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.
In a surprising development for retro gaming enthusiasts, developer
@craf7y24 has successfully ported the Xash3D engine, a versatile engine compatible with Half-Life, to the Sega Dreamcast. This port was highlighted in a tweet by @falco_girgis where a direct hardware capture demonstrated Counter-Strike 1.6 running on the Dreamcast, a feat that brings a modern gaming experience to the 25-year-old console.
The Xash3D engine not only resolves visual issues like polygon jittering but also aims to pioneer features such as downloading custom maps and assets directly onto the Dreamcast, utilizing either an SD card or an IDE/SATA hard drive mod. This development could significantly expand the Dreamcast’s library with a host of GoldSrc mods, enhancing its legacy in the gaming community.
For those interested in seeing this in action or exploring other Dreamcast homebrew projects, @falco_girgis recommends checking out DC-SWAT’s YouTube channel, where the author of DreamShell, a popular homebrew operating system for Dreamcast, regularly posts new captures. This project represents a major step forward in the homebrew scene, potentially bringing online connectivity and modern gameplay mechanics to a console that has long been out of production.
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In the early 1990s, the video game industry had a singular obsession: bits. It was an era where more bits equalled better gaming—or so marketing campaigns claimed. Companies like Sega and Nintendo competed fiercely for dominance, peddling their “16-bit” systems as cutting-edge marvels. Yet, the battle for technological superiority was as much about perception as it was about power.
This environment set the stage for Sega’s 32X, an ambitious add-on for the Genesis (Mega Drive outside North America). Launched in 1994, it promised to transform the 16-bit Genesis into a 32-bit powerhouse. However, what should have been a triumphant evolution for Sega instead became a cautionary tale of missteps, rushed timelines, and the perils of overpromising.
An advert for the 32x in the edgy Sega 90’s style
The Bit Wars: From Genesis to Jaguar
The “bit” wars were more marketing ploy than technical jargon, but they captivated gamers. By 1993, 16-bit systems like the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo ruled the market, but competition was heating up. That year, Atari introduced the Jaguar, a 64-bit system, with ads challenging gamers to “do the math.” Meanwhile, the 3DO Company released its 32-bit console, earning Time Magazine’s coveted Product of the Year award.
Sega, basking in the success of the Genesis in North America, found itself under immense pressure. While Sega of Japan viewed the Genesis as old news, Sega of America saw it as a cornerstone of its market share. This clash of strategies led to a critical meeting at the Winter Consumer Electronics Show in January 1994.
An advert for the Panasonic 3DO
Project Mars: Sega’s Stopgap Solution
Sega CEO Hayao Nakayama believed a 32-bit cartridge-based system could “bridge the gap” between the Genesis and future consoles. Sega of America’s President, Tom Kalinske, disagreed, arguing that the Genesis was still thriving. A compromise was struck: instead of a standalone console, Sega would develop a 32-bit add-on, codenamed “Project Mars.”
Despite previous add-ons like the Power Base Converter and Sega CD, Project Mars faced enormous challenges. Development had to be completed in under a year, and the team had limited resources. By the summer of 1994, the 32X—nicknamed “The Sega Mushroom” by developers—was ready to make its debut.
A preview of the 32x aka “The Sega Mushroom”
Launch Hype and Cracks in the Foundation
Sega poured $10 million into advertising the 32X, highlighting its enhanced power, speed, and compatibility with Genesis titles. The add-on’s promise of 32-bit gaming at an affordable price generated buzz, but its launch coincided with a bombshell: Sega of Japan announced the release of the Sega Saturn in Japan that November.
Critics and consumers were baffled. Why invest in a 32-bit add-on when a next-gen console was on the horizon? The 32X quickly lost its momentum, and its limited library of games didn’t help. Titles like Virtua Racing and Star Wars Arcade showcased its potential, but the rushed development cycle led to lacklustre ports and a failure to deliver a promised Sonic title.
Star Wars Arcade 32x
The Fallout: A Cautionary Tale
By early 1995, the 32X was struggling. Sega slashed its price to $99, then $19.95, but the damage was done. Developers abandoned the platform, pivoting to the Saturn or rival systems. In October 1995, Sega officially ceased support for the 32X, ending its brief and tumultuous life.
The 32X’s failure left a lasting scar. Sega, once seen as the “cool” alternative to Nintendo, was now viewed as disorganised and greedy. Consumers who invested in the add-on felt betrayed, while developers grew wary of Sega’s reliability.
