Category Archives: Retro Gaming News

All of the latest Retro Gaming news each week.

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0139

In this week’s newsletter we cover the greatest Game Cube games, linking the Dreamcast and the Neo Geo pocket, the rise of retro and a load more.

News

🛡️ Halo meets Hyrule – A modder has introduced Halo-inspired weapons and vehicles into The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, blending two iconic gaming franchises. Retroshell

🕹️ New classics on Switch Online – Donkey Kong ’94 and Mario’s Picross are now available on Nintendo Switch Online, expanding its library of retro games. Polygon

🇯🇵 Suda51’s lost story translated – A fan translation of Super Fire Pro Wrestling Special makes the game’s dark and legendary narrative accessible to Western audiences. Retroshell

🎮 NES history at GDC 2025 – GDC attendees are invited to explore the lost history of the Nintendo Entertainment System in a special presentation. GoNintendo

🐷 Snout lands on Game Boy Color – Snout, a new Game Boy Color adventure, is seeking funding on Kickstarter, promising fresh retro-style gameplay. Retroshell

🔍 Zelda’s hidden secrets – A deep dive into The Legend of Zelda series reveals fascinating hidden details and Easter eggs that many fans may have missed. Ranker

🦖 Baby T-Rex returns – The classic dinosaur platformer Baby T-Rex is making a comeback on the Game Boy, reviving a nostalgic adventure. Retroshell

🚀 Sigma Star Saga DX preorders open – Preorders are now live for Sigma Star Saga DX, a revamped version of the Game Boy Advance cult classic. Capsule Computers (below)

⚖️ Nintendo blocks piracy site – Nintendo has successfully taken down a French file-hosting site that was distributing pirated retro games. Retroshell

⭐ Underrated N64 gems – A look at some of the most overlooked yet beloved Nintendo 64 games, including Super Mario 64 and GoldenEye 007ComicBook

🧩 Puyo Puyo gets English patch – The Sega Mega Drive/Genesis classic Puyo Puyo has received a full English fan translation. Retroshell

🎮 Analogue’s silence on N64 console – Analogue has yet to provide an update on its rumored 4K Nintendo 64 console, leaving fans waiting. Technowize

🏛️ Acclaim makes a comeback – The legendary game publisher Acclaim is returning in 2025, aiming to reclaim its place in the industry. Retroshell

🫧 Kiddy Bubble review – Kiddy Bubble, a love letter to the Game Gear era, delivers classic emulation a modern twist. Time Extension

The Kiddy Bubble. Strange name.

⚔️ Suikoden I & II return – Konami is reviving the beloved Suikoden JRPG series, bringing new life to these classic titles. Retroshell

🕹️ Namco’s Vs. Mystery Tower – The puzzle-platformer Vs. Mystery Tower is the latest Arcade Archives release, preserving another classic. Time Extension

🏆 Masahiro Sakurai honored – Super Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai is being celebrated for his influential game designs and lasting legacy. Retroshell

📢 Hyperkin apologizes for delays – Hyperkin has admitted to overpromising and underdelivering, addressing concerns about its gaming hardware. Time Extension

🎵 A Link to the Past joins Nintendo’s music library – The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past has been officially added to Nintendo’s music catalog. Retroshell

🦇 Castlevania: Dracula X revisited – A fresh look at Castlevania: Dracula X argues that it’s better than its reputation suggests. CBR

🕹️ Geometry Dash meets NES – Famidash, a new homebrew title, brings Geometry Dash-style gameplay to the NES. Retroshell

🎉 PlayStation 2 turns 25 – As the PlayStation 2 celebrates its 25th anniversary, its impact as the best-selling console in history is revisited. Gagadget

👻 GameCube games on Switch 2? – Rumors suggest that Luigi’s Mansion 4 and other GameCube titles could be part of the Nintendo Switch 2 lineup. ComicBook

Features

🎬 The Legend of Zelda movie update – New details have emerged about The Legend of Zelda live-action movie, including its creative team and production status. Retroshell

📈 Retro gaming’s digital rise – The resurgence of retro gaming in the digital era is explored, highlighting emulation, re-releases, and collector demand. Goomba Stomp

📉 Nintendo drops out of Metacritic’s top 20 – For the first time in years, Nintendo has fallen out of Metacritic’s top 20 publishers of 2024. Retroshell

🕹️ Inside the rare Nintendo PlayStation – A deep dive into the history and functionality of the ultra-rare Nintendo PlayStation prototype. XDA Developers (below)

The gaming world could have been a very different place

🤖 Super Mario as an AI benchmark – Super Mario is now being used as a key test for AI performance, influencing machine learning research. Retroshell

🔌 GameCube HDMI upgrade – A new mod delivers crisp and clear HDMI output for the GameCube, enhancing its visuals on modern displays. Time Extension

🎂 Mario’s 40th anniversary tribute – A special Mario 40th-anniversary cover celebrates gaming’s most iconic hero and his enduring legacy. Retroshell

