Category Archives: New Games

Mario Kart 9: Nostalgia Meets Innovation on the Switch 2

Nintendo has been hard at work revving up excitement for Mario Kart 9, and recent glimpses of the game suggest it could be one of the most nostalgic entries in the franchise. Set to launch with the much-anticipated Switch 2, the next instalment in this iconic series promises a perfect blend of classic charm and modern gameplay innovations.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

A Blast from the Past: Princess Peach’s Classic Outfit

One of the most striking nods to nostalgia is Princess Peach’s return to her debut outfit from Super Mario Kart (1992). Gone is the sleek racing suit seen in more recent iterations; instead, Peach will don her original pink gown and tiara.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

This aesthetic shift mirrors the game’s broader vibe, which seems to lean heavily into retro-inspired elements. Longtime fans of the franchise will appreciate the throwback, while new players can experience the charm of Mario Kart’s early days.

Yoshi’s Roadside Diner: A Sweet Tribute to the SNES Era

Another delightful addition is the inclusion of a Yoshi-shaped roadside diner named “Yoshi’s.” This cheerful track-side landmark pays homage to Yoshi’s Cookie, a 32-year-old SNES puzzler that holds a special place in Nintendo history.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

The diner isn’t just a backdrop—it’s fully integrated into the gameplay. Players can zip through the parking lot, dodging cars, while a neon-lit sign glows above the course. Details like this elevate the game world, making it feel alive and connected to Nintendo’s broader legacy.

Gameplay Innovations and Switch 2 Features

While Nintendo has yet to confirm all details, Mario Kart 9 is expected to take full advantage of the Switch 2’s improved hardware. Enhanced graphics, smoother performance, and more interactive tracks are just some of the features teased.

The game will also reportedly expand on its track roster with circuits inspired by classic Nintendo games, merging nostalgia with fresh experiences. Combined with its subtle yet powerful nods to history, Mario Kart 9 feels like a celebration of everything the series has achieved over the decades.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

Nostalgia and Fresh Thrills

Between Princess Peach’s retro look, the charming Yoshi’s Diner, and the promise of cutting-edge features, Mario Kart 9 is shaping up to be an unforgettable entry in the franchise. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this release on the Switch 2 is sure to have something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on the latest updates for Mario Kart 9—subscribe to our Retro Gaming Substack for more Nintendo news. And if you’re a collector, keep your retro games safe with RetroShell premium game protectors.

Rockstar Games Shuts Down GTA 5’s Liberty City Preservation Project Mod

In a move that has sparked widespread disappointment among the Grand Theft Auto fanbase, Rockstar Games has officially shut down the Liberty City Preservation Project mod for GTA 5. This mod, which took six years to develop, allowed players to experience the Liberty City map from GTA IV within the GTA V engine, enhancing the game with new environments, pedestrians, interiors, ambience, and even radio stations from the earlier title.

The decision came after discussions with Rockstar Games, as announced by the mod’s creator, nkjellman, January 16, 2025. In their statement, nkjellman expressed gratitude for the unexpected attention and support the project received, mentioning that the team would continue their passion for modding the Grand Theft Auto series despite this setback.

The shutdown aligns with Rockstar’s established stance on unofficial modifications, which has historically been strict, although they have shown some leniency towards single-player, non-commercial mods that respect their intellectual property. However, this particular action has reignited debates within the gaming community about the balance between corporate control and fan creativity, especially given the mod’s non-commercial nature and the enhancement it provided to the player experience without infringing on sales of the original games.

Fans and modders expressed their frustration and disappointment across social media, with some suggesting that Rockstar might be preemptively protecting the sales potential of future titles like GTA 6, which has not yet been confirmed to include Liberty City. The modding community, known for its vibrant and innovative contributions to the longevity of the GTA series, feels this decision is a significant loss.

This event underscores the ongoing tension between game developers’ control over their IP and the passionate, creative endeavours of the gaming community. As of now, Rockstar Games has not provided further comment on the decision to terminate the mod.

Stay tuned for all things retro gaming—sign up for Retro Gaming News on Substack!

Give your classic games the protection they deserve with RetroShell premium protectors.