Legacy of the 32X
Today, the 32X is remembered less as a technological marvel and more as a symbol of Sega’s overreach. Yet, it holds a unique place in gaming history—a relic of an industry grappling with rapid innovation and shifting consumer expectations.
For retro gaming enthusiasts, the 32X remains a fascinating chapter. Protect your 32X and other retro treasures with RetroShell Premium Game Protectors (www.retroshell.com). And for more stories like this, subscribe to our Retro Gaming Newsletter: https://retrogamingnews.substack.com.
Retro-Bit Publishing, in collaboration with City Connection, has announced the revival of “P-47 II: The Freedom Star,” an unreleased shoot ’em-up game originally developed by Jaleco for the Sega Mega Drive in the early 1990s. After 35 years, this title is now available for pre-order as “P-47 II MD.”
“P-47 II MD” is a horizontal scrolling shooter that serves as a sequel to Jaleco’s arcade hit “P-47: The Phantom Fighter.” The game retains the classic shoot ’em up mechanics, challenging players to navigate through enemy-infested skies, dodging bullets and unleashing powerful attacks. The revival aims to deliver an authentic retro gaming experience, preserving the original gameplay while ensuring compatibility with modern hardware.
The physical release is priced at $54.99 USD (€69.99 EUR) and includes:
• Clear Black Cartridge: Paying tribute to the original arcade game, the cartridge features a clear black shell, allowing visibility of the red circuit board within.
• Reversible Inlay Artwork: The game case includes reversible cover art, showcasing Tankro Kato’s artwork on one side and the P-47 aircraft’s tail design on the other.
• Full-Color Instruction Manual: A comprehensive manual providing game setup instructions and background information.
• Individually Numbered Slipcover: Each copy comes with a protective slipcover featuring the main artwork and gameplay screenshots.
• 8cm Mini CD Soundtrack: A first for Retro-Bit, this release includes a mini CD featuring the original game’s soundtrack, allowing fans to enjoy the game’s music outside of gameplay.
Credit: retro-bit
Pre-orders are open from January 14 through February 16, 2025, with the game available through various retailers in North America and Europe. Given the limited nature of this release, enthusiasts and collectors are encouraged to secure their copies within the pre-order window.
Credit: retro-bit
For more information and to place a pre-order, visit Retro-Bit Publishing’s official website.
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Retro gaming enthusiasts have a chance to own a piece of gaming history with the Hitachi Game & Car Navi High Saturn, now in stock at the BEEP Akihabara store. This Sega Saturn-compatible console is a rare multimedia terminal that could also function as a car navigation system—a unique blend of gaming and practicality.
Credit: Akiba PC Watch
The current stock is a used unit with the following features:
• Missing Components: No box, manual, TV tuner, navigation disc; Navi operation not confirmed
• Monitor: Originally paired with a 4-inch dedicated monitor (sold separately)
The console is priced at 580,000 yen, reflecting its rarity and premium value. Converted into other currencies (as of today’s rates):
• USD: Approximately $4,000
• EUR: Around €3,650
• GBP: About £3,200
A Brief History of the High Saturn
Released in December 1995 by Hitachi, the High Saturn was a multimedia version of the Sega Saturn designed to integrate gaming with in-car navigation—a forward-thinking concept for its time.
• Launch Price:
• Console: 150,000 yen (tax excluded)
The High Saturn in all its glory
While innovative, its high price and niche market focus meant that it saw limited production, making it a rare find today.
The High Saturn’s compact design (252 x 214 x 57mm) made it smaller than the standard Sega Saturn (260 x 230 x 83mm), and it supported dual power supplies: an AC adapter for home use and a car adapter for mobile gaming. This versatility set it apart from other consoles of its era.
Due to its limited circulation and unique concept, the High Saturn has become a highly sought-after collector’s item. The price at BEEP Akihabara highlights its rarity, with original accessories and functionality checks adding to its allure for retro gaming fans.
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My Arcade has announced the upcoming release of the Super Retro Champ, a handheld console capable of playing original Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis cartridges. First introduced at CES four years ago, the device is now set to launch later this year for $149.99, an increase from the originally planned $110.
Console Wars Over? (Credit: My Arcade)
The Super Retro Champ features slots for both SNES and Genesis cartridges, accommodating international versions like Super Famicom and Mega Drive. Its design includes a six-inch screen with substantial bezels, and while it can function as a handheld with a rechargeable battery, it’s more suited for tabletop use with its folding stand, connected controllers, and power adapter. Additionally, the console offers an HDMI port for TV connection, though it doesn’t support high-definition output.
