GOG, the DRM-free digital storefront, has unveiled the ‘Dreamlist,’ a new feature that invites gamers to vote on classic titles they’d like to see preserved and re-released. This initiative aims to guide GOG’s efforts in negotiating with IP owners to bring classic games back to modern platforms.
Credit: GoG
The Dreamlist functions as a community-driven wishlist, allowing users to cast votes for their most-wanted games. While GOG clarifies that high vote counts don’t guarantee a game’s return, the data collected will help demonstrate community interest to rights holders. Currently, titles like ‘Black & White,’ ‘Diablo 2,’ and the original ‘Final Fantasy 7’ are among the top contenders, reflecting a strong desire to see these classics revived.
This move aligns with GOG’s ongoing commitment to game preservation. In November 2024, the company launched its Preservation Program, starting with over 100 titles, including ‘Diablo,’ ‘System Shock 2,’ and the original ‘Resident Evil’ trilogy. The program ensures these games remain compatible with current and future systems, offering complete editions with all available content and technical support.
In conjunction with the Dreamlist launch, GOG has also released updated versions of ‘Dino Crisis’ and ‘Dino Crisis 2,’ optimized for modern PCs. These releases are part of the Preservation Program’s efforts to keep classic games accessible and enjoyable for contemporary audiences.
By introducing the Dreamlist, GOG empowers its community to play an active role in the preservation of gaming history, ensuring that cherished titles continue to be available for future generations.
Take-Two Interactive has once again clashed with the modding community, this time targeting Revolution Team’s ambitious “GTA Vice City Nextgen Edition.” The mod, which reimagines Grand Theft Auto: Vice City within GTA 4’s RAGE engine, was poised to bring a refreshed 80s Miami to life with enhanced graphics, physics, and fully integrated missions. Despite Take-Two’s takedown order, the modding team has refused to back down, releasing the project as a standalone download.
The takedown came amidst growing excitement for the mod, whose development videos had garnered over 100,000 views on YouTube before Take-Two allegedly removed the channel without warning. Revolution Team responded by sidestepping the need for GTA 4 entirely, ensuring their work could still reach fans eager to revisit Vice City’s neon-soaked streets. The newly released version features all the original game content, now available as a free, standalone package, and you can find it here.
Credit: GTA Forums
This bold move by Revolution Team underlines the enduring tension between publishers like Take-Two and the modding community. While companies argue these projects infringe on intellectual property, fans and creators often view them as celebrations of beloved games, showcasing creativity that keeps classic titles alive for new generations and give gamers enhanced versions of classic games. The release of “GTA Vice City Nextgen Edition” not only raises questions about the legal limits of modding but also about the role publishers play in fostering – or stifling – fan enthusiasm.
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In a significant shift within the gaming industry, US spending on physical video games has declined by more than half since 2021, according to recent data from market research firm Circana. This trend underscores the accelerating consumer preference for digital formats over traditional boxed copies.
This echoes my experience with gaming, I am a die-hard physical media kind of person. I like to physically have my games, to collect and share (well, I am a collector). It has made me a little bit sad in recent times that my friends who I used to borrow and exchange games with, now – no longer have physical media to trade. I do understand the convenience, but rarely do I need a game there and then – and your purchase is lost forever once the servers shut down.
Several factors contribute to this decline. The widespread availability of high-speed internet has facilitated easier access to digital downloads, while online marketplaces on consoles have made purchasing games more convenient. Additionally, the rise of live service games, which often rely on microtransactions, has further propelled the digital shift.
Circana’s analysis indicates that the move towards digital consumption has gained momentum since the pandemic. Their data reveals that physical game spending is now over 85% below its 2008 peak. Despite this, overall content spending—including both physical and digital purchases, as well as subscriptions and microtransactions—has seen an uptick since 2019.
The rate of decline in US physical video game software spending accelerated in 2024.
Spending on physical video game software in the US has been cut in more than half since 2021 and is now more than 85% below its 2008 peak.
We'll see if Switch 2 can help slow/reverse this trend in 2025.
It’s noteworthy that in 2024, a lighter release schedule for the Nintendo Switch, which traditionally bolsters a significant portion of physical game sales, may have contributed to the accelerated decline in physical purchases.
