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Category Archives: Sony

New Hardware For Retro, Sony

MemCard Pro Now Doubles as Bluetooth Controller Receiver for PlayStation 1

Posted on by Owen

A significant firmware update has transformed the MemCard Pro into a multifunctional device for PlayStation 1 enthusiasts, adding Bluetooth controller support to its existing memory card capabilities. This development allows PS1 owners to use modern wireless controllers with their vintage consoles without requiring additional adapters or hardware modifications.

Credit: Stone Age Gamer

Dual Functionality Enhancement

The MemCard Pro, originally designed as a digital memory card solution for the PlayStation 1 & 2, now features XelQ gamepad receiver functionality through the latest firmware update. This innovative approach leverages the communication protocol of the PlayStation 1 memory card slot to receive and translate Bluetooth controller inputs to the console. The update effectively allows a single device to serve both as expanded storage and as a wireless controller interface.

Users can switch between memory card mode and Bluetooth receiver mode through a straightforward button combination, with LED indicators providing clear visual feedback about the current operating state. This dual functionality preserves the original memory management capabilities while adding substantial controller flexibility to the classic console.

Credit: 8 Bit Mods

Compatible Controllers and Performance

The update supports a wide range of modern Bluetooth controllers, including DualSense, DualShock 4, and various third-party options from manufacturers like 8BitDo. Testing indicates minimal input lag, with latency measurements comparable to dedicated Bluetooth adapters currently on the market. The implementation maintains compatibility with the original PlayStation controller protocol, ensuring proper button mapping and analogue stick functionality where supported.

Technical experts have noted that the solution makes efficient use of the PlayStation 1’s hardware architecture. The memory card communication channel provides sufficient bandwidth for controller data while the firmware handles the necessary protocol conversion between modern Bluetooth standards and the console’s native controller interface.

Community Reception and Practical Applications

The PlayStation modding community has responded positively to this development, with many users appreciating the reduction in cable clutter and the convenience of using familiar modern controllers. Toy can get the Memcard Pro 2 from Stone Age Gamers for $51.99 or in the UK from 8 Bit Mods for £39.98 (presently out of stock).

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Sony

Sony Surprises Gamers with PlayStation 3 Update Nearly Two Decades Post-Launch

Posted on by Owen

In an unexpected move, Sony has released a system software update for the PlayStation 3 (PS3), bringing the console’s firmware to version 4.92. This update, rolled out on March 5, 2025, comes nearly 19 years after the PS3’s initial debut in 2006. 

According to the official patch notes, the update aims to “improve system performance.” While the specifics are sparse, such updates typically enhance system stability and address minor issues to ensure a smoother user experience.  

A notable aspect of this update is the renewal of the Blu-ray player encryption key. This renewal is essential for maintaining compatibility with newer Blu-ray disc releases, as the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) encryption keys require periodic updates to function correctly. Without this update, users might face difficulties when attempting to play recently released Blu-ray titles.  

Despite ceasing PS3 production in 2017, Sony has consistently provided annual updates for the console, primarily to ensure ongoing Blu-ray playback capabilities. These updates are crucial because the AACS encryption keys, vital for Blu-ray functionality, have expiration periods and need regular renewal.  

For PS3 owners looking to install this update, it’s recommended to have at least 200 MB of free storage space. The update can be downloaded directly via the console’s system update feature or through a USB storage device formatted to FAT32.  You can find all of the information on the upgrade to 4.92 on Sony’s website.

This unexpected update underscores Sony’s commitment to supporting its legacy hardware, ensuring that even long-time PS3 users continue to enjoy their media without interruption.

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Microsoft, Modern Retro Games, Nintendo, Sony

Turok: Dinosaur Hunter Update Unleashes a Wave of Enhancements on Switch

Posted on by Owen

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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Modern Retro Games, Nintendo, Sony, Steam

Justice Ninja Casey Brings a 1994 SNES Classic to the West This Week

Posted on by Owen

A long-lost gem from the Super Nintendo era is finally crossing borders. Shounen Ninja Sasuke, a 1994 Japan-exclusive title developed by Sunsoft, is set to launch in the West as Justice Ninja Casey on February 28, 2025. Retro gaming fans have something special to look forward to, with this release bringing a slice of SNES history to modern platforms at an affordable price of $5.99 / €5.99.

