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.
In honour of the 40th anniversary of the classic puzzle game Sokoban, Dutch MSX veterans have crafted ‘Super Sokoban’ for the MSX2.
In 1982, Japanese developer Thinking Rabbit introduced the world to Sokoban, a puzzle game that has since become a cornerstone of the genre. The original MSX version debuted in 1984. Now, as part of the MSXdev24 competition, a new iteration titled “Super Sokoban” has been released, offering enhanced graphics and SCC soundtracks.
Credit: MSX Devs
This polished rendition utilizes the MSX2’s capabilities and features an SCC soundtrack, enhancing the original’s charm. Players guide a warehouse worker, manoeuvring boxes to designated spots within confined spaces, demanding strategic foresight. The game offers two modes and a password system, ensuring both challenge and accessibility. For newcomers, an included manual provides guidance.
For those that are interested, you can find the game here, credit to the source of the article – MSX Devs.
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.
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.
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
Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit is an upcoming platformer that draws directly from the comedic web series by James Rolfe, better known as the Angry Video Game Nerd (AVGN). Developed by Mega Cat Studios, the game is set to launch in Q2 2025 on multiple platforms—including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. In fact, the Steam store page is already live for anyone wanting to scope out more details: Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit on Steam.
In keeping with the AVGN’s style, the game embraces an 8-bit aesthetic and tongue-in-cheek humor that harks back to the era of the NES. Players can run, jump, shoot, and slide through side-scrolling levels that are filled with all sorts of adversaries—from zombies to mechanical skeletons, plus a few ghoulish reapers thrown in for good measure. If you’re familiar with the Nerd’s videos, expect irreverent jokes, pixelated gore, and a level of challenge that might just remind you of the old-school “NES-hard” days.
Credit: Steam
One of the major highlights is the plan to release an official NES cartridge version, letting die-hard collectors and retro enthusiasts play the game on genuine 8-bit hardware. For the rest of us, modern console versions and PC downloads will be available. There’s also a physical edition coming via Limited Run Games (LRG), which typically caters to fans who prefer owning the physcal cart.
Credit: Steam
Beyond the throwback graphics and gameplay, it’s worth noting the game will retain much of the AVGN’s comedic edge, including references to alcohol and crude humor, as well as cartoon violence and profanity. That might not be for everyone, but for those who’ve followed the Nerd’s rants about frustratingly hard retro titles, it’ll feel right at home.
If you’re looking for more retro news and insights, be sure to subscribe to our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack at https://retrogamingnews.substack.com. And if you’re keen on preserving old-school cartridges (like the upcoming AVGN NES release), check out www.retroshell.com for some of the finest game protectors around.
If you love a cheeky twist on classic horror, Mega Cat Studios has you covered with The Meating, a retro-style comedic horror experience that’s as colourful as it is silly. The big news? A limited-edition cartridge that actually glows in the dark, giving your game shelf a delightful (yet slightly eerie) glow when the lights go out. It’s a small touch, but it really brings out the playful vibe of The Meating’s tongue-in-cheek storyline.
Credit: Mega Cat Studios
Speaking of story, The Meating doesn’t hold back on laughs or scares. It’s designed for actual retro hardware—so if you’ve still got that trusty old console, you’re in for a proper throwback. The plot, without spoiling too much, revolves around a hodgepodge of comedic horror elements that’ll have you raising an eyebrow one moment and laughing out loud the next. Early adopters have described it as a perfect late-night choice, especially if you like the vibe of cult horror flicks.
Credit: Mega Cat Studios
And then there’s the packaging. The glow-in-the-dark shell isn’t the only thing that sets this release apart. Each limited-edition set comes with a premium slipcover, a fully illustrated manual, and a collector’s box that completes the retro aesthetic. It’s the sort of attention to detail that turns a novelty item into a standout piece. Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone who loves a fresh spin on old-school gaming, The Meating promises a quirky experience topped with a fair share of memorable moments.
Mega Cat Studios prides itself on delivering not just a game, but a whole experience that celebrates vintage design. If you’re itching to add something delightfully offbeat to your collection, this might just be it.
You can find the cartridge on the Mega Cat Studios website for $150 / £124 / €145.95.
Looking for more retro gaming gems? Feel free to subscribe to our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack at https://retrogamingnews.substack.com for all the throwback updates your heart desires. And if you’re keen on protecting your prized cartridges—glow-in-the-dark or otherwise—pop over to www.retroshell.com for premium game protectors that can handle even the most haunted library.