While the overarching trend leans towards digital, the rate of this transition varies across platforms and game series. For instance, in Europe last year, the overall digital share rose to 68% from 60%. Xbox’s digital share increased to 75% (up from 70%), PlayStation 5’s to 64% (up from 55%), while Nintendo’s remained steady at 22%.
As the industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how upcoming hardware releases, such as the anticipated Switch 2, will influence consumer purchasing habits in 2025.
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Fans of classic RPGs are buzzing after Sega filed a new trademark for the beloved Dreamcast title, Skies of Arcadia. The trademark, spotted in Japan’s intellectual property database, has reignited speculation that the game may finally receive a modern remaster or remake as reported originally by Gematsu.
The Original
Skies of Arcadia, originally released in 2000, is one of the most acclaimed JRPGs of its era, praised for its vibrant world, airship battles, and unforgettable characters – it has a stellar score of 93 on Metacritic.
While it was ported to the Nintendo GameCube in 2003 as Skies of Arcadia Legends, it has yet to make its way to modern consoles.
The new trademark could mean several things: a re-release, a remaster, or even a sequel. However, trademarks don’t always guarantee new projects, as companies often renew them simply to protect intellectual property. Still, the timing feels significant, with Sega increasingly mining its back catalogue for nostalgic projects, including Sonic Origins and the Like a Dragon series.
Will Skies of Arcadia finally return to the skies? Only time will tell, but Sega’s move has undeniably sparked hope.
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In a recent interview, Banjo-Kazooie composer Grant Kirkhope delivered a stark verdict for fans hoping to see a new instalment in Rare’s beloved platformer series. Kirkhope, who crafted the iconic soundtrack for the Nintendo 64 classics, expressed that he has “zero hope” for a new Banjo-Kazooie game ever being made.
Kirkhope went on to elaborate that even if a new game were greenlit, it would face insurmountable challenges in meeting fan expectations. “All you die-hard fans would instantly hate it,” he said, referencing the immense nostalgia and reverence surrounding the original titles. According to Kirkhope, any modern attempt to recapture the magic of the series would likely fall short of its legacy, leaving fans disappointed.
I’ve said it before … but .. I have zero hope for another Banjo game, plus all you die hard fans would instantly hate it and slag it off no matter how good it was , it never works.
The statement echoes a sentiment shared by many in the gaming community: reviving a classic franchise comes with high stakes and the potential for backlash. While Banjo-Kazooie made a celebrated return as guest characters in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and received a port on the Xbox platform, fans hoping for a full-fledged sequel may have to temper their expectations.
The Orginal
For now, the adventures of Banjo and Kazooie remain a cherished memory of gaming’s golden age, with little sign of a new journey on the horizon.
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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.
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This week has not been very focused on gaming, as I built a new app (more details to be shared very soon), however, I did manage to play Marvel Snap a lot and also get my Analogue Pocket updated with a load of cores and I started to put some ROM’s on it for future reference. I also got accepted to “Stars Reach” pre-Alpha, but do not have a PC to run it. This looks like a good Star Wars Galaxy successor (the 🐐 in my opinion), but let’s see.
This week we have 40 entries to the newsletter, making it the biggest yet. We cover more “new” Game Boy games, updates on the Superstation One (FPGA PS1), a Tang $69 FPGA console, and a load more.
News
🎮 Embark on a Retro Adventure with PokettoHiro for Game Boy Color. A new retro-style game called PokettoHiro has been released for the Game Boy Color, offering an exciting mix of platforming and RPG mechanics. Retroshell.
🎵 Gimmick! Gets a New Arranged Album Featuring an All-Star Lineup. A newly arranged album for the NES classic Gimmick! is in production, featuring contributions from renowned musicians. Time Extension.
🕹️ Ultima VII Revisited: Version 0.1.0 Breathes New Life into a Classic RPG. A fan project updating Ultima VII has released version 0.1.0, introducing modern enhancements while preserving its classic RPG charm. Retroshell.
🎮 Balenciaga’s Limited Edition Game Console Misses the Mark. Balenciaga’s new luxury game console highlights the disconnect between high fashion and gaming culture. Yanko Design.