P-47 II MD: Unreleased Jaleco Shoot ’Em Up Revived After 35 Years for the Sega Megadrive/Genesis

Retro-Bit Publishing, in collaboration with City Connection, has announced the revival of “P-47 II: The Freedom Star,” an unreleased shoot ’em-up game originally developed by Jaleco for the Sega Mega Drive in the early 1990s. After 35 years, this title is now available for pre-order as “P-47 II MD.”

“P-47 II MD” is a horizontal scrolling shooter that serves as a sequel to Jaleco’s arcade hit “P-47: The Phantom Fighter.” The game retains the classic shoot ’em up mechanics, challenging players to navigate through enemy-infested skies, dodging bullets and unleashing powerful attacks. The revival aims to deliver an authentic retro gaming experience, preserving the original gameplay while ensuring compatibility with modern hardware.

The physical release is priced at $54.99 USD (€69.99 EUR) and includes:

Clear Black Cartridge: Paying tribute to the original arcade game, the cartridge features a clear black shell, allowing visibility of the red circuit board within.

Reversible Inlay Artwork: The game case includes reversible cover art, showcasing Tankro Kato’s artwork on one side and the P-47 aircraft’s tail design on the other.

Full-Color Instruction Manual: A comprehensive manual providing game setup instructions and background information.

Individually Numbered Slipcover: Each copy comes with a protective slipcover featuring the main artwork and gameplay screenshots.

8cm Mini CD Soundtrack: A first for Retro-Bit, this release includes a mini CD featuring the original game’s soundtrack, allowing fans to enjoy the game’s music outside of gameplay.

Credit: retro-bit

Pre-orders are open from January 14 through February 16, 2025, with the game available through various retailers in North America and Europe. Given the limited nature of this release, enthusiasts and collectors are encouraged to secure their copies within the pre-order window.

Credit: retro-bit

For more information and to place a pre-order, visit Retro-Bit Publishing’s official website.

Stay updated with the latest retro gaming news by subscribing to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.

Protect your retro game collection with a RetroShell premium game protector.

Annihilator: A Gritty Top-Down Shooter for the Game Boy Colour

“Annihilator” is a new top-down shooter developed by SALT & PIXEL for the Game Boy Color. In this game, players control Shinryu, an ex-marine and activist who awakens from a robotic slumber seeking revenge against the corporation CRUSH, which has taken his family, life, and body. 

Credit: SaltAndPixel / Itch

The game features:

Gameplay Modes: Three difficulty levels—Easy, Normal, and Hard—each offering a unique challenge.

Controls: Simple controls with shooting, dodging, and item usage, optimized for the Game Boy Color.

Cutscenes: Optional cutscenes that can be toggled on or off.

“Annihilator” is available for purchase at $10.00 USD, with a demo version also accessible for those who wish to try the game before buying. 

For the latest updates and to join the community, players can visit the developer’s page

For more retro gaming news, subscribe to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.

Protect your retro games with a RetroShell premium game protector.

Evercade Unveils Indie Heroes Collection 4: A Retro Gaming Treasure Trove

Evercade has announced the upcoming release of “Indie Heroes Collection 4,” a curated selection of 11 modern retro games crafted by indie developers. This collection is set to launch in February 2025, with pre-orders opening on January 30th. 

The compilation features a diverse array of genres, including platformers, puzzle games, and action-packed adventures, all designed to evoke the charm of vintage gaming. Notable titles in this collection include:

The Curse of Illmoore Bay: Battle supernatural forces in this action-packed platformer.

Credit: Evercade

Block’Em Sock’Em: A fun and fast-paced puzzle brawler where strategy meets chaos.

Nyghtmare: The Ninth King: Explore a haunting realm in this dark fantasy action-adventure.

Jane Austen’s 8-Bit Adventure: Dive into a charming, literary-inspired journey filled with wit and puzzles.

Collie Defense: Strategically protect your territory in this quirky defense game.

Flea!2: Henry the Flea is back in this precision platformer for Evercade.

Batty Zabella: Batty Zabella’s beloved Husbano has disappeared, and it’s up to you to help her find him in this saucy, spooky adventure for Evercade.

Murtop: Murti the bomb-pooping rabbit has a mission: eliminate all the nasty moles!

