The Atari Jaguar is getting a well-deserved shot of nostalgia, thanks to Songbird Productions. The company has announced reprints of iconic Jaguar titles, giving retro gaming enthusiasts the chance to own pristine, authentic versions of some of the rarest and most beloved games from the ’90s.
Announcing three Songbird reprints for the Jaguar, including a limited run of Atari Karts in partnership with @atari! Also brand-new box art for arcade shooters Wormhole 2000 and SpideX.
Leading the charge is Atari Karts, making a triumphant return at $89.95. This limited-edition reprint brings back the 1995 classic in all its glory, featuring Bentley Bear and a cast of quirky racers. Licensed directly from Atari, this version includes a brand-new box, a meticulously crafted cartridge, and a full-colour 16-page manual—just like the original release.
Credit: Songbird
The production run is set at 250 copies, split across two phases in February and April, with pre-orders opening Thursday 30th January. However, if demand surges, Songbird Productions is open to expanding the run, ensuring fans don’t miss out on reliving this underrated karting gem.
Accompanying Atari Karts are SpideX and Wormhole 2000, two intense arcade shooters priced at $79.95 each. These aren’t just simple reprints—they come with stunning, all-new box art, reflecting Songbird’s dedication to enhancing the Jaguar experience. Now fully owned by Songbird, both titles are receiving the premium treatment, making them must-haves for collectors.
Each package includes a fresh box, cartridge, and an 8-page full-colour manual. The initial run is limited to just 50 copies in February, but as with Atari Karts, a larger release could follow if demand proves high.
Check out their website and X account for more Atari products and stay tuned for more products.
Protect and display your retro games with RetroShell, the world’s finest video game protectors. If you are a fan of retro gaming, get all of the news delivered to your inbox each Monday with our free Retro Gaming Substack.
Nightdive Studios’ recent release, The Thing: Remastered, has quickly become the developer’s fastest-selling game to date. According to Atari’s 2024 end-of-year business report, the remastered title was “well-received by critics and players alike,” achieving unprecedented launch sales across all digital PC and console platforms. The remake has reasonable reviews, getting a mixed score of 69 on Metacritic.
Originally launched in 2002, The Thing served as a direct sequel to John Carpenter’s 1982 film, offering a third-person survival horror experience that resonated with players. The game sold over a million units during its initial run, cementing its place as a standout horror title of its era.
The remastered version, released on December 5, 2024, brings the classic back with enhanced graphics and updated gameplay mechanics, aiming to captivate both returning fans and newcomers. While specific sales figures for the remaster haven’t been disclosed, its rapid success suggests a strong market appetite for revitalised classic horror games.
This achievement not only highlights the enduring appeal of The Thing but also underscores Nightdive Studios’ expertise in delivering quality remasters that honor the original while appealing to modern gamers.
With so many games centering on a male hero saving a damsel in distress, it is refreshing to see Mega Cat Studios invert the formula with Lethal Wedding. In this top-down run-‘n-gun, reminiscent of Zombies Ate My Neighbors, bride-to-be Joanne embarks on a rescue mission alongside her mother-in-law, Shelly. Their quest crosses over 30 clown-infested levels, mixing comedic themes and frantic shooting action reminiscent of classic 16-bit releases.
Announced in 2019, Lethal Wedding has taken its time to refine its blend of retro charm and a unique narrative. While the shooting remains the core focus, the introduction of a roll-evade mechanic adds some tactical nuance—even if it currently feels a bit stiff in its preview state as stated by Sega-16. Mega Cat Studios, based in Pittsburgh, is also incorporating the “Vow System,” a risk-reward element that ramps up difficulty in exchange for powerful upgrades such as Speed Reload or enhanced mobility. Vows vary each stage, occasionally lacking clear progress indicators, but the developers intend to refine these features before the final launch.
Credit: Mega Cat Studios
Players are rated on several performance metrics, from kills and time to bonus categories like flex and nerve, all translating into experience points for unlocking perks. Although only two upgrades can be equipped per run, there are 25 possible enhancements, supporting varied playthroughs. The game’s humour emerges through cartoonish cutscenes and weapons such as the explosive “Gun of Roses” and the rabbit-shooting “Hare Trigger.” Joanne’s and Shelly’s banter underscores family tension without undermining the frantic fun as per Sega-16’s preview.
