Nightdive Studios’ recent release, The Thing: Remastered, has quickly become the developer’s fastest-selling game to date. According to Atari’s 2024 end-of-year business report, the remastered title was “well-received by critics and players alike,” achieving unprecedented launch sales across all digital PC and console platforms. The remake has reasonable reviews, getting a mixed score of 69 on Metacritic.
Originally launched in 2002, The Thing served as a direct sequel to John Carpenter’s 1982 film, offering a third-person survival horror experience that resonated with players. The game sold over a million units during its initial run, cementing its place as a standout horror title of its era.
The remastered version, released on December 5, 2024, brings the classic back with enhanced graphics and updated gameplay mechanics, aiming to captivate both returning fans and newcomers. While specific sales figures for the remaster haven’t been disclosed, its rapid success suggests a strong market appetite for revitalised classic horror games.
This achievement not only highlights the enduring appeal of The Thing but also underscores Nightdive Studios’ expertise in delivering quality remasters that honor the original while appealing to modern gamers.
Fans of the Playstation 1 have a reason to be happy -the nsOne Kickstarter campaign, spearheaded by Lorentio Brodesco. This project aims to deliver the first custom PlayStation 1 motherboard created in three decades, offering a modern solution for preserving and enhancing the classic gaming experience on the original grey console.
The nsOne motherboard is designed to replace aging original PlayStation hardware, which often suffers from wear and tear after years of use. By providing a brand-new, custom-built motherboard, the nsOne ensures that enthusiasts can continue to enjoy their favourite titles without the common hardware failures associated with vintage consoles.
You can find the Kickstarter campaign here, and Lorentio is attempting to raise £5,000 to fund the project.
Credit: Kickstarter
This initiative reflects a broader trend in the retro gaming community, where modern technology is employed to preserve and revitalise classic gaming systems. Projects like the SuperStation One, an FPGA-based PlayStation clone by Retro Remake, have also garnered attention for their innovative approaches to classic console preservation.
The nsOne project not only preserves the original gaming experience but also enhances it by providing a reliable and durable alternative to aging hardware. As retro gaming continues to thrive, initiatives like nsOne play a crucial role in keeping the legacy of classic consoles alive for future generations.
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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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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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Square Enix’s Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has been confirmed cracked on PC, igniting a flurry of discussions and debates across gaming forums and communities. Initially launched on PlayStation 5 as a timed exclusive, the game officially hit PC platforms on January 23, 2025, via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Despite this, unauthorized versions have now surfaced on piracy sites, leading to widespread discourse about the ethics and implications of such actions.
Credit: Square Eniz
The Leak and its Implications
The unauthorized PC versions of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth seem to have originated from pre-release builds or unauthorized modifications. Discussions on platforms like Reddit’s r/PiratedGames and Steam Community forums indicate that these cracked versions include functional gameplay elements, including graphical settings. This situation raises questions about the security of game builds before official releases.
Square Enix has yet to make an official statement on this specific incident, but it underscores the ongoing battle against piracy within the gaming industry.
Fan and Industry Reaction
The gaming community’s response is mixed. Some view the cracked version as a way to circumvent the exclusivity period, while others argue that piracy undermines the developers’ hard work. The debate touches on issues like game pricing, exclusivity, and accessibility, fueling conversations across platforms.
Developers and publishers are under increasing pressure to implement robust anti-piracy measures without alienating their paying customers. This event showcases the delicate balance between security, accessibility, and player satisfaction, especially in a global market where consumer expectations can vary widely.
For those interested in the official release, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth can be purchased on Steam or the Epic Games Store.
Retro gaming isn’t just about dusting off old cartridges, trying to hook up an ageing console or grabbing a handful of coins for the local arcade. For me, it is a story of how the industry became the juggernaut that it is today, the more basic times when gaming was still a niche hobby. It’s a journey through the stories, innovations, and cultural moments that shaped the massive video game industry we know today.
