Nintendo has officially unveiled a range of discounts for Mario Day, celebrated annually on 10 March. This beloved tradition pays tribute to gaming’s most recognisable plumber, who first appeared in the 1981 arcade classic Donkey Kong, albeit under a different name—Jumpman. For 2025, the promotions spotlight a selection of Mario-centric Nintendo Switch titles, including price reductions on Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. Some retailers are also bundling themed Joy-Con controllers, making it a convenient time for fans and collectors to grab these signature games.
Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD– $39.99 (normally $59.99) Mario Kart 8 Deluxe– $39.99 (normally $59.99) Mario vs. Donkey Kong– $29.99 (normally $49.99) Princess Peach: Showtime!– $39.99 (normally $59.99) Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury– $39.99 (normally $59.99) Super Mario Odyssey– $39.99 (normally $59.99) Super Mario RPG– $39.99 (normally $59.99)
Credit: Nintendo
Beyond the discounts, Nintendo has organised a series of events to mark the occasion such as a Mario Kart Tournament, GameStop and BestBuy demo events and even a Jet Blue A320 (below) – amongst a host of other activities and offers.
Credit: Jetblue/Nintendo
Since Mario’s earliest days, enthusiasts have praised the series’ accessible gameplay, charming worlds, and memorable soundtracks. In fact, the character’s creation by legendary designer Shigeru Miyamoto helped shape the foundation of platform gaming. It’s a testament to the series’ legacy that Mario remains a cultural icon more than four decades after his debut.
Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday! Interestingly, Mario was named after Mario Segale, the landlord of Nintendo of America’s early warehouses.
Acclaim, once a powerhouse of 1980s and 1990s gaming, has officially returned to the spotlight under the leadership of new CEO Alex Josef. Industry reports suggest that this revival will focus on supporting independent developers and rekindling beloved classic franchises. For gamers who remember Acclaim’s heyday, this news represents a new lease of life for titles that once defined console gaming.
This is what I’m hoping for…
In its original form, Acclaim was a major name in publishing and distributing on systems such as the NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis. Perhaps best known for its home-console versions of arcade hits like Mortal Kombat (under licence from Midway), Acclaim also boasted original ventures, including the dinosaur-hunting adventure Turok (which recently had a remaster including a few enhancements). During the 1990s, the company experimented with an array of genres—from sports titles, such as All-Star Baseball and NBA Jamcollaborations, to action-heavy adaptations like WWF WrestleMania. While arcade conversions made Acclaim a household name, the publisher proved it could excel at original games too, catering to varied gaming tastes.
By the early 2000s, Acclaim faced mounting financial pressures, leading to its eventual closure in 2004. The rights to certain properties were sold off, and for years, the once-distinctive Acclaim logo faded into industry memory. As of 2025, the brand’s re-emergence signals a determined effort to capitalise on rising nostalgia for classic games and new opportunities in the indie market. According to newly released statements, Acclaim’s strategy involves leveraging modern distribution platforms while also offering development support to small studios interested in working with legacy IPs. This might open doors for reimaginings of fondly remembered titles—an enticing prospect for enthusiasts of classic games who crave updates on storied franchises.
Historically, Acclaim’s success lay in its ability to bring arcade-quality gameplay to home systems, often bridging the gap between coin-op experiences and living room consoles. With the resurging interest in retro gaming and platforms like IOS now open for emulation and mini-consoles, the potential for revisiting Acclaim’s back catalogue is evident.
Now, under fresh leadership, the publisher is ready to make the most of today’s retro gaming resurgence. Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz, Josef explained: “Acclaim’s legacy stretches back to a golden era for console gaming. We want to reinvigorate that legacy by partnering with indie studios that share our passion for timeless gameplay.” He also noted a commitment to modernising fan-favourite series: “Players remember the thrill of discovering Turok’s hidden levels or mastering combos in Mortal Kombat. We aim to harness that nostalgia while incorporating fresh ideas for contemporary audiences.”
Reportedly the company’s strategy involves offering developmental resources to smaller studios interested in working with legacy IPs, rather than simply re-releasing classic titles: “Our plan is to go beyond mere remasters. We’re looking at how to introduce new mechanics, deeper narratives, and polished visuals, but without losing that retro spark,” Josef said. Several key franchises—dormant for years—are set to be revisited, and there are hints of new projects inspired by the spirit of Acclaim’s original catalogue.
We are very excited to see what legendary franchises might get the remaster treatment in the coming months.