Credit: Evercade

Soko Banana: An 8-bit puzzler designed in the style of the classic Sokoban block-pushing formula.

Block Droppin’: Classic “match three” gameplay comes to Evercade with this block-swapping puzzler.

Starseed: Embark on an interstellar journey in this engaging space-themed adventure.

Each game has been previously featured in Evercade’s “Game of the Month” series, allowing players to experience a variety of indie titles throughout the year. The physical cartridge will be compatible with all Evercade and HyperMegaTech! Super Pocket devices, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of players. 

Priced at £19.99, $24.99, and €24.99, the collection offers an affordable opportunity for gamers to explore new titles inspired by classic gaming aesthetics. The package includes a full-colour manual, providing insights into each game’s development and gameplay mechanics. 

For those interested in securing a copy, pre-orders will be available through Evercade’s official retailers starting January 30th. Given the popularity of previous Indie Heroes collections, enthusiasts are encouraged to act promptly to ensure availability. 

For more information and to stay updated on the latest developments, visit Evercade’s official website

For the latest news on retro gaming, subscribe to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.

Protect your retro games with a RetroShell premium game protector.

Squirrel Falls: A New Adventure for The Original Game Boy

Bitmap Soft, in collaboration with Rocket Games, is set to release “Squirrel Falls,” a new title for the Game Boy Color, compatible with GB, GBA, and SGB systems. 

Credit: Bitmap Soft

In “Squirrel Falls,” players assume the role of the town’s sole parcel courier, delivering packages and uncovering the mysteries hidden behind the picturesque scenery. The game offers a variety of activities, including fishing, working at the diner, and growing and selling crops. Earning acorns through these tasks allows players to purchase a one-way train ticket out of town, adding an element of choice to the gameplay. 

The game was developed by Rocket Games, with concept and design by Jez Whitworth. Tilesets and tutorials were provided by Teaceratops and PixelPete, and music was composed by Color TV. 

Credit: Bitmap Soft

“Squirrel Falls” is currently available for pre-order at £50.00. As a physical release, it includes a professionally created glossy box, a premium game cartridge with a cartridge protector, and a full-colour manual. 

For more information and to pre-order “Squirrel Falls,” visit Bitmap Soft’s official website.

For the latest news on retro gaming, subscribe to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.

Protect your retro games with a RetroShell premium game protector.

A Homebrew DC Game with 82 Playable Characters is here for your PC/Android Device

Homebrew developer ZVitorhas unveiled his latest project: “DC Task Force.” This fan-made game allows players to explore the expansive DC Comics universe, assembling a personalized Justice League to defend Earth from an alien invasion.

“DC Task Force” boasts an impressive roster of 82 playable characters, featuring iconic heroes such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern. Additionally, the game includes unexpected guest appearances from characters like Major Dutch Schaefer and Lieutenant Linn Kurosawa from Capcom’s “Alien vs. Predator” arcade game, The Mask from Dark Horse Comics, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles along with Master Splinter.

Credit Zvitor

The game’s campaign is designed to be completed in just over an hour, but fully exploring the universe and recruiting all available characters can provide up to seven hours of gameplay. Players can visit classic DC locations, adding depth and nostalgia to the experience.

As with ZVitor’s previous projects, “DC Task Force” is an unofficial fan game and is available as a free download for both Windows and Android platforms. Fans of the DC universe and retro gaming enthusiasts can download the game from ZVitor’s official website.

For those looking to preserve their physical retro game collections, consider protecting your cherished games with RetroShell’s premium game protectors. Stay updated on the latest in retro gaming by subscribing to our Retro Gaming Substack.

Lost Treasure of Lima Now Available for Game Boy

Retro handheld gaming continues to thrive with the release of Lost Treasure of Lima, a brand-new title for the classic Nintendo Game Boy. Developed by Broke Studio, this adventure-puzzle game combines nostalgic aesthetics with captivating gameplay, designed to run on original Game Boy hardware as well as modern emulators.

Lost Treasure of Lima takes players on a thrilling treasure hunt inspired by real-world history. Set in the early 19th century, the game challenges you to navigate perilous landscapes, solve intricate puzzles, and uncover secrets hidden within its pixel-perfect graphics. With a compelling storyline and immersive soundtrack, it’s a standout addition to the Game Boy’s ever-growing homebrew library.