Credit: Ratalaika Games

The game will be available on PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, thanks to the efforts of Ratalaika Games and Shinyuden. Originally a side-scrolling action-adventure following a young ninja rescuing a kidnapped princess, Shounen Ninja Sasuke earned a modest 21 out of 40 from Famicom Tsūshin (now Famitsu) at launch. Yet, it’s since built a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts, often likened to Konami’s The Legend of the Mystical Ninja for its fast-paced gameplay and vibrant visuals.

What makes this release stand out are the modern touches added for today’s players. An English translation breaks the language barrier that kept it Japan-only for three decades, while features like rewind and turbo functions, save states, and a jukebox with the original soundtrack enhance accessibility. Sunsoft, known for classics like Blaster Master, teams up with Ratalaika and Shinyuden—specialists in reviving retro titles—to ensure Justice Ninja Casey feels fresh yet faithful to its roots.

This launch taps into the growing appetite for classic games, reflecting a trend of bringing Japan-exclusive SNES titles to Western audiences. At under £5, it’s a budget-friendly way for collectors and newcomers alike to experience a piece of gaming history, complete with screen filters and cheat options for a tailored playthrough. For retro gaming fans, February 28 marks a date to circle on the calendar.

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Modern Retro Games, Sony

ToHeart Remake Set to Launch in Japan on 26th June 2025

Posted on by Owen

Aquaplus has confirmed that a remake of the classic visual novel ToHeart will launch in Japan on 26th June, as reported by Gematsu. Originally released in 1997 by Leaf, a subsidiary of Aquaplus, ToHeart is a beloved title that helped shape the visual novel genre. This announcement has sparked excitement among enthusiasts eager to see how this retro gem will be brought into the modern age.

For those unfamiliar, ToHeart follows high school student Hiroyuki Fujita as he navigates friendships and budding romances in a charming slice-of-life setting. Its focus on character-driven storytelling and emotional depth made it a standout title in the late ’90s, influencing countless visual novels that followed. The game’s success even led to two anime series and a manga adaptation, broadening its reach beyond gaming circles. Now, nearly three decades later, this remake promises to refresh the experience with updated graphics, breathing new life into its iconic characters and environments.

While full details are still scarce, the remake is expected to retain the essence of the original while adapting it for today’s platforms. Given the popularity of visual novels on systems like the Nintendo Switch and PC, it’s reasonable to expect ToHeart to appear on similar consoles, though Aquaplus has yet to confirm specifics. Retro gaming enthusiasts will be keen to see if new content or features are added, but the core appeal—its heartfelt narrative—seems set to remain intact.

This release is a big moment for fans. ToHeart played a key role in popularising visual novels, a genre that’s since grown into a global phenomenon with titles like Steins;Gate and Clannad. Its return highlights the enduring appeal of retro gaming treasures. For those counting down to June 2025, it’s a perfect chance to revisit the original or discover it for the first time.

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Fun Things, Gaming History, Sony

Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within Returns to The Big Screen as a Landmark in CG Animation

Posted on by Owen

More than two decades after its original release, Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within is set to return to the big screen as part of a film festival celebrating milestones in Japanese CGI animation, as reported by Eiga. Though the film is best remembered for its financial struggles and the turmoil it caused Square Enix, it remains an important piece of cinematic history.

Released in 2001, Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within was a bold attempt to bring the beloved RPG franchise into the world of photorealistic CG films. With an enormous budget and cutting-edge technology for the time, it aimed to push animation boundaries. However, despite its technical achievements, the movie failed to resonate with audiences and became a box office disaster, nearly leading to the downfall of Square Pictures and playing a role in Square’s eventual merger with Enix.

Despite its commercial shortcomings, the film has since gained a cult following and is recognized for its ambition to pioneer realistic computer-generated characters. The upcoming screening at the festival will highlight its significance in shaping the future of CGI in Japan, influencing later works in both animation and gaming.

