Krikzz has unveiled the Turbo EverDrive CORE, a streamlined version of their Turbo EverDrive PRO flash cartridge for PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 consoles. Priced at $99, the CORE model offers essential features for retro gaming collectors.
New Turbo EverDrive CORE available for order on https://t.co/eIkI80XsCQ! New cart is based on Turbo-ED PRO, but with cutted off CD core and for the half of price. This is the nice options for those who don't care about CD library pic.twitter.com/ANad2UkHic
The Turbo EverDrive CORE is based on the Turbo EverDrive PRO but omits the built-in CD-ROM² core, resulting in a more affordable option at half the price.
For those interested in CD game support, the Turbo EverDrive PRO remains available at $199.
Both models are currently available for order on the Krikzz website.
The Ink Console is a very interesting project that links both gaming with e-ink technology. Harking back to the “choose your own adventure” books that I used to love, it is shaping up to be a modern take on this genre. The project now has its own Crowd Supply funding page, with more information coming soon as revealed on X today by Dana. Interested individuals can subscribe for updates and be notified upon the campaign’s commencement.
📢 It’s official! The Ink Console crowdfunding page is now live! If you're passionate about text-based games and open-source tech, this is your chance to support the project.
At pivotal moments in the narrative, readers make choices that influence the story’s direction, creating a dynamic reading experience. The device features a 7.5-inch e-ink screen with an 800 x 480 resolution, an analog joystick for navigation, and a 5000 mAh lithium-ion battery for extended use.
Credit: Crowd Supply
Beyond its hardware, the Ink Console offers an open platform with an easy-to-use development kit, enabling writers, artists, and game designers to craft their own interactive stories without coding expertise. The creators aim to make the entire project open-source post-campaign, providing resources like STEP files for case customisation and a comprehensive bill of materials.
Credit: Crowd Supply
Currently, a diverse range of concept Gamebooks is in development, spanning genres from thrilling expeditions to immersive sci-fi narratives. New Gamebooks can be added via the built-in SD card reader, ensuring a continually fresh experience for users.
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.
Fans of the Playstation 1 have a reason to be happy -the nsOne Kickstarter campaign, spearheaded by Lorentio Brodesco. This project aims to deliver the first custom PlayStation 1 motherboard created in three decades, offering a modern solution for preserving and enhancing the classic gaming experience on the original grey console.
The nsOne motherboard is designed to replace aging original PlayStation hardware, which often suffers from wear and tear after years of use. By providing a brand-new, custom-built motherboard, the nsOne ensures that enthusiasts can continue to enjoy their favourite titles without the common hardware failures associated with vintage consoles.
You can find the Kickstarter campaign here, and Lorentio is attempting to raise £5,000 to fund the project.
Credit: Kickstarter
This initiative reflects a broader trend in the retro gaming community, where modern technology is employed to preserve and revitalise classic gaming systems. Projects like the SuperStation One, an FPGA-based PlayStation clone by Retro Remake, have also garnered attention for their innovative approaches to classic console preservation.
The nsOne project not only preserves the original gaming experience but also enhances it by providing a reliable and durable alternative to aging hardware. As retro gaming continues to thrive, initiatives like nsOne play a crucial role in keeping the legacy of classic consoles alive for future generations.
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.
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.
The highly anticipated SuperStation One from Taki Udon has started to take pre-orders for those who want to get in on this FPGA marvel in a beautiful form factor.
When writing, the black and transparent blue models are available, and the founder’s packages for these colours are still available. I snagged a Black one (pre-orders opened yesterday at 3am European time, but I missed this) for $149.99.
Credit: RetroRemake
The SuperDock is also available for pre-order, by way of a $5 deposit (so I ordered this as well as it will be nice to have the CD functionality). The website assures me that I will get my dock in the same colour as the console, which is great – and they are stating that the full price will be targetted at $40 – which seems reasonable as well for, the media capabilities and an extra set of connectivity (2 x more USA A slots).
Credit: RetroRemake
It is worth noting that I am not sure how many pre-orders will be taken at this price and the Founders Edition (Mexico) has sold out. For those that do not snag a founders edition, there is also the regular SuperStation One for $179.99.
For those who are interested, shipping was $31 to Spain, and the taxes were pre-charged at $39.06, which is great as paying taxes in other ways is frustrating.
if you want to read more about the SuperStation one, we have you covered here.
Introducing the SuperStation one. An open-source PS1 FPGA gaming console that supports original games, memory cards, and controllers. Load games from a disk or a backup. Region free. Supports all MiSTer FPGA cores, including N64 & Sega Saturn.
The SuperStation One is an FPGA-based gaming console inspired by the PS One, designed to support original PlayStation games, memory cards, and controllers. It is region-free and fully compatible with MiSTer FPGA cores, allowing it to emulate a variety of classic gaming consoles. 