👻 The Demo for Cronela’s Mansion Has Dropped. A playable demo for Cronela’s Mansion is now available, teasing a spooky new experience for fans of indie horror games. Retroshell.
🎮 Metal Miracle: A New Game Boy Color Title from Hermano’s Creators(below). The developers of Hermanohave unveiled Metal Miracle, a fresh RPG for the Game Boy Color. Retrododo.
🕹️ Mega EverDrive Core: Affordable Flash Cartridge for Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. The Mega EverDrive Core is a cost-effective flash cartridge offering new accessibility for Sega Genesis and Mega Drive gaming. Retroshell.
⚔️ Game Boy Classic Ninja Five-O Returns February 25. Ninja Five-O, a beloved Game Boy Advance action game, will make a comeback on February 25. Hardcore Gamer.
⚔️ Ninja Five-O: Konami’s Forgotten GBA Gem Returns. Konami’s cult classic Ninja Five-O is being re-released, rekindling interest in the overlooked GBA title. Retroshell.
🎨 Limited Run Games Adds Phantasy Star Online Merch Line. Limited Run Games has launched new merchandise inspired by Phantasy Star Online. GoNintendo.
🔑 The New SEGA Account Connects Fans with Iconic Games. Sega introduces a unified account system to enhance access to its game ecosystem. Retroshell.
🕺 Dreamcast Dance Rhythm Game Puyo Puyo DA Now in English. The rhythm game Puyo Puyo DA for the Dreamcast has been translated into English, making it accessible to a wider audience. Time Extension.
🌟 The Meating Special Edition Glow-in-the-Dark Shell Unveiled. A glow-in-the-dark special edition shell for The Meating has been announced. Retroshell.
❄️ Snow Bros. 2 Special Brings Frosty Fun Back. The arcade classic Snow Bros. 2 is set to return with updated visuals and gameplay tweaks. Retroshell.
🎮 Super Technos World: River City & Technos Arcade Classics Gearing Up for Launch. Technos Japan’s arcade classics are bundled into Super Technos World, bringing nostalgic titles to modern platforms. Retroshell.
🤓 Angry Video Game Nerd 8-Bit Coming to Modern Consoles and NES. The Angry Video Game Nerd’s 8-bit game is launching soon for both modern consoles and the original NES. Retroshell.
🦆 Tiny Duck Hunt 3D Demo Available Now. A 3D reimagining of Duck Hunt has released its demo, showcasing a modern twist on the NES classic. Retroshell.
🎮 Three New SNES Games Join Switch Online Library. Nintendo has added three new SNES titles to its Switch Online service. Retroshell.
⚠️ Atari Warns Against Unauthorized Use of Pong Trademark. Atari has issued a warning to a cryptocurrency project for unauthorized use of the Pong trademark. Retroshell.
🥋 Mortal Kombat II Fan Project for 3DO Reaches New Milestone. A fan-made version of Mortal Kombat II for the 3DO has made significant progress, including gameplay refinements. Retroshell.
🕹️ Sipeed Introduces Tang Console: A $69 FPGA Device for Retro Gaming. The Tang Console is a $69 FPGA-based device aimed at retro gaming enthusiasts. Retroshell.
📚 Video Game History Foundation Opens Digital Library to the Public. The Video Game History Foundation is sharing its digital library, granting public access to rare game materials. Retroshell.