The more I write about retro, covering news stories and carrying a flame to support the communities that are keeping the retro scene not just surviving, but thriving. Whilst replaying the classics can bring back fond memories, there’s no better way to uncover the behind-the-scenes drama and unsung heroes than reading books dedicated to gaming’s golden eras. In an era of dopamine overload, what better way to give yourself a detox and uncover some of the fascinating stories that made the gaming industry?
Below, you’ll find 10 recommended reads, in no particular order—each offering a unique perspective on the games and consoles that defined generations. Lets begin.
The Ultimate History of Video Games by Steven L. Kent
Why You’ll Love It: This hefty tome covers everything from the earliest computer experiments to the modern console battles. Kent explores iconic companies like Atari, Sega, Nintendo, and more, unveiling how each shaped the industry’s highs and lows. I love the pixel art cover and this book (the first of two) will take pride of place on any coffee table.
Key Takeaway: If you want a thorough overview—complete with anecdotes about the arcade boom, the rise of home consoles, and the role of major players—this is your all-in-one starting point.
It has 847 reviews, giving it 4.6 stars at Amazon and 4.13 ⭐️ from over 2,900 review at Goodreads.
Console Wars: Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation by Blake J. Harris
Why You’ll Love It: Get ready for an intense business showdown. Harris weaves a narrative about the cutthroat competition between Sega and Nintendo in the 16-bit era, focusing on Sega of America’s bold marketing tactics and Nintendo’s iconic family-friendly approach. The 90’s console wars were a wild ride.
Key Takeaway: You’ll see how characters like Sonic and Mario weren’t just mascots—they were front-line soldiers in a global corporate battle for gamers’ hearts, and how this battle played out, with Sega being the plucky underdogs taking a great fight to Nintendo.
Its a “Goodreads Choice” award nominee and has a rating of 4.4⭐️ from over 3,700 reviews on Amazon, and 3.97⭐️ from over 11,500 reviews on Goodreads.
Game Over: How Nintendo Conquered the World by David Sheff
Why You’ll Love It: Sheff’s book zooms in on Nintendo’s journey from a humble playing card company to a juggernaut of interactive entertainment. It provides insight into the company’s inner workings, strategies, and the people behind the Mario and Zelda phenomena. Its quite an old book so getting a copy might be a challenge, bit it talks about a time before the modern console wars with Sony and Microsoft taking over from Sega and Atari as Nintendo’s challengers.
Key Takeaway: Learn how Nintendo’s innovations—and sometimes controversial business tactics—reshaped the entire gaming landscape and forced competitors to catch up.
It has 4.6⭐️ from a feeble 28 reviews on Amazon, but a score of 4.1⭐️ from over 1,500 reviews on Goodreads.
Masters of Doom by David Kushner
Why You’ll Love It: Travel back to the early ’90s PC revolution with John Carmack and John Romero, the rockstar developers of Doom and Quake. Kushner’s fast-paced storytelling shines a light on the creative frenzy that turned first-person shooters into a worldwide obsession which is still finding ports to weird and wonderful devices today.
Key Takeaway: Witness how garage start-ups and coding genius changed the face of gaming—sometimes literally overnight—and paved the way for eSports and modding communities.
It has a whopping 4.6 ⭐️ from over 3,300 reviews on Amazon and 4.3 from over 19,000 reviews on Goodreads.
Replay: The History of Video Games by Tristan Donovan
Why You’ll Love It: Donovan’s global perspective sets this book apart. Rather than centring only on North America, it delves into arcade scenes in Europe and Japan, uncovering overlooked pioneers and cultural influences that shaped game design.
Key Takeaway: If you’re curious about the worldwide tapestry of retro gaming—beyond the usual Sega vs. Nintendo focus—this book is a must-read to give you an expanded view.
It has 4.5⭐️ from over 250 reviews on Amazon, and 4.04⭐️ from over 1,400 reviews on Goodreads.