Haunt your collection and sharpen your wits and appetite with #TheMeating's Limited Edition Glow-in-the-Dark #NES Cartridge! 🥩🔥 Unravel the mystery and help the ghostly minotaur put himself back together!
Originally released on the Game Boy Advance (GBA) in April 2003, Ninja Five-O (known as Ninja Cop in some regions) became a cult classic despite its limited production run. Developed by Hudson Soft and published by Konami, it combined swift platforming, sword combat, and a grappling hook mechanic that let players swing across levels like a stealthy superhero.
Credit: Konami
Low print numbers and minimal marketing turned Ninja Five-O into a prized collector’s item, with used cartridges fetching high prices online. Critics adored the game’s tight controls and arcade feel, praising its unexpected depth and polished presentation. Over time, word-of-mouth elevated it to near-legendary status among GBA enthusiasts.
Now, Konami is finally acknowledging that legacy. Their recent Tweet teased a remastered edition of Ninja Five-O, sparking excitement across social media. Meanwhile, the official Konami website overview confirms the revival, promising updated visuals, scaled to modern screens, as well as potential new modes for speedrunners and fans chasing high scores.
Harness the full power of Ninjutsu and rid the city streets of a maniacal threat! 🥷💪
Originally released in 2003 for the GameBoy Advance, action platformer Ninja Five-O swings onto PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, and Steam on Feb. 25. Digital pre-orders begin later… pic.twitter.com/APJBVYLMR3
While the story, levels, and trademark difficulty remain, the remake is expected to include adjustable challenges for newer players. Crucially, the beloved grappling hook feature returns, letting you swing, slash, and stealth through each stage. No firm release date has been announced, but Konami suggests it will appear on multiple modern platforms, including the Nintendo Switch.
For fans who missed the original’s short-lived retail run, this re-release marks an affordable chance to try a near-forgotten gem. With old-school ninja flair and frenetic 2D combat, Ninja Five-O could once again captivate a generation used to open-world epics and high-definition shooters.
If you can’t get enough of retro games, be sure to sign up for our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack. You’ll find in-depth looks at classic titles, trivia, and industry news to keep your inner collector satisfied.
And if you still have cherished GBA cartridges or other vintage treasures, protect them with premium RetroShell cases. Keep your precious pieces safe and display them proudly—it’s all part of preserving gaming history.
The NES, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance demos are currently available for download, with SNES and PC demos slated for release alongside the upcoming Kickstarter campaign.
Credit: Itch.io
This project has been in development for over four years, bringing together a diverse team united by their passion for retro games. Players can enjoy the demos on emulators or, for an authentic experience, via flash cartridges on original hardware. Physical editions for all versions are also planned.
FASTER, a 2.5D racing game developed by Jonathan Thomas, designed specifically for the Atari STE. This game delivers a smooth and rapid racing experience, running at 50 frames per second on the standard 8MHz Atari STE.
Credit: Jonathon Thomas / Itch
Key Features:
• High Performance: Achieves 50 frames per second on an 8MHz Atari STE, providing fluid gameplay.
• Enhanced Graphics: Utilizes the STE’s Blitter chip to render over 15 large, full-colour sprites simultaneously, displaying more than 30 colours on screen.
• Dynamic Environment: Features a full 24-hour day/night cycle, adding depth to the racing experience.
• Immersive Audio: Offers simultaneous digital engine noises, sound effects, and a YM soundtrack.
• Classic Arcade Feel: Embraces pure 1980s-style arcade action without modern complexities like multiple game modes or tutorials.
FASTER secured first place in the Silly Venture 2024 WE Atari ST/STE games competition, highlighting its excellence in design and performance.
System Requirements:
• Atari STE with at least 1MB of RAM.
• Compatible with Atari TOS or EmuTOS operating systems.
• Requires a double-sided floppy drive or equivalent, such as a Gotek drive.
• A digital joystick connected to port 1.
For those without original Atari STE hardware, FASTER can be played using emulators like Steem SSE or Hatari.
The game is available for free download on Itch.io, with the developer encouraging players to share their experiences and reviews across social media platforms to help spread the word.
Keep your retro collection pristine with RetroShell™ protectors. Sign up for our weekly newsletter and stay in the loop with classic gaming news.