Features
🎮 Sega has launched a Japanese Game Centre Guide to help tourists navigate the vibrant arcade scene in Japan. Retroshell
🎸 A deep dive into the “Family Bass,” exploring the unique low-end sounds of the Famicom’s musical capabilities (below). Sonic State
🎨 Takaya Imamura, the artist behind Nintendo’s iconic worlds, is celebrated for his creative contributions to gaming. Retroshell
🕹️ A comparison of the Sega Saturn and PlayStation highlights the defining aspects of the 1990s console wars. CBR
🛠️ A Neo Geo Pocket Color modder has enhanced the handheld with a Raspberry Pi, expanding its capabilities. Retroshell
🚫 Lizardcube, the studio behind Wonder Boy and Streets of Rage, declined the chance to work on a Metal Slug title. Time Extension
🔫 Marvel’s The Punisher celebrates its 20th anniversary, reflecting on the legacy of the brutal vigilante in gaming. Inverse
Lists & Rankings
📚 A list of 10 books about retro gaming offers insights and knowledge for enthusiasts and historians. Retroshell
🎥 The best Super Nintendo movie-based games are ranked, highlighting their impact and quality. CBR
🍌 All mainline Donkey Kong games are ranked from best to worst, showcasing the franchise’s evolution. Augustman
🎯 A ranking of the best pinball video games of all time explores this unique gaming niche. CBR
🎮 The best video game controllers of all time are discussed, emphasizing design and innovation. Digital Trends
🕹️ The best Sega Genesis RPGs are ranked, celebrating the console’s standout role-playing games. CBR
🐵 Donkey Kong’s most iconic characters are ranked based on their contributions to the franchise. TheGamer
✨ A look at SNES RPGs that would benefit from HD-2D visuals highlights the potential for modern remakes. CBR
I don’t get to share too much news on the 3DO, for those of you who are not familiar, the 3DO company was founded by one of the co-founders from Electronic Arts in 1991, and at the time had a price tag of $699 (approx $1,300 in today’s money). The 3DO Company did not build the hardware itself, each manufacturer built their own, with Panasonic being the most popular model – releasing in 1993.
When it launched, the 3DO was technically advanced. It featured a 32-bit RISC CPU, two custom graphics processors, and support for full-motion video (FMV). It also had a built-in CD-ROM drive, which was not standard then.
It supported daisy-chained controllers, meaning multiple controllers could be connected in a series without the need for separate ports. It also came with stereo sound and high-resolution graphics for its era.
Despite its technological superiority, the 3DO sold poorly due to its high price and lack of killer apps. It sold around 2 million units worldwide, far below competitors like the PlayStation (102m units) or SNES (~49m units).
Anyhow, enough of the history lesson – the 3DO scene, whilst naturally not as big as some of the other consoles from its generation, still has a scene alive and kicking.
In an exciting development for fans of the console, the fan-made port of Mortal Kombat II for the 3DO console has reached its Release Candidate stage, with version 5.01 now available as a public BETA.
Shaun, the developer behind the project, shared this news through the 3DO HD YouTube channel, emphasizing that while this version is still in beta, it marks a significant step towards a complete port for a console that never officially received one.
This project, not affiliated with NetherRealm Studios or Warner Bros., is purely a non-profit fan endeavour. As noted in community comments, the port does not yet include all features from the arcade version, such as fighter-specific fatalities. Current limitations include Shang Tsung only morphing into the opponent and potential audio skips during background changes in the intro and ending scenes. However, Shaun has committed to addressing these and other bugs, as they are reported by the community.
The latest update includes gameplay improvements and bug fixes, with plans for a “complete” version in the future that will feature all the classic MK2 moves including fatalities, babalities, and friendships.
For those interested in contributing to or exploring this nostalgic project, the ISO can be downloaded from Google Drive, and fans can support Shaun’s ongoing work via Ko-fi.
This endeavour showcases the dedication of the retro gaming community to breathe new life into classic games on platforms they were never intended for, celebrating the 30-year legacy of both the game and the console.
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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.
Nintendo Switch Online members can now enjoy three new SNES classics as part of their subscription. The latest additions include Fatal Fury 2, Super Ninja Boy, and Sutte Hakkun, offering a diverse range of retro gaming experiences. These titles are available for download today, expanding the already impressive catalogue of SNES games on the service.
Released in 1992, Fatal Fury 2 is a legendary SNK fighting game that expanded the genre with its unique two-plane battle system and an impressive roster of fighters. Fans of classic arcade brawlers can now relive the intense action and dynamic matches that defined this title.
2. Super Ninja Boy
Combining RPG elements with beat-’em-up gameplay, Super Ninja Boy (1991) takes players on a journey to save Chinaland. The game’s blend of humour, combat, and exploration makes it a hidden gem in the SNES library.
3. Sutte Hakkun
This 1997 Japanese-exclusive puzzle game is making its international debut. Sutte Hakkun challenges players to solve intricate puzzles by manipulating colour-coded blocks. Its charming design and innovative mechanics make it a standout title for puzzle enthusiasts.
The games are now available for subscribers (24th January).