Power-Up: How Japanese Video Games Gave the World an Extra Life by Chris Kohler
Why You’ll Love It: Kohler uncovers how Japanese culture and design philosophies became a driving force in video game innovation. From RPGs like Final Fantasy to Nintendo’s family-friendly hits, you’ll discover what makes Japanese titles so influential and also so different from Western styles.
Key Takeaway: A fantastic read if you love JRPGs, the creativity behind Nintendo’s classics, or the cultural crossover that turned Japanese games into global phenomena.
It gets 4.5⭐️ from over 100 reviews on Amazon and 3.99⭐️ from over 430 reviews on Goodreads.
The CRPG Book: A Guide to Computer Role-Playing Games edited by Felipe Pepe
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for those who spent hours exploring dungeons on classic PC titles. This community-driven project covers the evolution of role-playing games, from text-based adventures on mainframes to groundbreaking hits like Baldur’s Gate and The Elder Scrolls.
Key Takeaway: You’ll discover hidden gems, learn how mechanics evolved, and see how CRPGs paved the way for today’s sprawling open-world epics.
It has a strong 4.8⭐️ from 130 reviews on Amazon and 4.45 reviews from over 240 reviews on Goodreads.
Sega Mega Drive/Genesis: Collected Works by Darren Wall
Why You’ll Love It: A deep dive into the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis era (which for me was the best era of gamine, the Megadrive being my first proper console), this beautifully compiled collection includes artwork, developer insights, and fan-favourite game retrospectives. It also highlights how Sega’s edgy approach contrasted with Nintendo’s family-friendly image.
Key Takeaway: A visual feast and a historical record for anyone who ever popped in a cartridge to play Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage, or Golden Axe.
It has a solid 4.6⭐️ from over 200 reviews on Amazon and 4.5⭐️ from over 50 reviews on Goodreads.
Arcade Perfect: How Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat, and Other Coin-Op Classics Invaded the Living Room by David L. Craddock
Why You’ll Love It: Craddock focuses on the beloved arcade-to-home conversions that fueled the console wars. From Pac-Man’s bumpy journey to the Atari 2600 to the faithful (and not-so-faithful) ports of Mortal Kombat, it’s a fascinating snapshot of how developers tackled arcade magic on limited hardware.
Key Takeaway: Learn about the technical tricks—and occasional flops—behind bringing arcade hits into living rooms, plus the cultural ripple effects of each release.
It gets 4.1⭐️ on Amazon from over 40 reviews and 4.15⭐️ also from over 40 reviews on Goodreads.
The Game Console 2.0: A Photographic History from Atari to Xbox by Evan Amos
Why You’ll Love It: Evan Amos’s updated photographic encyclopedia offers high-quality images and essential details for consoles spanning generations—from the earliest Ataris to modern Xboxes. It’s both a nostalgic trip through gaming hardware and an informative reference that highlights each console’s design and evolution with beautiful photography.
Key Takeaway: If you love the look and feel of classic hardware (or want a visual refresher on every major console in gaming history), this book’s stunning photos and concise summaries make it a perfect coffee-table companion.
It has a stellar 4.9⭐️ from over 650 reviews on Amazon, and 4.45⭐️ from over 140 reviews on Goodreads.
So there you have it, it is not an exhaustive list as there are several amazing books coming out all of the time. Publishers such as Bitmap Books are constantly releasing beautiful new publications celebrating retro games and gaming history. As I try and spend less time glued to my mobile, I al finding a lot of enjoyment in carving out some time to get my kindle and expand my knowledge of gaming history with a good book.
What are your favourite books, have I missed anything – please do let me know in the comments below. Thanks for reading.
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It’s hard to believe, but nearly a year has passed since Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves was officially revealed. Now, SNK has announced the Open Beta Test, giving fans their first hands-on experience with the long-awaited sequel.
Credit: SNK
The beta kicks off on Thursday, February 20, and runs until Sunday, February 24. It will be available across all platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. No active PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass membership will be required to join the fight online.