🔗 Dreamcast and Neo Geo Pocket link-up – A guide to connecting the Sega Dreamcast with the Neo Geo Pocket Color, unlocking exclusive features. MyGamer

Lists & Rankings

💰 Rarest Sega Genesis games – A look at the rarest and most valuable Sega Genesis games, with some fetching high prices among collectors. CBR

⚔️ Best 8-bit tactical RPGs – A ranking of the greatest 8-bit tactical RPGs, showcasing the strategy classics that defined the genre. GameRant

🕹️ Games that thrived on clones – Many famous games owe their success to unofficial clones and bootlegs that helped spread their popularity. How-To Geek

🎮 Best GameCube games – A definitive list of the greatest GameCube games, celebrating Nintendo’s beloved sixth-generation console. Beebom

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0138

A bumper 52 stories coming your way this week, including 30 years of Ristar, more GTA for the Dreamcast, Terminator 2 is back and 100 years of Pokemon? 

News

⚽ Super Soccer Exits Switch Online in Japan – Nintendo is removing Super Soccer from the Switch Online SNES library in Japan on March 5, 2025, marking a rare case of a game being delisted from the service. Retroshell

💰 Rare Pokémon Game Sells for Over $80,000 – A sealed copy of Pokémon Red (1996) set a new auction record, fetching more than $80,000 due to its rarity and pristine condition. JustCollecting

🎸 Gibson & CRKD Unveil New Guitar Controllers – Gibson has partnered with CRKD to launch officially licensed Guitar Hero-style controllers, designed for modern and retro gaming platforms. Retroshell

🎮 Retroid Pocket Flip 2: Specs and Colors Revealed – The upcoming Retroid Pocket Flip 2 handheld will feature a clamshell design, improved hardware, and multiple color options, appealing to retro gaming enthusiasts. Retrododo

🦎 Gex Trilogy Set for Summer 2025 Release – Limited Run Games confirms the Gex Trilogy will launch in Summer 2025, bringing the cult-classic platformer series to modern consoles. Retroshell

🚀 Sigma Star Saga Gets Enhanced DX Cartridge Release – The cult-classic GBA title Sigma Star Saga is receiving an upgraded physical release with new features, celebrating its 20th anniversary. Time Extension

🤖 Terminator 2D: No Fate Brings Retro Action to Modern Consoles – Terminator 2D: No Fate is set to deliver classic side-scrolling action with modern enhancements, launching on current platforms. Retroshell

📥 Anbernic Pulls Controversial Firmware Update – Anbernic has removed a firmware update that allowed direct ROM downloads, following backlash over potential legal issues. Time Extension

🕹 Old Towers Expands to Atari Jaguar – The indie puzzle platformer Old Towers is making its way to the Atari Jaguar, continuing the trend of modern games arriving on retro hardware. Retroshell

🎶 Sega Rally 30th Anniversary Soundtrack Now Streaming – The official Sega Rally soundtrack is available to stream for the first time, celebrating 30 years of the arcade racing classic. Time Extension

🎮 8BitDo Unveils Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller – 8BitDo’s new Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller blends modern technology with retro gaming appeal, supporting multiple platforms. Retroshell

🧱 Breakout: Beyond Coming to PC & Consoles in March – The former Amico-exclusive game Breakout: Beyondis set to release on PC and modern consoles next month. Time Extension

🟨 Tetris Forever Update Brings MS-DOS Classics to Modern Players – The latest Tetris Forever update adds MS-DOS game support, expanding its retro gaming library. Retroshell

🕹 GamesCare Unveils New Dev Cart for Sega Genesis – A new development cartridge for the Sega Genesis promises enhanced functionality for homebrew and prototype game creators. Retroshell

🔥 King of Fighters ‘98 Leads Arcade Archives 2 on PS5 & Xbox – King of Fighters ‘98 is the first Arcade Archives 2 Neo Geo title launching for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Retroshell

🐺 Wolfenstein RPG Gets Unofficial PC Port – The rare Wolfenstein RPG from 2008 has been ported to PC by fans, making the mobile-exclusive title more accessible. Retroshell

👊 Final Vendetta Neo Geo Release Delayed for Quality Enhancements – The Final Vendetta Neo Geo version has been delayed, with developers promising improved features and performance. Retroshell

🚀 Fan-Made Genesis R-Type Port Expands with New Content – A homebrew R-Type port for the Sega Genesis is receiving exclusive levels and enhancements. Retroshell

🌙 Sonic’s Lunar Adventure: Unfinished Fan Game Released – An incomplete Sonic fan game, Sonic’s Lunar Adventure, has unexpectedly surfaced online. Retroshell

🎮 Hyperkin Confirms PC Engine / TurboGrafx-16 Clone – Hyperkin has officially announced a new clone console that will support PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 games. Retroshell

🌍 English Translation of Dreamcast RPG Segagaga in Progress – The fan translation of Sega’s cult-classic Segagaga is making steady progress toward completion. Time Extension

