game includes eight unique cars, each with distinct handling and speed, and features four different game modes.

Credit: Itch IO / Ginger Beard Man

The gameplay in “Dream Ride” emphasizes momentum and drift, requiring players to adapt to each vehicle’s characteristics. Power-ups such as magnets, ghosts, shields, and speed boosts are integral, with hazards like oil slicks and thunderbolts adding strategic depth.

The game runs at a consistent 60 frames per second, with dynamic sound effects and CD audio music. It also includes a cheat system for additional gameplay options. “Dream Ride” is playable on both original Dreamcast hardware and emulators, and is also compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android platforms. It can be downloaded from gingerbeardman’s itch.io page under a “name-your-own-price” model.

The release of “Dream Ride” follows the trend of indie games revitalizing the Dreamcast, with titles like “Xeno Crisis”, “Intrepid Izzy”, and “Rush Rush Rally Reloaded” also contributing to the console’s ongoing legacy.

Protect your collection with RetroShell’s premium game display protectors, and stay updated with retro gaming news by subscribing to the Retro Gaming Weekly Substack.