Originally slated for a Kickstarter campaign last November, Lethal Wedding’s timeline shifted to allow more polish. This extra development period may prove essential in perfecting the vow mechanics and smoothing out the control scheme. For fans eager for a retro-inspired adventure with a fresh perspective, Lethal Wedding promises a memorable spin on the run-‘n-gun genre.
Indie gaming continues to shine with the release of SkateCat, a unique skateboarding adventure where players take on the role of a feline hero navigating a vibrant world. Developed by SJ Games, this innovative title is now available on Nintendo Switch, Itch, and PC via Steam, with the added option of physical NES and Famicom cartridges for retro collectors.
The NES platformer where you play as a cat on a skateboard: SkateCat by SJ Games!🛹🐈
Play it digitally (Nintendo Switch, Itch, PC Steam,…) or grab a physical cartridge!
SkateCat stands out as a homebrew gem, crafted using NESmaker software. The project exemplifies how accessible development tools can empower indie creators to revive retro consoles while showcasing fresh ideas. Led by a young developer, SJ Games collaborated with industry talents like dale_coop for custom coding and Raftronaut for a memorable chiptune soundtrack.
In SkateCat, players are tasked with saving Nekocity from monsters, blending quirky storytelling with exciting skateboarding gameplay. This mix of charm and action reflects the passion and creativity found in modern indie game development.
Physical editions are open to order for both the NES and the Famicom (both €45 with ~€17 shipping), catering to retro enthusiasts keen to experience the game on classic hardware. Meanwhile, the digital Steam ($9.99) and Switch ($9.99) versions are also available, offering a modern way to explore this nostalgic journey.
NES fans have a reason to rejoice as Data Man, a brand-new game for the Nintendo Entertainment System has launched. Developed by Broke Studio, this quirky title blends fast-paced action with tricky puzzles, delivering a fresh experience for fans of retro gaming.
In Data Man, players take on the role of a data courier navigating a digital world. Your mission? Deliver important data packages across labyrinthine levels filled with dangerous glitches, rogue programs, and environmental hazards.
Broke Studio is no stranger to new NES titles, having previously released games like Twin Dragons and Steel Legion. The studio’s dedication to publishing games that work natively on NES hardware ensures that Data Man will appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike. Like their past efforts, Data Man will ship in a full physical edition, complete with a cartridge, box, and manual.
The game is currently available to order on Broke Studio’s website.
Protect and display your retro games with RetroShell, the world’s finest video game protectors. If you are a fan of retro gaming, get all of the news delivered to your inbox each Monday with our free Retro Gaming Substack.
This week has not been very focused on gaming, as I built a new app (more details to be shared very soon), however, I did manage to play Marvel Snap a lot and also get my Analogue Pocket updated with a load of cores and I started to put some ROM’s on it for future reference. I also got accepted to “Stars Reach” pre-Alpha, but do not have a PC to run it. This looks like a good Star Wars Galaxy successor (the 🐐 in my opinion), but let’s see.
This week we have 40 entries to the newsletter, making it the biggest yet. We cover more “new” Game Boy games, updates on the Superstation One (FPGA PS1), a Tang $69 FPGA console, and a load more.
News
🎮 Embark on a Retro Adventure with PokettoHiro for Game Boy Color. A new retro-style game called PokettoHiro has been released for the Game Boy Color, offering an exciting mix of platforming and RPG mechanics. Retroshell.
🎵 Gimmick! Gets a New Arranged Album Featuring an All-Star Lineup. A newly arranged album for the NES classic Gimmick! is in production, featuring contributions from renowned musicians. Time Extension.
🕹️ Ultima VII Revisited: Version 0.1.0 Breathes New Life into a Classic RPG. A fan project updating Ultima VII has released version 0.1.0, introducing modern enhancements while preserving its classic RPG charm. Retroshell.
🎮 Balenciaga’s Limited Edition Game Console Misses the Mark. Balenciaga’s new luxury game console highlights the disconnect between high fashion and gaming culture. Yanko Design.
👻 The Demo for Cronela’s Mansion Has Dropped. A playable demo for Cronela’s Mansion is now available, teasing a spooky new experience for fans of indie horror games. Retroshell.
🎮 Metal Miracle: A New Game Boy Color Title from Hermano’s Creators(below). The developers of Hermanohave unveiled Metal Miracle, a fresh RPG for the Game Boy Color. Retrododo.
🕹️ Mega EverDrive Core: Affordable Flash Cartridge for Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. The Mega EverDrive Core is a cost-effective flash cartridge offering new accessibility for Sega Genesis and Mega Drive gaming. Retroshell.