🥷 Justice Ninja Casey Brings SNES Classic to the West – The 1994 SNES game Justice Ninja Casey is finally getting an official Western release this week. Retroshell

💖 ToHeart Remake Launching in Japan on June 26, 2025 – The ToHeart visual novel remake is set to release in Japan with updated visuals and gameplay enhancements. Retroshell

🎥 ToHeart Remake Opening Movie Compared to PS1 Version – A side-by-side comparison showcases the graphical improvements in the upcoming ToHeart remake. Siliconera

Features

📖 Metroid Prime’s Legacy Celebrated in New Visual Retrospective – A new book explores the artistic and historical impact of Metroid Prime, offering fans a detailed look at the franchise’s evolution. Retroshell

🕹 Unreleased Popeye Game for Sega Genesis Resurfaces After 31 Years – A long-lost Popeye beat-’em-up from the makers of Double Dragon has been discovered, shedding light on a canceled 16-bit project. Time Extension

Si pappy

🏆 BAFTA Calls for Votes on Gaming’s Most Influential Title – The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is inviting gamers to vote on the most influential video game of all time. Retroshell

💻 Developer Ports x86 Linux to the NES – A developer has successfully ported a version of x86 Linux to the Nintendo Entertainment System, demonstrating the console’s unexpected capabilities. Research Snipers

🎮 Pokémon Boss Aims for a Century-Long Gaming Legacy – Pokémon Company president Tsunekazu Ishihara discusses the franchise’s long-term vision, aiming for a lasting impact over the next 100 years. Retroshell

🎮 Battle of the Handhelds: Which Portable Console Reigns Supreme? – A deep dive into the best handheld consoles, comparing classic and modern devices in the ever-evolving portable gaming landscape. Nerdbot

🕹 AYANEO Clarifies Production and Future of Flip Handheld – AYANEO has addressed concerns about the production status of its Flip handheld, reaffirming its commitment to upcoming releases. Retroshell

🐴 Link’s Iconic Horse Was Almost a Moose, Reveals Miyamoto Interview – Newly unearthed insights from Shigeru Miyamoto reveal that The Legend of Zelda nearly featured a moose instead of Epona. Creative Bloq

⚔ BioWare Co-Founder Reflects on Jade Empire’s Lost Potential – A BioWare co-founder looks back on Jade Empire, expressing regret over the studio not expanding the franchise further. Retroshell

🤼 Play Classic WCW Games with New Mods for N64 – Modders have recreated WCW Saturday Night using Virtual Pro Wrestling on the Nintendo 64, offering a fresh way to experience classic wrestling games. TheSportster

📟 The Unused Terminal of the NES Disk System – A look into a forgotten feature of the NES Disk System, revealing an unused terminal mode that was never fully implemented. Retroshell

🎰 All the Classic Sega Games Featured in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (aka Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii) includes numerous classic Sega titles as playable minigames. Siliconera

🎨 Collector Digitally Preserves Iconic Street Fighter II Figures – A gaming historian has scanned and preserved rare Street Fighter II action figures, ensuring their legacy in digital form. Retroshell

🎵 Streets of Rage Composer Disappointed by Lack of Recognition – Yuzo Koshiro, the legendary Streets of Ragecomposer, expresses disappointment that his influential work isn’t more widely recognized. Time Extension

🌟 Ristar at 30: A Cult Classic Fans Want Revived – As Ristar turns 30, fans are calling for a modern revival of the beloved Sega platformer. CBR

⭐ Ristar Turns 30, Fans Demand a New Game – The 1995 Sega platformer Ristar reaches its 30th anniversary, reigniting discussions about a potential sequel. Metro

🕹 Tokyo Arcade Shares Update on Post-COVID Recovery – A famous Tokyo arcade has provided an update on its business performance after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Time Extension

🦇 Castlevania: Dracula X—Better Than You Remember? – A fresh look at Castlevania: Dracula X argues that the game deserves more appreciation than it originally received. CBR

🔗 The PlayStation Had a Hidden Multiplayer Mode Using Game Boy Cables – A forgotten multiplayer feature on the original PlayStation allowed link-cable gaming using Game Boy peripherals. Ruetir

🏈 Classic NFL Game Gets Online Multiplayer Mode via Fan Mod – Modders have introduced online multiplayer functionality to a classic NFL video game, reviving it for modern players. AppTrigger

Lists & Rankings

🎮 The Rarest NES Games and Their Prices – A look at some of the rarest and most valuable NES games, with prices reflecting their rarity and collector demand. CBR

Looks familiar…

🦔 Sonic’s Surprisingly Weak Characters – A ranking of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise’s weakest characters, highlighting those who fall short in terms of power and impact. GameRant

⚔ Best 32-Bit Tactical RPGs, Ranked – A list of the top tactical RPGs from the 32-bit era, showcasing strategic gameplay and memorable stories. GameRant

🕹 The Best Arcade Games of All Time – A curated selection of the greatest arcade games ever, celebrating their lasting influence on gaming history. Digital Trends

🎮 Best Third-Party GameCube Games, Ranked – A ranking of the best third-party titles on the GameCube, spotlighting hidden gems and fan favorites. CBR

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0137

I will not bore you with more tales of Elden Ring and my Marvel Snap woes, so straight on with the news.