The beta includes 8 playable characters from the confirmed roster of 13 fighters. Players can face off in three online modes—Ranked Match, Casual Match, and Room Matches—or hone their skills in the included Training Mode. However, progress made during the beta won’t carry over to the full release this spring.
The roster revealed so far includes returning favourites like Terry, Rock, B. Jenet, and Hotaru, alongside newcomers such as Vox Reaper and Preecha. Gato, now sporting a fresh new look, was also recently confirmed as part of the cast.
For those looking to pre-order, physical copies of the Special and Deluxe Editions are now available at Best Buy in the United States. Digital pre-orders include a bonus: a few days of early access to the game.
Credit: SNK
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is due out for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store on April 24.
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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.
Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit is an upcoming platformer that draws directly from the comedic web series by James Rolfe, better known as the Angry Video Game Nerd (AVGN). Developed by Mega Cat Studios, the game is set to launch in Q2 2025 on multiple platforms—including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. In fact, the Steam store page is already live for anyone wanting to scope out more details: Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit on Steam.
In keeping with the AVGN’s style, the game embraces an 8-bit aesthetic and tongue-in-cheek humor that harks back to the era of the NES. Players can run, jump, shoot, and slide through side-scrolling levels that are filled with all sorts of adversaries—from zombies to mechanical skeletons, plus a few ghoulish reapers thrown in for good measure. If you’re familiar with the Nerd’s videos, expect irreverent jokes, pixelated gore, and a level of challenge that might just remind you of the old-school “NES-hard” days.
Credit: Steam
One of the major highlights is the plan to release an official NES cartridge version, letting die-hard collectors and retro enthusiasts play the game on genuine 8-bit hardware. For the rest of us, modern console versions and PC downloads will be available. There’s also a physical edition coming via Limited Run Games (LRG), which typically caters to fans who prefer owning the physcal cart.
Credit: Steam
Beyond the throwback graphics and gameplay, it’s worth noting the game will retain much of the AVGN’s comedic edge, including references to alcohol and crude humor, as well as cartoon violence and profanity. That might not be for everyone, but for those who’ve followed the Nerd’s rants about frustratingly hard retro titles, it’ll feel right at home.
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Super Technos World: River City & Technos Arcade Classics has just been officially announced, and it’s coming to PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC, shining a spotlight on the legendary games from Technos Japan. If you’ve ever had fun throwing dodgeballs in Super Dodge Ball or duking it out in the pixelated streets of Double Dragon, this collection is definitely something you’ll want to dive into. Arc System Works, who now hold the rights to the Kunio-kun series, are behind this nostalgic journey, bringing together some of the most iconic retro beat-’em-ups and sports games in one cozy package.
While we’re still waiting for the full lineup to be revealed, we know for sure that this collection will feature several entries from the River City (Kunio-kun) series, known for their humor, wild brawls, and charming visuals. Mark your calendars for April 24th, as that’s when this treasure trove of retro gaming will hit the shelves. You can pre-order your copy now to secure your spot.
Technos Japan originally shook up the gaming world with games like River City Ransom, which took schoolyard rivalries to a whole new level with its unique blend of action and RPG elements. This compilation aims to be a heartfelt tribute to those classic vibes, but with modern enhancements for today’s consoles and PCs, ensuring smoother gameplay and perhaps a few surprises.
Arc System Works has hinted at new features that will enhance the original experiences, possibly including quality-of-life improvements or new modes that weren’t available back in the arcade days. Their official website suggests that each game might come with customizable settings, so you can choose how you want to experience these classics—either staying true to the original or with modern comforts.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of side-scrolling brawlers or new to the scene, this collection offers a nostalgic trip back or a fresh introduction to the 8-bit and 16-bit era’s charm and chaos.
Keep an eye out for more details on the final game list and any additional goodies that might be included. In the meantime, why not dive into some nostalgia with our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack at Retro Gaming News? And to keep your precious retro games safe, check out the top-tier protection at RetroShell.