Key Specifications: • Storage: Comes with a pre-installed 64GB Micro SD card. • Connectivity: • Three USB-A ports • Ethernet port • NFC reader • USB-C for power • Video Outputs: • HDMI • VGA • DIN10 • Composite • Component • Audio Outputs: • 3.5mm audio jack • Digital audio port • Expansion Slot: Includes an expansion slot for the upcoming SuperDock accessory, which will add a slot-loading disc drive, a 2280 m.2 SSD bay, and four additional USB-A ports. 
We look forward to seeing if the estimated Q3 delivery date is met.
Get your dose of retro gaming goodness—subscribe to Retro Gaming News today on Substack.
RetroShell: The trusted choice for keeping your gaming relics pristine.
Mark your calendars! Taki Udon’s highly anticipated FPGA-based PlayStation console finally has a name: the Superstation One. Pre-orders for this innovative system are set to open on 25th January 2025, starting at just $149 USD for early backers, making it an exciting and affordable addition for retro collectors.
mark your calendars! Taki Udon’s highly anticipated FPGA-based PlayStation console finally has a name: the Superstation One. Pre-orders for this innovative system are set to open on 25th January 2025, starting at just $149 USD, making it an exciting and affordable addition to the retro gaming world.
The Superstation One isn’t just another retro console—it’s a gateway for both newcomers and enthusiasts to experience gaming history in its truest form. By combining accuracy, affordability, and ease of use, it’s poised to be a game-changer in the FPGA console space.
Pre-orders begin on 25th January 2025 at 9PM EST / 26th January @ 3AM CET.
For many enthusiasts, nothing beats the nostalgic thrill of an SNK arcade cabinet—complete with those massive cartridges and the remarkable feel of a dedicated joystick. SNK was known for bold moves in the gaming realm, including their own line of home arcade systems and the underdog Neo Geo Pocket Color. While that little console never truly toppled Nintendo’s Game Boy empire, it left a lasting impression on fans. Now, decades later, one inventive modder known as YCL is rekindling that old arcade magic, shoehorning a Raspberry Pi into a Neo Geo Pocket Color and giving it a modern facelift.
The Spark of an Idea
It’s easy to forget how advanced SNK was back then. They created arcades, they released cutting-edge home consoles, and they tried (sometimes aggressively) to challenge Nintendo in the handheld market. Although those ventures didn’t always dethrone industry giants, SNK’s dedication to joystick design was top-notch. People still rave about the superb feel of Neo Geo controllers—the perfect partner for action and fighting titles.
But hardware that blew minds in the 1990s can feel a bit sluggish these days. That’s where YCL’s cleverness comes in. After tinkering with Raspberry Pi computers for other projects, they wondered: could you squeeze a full-blown arcade experience inside the Neo Geo Pocket Color shell? One that could smoothly run not just classic Neo Geo titles, but other platforms, too?
Building the New Brain
The concept might sound daunting, but the Raspberry Pi is famously flexible—and smaller than you might expect. YCL took what they call an “intelligent design” approach with a custom VS redesign PCB (printed circuit board) that’s open source. The new board fits inside the Neo Geo Pocket Color’s cramped housing, replacing the older internals while maintaining the same general button layout.
But that’s only half the trick. A mere swap of circuit boards wouldn’t be enough to transform the entire handheld. So, YCL also:
• Upgraded the Screen: Out went the original display, in came a wide-angle LCD for bright, crisp visuals. The difference between an aging handheld screen and a modern LCD can be staggering, especially for vibrant arcade titles.
• 3D-Printed Components: From a mini arcade-style joystick to a custom dust cover, certain parts had to be designed from scratch. That includes a new button arrangement, ensuring there are extra inputs for the broader game library the Raspberry Pi can handle.
• Retained the Cartridge Slot: Pure nostalgia, right there. Even if it’s mostly decorative, this detail is a nod to the original design and keeps that retro flair.
• Kept the Battery Compartment: No weird external battery packs or endless wires. The mod still looks and feels tidy, like a commercial product you might’ve picked up off the shelf in 1999.
The Arcade Feel in Your Hands
One of the highlights of SNK’s legacy is the way their joysticks and buttons feel—clicky, sturdy, and ready for combos. YCL knew it was essential to capture that same tactile experience. While it’s challenging to replicate a full arcade stick on a handheld, the modder managed to craft something that comes close, providing a far snappier input mechanism than typical rubber-contact D-pads.
The addition of extra buttons also means you can play games from multiple consoles that often demand shoulder triggers or more face buttons. So whether it’s a classic Neo Geo fighting game, a Genesis platformer, or even older arcade titles, this modded unit is equipped to handle them.
Performance Beyond the Original
This new rig doesn’t merely run a few SNK titles. Thanks to the Raspberry Pi’s capabilities, YCL’s pocket console supports emulators for numerous platforms. Think everything from NES and Mega Drive to older arcade boards that might’ve been beyond the wildest dreams of an actual Neo Geo Pocket.