This week we have 45 stories and cover news of the Lego Gameboy, reviving the Game Boy e-reader, the Dreamcast getting cloud saving, lots of speed running shenanigans and a load more. Thanks for reading!

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News

🎮 Limited Run Games Faces Backlash Over Faulty NES Cartridges – Customers report issues with Limited Run Games’ NES cartridges, including non-functioning copies and poor build quality. Retroshell

🧩 ‘Black Tower Enigma’ Aiming for Game Boy Release – A new puzzle adventure, Black Tower Enigma, is set to launch on the Game Boy, offering a retro-inspired experience. GoNintendo

🤖 ‘Mobile Suit Gundam’ for Sega Saturn Receives English Patch – The long-awaited fan translation of Mobile Suit Gundam for the Sega Saturn is now available, bringing the game to English-speaking audiences. Retroshell

🎥 Amazon-MGM Takes Full Control of James Bond Franchise, Including Games – Amazon has secured full rights to the James Bond franchise, expanding its control over future films, TV, and video game adaptations. Gameranx

🧱 LEGO Nintendo Game Boy Set Launching This October – LEGO is set to release a Game Boy-inspired set in October, blending nostalgia with brick-building creativity. Retroshell

🎬 Legendary’s Live-Action ‘Street Fighter’ Movie Finds Its Director – The upcoming live-action Street Fighterfilm has officially secured a director, signalling progress on the anticipated adaptation. Time Extension

🕹 ‘Mouthwashing’ Brings Classic PS1-Style Horror to Consoles in 2025 – Mouthwashing, a new horror game inspired by classic PS1 aesthetics, is set to terrify players on modern consoles next year. Retroshell

🎮 Blaze’s Next Evercade Cart Features 10 Atari & Stern Games – The upcoming Evercade cartridge will bundle ten classic games from Atari and Stern Electronics. Time Extension

💾 ‘Manic Miner’ Returns with a New Fan-Made Port – The classic platformer Manic Miner has been revived with a new fan-made version, bringing fresh life to the retro favourite. Retroshell

🇯🇵 Super Real Mahjong VS for N64 Gets English Patch – The obscure N64 game Super Real Mahjong VS has received an English translation, making it more accessible to global players. Time Extension

🦖 ‘Jurassic Park 2’ for SNES Gets an Overhaul After 30 Years – A major fan-made overhaul breathes new life into the SNES classic Jurassic Park 2, enhancing graphics and gameplay. Retroshell

🎮 ‘Ecli’ is a Puzzling New Platformer Coming to Game Boy Color – Ecli, an upcoming Game Boy Color game, blends puzzle and platforming elements in a unique adventure. Retro Dodo

✨ Final Fantasy Joins Magic: The Gathering in an Epic Crossover – The Final Fantasy universe is set to collide with Magic: The Gathering in a newly announced crossover set. Retroshell

📀 Gold Master Series Brings Classic Games to Physical Form, Including an Exclusive Handheld – A new collection called Gold Master Series will offer physical releases of classic games, including Tetris Forever and a new handheld console. Retroshell

🃏 Mario Hanafuda: Nintendo’s Latest Fusion of Tradition and Nostalgia – Nintendo is reviving its traditional Hanafuda roots with a new Mario Hanafuda product. Retroshell

📀 ‘Ravi & Navi’ Becomes the First New Famicom Disk System Game Since 1992 – The Famicom Disk System is getting a new game after more than 30 years with the release of Ravi & NaviRetroshell

🔥 Karnov Returns on Neo Geo Platforms – The classic arcade hero Karnov is returning with a new release on Neo Geo systems. Retroshell

🔧 Introducing Game Bub: An Open-Source FPGA Handheld for Retro Gaming – Game Bub is a new open-source FPGA handheld designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. Retroshell

🥷 ‘Special Ninja Squad’ Brings 16-Bit Action to TurboGrafx-16 – A new side-scrolling action game, Special Ninja Squad, is heading to the TurboGrafx-16. Retroshell

☁️ Sega Dreamcast Receives Cloud Save Support in 2025 – The Sega Dreamcast is getting modern functionality with newly introduced cloud save support. Retroshell

📜 Reviving the Game Boy Advance e-Reader with New Games – Developers are creating new content for the Game Boy Advance e-Reader, giving the accessory a fresh purpose. Retroshell

🧩 New 4-Player Puzzle Action Game ‘Block Panic DX’ Arrives on Neo Geo – Block Panic DX, a multiplayer puzzle-action title, is launching on Neo Geo. Retroshell

🌍 Argos no Senshi Gets Full English Translation for NES – The NES classic Argos no Senshi has been fully translated into English for modern players. Retroshell

🛹 New ‘Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater’ Remaster Possibly in the Works – A potential remaster of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater has been hinted at, sparking excitement among fans. Retroshell