Portable, kind of. (Credit: My Arcade)
This device caters to retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a versatile way to enjoy their classic game collections. However, its bulky design and lack of HD support may be considerations for potential buyers.
For those looking to preserve their physical retro game collections, consider protecting your cherished games with a RetroShell premium game protector. Stay updated on the latest in retro gaming by subscribing to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.
Fans of the Shenmue series have a reason to celebrate. Limited Run Games has announced an exclusive collection of Shenmue merchandise, now available for a limited time. This new collection includes apparel, collectables, and accessories inspired by the iconic game series.
The sweet little orphan kitten of Yamanose Shrine needs a place to call home! But you only have one week left to claim her as your own!
Among the standout items are Shenmue-themed t-shirts, hoodies, and posters, all designed to capture the essence of the franchise. Fans can also get their hands on unique collectables like enamel pins, art cards, and even a Shenmue-themed journal for note-taking in true Ryo Hazuki style.
This merchandise drop is a dream come true for collectors and longtime fans of the series. Limited Run Games, known for its premium-quality, limited-edition offerings, has ensured this collection meets the same high standards. With only a short window to purchase these items (orders close on Sunday 12th January), the rush is on to grab these nostalgic pieces.
Shenmue, first released in 1999, has been celebrated for its revolutionary open-world design and gripping narrative. This merchandise release not only honours the game’s legacy but also offers fans a way to keep its spirit alive in their everyday lives.
Act fast—this collection is only available for a limited time through the Limited Run Games website.
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Fans of retro gaming and ROM hacking have a reason to celebrate with the release of the Gunstar Heroes Ultimate Edition ROM hack. This enhanced version of the iconic Sega Genesis/Megadrive game introduces exciting updates and refinements to the beloved Treasure classic, bringing new life to the run-and-gun masterpiece from BillyTime!Games and Ryu.
I did a collaboration with member Ryu on @romhackplaza to bring you the first revision of Gunstar Heroes – Ultimate Edition.
The game has been re-localized, region free, a new game manual, the ability to switch fire modes in game, AND AN XP SYSTEM! pic.twitter.com/LU8fo92hRr
The Collector’s Edition of The Secret of the Four Winds is now available for pre-order. Developed by Kai Magazine Software, this highly anticipated action-adventure RPG is designed exclusively for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, bringing a fresh experience to fans of 16-bit gaming.
The Collector’s Edition is a must-have for retro gaming collectors. It features a beautifully crafted Genesis-style box, a full-colour manual, and a cartridge compatible with original Sega Genesis hardware. The artwork and presentation have been meticulously designed to reflect the golden age of retro RPGs, making it a perfect addition to any Sega fan’s collection.
BIG AND HARD. Size matters. (The Secret of the Four Winds for the Sega Genesis / Megadrive) Pre-orders will begin shipping by the end of February. Pre-order at:https://t.co/pGSsy6Tg17pic.twitter.com/eye7S2LKG2
The Secret of the Four Winds promises an engaging story, expansive gameplay, and mechanics that push the limits of what the Sega Genesis can achieve.
Pre-orders are limited, so fans are encouraged to secure their copies early to avoid missing out on this exciting release. Visit Kai Magazine Software’s store to place your order now!
If you want to keep up with all the latest retro news in a single weekly email – sign up for our free retro gaming Substack, and if you are a collector of retro games, then check out our range of premium game display protectors.
Happy 2025! I hope you all are enjoying a positive start to the new year.
My week in gaming has been a continued quest to get my PS3 Slim loaded with all the Guitar Hero games from the PS2/3 onto the console with CFW. I do not have a hard-wired solution, so transfers are very slow (especially for the larger PS3 games). The guitar is on order, so gaming should commence this week. Also been playing some (too much) Marvel Rivals and Marvel Snap. I have also been working on some new products for RetroShell, expect some updates on the new collection of protectors soon. Plus, I have been continuing to build RetroShell as a news website.
We have 37 stories this week, covering everything from building a N64 Mini, upgrading your GBC with a radio, a new Sega Sonic game and a whole load more.
The people have spoken, and I will add generation 6 to the next edition. Thanks for reading, and I will always strive to make the newsletter better.