The modder also incorporated a dedicated audio solution to bring that arcade roar to life. Being able to hear those signature fighting game sound effects—punches, kicks, KOs—on a crisp speaker is a major upgrade compared to the original system’s modest audio output.
Nostalgic Looks, Modern Fun
A big part of the Neo Geo Pocket Color’s charm was its chunky build and distinct shape. Plenty of fans appreciate how comfortable it felt in the hand. YCL’s project remains faithful to the console’s overall look, but peeking inside reveals a powerhouse. It’s a bit like discovering a sports car engine inside an old family sedan: it may look familiar on the outside, but it’s got serious muscle hidden under the hood.
There’s even a nod to physical accessories: you can still connect an official arcade joystick or another controller if you’re hankering for the full arcade experience at home. Talk about bridging eras—a modern emulator hub that still welcomes real arcade sticks.
A Farewell to the Old Hardware
The original Neo Geo Pocket Color, while beloved, had fairly limited hardware. Over time, official support faded. But this modification breathes fresh life into a handheld many considered doomed to be a historical footnote. With today’s technology, you can carry around a mini arcade in your pocket—something that might’ve seemed unthinkable to 90s kids used to big cartridges and thick instruction manuals.
YCL’s mod is a testament to how the retro gaming scene isn’t just about collecting old hardware; it’s also about finding new ways to enjoy and preserve classics. By harnessing the Raspberry Pi and an open-source mindset, enthusiasts continue to prove that the best parts of gaming’s past can shine even brighter when paired with a sprinkle of modern tech.
Want More Retro Gaming Goodness?
If you’d like to read more stories about inventive consoles, rare titles, and the general mischief of retro gaming, visit our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack. There, you’ll find a host of articles that delve into everything from obscure Japanese exclusives to hardware hacks just like this one.
And if you’ve got a precious retro game collection of your own, why not protect them with the world’s finest retro game protectors? Head to RetroShell and give your beloved cartridges the royal treatment. After all, preserving our gaming heritage is half the fun!
Krikzz has unveiled the Mega EverDrive CORE, a new flash cartridge designed for Sega Genesis/Mega Drive enthusiasts seeking a balance between functionality and affordability. Priced at $99, this cartridge offers a range of features tailored to enhance the retro gaming experience.
Credit: krikzz.com
Key Features:
• Cyclone 10 FPGA: Ensures efficient performance and compatibility.
• Memory Specifications: Equipped with 8MB PSRAM and 128KB SRAM to support various game sizes.
• Multi-System Support: Compatible with Genesis, 32X*, and Master System ROMs.
• Region Unlocking: Hardware MegaKey function disables region locks for Genesis games.
• In-Game Menu: Allows saving or returning to the system menu without a physical reset.
• Real-Time Clock: Logs the date and time of saves for accurate record-keeping.
• Instant ROM Loading: Facilitates quick game startups.
• USB Port: Supports development and system updates.
• Cheat Functions and IPS Patching: Enables game modifications and enhancements.
• MD+ Audio Enhancements: Improves audio quality for supported games.
Credit: krikzz.com
Note: 32X games require the 32X addon to be attached.
Step back into the golden age of arcades with the officially licensed Data East BurgerTime Quarter Size Arcade Cabinet, meticulously crafted by Numskull Designs. This 1:4 scale replica brings the classic 1982 BurgerTime game to your home, office, or personal game room, delivering an authentic retro gaming experience.
Credit: Quarter Arcades
Key Features:
• Authentic Design: Constructed from real wood, this cabinet faithfully reproduces the original arcade machine, featuring official artwork, a 4-way joystick, and illuminated marquee and coin doors.
• Fully Playable: Utilizing the original arcade game ROM on a bespoke emulator, it offers an immersive gameplay experience.
• High-Quality Display and Sound: Equipped with a 5-inch TFT screen and a 3W built-in speaker with volume control, ensuring vibrant visuals and clear audio.
• Portable Power Options: Powered via USB-C (cable included) and includes an internal rechargeable lithium battery for true portability.
• High Score Saving: Compete with friends and family by saving high scores, adding a competitive edge to your gaming sessions.
Credit: Quarter Arcades
Pricing and Availability:
The BurgerTime Quarter Size Arcade Cabinet is available for pre-order at £219.99 / $249.99 / €249.99, with an expected shipping date showing as the 25th of January.
About BurgerTime:
Originally launched in 1982 by Data East, BurgerTime is a classic arcade game where players guide Chef Peter Pepper to create burgers while avoiding enemies like Mr. Egg, Mr. Hotdog, and Mr. Pickle. This quarter-sized cabinet allows fans to relive the excitement of assembling the perfect virtual burger.
Where to Order:
Secure your Official Data East BurgerTime Quarter Size Arcade Cabinet through the official Quarter Arcades website.
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.