⚔️ Game Boy Classic Ninja Five-O Returns February 25. Ninja Five-O, a beloved Game Boy Advance action game, will make a comeback on February 25. Hardcore Gamer.
⚔️ Ninja Five-O: Konami’s Forgotten GBA Gem Returns. Konami’s cult classic Ninja Five-O is being re-released, rekindling interest in the overlooked GBA title. Retroshell.
🎨 Limited Run Games Adds Phantasy Star Online Merch Line. Limited Run Games has launched new merchandise inspired by Phantasy Star Online. GoNintendo.
🔑 The New SEGA Account Connects Fans with Iconic Games. Sega introduces a unified account system to enhance access to its game ecosystem. Retroshell.
🕺 Dreamcast Dance Rhythm Game Puyo Puyo DA Now in English. The rhythm game Puyo Puyo DA for the Dreamcast has been translated into English, making it accessible to a wider audience. Time Extension.
🌟 The Meating Special Edition Glow-in-the-Dark Shell Unveiled. A glow-in-the-dark special edition shell for The Meating has been announced. Retroshell.
❄️ Snow Bros. 2 Special Brings Frosty Fun Back. The arcade classic Snow Bros. 2 is set to return with updated visuals and gameplay tweaks. Retroshell.
🎮 Super Technos World: River City & Technos Arcade Classics Gearing Up for Launch. Technos Japan’s arcade classics are bundled into Super Technos World, bringing nostalgic titles to modern platforms. Retroshell.
🤓 Angry Video Game Nerd 8-Bit Coming to Modern Consoles and NES. The Angry Video Game Nerd’s 8-bit game is launching soon for both modern consoles and the original NES. Retroshell.
🦆 Tiny Duck Hunt 3D Demo Available Now. A 3D reimagining of Duck Hunt has released its demo, showcasing a modern twist on the NES classic. Retroshell.
🎮 Three New SNES Games Join Switch Online Library. Nintendo has added three new SNES titles to its Switch Online service. Retroshell.
⚠️ Atari Warns Against Unauthorized Use of Pong Trademark. Atari has issued a warning to a cryptocurrency project for unauthorized use of the Pong trademark. Retroshell.
🥋 Mortal Kombat II Fan Project for 3DO Reaches New Milestone. A fan-made version of Mortal Kombat II for the 3DO has made significant progress, including gameplay refinements. Retroshell.
🕹️ Sipeed Introduces Tang Console: A $69 FPGA Device for Retro Gaming. The Tang Console is a $69 FPGA-based device aimed at retro gaming enthusiasts. Retroshell.
📚 Video Game History Foundation Opens Digital Library to the Public. The Video Game History Foundation is sharing its digital library, granting public access to rare game materials. Retroshell.
Features
🎮 Sega has launched a Japanese Game Centre Guide to help tourists navigate the vibrant arcade scene in Japan. Retroshell
🎸 A deep dive into the “Family Bass,” exploring the unique low-end sounds of the Famicom’s musical capabilities (below). Sonic State
🎨 Takaya Imamura, the artist behind Nintendo’s iconic worlds, is celebrated for his creative contributions to gaming. Retroshell
🕹️ A comparison of the Sega Saturn and PlayStation highlights the defining aspects of the 1990s console wars. CBR
🛠️ A Neo Geo Pocket Color modder has enhanced the handheld with a Raspberry Pi, expanding its capabilities. Retroshell
🚫 Lizardcube, the studio behind Wonder Boy and Streets of Rage, declined the chance to work on a Metal Slug title. Time Extension
🔫 Marvel’s The Punisher celebrates its 20th anniversary, reflecting on the legacy of the brutal vigilante in gaming. Inverse
Lists & Rankings
📚 A list of 10 books about retro gaming offers insights and knowledge for enthusiasts and historians. Retroshell
🎥 The best Super Nintendo movie-based games are ranked, highlighting their impact and quality. CBR
🍌 All mainline Donkey Kong games are ranked from best to worst, showcasing the franchise’s evolution. Augustman
🎯 A ranking of the best pinball video games of all time explores this unique gaming niche. CBR
🎮 The best video game controllers of all time are discussed, emphasizing design and innovation. Digital Trends
🕹️ The best Sega Genesis RPGs are ranked, celebrating the console’s standout role-playing games. CBR
🐵 Donkey Kong’s most iconic characters are ranked based on their contributions to the franchise. TheGamer
✨ A look at SNES RPGs that would benefit from HD-2D visuals highlights the potential for modern remakes. CBR
Yuzo Koshiro, the legendary composer and developer known for iconic soundtracks in games like Streets of Rage and The Revenge of Shinobi, has shared an exciting update on his latest project, Earthion. Originally designed as a passion project for the Sega Mega Drive (Genesis), Koshiro has revealed that the game is now also in development for Steam, promising modern enhancements that build upon the 16-bit version’s nostalgic charm.