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Interestingly, Acclaim once produced motion-sensing game controllers in the 1990s, demonstrating an early foray into technology now commonplace in modern gaming peripherals.
Originally released in 1987, Head Over Heels first captured the imaginations of gamers on the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64 with its inventive isometric puzzle-platform gameplay. Created by developer Jon Ritman and artist Bernie Drummond, it stood out for its dual-character mechanic: players could switch between “Head,” known for impressive jumps, and “Heels,” who excelled in speed. By working in tandem, the pair navigated a labyrinth of cleverly designed rooms, solving puzzles that demanded equal parts timing and strategy.
Over time, Head Over Heels gained cult status among enthusiasts of 8-bit computing, thanks to its charming graphics, distinctive abilities system, and a depth of play that rivalled many contemporary releases. Even decades later, it is often cited as a quintessential example of isometric design done right, alongside other legendary titles such as Batman (1986), which shared similar mechanics.
Now, according to recent updates, this classic is returning for a new generation on PC and Nintendo Switch. The remaster promises polished visuals that retain the game’s original feel, while introducing a smoother framerate, refined controls, and enhanced audio. Early demonstrations suggest that the developers have been careful to preserve the spirit of the original, ensuring that each puzzle remains faithful to its 8-bit roots. Additional checkpoints, a more intuitive item-collection system, and a dynamic help feature are also rumoured, aiming to keep the experience accessible without sacrificing the core challenge.
This revitalised release illustrates a wider movement in retro gaming: bringing classic titles to modern platforms while respecting their heritage. In the case of Head Over Heels, fans can look forward to reliving an iconic puzzle adventure, while newcomers will get a taste of 1980s innovation in a freshly updated format.
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Masahiro Sakurai, the visionary behind many of Nintendo’s iconic properties, has recently been recognised by the Japanese government for his pioneering game design tutorials. Known for co-creating the Kirby series and masterminding the Super Smash Bros. franchise, Sakurai’s work has had a far-reaching impact on the retro gaming landscape, inspiring new generations of developers and players alike.
The man, the legend
Sakurai’s career began at HAL Laboratory in the early 1990s. It was here he introduced the world to Kirby, a character whose deceptively simple mechanics brought accessibility to classic games on the original Game Boy. Kirby’s Dream Land, released in 1992, remains a cornerstone of retro gaming, often praised for its whimsical design and intuitive controls. Despite primarily creating titles for Nintendo consoles rather than MS-DOS or other home computer platforms, Sakurai’s design ethos has transcended hardware boundaries, influencing gameplay across the entire gaming industry.
Perhaps his most influential creation is the Super Smash Bros. series, first launched on the Nintendo 64 in 1999. By blending different Nintendo characters into a unique fighting experience, Sakurai bridged the gap between casual and competitive players. He introduced streamlined controls, dynamic stages, and an iconic roster of familiar faces, forever changing how fighting games were perceived. His focus on accessible tutorials helped ensure that newcomers could grasp the fundamentals without complex manuals or steep learning curves.
This recent recognition by Japanese authorities underscores Sakurai’s dedication to teaching the art of game creation. Through his YouTube channel and various speaking engagements, he has continued to share in-depth analyses of design principles, championing clarity and enjoyment in all gaming experiences. Such efforts ensure the preservation of classic titles, spotlighting the continuing relevance of beloved properties like Kirby and Smash Bros. in modern gaming culture.
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Nintendo has recently made the iconic soundtrack from The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past available on its official Nintendo Music platform, a welcome treat for fans for of this legendary game . First released in 1991 on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), A Link to the Past quickly established itself as one of the pivotal entries in the series. Its unforgettable score, composed by the renowned Koji Kondo, has been lauded for capturing the spirit of exploration and the grandeur of Hyrule’s landscapes.
Arguably the most recognisable piece is the “Overworld Theme,” featuring a rousing melody that perfectly embodies Link’s heroic journey. Listeners often cite the “Dark World Theme” as another standout track, bringing an edgy, sombre layer to the adventure, hinting at the hidden dangers of the alternate realm. The gentle, almost homely tune of “Kakariko Village” offers a contrast to the game’s more intense moments, providing a sense of respite amidst the chaos. Likewise, “Hyrule Castle” and its regal progressions underline the weight of Link’s quest to save Princess Zelda.
Technically, the SNES’s audio hardware (utilising the SPC700 sound chip) allowed Koji Kondo’s compositions to shine in more nuanced ways than the original Nintendo Entertainment System ever could. Despite limitations such as a mere eight channels, the sound team’s creativity resulted in a rich, layered soundtrack that continues to resonate with retro gaming fans. A Link to the Past also influenced subsequent Zelda soundtracks, setting the bar for orchestration and thematic cohesion in future instalments.