News
🎮Atari and My Arcade team up to tease an exciting new console at CES 2025—could this be a retro gaming revolution? [RetroShell] Link
The number pad is a strange addition…
🎨AYANEO’s Pocket Micro gets a Famicom-inspired makeover—perfect for retro enthusiasts! [Time Extension] Link
❄️Snow Bros. Deluxe Edition brings frosty fun to NES, Genesis, Mega Drive, and Game Boy—don’t miss this wintry revival! [RetroShell] Link
🕵️♂️A YouTuber’s bizarre saga involving fake Nintendo lawyers and DMCA takedowns—you won’t believe what happened next! [Game Rant] Link
🐉Dragonyhm, a magical retro RPG, breathes new life into the Game Boy Color—explore its enchanting world! [RetroShell] Link
📥Nintendo offers free N64 game downloads—here’s how you can grab these classics for your collection! [Gaming Bible] Link
⚡A fan-made Sega Saturn Sonic Galactic beta is here, and it’s already wowing gamers. [RetroShell] Link
✨Sonic Galactic is so polished it feels like an official Sega product—fan projects don’t get much better than this! [Time Extension] Link
💥Street Fighter IV gets an unexpected retro twist with a fan-made demo for the Sega Mega Drive and Genesis. [RetroShell] Link
🔧The modder behind the Sega Neptune is now eyeing the SNES PlayStation hybrid—could retro gaming dreams come true? [Time Extension] Link
🏴☠️Lost Treasure of Lima brings adventurous platforming to the Game Boy—set sail for some retro fun! [RetroShell] Link
🐺36 years later, the Sega Genesis finally gets a proper port of Shadow Dancer—better late than never! [Time Extension] Link
🥷🏻Shinobi surprises fans with a Neo Geo jump in this impressive fan project! [RetroShell] Link
📼The Atari Jaguar is coming to the Analogue Pocket—another win for retro hardware enthusiasts. [Time Extension] Link
🚀Exciting new Sega Genesis shooter ZPF opens for pre-orders—lock in your copy today! [RetroShell] Link
Features
🍄Dive into the unmatched legacy of Super Mario Bros. 3 and discover why it remains a timeless classic. [RetroShell] Link
Choose your weapon
📺How YouTube’s censorship policies are creating new challenges for retro game historians preserving gaming’s past. [Time Extension] Link
💾Explore the Famicom Disk System’s unique take on Mario’s legacy, uncovering a fascinating chapter in Nintendo’s history. [RetroShell] Link
Really want one of these.
📻Meet the Orange FM Game Boy cartridge—a quirky accessory that doubles as a radio! [TechEBlog] Link
🎮Building the ultimate Nintendo 64 in 2025? Check out these essential upgrades for modern gaming perfection. [RetroShell] Link
📼A world record on the Nintendo 64, a dusty VHS tape, and a 15-year-long mystery solved—read this incredible gaming story. [Jason Deegan] Link
🔧Discover what you can still buy for the Sega Genesis in 2025—keeping retro alive in style! [RetroShell] Link
🐉Uncover the story of a fully playable Shenmue port for the PS2 that Sega developed but never released. [DualShockers] Link
🏆Ranking the top 10 Nintendo 64 games by Metacritic scores—how many of your favourites made the list? [RetroShell] Link
📉From ambitious beginnings to unexpected failures, revisit the reasons why Sega’s consoles ultimately stumbled. [SlashGear] Link
👾2025’s best NES products are here! See what’s keeping the Nintendo Entertainment System alive for another generation. [RetroShell] Link
🕵️Masahiro Sakurai’s connection to Detective Club reveals a surprising side of the Super Smash Bros. creator’s legacy. [EventHubs] Link
🎮Building the ultimate Nintendo 64 in 2025? Don’t miss these essential upgrades! [RetroShell] Link
Lists & Rankings
🕹️Explore the hottest Sega Genesis products you can buy in 2025—keeping retro gaming alive and well! [RetroShell] Link
🌀What if Sonic the Hedgehog wasn’t Sega’s mascot? Discover the surprising replacements Sega considered. [CBR] Link
🎮Nintendo’s official ranking of the 10 greatest NES games—find out which classics made the cut! [RetroShell] Link
💾Uncover the rarest PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 games and what collectors are paying to own them. [Game Rant] Link
🎂The best SNES games of all time—Newsweek reveals the crème de la crème of the 16-bit era. [Newsweek] Link
🔍Classic video game fans rejoice—Season 2 of Secret Level dives deeper into gaming history. [CBR] Link
🌟The top 10 Nintendo 64 games ranked by Metacritic scores—are your favourites on the list? [RetroShell] Link
🎮Which handheld gaming consoles had the best graphics? A look at portable powerhouses through the years. [CBR] Link
💎Discover the rarest Neo Geo AES games and how much they’re worth in today’s collector market. [Game Rant] Link