🏊 Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Discover Bizarre Underwater Standing Trick – Speedrunners have found a strange new glitch in Super Mario 64 that allows Mario to stand underwater. Retroshell

Features

🎬 The Legend of Zelda Movie Trailer (Fan Video) – A fan-made trailer envisions what a Legend of Zelda movie could look like. ScreenRant (below)

🕹 Retro Gaming Thrives Among Gen Z in the UK, New Study Finds – A recent study highlights the growing popularity of retro gaming among Gen Z players in the UK. Retroshell

💻 Programmer Gets NES to Emulate a PC with Ridiculous Sounds – A programmer has managed to run a PC emulator on an NES, producing bizarre and unexpected audio glitches. TechSpot (below)

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/OooHTDMUSGY?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

🎮 Former Xbox Designer Says Console Power Is No Longer the Priority – A former Xbox hardware designer argues that raw power is becoming less important in modern console development. Retroshell

🥷 How Sega’s Shinobi Games Have Evolved Through the Ages – A retrospective explores the evolution of Shinobi, from its arcade roots to modern reimaginings. Kakuchopurei

🏆 Blindfolded Super Mario 64 Speedrunner’s Near-Record Run Invalidated by Webcam Failure – A blindfolded Super Mario 64 speedrun was disqualified after a critical webcam malfunction. Retroshell

🔄 Mega EverDrive Pro: The Best Flash Cart for Your Genesis/Mega Drive – A review of the Mega EverDrive Pro highlights its features and why it’s a must-have for retro gaming fans. Time Extension

🛠 Building the Ultimate Xbox 360: A Modder’s Dream Console – A deep dive into extreme Xbox 360 modding, showcasing custom hardware and software enhancements. Retroshell

💰 Got $13,000? You Could Own This One-Off ‘Dream’ Copy of Harry Potter on PS1 – A rare, unique copy of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone for the PS1 is up for auction at a staggering price. Time Extension

🌟 Legendary Star Fox and Zelda Developer Emphasizes Creativity Over Budget – A veteran game developer stresses that creativity, not massive budgets, leads to great games. Retroshell

🎥 Sony Canceled a Video Game Movie After Trailer Backlash – Sony reportedly scrapped a planned Sly Cooperfilm after poor reactions to its early trailer. SlashFilm (below)

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/nbXEKZVonko?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

👟 Nike’s Latest Shoe Design Pays Homage to Donkey Kong Country – Nike’s newest sneaker takes inspiration from Donkey Kong Country, featuring a design reminiscent of the classic platformer. Retroshell

🔍 Did You Know the Dreamcast Has a Hidden Menu System? – A newly discovered menu system hidden within the Dreamcast has surfaced, revealing unknown features. Time Extension

🎯 Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Achieve the Impossible Blindfolded – A group of speedrunners has managed to complete nearly impossible feats in Super Mario 64 without sight. Retroshell

🚦 GTA 3 Almost Penalized Players for Running Red Lights – An early concept for GTA 3 included a penalty system for traffic violations, but it was ultimately scrapped. Retroshell

📀 Squaresoft’s Push for CDs on the N64: A Lost Opportunity – A look at how Squaresoft’s efforts to bring CD-based gaming to the N64 could have changed gaming history. Retroshell

Lists & Rankings

🎮 The Rarest Dreamcast Games and Their Prices – A look at the rarest and most valuable Sega Dreamcast games, with some fetching high prices in the collector’s market. CBR

📖 The Best Stories in Sega Games, Ranked – A ranking of the most compelling narratives in Sega’s gaming history, highlighting standout storytelling moments. GameRant

🕹 Best Third-Party GameCube Games, Ranked – A ranking of the best third-party titles released for the Nintendo GameCube, showcasing must-play experiences. CBR

🔥 The Best Sega Franchises of All Time – An in-depth ranking of Sega’s greatest gaming franchises, from classic arcade hits to modern legends. Hardcore Gamer

Speedrunning Community Faces Challenges as Twitch Limits Video Storage

The speedrunning community is grappling with a major shift as Twitch introduces new restrictions on video storage, impacting highlights and past broadcasts. This change has sparked frustration among gamers who rely on archived footage for records, analysis, and historical documentation.

Under the new policy, Twitch will limit how long highlights and uploads are stored, meaning that many of the platform’s most iconic speedruns could be at risk of deletion. Speedrunners frequently use Twitch’s video-on-demand (VOD) feature to review gameplay, verify world records, and share their runs with the broader gaming community. With these limitations, there’s growing concern that valuable content could be lost if not backed up elsewhere.

Prominent figures in the speedrunning scene have voiced their disappointment, noting that Twitch has long been the preferred platform for streaming live gameplay and maintaining archives. While alternatives like YouTube exist, many speedrunners prefer Twitch for its built-in community features and integration with leaderboards. The change forces players and organizers to rethink how they preserve past achievements and share content going forward.