In a tweet shared on January 25, 2025, Koshiro confirmed the progress:
“The development of the Steam version of Earthion is progressing smoothly. We are including additional elements not found in the Mega Drive version, so please look forward to it.”
Koshiro’s message reflects his meticulous approach to game development, emphasizing daily improvements and a deep commitment to quality. Despite the inevitable debugging challenges, Koshiro has found the process enjoyable, underscoring his passion for Earthion. This hands-on care and attention suggest players can expect a polished and engaging experience, whether they play on vintage hardware or Steam.
First showcased at the Tokyo Game Show, Earthion immediately caught the attention of retro gaming fans with its visually striking 16-bit aesthetic and gameplay reminiscent of the golden age of gaming. Attendees praised its vibrant graphics and tight mechanics when it was playable at Happinet’s booth.
Initially planned for a 2024 release, Koshiro opted to delay the game to 2025, citing the need to refine the experience further. The move hopefully ensures Earthion will deliver on its potential when it launches on both the Mega Drive / Genesis and Steam.
A Legend in Gaming Continues to Innovate
Koshiro’s decision to expand Earthion to modern platforms like Steam broadens its and bridges retro gaming with modern gamers.
Stay tuned for more updates as Earthion nears completion, promising to deliver a blend of classic and modern gaming that only a master like Yuzo Koshiro could create.
Square Enix’s Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has been confirmed cracked on PC, igniting a flurry of discussions and debates across gaming forums and communities. Initially launched on PlayStation 5 as a timed exclusive, the game officially hit PC platforms on January 23, 2025, via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Despite this, unauthorized versions have now surfaced on piracy sites, leading to widespread discourse about the ethics and implications of such actions.
Credit: Square Eniz
The Leak and its Implications
The unauthorized PC versions of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth seem to have originated from pre-release builds or unauthorized modifications. Discussions on platforms like Reddit’s r/PiratedGames and Steam Community forums indicate that these cracked versions include functional gameplay elements, including graphical settings. This situation raises questions about the security of game builds before official releases.
Square Enix has yet to make an official statement on this specific incident, but it underscores the ongoing battle against piracy within the gaming industry.
Fan and Industry Reaction
The gaming community’s response is mixed. Some view the cracked version as a way to circumvent the exclusivity period, while others argue that piracy undermines the developers’ hard work. The debate touches on issues like game pricing, exclusivity, and accessibility, fueling conversations across platforms.
Developers and publishers are under increasing pressure to implement robust anti-piracy measures without alienating their paying customers. This event showcases the delicate balance between security, accessibility, and player satisfaction, especially in a global market where consumer expectations can vary widely.
For those interested in the official release, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth can be purchased on Steam or the Epic Games Store.
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.
For more retro gaming updates and news, subscribe to our free weekly newsletter, Retro Gaming Substack. Don’t forget to protect your retro game collection with the world’s finest game protectors from RetroShell.
Tiny Duck Hunt 3D brings back the charm of classic duck-shooting action in a delightful three-dimensional format. The newly released demo, available on Steam, gives players a sneak peek at how developer Siactro has taken a familiar concept and injected it with fun new visuals and mechanics. Veteran gamers will recall the nostalgic rush of clearing flocks of ducks on the NES with your lighgun pressed again the screen – as your trusty dog helps. This modern version packs vibrant colours, smoother animations, and playful touches that appeal to contemporary tastes.
Credit: Steam
One of the standout features in the demo is its light-gun style shooting. Despite not pointing a plastic zapper at the screen, you’ll still feel that arcade-like excitement with each successful shot. There’s even a canine companion who pops up from time to time. The straightforward controls ensure players of all ages can jump in without any fuss.
Credit: Steam
You can grab it here on Steam, ahead of the anticipated release date of 4th March ’25.
If you’re itching for more retro news, be sure to subscribe to our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack at https://retrogamingnews.substack.com. And if you need top-tier protectors for your beloved old-school titles, check out www.retroshell.com.