Retro handheld gaming continues to thrive with the release of Lost Treasure of Lima, a brand-new title for the classic Nintendo Game Boy. Developed by Broke Studio, this adventure-puzzle game combines nostalgic aesthetics with captivating gameplay, designed to run on original Game Boy hardware as well as modern emulators.

Lost Treasure of Lima takes players on a thrilling treasure hunt inspired by real-world history. Set in the early 19th century, the game challenges you to navigate perilous landscapes, solve intricate puzzles, and uncover secrets hidden within its pixel-perfect graphics. With a compelling storyline and immersive soundtrack, it’s a standout addition to the Game Boy’s ever-growing homebrew library.

Key Features:

Authentic Gameplay: Built specifically for the original Game Boy, offering a true retro experience.

Physical Release: Includes a cartridge, box, and manual, perfect for collectors.

Modern Compatibility: Fully functional on original hardware, the Game Boy Color, and various emulators.

The Lost Treasure of Lima is available now for pre-order through Broke Studio. Don’t miss your chance to add this exciting new game to your collection!

Key Features:

Authentic Gameplay: Built specifically for the original Game Boy, offering a true retro experience.

Physical Release: Includes a cartridge, box, and manual, perfect for collectors.

Modern Compatibility: Fully functional on original hardware, the Game Boy Color, and various emulators.

The Lost Treasure of Lima is available now for pre-order through Broke Studio. Don’t miss your chance to add this exciting new game to your collection!

If you want to keep abreast with all the latest releases be sure to subscribe to our free weekly Substack, delivered each Monday.

“In This House” is a horror-adventure video game Kickstarter Campaign for Game Boy / PC seeking backers

The Kickstarter campaign for In This House, a retro-inspired horror game, has 4 days left to hit its funding target of $10,583. Developed for retro gaming enthusiasts, this project aims to deliver a chilling and immersive experience while paying homage to the aesthetics and gameplay of classic 16-bit titles.

Here at RetroShell we are avid supporters of indie developers breathing new life into classic consoles so we are always scouring sources to find new projects that we can support and share with our communities.

Set within a haunted house filled with unsettling secrets, In This House combines eerie visuals, atmospheric sound design, and clever puzzles to create a truly spine-tingling adventure. The game’s developers promise a unique blend of psychological horror and nostalgic gameplay, capturing the essence of classic horror titles while introducing modern twists.

Backers of the campaign can choose from various tiers, including exclusive physical editions for retro consoles, digital downloads, and behind-the-scenes development content. Higher pledge tiers offer unique perks, such as custom in-game content and collector’s items.

With its combination of retro charm and horror storytelling, In This House is poised to become a standout title in the indie scene. Retro horror enthusiasts and collectors are encouraged to support the campaign early to secure exclusive rewards.

Learn more about the project and back it here: In This House Kickstarter, and you can find the creator Jakub on X.

To stay up to date with all the retro gaming news each week, sign up to our Substack which is delivered free each Monday to your inbox.

Pre-Order Now Open for The Secret of the Four Winds Collector’s Edition for the Sega Megadrive/Genesis

The Collector’s Edition of The Secret of the Four Winds is now available for pre-order. Developed by Kai Magazine Software, this highly anticipated action-adventure RPG is designed exclusively for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, bringing a fresh experience to fans of 16-bit gaming.

The Collector’s Edition is a must-have for retro gaming collectors. It features a beautifully crafted Genesis-style box, a full-colour manual, and a cartridge compatible with original Sega Genesis hardware. The artwork and presentation have been meticulously designed to reflect the golden age of retro RPGs, making it a perfect addition to any Sega fan’s collection.

The Secret of the Four Winds promises an engaging story, expansive gameplay, and mechanics that push the limits of what the Sega Genesis can achieve.

Pre-orders are limited, so fans are encouraged to secure their copies early to avoid missing out on this exciting release. Visit Kai Magazine Software’s store to place your order now!

If you want to keep up with all the latest retro news in a single weekly email – sign up for our free retro gaming Substack, and if you are a collector of retro games, then check out our range of premium game display protectors.