Some speedrunning groups are now urging players to manually save and re-upload their runs to more permanent platforms. Others are looking into external solutions for archiving, such as community-driven projects that aim to store records outside of Twitch’s ecosystem. Despite the frustration, speedrunners remain determined to adapt, as preserving the history of gaming achievements remains a priority.

For now, the Twitch update serves as a reminder of the importance of digital preservation. Whether the community finds a sustainable long-term solution remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—speedrunning will continue to thrive, even if it means adjusting to new challenges.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

New Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Remaster Possibly on the Way

Fans of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series might have something to get excited about, as a fresh remaster could be in the pipeline. The news didn’t come from an official announcement but rather a casual slip-up by one of the game’s voice actors, leading to immediate speculation among fans.

The Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise has seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks in part to the critically acclaimed remaster of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2. The 2020 release was well-received, with its blend of nostalgic gameplay and modern enhancements. However, Activision has remained tight-lipped about further entries—until now.

According to the unnamed actor, on the Breakfast Show podcast, a new remaster is “about to come out,” though details remain scarce (credit Gematsu). This statement has left fans wondering whether the next title in line is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4, or perhaps another classic entry in the franchise getting the remake treatment.

Given the strong sales of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2, it wouldn’t be surprising if Activision has quietly greenlit another project. The skateboarding series holds a special place in gaming history, and with the growing interest in revitalizing retro franchises, a new instalment could be a major win for both long-time players and newcomers.

While we wait for official confirmation, it’s clear that enthusiasm for the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games remains high. Whether or not this new remaster will live up to expectations is yet to be seen, but the possibility alone is enough to get fans talking.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0136

My week in gaming has been dominated by Elden Ring, it has been a while since I have been this involved in a game and I am enjoying the difficulty and the world.

39 stories this week across the word of retro gaming including some new F-Zero courses, a new Punch Out speedrun record, mapping out the entire Mario planet, GTA 8-Bit and lots more.

News

🎮 Glover is set to launch on Nintendo Switch, bringing the cult N64 platformer to modern audiences. Retroshell

🥷 Justice Ninja Casey, a Super Famicom game, is receiving an official English release for Nintendo Switch. GoNintendo

🦊 Star Fox artist is advocating for Star Fox Assault to be released on the rumoured Switch 2. Retroshell

🕹️ Märchen Maze, a classic arcade game, is getting a modern re-release. NicheGamer

🤖 A remastered version of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Battle Destiny has been announced for Switch and PC. Retroshell

🥋 Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is set for an August release, continuing the legendary ninja franchise. Retroshell

🪓 A revitalised Neo Geo port of Golden Axe is now available for players. Retroshell

🕊️ Peter Navy Tuiasosopo, known for portraying E. Honda in the Street Fighter movie, has passed away at age 61. Retroshell

🐄 Save Me Cows, a new action-puzzle adventure for the Game Boy, has been announced. Retroshell

🏎️ F-Zero SNES has received a fan-made Bower League expansion, adding new tracks and challenges. Retroshell

🧱 A massive Mario Kart LEGO set is rumoured to be in development. Retroshell

⚡ Speedrunner Summoning Salt has broken the two-minute barrier in Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!!Retroshell

🏙️ Hudson Soft’s lost SimCity mobile game for Japanese phones has been preserved. Retroshell

Features

🎂 Happy Birthday to the Game Boy Advance SP, the stylish handheld that revolutionised portable gaming. Retroshell

🎮 Grand Theft Auto 6 gets an 8-bit NES-style demake TechEBlog

📝 Final Fantasy’s creator acknowledges Dragon Quest as a key influence on the franchise’s development. The Popverse

💰 Berkshire Hathaway once considered acquiring both Nintendo and Activision. Retroshell

🌍 A dedicated fan spent 100 days mapping Super Mario’s entire planet (CreativeBlog)

🧝 Zelda’s Marin set the standard for compelling side characters in gaming. CBR

🏁 Diddy Kong Racing is hailed as the true king of N64 mascot racers. VICE

💎 A broken GameCube was sold for $100,000 due to its rarity and history. Jason Deegan

🚐 A Chevy work van features a custom in-dash Nintendo 64 setup for gaming on the go. The Drive

⭐ Ristar should have been the Sega Genesis mascot instead of Sonic, according to some fans. GameSpot

📈 Retro gaming is experiencing a resurgence, with growing interest in classic consoles and games. COGConnected

🦖 Bobby Kotick aggressively pursued Jurassic Park game rights from Steven Spielberg. Gameranx

🏎️ Mario Kart 64 celebrates 28 years of friendship-ruining races. Nintendo Wire

🎥 An artist recreates classic movies with PlayStation 1-style graphics. eBaum’s World

🎨 A debate emerges over whether a classic Nintendo console logo is the best ever. Creative Bloq

📺 The Sega Dreamcast has a hidden menu system that many fans never knew about. Time Extension

🌐 A deep dive into the online past of the Sega Dreamcast reveals a fascinating glimpse into its early internet features. Forbes