This renewed interest in The Spirits Within reflects a broader appreciation for experimental projects that dared to push industry limits. While it may not have been the blockbuster Square Enix hoped for, its impact on the gaming and animation industries remains undeniable. For fans of the Final Fantasy series and animation history, this screening is a chance to revisit a film that was ahead of its time.

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Fun Things, Sony

GTA 3 Almost Penalized Players for Running Red Lights

Posted on by Owen

The open-world chaos of Grand Theft Auto 3 could have been a little stricter—at least according to early development plans. Originally, players were meant to receive a wanted level simply for running a red light. However, the idea didn’t sit well with the development team, leading to its swift removal.

According to former developer insights, this mechanic was scrapped because it conflicted with the game’s overall design philosophy. While realism has always played a part in the GTA series, the goal was to encourage freedom rather than restrict it with minor infractions. Getting a wanted level for something as trivial as ignoring a traffic signal would have significantly slowed down the pace of gameplay, leading to frustration rather than fun.

At its core, GTA 3 revolutionized the gaming landscape by introducing a fully explorable 3D city where players could engage in mayhem at their own pace. The decision to remove penalties for red lights allowed for smoother, more dynamic movement through Liberty City, ensuring that the action never felt bogged down by unnecessary rules. Instead, the game focused on rewarding player agency—whether that meant evading the cops after a major heist or simply cruising through the streets without fear of petty violations.

This anecdote serves as an interesting look at the design choices that shaped one of gaming’s most influential titles. While the GTA series has since evolved with more immersive mechanics, it continues to prioritize open-ended gameplay over rigid realism. And given the franchise’s massive success, it’s clear that the developers made the right call.

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Nintendo, Retro Gaming News, Sega, Sony, Top 10

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0136

Posted on by Owen

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

Modern Retro Games, Sega, Sony

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance Set for August Release

Posted on by Owen

Sega has officially announced the upcoming release of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, a 2D action platformer developed by Lizardcube, the studio renowned for Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap and Streets of Rage 4. The game is scheduled to launch on August 29, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam, priced at $29.99 USD.

Credit: Sega

Players will once again step into the shoes of Joe Musashi, the iconic ninja protagonist, embarking on a quest for vengeance across more than a dozen stages filled with challenging platforming puzzles. The combat system is designed to be combo-driven, offering a variety of tools such as the Katana Oborozuki, Kunai, Ninjutsu arts, and Ninpo to defeat adversaries.

Credit: Sega

For enthusiasts seeking additional content, a Digital Deluxe version will be available for $39.99. This edition includes early access to the game, a starter pack with in-game items, a digital art book and soundtrack, and a DLC stage featuring bosses inspired by iconic Sega villains, slated for release in early 2026.

The Shinobi series, which debuted in the late 1980s, has been a cornerstone of Sega’s gaming legacy. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance marks the first new installment in 14 years, following previous revivals on the PlayStation 2 and Nintendo 3DS. Fans of the series and newcomers alike can look forward to experiencing this modern take on a classic franchise.

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Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony, Steam

Lunar Remastered Collection: Physical Release Details for North America

Posted on by Owen

The Lunar Remastered Collection, featuring updated versions of the classic JRPGs Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete, is set to launch on April 18, 2025. Publisher GungHo Online Entertainment has announced that in North America, the physical edition will be available exclusively through Amazon ($54.99). Notably, there will be no pre-order option; purchases can be made directly on the release day.

Credit: Lunar Remastered

GungHo has assured fans that the physical release is not limited, stating, “There will be plenty of copies available for everyone interested.” However, it’s unclear if the physical edition will be available in brick-and-mortar stores. For European customers, Clear River Games will handle the physical distribution, with more details forthcoming.

The remastered collection offers enhanced graphics and audio, widescreen support, and both Japanese and English voice options. Players can choose between “Remastered” and original “Classic” graphics, and the games include quality-of-life improvements like sped-up battle animations.  

Given the high resale value of the original PlayStation versions, this remastered collection provides an accessible way for both longtime fans and newcomers to experience these beloved titles.

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