As of February 27, 2025, the full collection can now be streamed officially, giving newcomers and long-time devotees a chance to revisit these defining compositions. With each track, one is reminded of how music can elevate gameplay into a truly immersive experience, and take you back to playing the game – even decades after a title’s original release.
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A major update for the classic first-person shooter Turok: Dinosaur Hunter has now been rolled out across all platforms, promising fans a host of new features, refined menu options, and a myriad of bug fixes. The update, which has been in development for several months, aims to bridge the gap between the original game’s nostalgic charm and modern gameplay expectations.
Among the most significant additions is an optimized renderer for both Vulkan and the Nintendo Switch, ensuring smoother graphics and improved performance. The game has also been ported to the latest Series X and PS5 consoles, offering enhanced visual fidelity and high refresh rate support. Furthermore, developers have fine-tuned gamepad functionality and vibration support, allowing for a more immersive and responsive gaming experience. Localized achievements and trophies add another layer of polish, catering to a global fanbase.
The update introduces several gameplay features reminiscent of Turok 2. Players can now swap ammo types for the Tek Bow and Shotgun on the fly, and a new run/walk toggle allows for more strategic movement—enabling stealthy approaches from behind enemies. Additionally, the ability to bind multiple weapons to a single button streamlines combat and caters to varied playstyles. Notably, long-forgotten features such as the High Priests’ homing blue magic attack and Purlins’ unused leap smash melee attack have been restored, along with the Gallery cheat code, which now offers previews of enemy animations and boss encounters.
Menu options have also been overhauled, with new icons replacing text in the Input Bindings menus, and a “Reset to Defaults” option making it easier for players to revert settings. Enhanced controller options, gameplay tweaks, and improved HUD, graphic, audio, and video settings have collectively contributed to a more polished user interface.
Beyond these feature enhancements, the update addresses numerous bugs and gameplay issues. Improvements to enemy animations, sound synchronization, and environmental interactions have been meticulously implemented. Minor fixes across maps and scripts further enrich the overall experience, ensuring that both long-time fans and newcomers can enjoy a seamless adventure in the Turok universe. Credit to Night Dive Studios on Reddit for sharing the summary of what is new.
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Nintendo has sent ripples through the retro gaming community with the announcement that Super Soccer will be removed from the Switch Online SNES collection in Japan on 28 March 2025. This unexpected move marks a rare cull from the service’s lineup, stirring nostalgia among players who recall the game’s pixelated pitches and infectious chiptune soundtrack. First launched in 1991 for the Super Famicom—Japan’s version of the SNES—Super Soccer was a pioneering effort by Human Entertainment, delivering a fresh take on football simulation with its distinctive behind-the-goal camera angle.
What set Super Soccer apart was its use of the SNES’s Mode 7 graphics, a technical marvel that allowed for a pseudo-3D effect, rotating and scaling the pitch to create an immersive experience. This innovation was groundbreaking in an era dominated by flatter, top-down perspectives. The game boasted a solid lineup of international teams, offering exhibition matches and tournament play that balanced accessibility with tactical depth. Since joining the Switch Online library in 2019 as an early third-party title, it’s been a cherished gem for those revisiting the 90s golden age of gaming.
So why the removal? Nintendo hasn’t spilled the beans, but speculation points to licensing hurdles with Spike Chunsoft, the current rights holder. For collectors, the game endures through original cartridges or emulation, though its exit from Switch Online underscores the fragility of digital preservation. Fans of vintage football titles might turn to contemporaries like International Superstar Soccer or FIFA International Soccer, which also left their mark on classic consoles.
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Today, we’ve got a cracking bit of news that’ll thrill anyone who’s ever donned Samus Aran’s Varia Suit in virtual battle. On February 27, 2025, Piggyback and Nintendo unveiled an official release date for Metroid Prime 1–3: A Visual Retrospective, a lavish art book celebrating over two decades of the iconic first-person adventure series. Slated to hit shelves on June 24, 2025, this 215-page hardcover promises a deep dive into the artistry and development of Metroid Prime, Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, and the stunning Metroid Prime Remastered. For fans of vintage Nintendo brilliance, this is a must-have.