Lists & Rankings

💰 Retro video games are becoming highly valuable, and collectors should know what makes certain titles rare. SlashGear

📱 The best simulation games on Game Boy Advance are ranked by fun and depth. GameRant

🎮 Every Sega console launch lineup is ranked, comparing the strongest and weakest debuts. CBR

🕹️ 20 legendary video game consoles that revolutionised the industry. Go2Tutors

⚔️ The best turn-based combat systems in Sega games are ranked. GameRant

🤼 The weirdest WWE games that most players overlooked. TheSportster

🔥 The best Capcom games of all time are ranked, celebrating the studio’s greatest hits. Hardcore Gamer

MSX2 RPG Burai Joukan Heads to Switch in Japan This Summer

Retro gaming fans in Japan will soon get their hands on a revived classic. Burai Joukan, a turn-based RPG originally released on the MSX2, is making its way to the Nintendo Switch in early summer 2025. The game, developed by Riverhillsoft and first released in 1989, is a lesser-known but visually striking RPG with a deep story rooted in Eastern mythology was announced here.

The original

This marks yet another MSX2 title finding new life on modern hardware. While Burai Joukan was later ported to platforms like the PC-98 and Sega CD, the original MSX2 version is remembered for its detailed pixel art and ambitious storytelling. The game follows a group of warriors known as the “Eight Heroes” as they battle against an evil force seeking to disrupt the balance of the world. Its combat system is a blend of strategic, turn-based mechanics with a focus on character-driven progression.

Credit: At Press Japan

While details on the Switch version remain limited, it’s expected to retain the original game’s visuals and gameplay while potentially incorporating quality-of-life improvements. Given the recent trend of MSX2 titles being re-released with modernized features such as save states and enhanced menus, Burai Joukan could receive similar treatment.

For fans of Japanese retro RPGs, this re-release is an opportunity to experience a title that never saw an official Western release. Whether this signals more MSX2 classics making the jump to Switch remains to be seen, but it’s a promising sign for enthusiasts of classic Japanese RPGs.

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Ruiki Announces X68000 Z SUPER and X68000 Z XVI – A Modern Take on a Classic

On February 6, Ruiki officially unveiled two new personal workstations: the X68000 Z SUPER and the X68000 Z XVI. These updated machines, inspired by the legendary Sharp X68000 series, will launch in fall 2025 via crowdfunding on Kibidango. Pricing starts at ¥74,800 (approximately €470 / $510 / £400).

Credit: X68000 Z Twitter

The X68000 Z SUPER builds upon the existing X68000 Z model but introduces expanded connectivity, including MIDI in/out, a SCSI port, and a D-Sub terminal. Additionally, it supports a Nano-ITX motherboard, enabling dual-boot functionality with Windows.

The more powerful X68000 Z XVI takes things further with an upgraded octa-core Cortex-A55 SoC, a Mali-G57 GPU, and 1GB of DDR4 RAM. While its interface and physical dimensions remain identical to the SUPER, it sports a redesigned front panel inspired by the original X68000 XVI. Notably, users can swap the front unit and mainboard to convert an X68000 Z SUPER into an X68000 Z XVI, offering flexibility for enthusiasts.

Both models come in a sleek Titanium Black finish and are larger than the current X68000 Z but still smaller than the original 1987 X68000. Their exact dimensions are 227mm (H) × 96mm (W) × 169mm (D).

Crowdfunding for these machines runs from February 8 to February 27, with no plans for general retail sales. Given the enduring appeal of the X68000 among retro computing fans, demand is expected to be high.


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Time Traveler’s: A Journey Through Time Now in English

After eight years of dedication, Fan Translators International has released a complete English translation patch for Level-5’s visual novel on the 3DS. Time Travelers, was originally exclusive to Japan on the PSP, 3DS, and PSVita platforms.

The team

Set in a futuristic Tokyo, Time Travelers weaves a narrative that intertwines the lives of five protagonists, each grappling with the consequences of time manipulation. The game’s unique storytelling and interactive elements have intrigued players since its initial release.

The translation team, led by sekki35, 22sorataka, ecky, onepiecefreak, Theswweet, and Teekro, meticulously translated the main story, ensuring that the game’s emotional depth and quirky humour resonate with English-speaking audiences. Proofreading was handled by Theswweet and Teekro, while Etokapa, MissBazinga, and NitroTears focused on graphics and movie translations. Programming support was provided by Neobeo.
Edit: Wilson reached out to me to clarify that “onepiecefreak is the mastermind behind the translation doing the majority of the programming and reverse engineering work.” – so extra kudos and apologies for missing this from the original article.

To experience this translated adventure, players need a .3ds or .cia version of the game. After downloading the patch, extract the .zip file and run the .exe. Provide the file paths to both the game and the provided .pat file, then specify the output directory for the Luma3DS LayeredFS-ready patch. Finally, copy the new folder to your 3DS’s SD card and ensure “Game Patching” is enabled in the Luma3DS CFW settings.

This release marks a significant achievement in fan-led translation projects, allowing a broader audience to engage with a previously inaccessible title. For more details and to download the patch, visit Fan Translators International’s official website.

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👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0134

Welcome to this weeks newsletter, this week I started to play Elden Ring and wow, what a game – my retro gaming might get a little bit hampered by this game, but lets see. 

This week we have 39 stories including some new games for the NES and Genesis/Megadrive, a new motherboard for the PS1 and one adaptor to power all your consoles – plus a lot more.

News

🕹️ A Famicom enthusiast in Japan is selling an almost complete collection of the console’s games before passing away, sparking significant attention online. Automaton Media

Got, got, need

🎵 “Banjo-Kazooie” composer Grant Kirkhope has cast doubt on the possibility of the beloved series making a return. Retroshell

🔥 The risqué shoot-’em-up “Steam Hearts” and fighting game “Advanced Variable Geo” are getting modern console releases. Time Extension

🚀 Sega has filed a new trademark for “Skies of Arcadia,” fueling speculation about a potential remaster. Retroshell

⛏️ Data Man: New NES Game Launches via Broke Studio. Retroshell

🎮 A determined modder has released a “GTA: Vice City” mod despite takedown threats. Retroshell

🐱 “SkateCat,” a retro-inspired adventure game, is rolling onto Nintendo Switch, Itch, and Steam. Retroshell

🔫 The indie shooter “Lethal Wedding” is gearing up for a Kickstarter campaign. Retroshell

🕹️ A custom PlayStation 1 motherboard, “NSOne,” has been unveiled, marking the first in 30 years. Retroshell

⌚ Atari has teamed up with Nubeo to launch a luxury watch inspired by the classic game “Asteroids.” Retroshell

👽 “The Thing: Remastered” has become Nightdive Studios’ fastest-selling game to date. Retroshell

🎮 Songbird Productions is reviving classic Atari Jaguar titles with high-quality reprints. Retroshell

🎼 The “Super Mario RPG” soundtrack is set to release on April 9, including a Super Famicom version in Japan. Retroshell

🔄 A roundup of the best Sega-related posts on Reddit from the past week. Retroshell

🎮 A collection of the most popular original Xbox, PS1, and PS2 posts on Reddit this week. Retroshell

🕹️ Highlights of the best retro Nintendo gaming posts on Reddit from the last week. Retroshell

📼 A roundup of this week’s best Reddit posts covering Atari, Neo Geo, WonderSwan, TurboGrafx, and the 3DO. Retroshell

🕹️ “Quarter Arcades” is adding “Bad Dudes vs. DragonNinja” and “Lunar Lander” to its collection of mini arcade cabinets. Retroshell

🧙 The “Elminage” series is making its way to modern consoles for the first time. Retroshell

⚖️ A local supermarket has won a trademark dispute against Nintendo. Retroshell

🎲 Atari has launched 15 “mystery patch” packs for collectors and retro gaming fans. Retroshell

🏎️ “Dream Ride,” a Micro Machines-style party racer, is coming to the Dreamcast. Retroshell

Dream Ride

💰 Nintendo Switch Online is adjusting its regional pricing, affecting subscribers worldwide. Retroshell

🎮 “The Sims” nostalgia is in full swing with a new Y2K-themed website dedicated to the classic life-sim. Retroshell

🚗 “Ridge Racer 64” is drifting onto Nintendo Switch Online. Retroshell

🦤 A bizarre Kazooie puppet just sold for over $2,000, despite its unsettling appearance. Time Extension

Nightmare Fuel

🎮 A fan is developing an NES-style version of “Celeste,” and it’s already playable. Time Extension

Features

🎲 Technōs Japan’s Famicom RPG Sugoro Quest is finally receiving an official English translation next month. Destructoid

🎨 A look at how Kirby’s box art has evolved across cultures, from cute to combat-ready. Retroshell

🕹️ Megami Tensei’s author explains why the game had two distinct versions for the Famicom and Japanese computers. Time Extension

⚙️ A deep dive into the differences between FPGA hardware and traditional software emulation for retro gamers. Retroshell

📜 A complete timeline of video game consoles, from the industry’s origins to today. Digital Trends

🐵 Donkey Kong designer discusses the character’s iconic redesign and the creation of Diddy Kong. Retroshell

🦇 A look back at why Castlevania’s Nintendo 64 entries are considered some of the franchise’s biggest missteps. CBR

⚖️ Nintendo’s legal battle against emulators intensifies, raising concerns for preservationists and retro gamers. Android Police

🔌 The Retro-Tap lets users power up to 10 retro consoles with a single power block. Retro Dodo

📖 An excerpt from a book detailing the history of the Intellivision console and its impact on gaming. Polygon

🎮 A guide to modern retro gaming consoles, including top systems like the SuperStation One. GeekSided

Lists & Rankings

🛡️ A list of games where players must heavily rely on equipment to survive and progress. TheGamer

🎨 A showcase of SNES games with some of the most incredible box art designs. CBR