The Metroid Prime saga began in 2002 on the GameCube, a bold shift from the series’ 2D roots to a 3D masterpiece crafted by Retro Studios. It was a gamble that paid off, blending atmospheric exploration with technical wizardry that pushed the console’s limits—think 60 frames per second and texture work that still holds up today. The trilogy continued with Echoes in 2004 and Corruption on the Wii in 2007, each refining the formula while introducing innovations like motion controls. The 2023 Switch remaster of the original only cemented its status as a timeless classic. Now, this book—priced at £39.99/$49.99/ C$69.99—offers concept sketches, developer notes, and a foreword by producer Kensuke Tanabe, peeling back the curtain on a franchise that redefined retro gaming’s potential. Amazon already has pre-orders open and you can get 10% discount ($44.99).
What makes this announcement timely is the buzz around Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, still pegged for a 2025 Switch release. With its predecessor’s art book dropping just weeks before summer, speculation is rife that Nintendo’s aligning its ducks—or rather, its Space Pirates—for a blockbuster year. Piggyback, known for their sumptuous Zelda guides, brings their A-game here, with premium paper and a metallic foil cover that’ll gleam on any collector’s shelf. For those who’ve scoured Tallon IV or battled Phazon corruption, this is more than a book—it’s a tribute to a golden era of gaming heritage.
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The Super Mario Collection 40th Anniversary Book is poised for a reprint, contingent on the success of its soon to be launched Kickstarter campaign. This coveted collector’s item, first published in 2024 and swiftly sold out, chronicles four decades of Super Mario—a franchise that has delighted players since its debut in 1985. Compiled by dedicated collector Oscar Bown, the book is a treasure trove of memorabilia gathered over 20 years, featuring rare merchandise, early game artwork, and exclusive insights into Mario’s storied legacy. Each copy even includes a special Gold Mario Pin, elevating its appeal for devotees of the plumber’s adventures.
Credit: Kickstarter
The Kickstarter, which kicked off on Mario Day—March 10, 2025—invites fans to fund this updated edition, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. As of February 27, 2025, the campaign is gaining momentum, a testament to the enduring love for Mario among gamers worldwide. This reprint not only offers a chance to own a piece of gaming history but also underscores the franchise’s monumental impact, from its NES origins to its sprawling influence across consoles, TV screens, and cinemas.
Since bursting onto the scene in 1985, Super Mario has evolved into a cultural juggernaut, spawning iconic titles, spin-offs, and a vast array of collectibles. This book captures that journey, spotlighting artefacts that are increasingly rare in today’s digital age. For collectors and nostalgists alike, it’s a fitting tribute to a character who has shaped gaming for generations. The Kickstarter’s success could also signal a broader trend, with similar retro gaming projects—like recent reprints of Sega and Nintendo books—finding enthusiastic support online.
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Pokémon, the iconic franchise that has enthralled gamers since its 1996 debut, could be poised to entertain for another 50 to 100 years, according to The Pokémon Company CEO Tsunekazu Ishihara. Speaking to BBC News, Ishihara expressed confidence that continued innovation could secure the series’ place in gaming history well into the next century. As Pokémon nears its 30th anniversary, this bold claim highlights its evolution from a humble Game Boy title into one of the world’s most valuable media empires.
Launched on Nintendo’s Game Boy with Pokémon Red and Green, the series pioneered a unique blend of collecting, battling, and trading creatures that captivated players globally. Those early games, constrained by the Game Boy’s modest hardware, still managed to craft an expansive world that redefined handheld gaming. Today, Pokémon spans video games, anime, films, toys, and a trading card game that’s recently exploded in popularity—though not without attracting scalpers and counterfeit woes. Ishihara credits the franchise’s longevity to its ability to “enrich both the real and virtual worlds,” a vision brought to life by the augmented reality hit Pokémon GO.
Yet challenges persist. The trading card game’s resurgence has seen resellers snap up rare packs, driving up prices and frustrating collectors. The company has also fought legal battles to protect its intellectual property, including a recent lawsuit against the makers of Palworld for alleged patent infringement. Despite these hurdles, Pokémon’s private company status—unlike publicly traded giants like Nintendo—allows it to reinvest all profits back into the franchise, fostering a laser focus on its future. This dedication resonates with a multigenerational fanbase, evident at events like the Pokémon International Championships, where thousands gather to celebrate their shared love.
Looking ahead, the departure of Ash and Pikachu from the anime in 2023 has sparked curiosity, while rumours swirl of 30th-anniversary plans—perhaps remakes of the original Game Boy classics. For Ishihara, complacency is the only threat to Pokémon’s enduring legacy.
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