A quieter week this week, I am putting a lot of work into making RetroShell the best retro gaming website on the web, more coming soon when we finalise the re-platforming. We also are about to launch some new products including cases for Funko Pop, PS1 and trading cards, more information coming soon, follow us on IG and X for details of the new products when they happen. We also now have a gaming news Reddit.
Whether I continue the newsletter is under review. Right now, it is taking a lot of time, and the audience is not where I would like it to be, given the work that goes into it each week. If you want to support the newsletter, liking it on Substack or sharing it with your friends or communities is the best way. Thanks to everyone who reads it; I appreciate you all a lot. 👾❤️
List heavy this week with such oddities as the video game product placements, the rarest Sega Master System games and their values, PS1 games needing a remaster and the Famicom is overclocking itself… Plus a fair bit more.
News
🕹️ Super Nintendo consoles are aging slightly faster, affecting speedrunning records, with experts investigating the phenomenon.PC Gamer
🎮 A fan-made English patch has been released for Metal Slader Glory: Director’s Cut, the last Super Famicom game.Time Extension
⏳ Square Enix will revisit Chrono Trigger in multiple projects in 2025 to celebrate the game’s 30th anniversary.Automaton Media
🏆 A new Super Mario Bros. speedrun has set a Guinness World Record.UPI (below)
🕹️ Two classic Rare titles are getting physical re-releases on NES and Game Boy.Time Extension
🚗 LEGO has announced a Mario Kart-themed set featuring buildable karts and characters.Bleeding Cool
📡 Sega Saturn games can now be streamed to consoles over WiFi.Time Extension
🎶 The Super Mario Bros. 3 soundtrack has been added to Nintendo’s official music library.Final Weapon
🎮 A Game Boy game is being re-released as a PlayStation 5 exclusive.ComicBook
🐉 The long-lost Dragon’s Lair: The Legend for Game Boy has resurfaced.PopGeeks (below)
🕹️ A GameCube-style controller for the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 has been leaked via an FCC filing.GameFragger
🎮 8BitDo’s new Bluetooth controller brings modern features to the classic N64 design.Xiaomi Today
🥊 The Sega Mega Drive/Genesis is getting a new 2D fighting game.Time Extension
🕹️ A fully functional Sega Neptune console has been created by a retro hardware enthusiast.TechEblog (below)
🎤 Dave Morrow, the voice of Street Fighter’s Akuma, has passed away.Time Extension
📀 A Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie-themed Sega Genesis cartridge has appeared on eBay.GameRant
⚖️ SuperSega’s CEO is now trying to block customer refund requests.Time Extension
🌊 The arcade classic Ocean Hunter is getting a Like a Dragon crossover port.CBR
🚗 M2’s upcoming game Night Striker has received its first official trailer.Time Extension
🕶️ A fan-made GTA 3 port for the Sega Dreamcast is improving with new optimizations.GamesRadar
🛠️ A new Dolphin Emulator update enhances performance for Wii and GameCube games.NotebookCheck
🎮 A new wireless Dreamcast controller is available and compatible with Switch and PC.GameSpot
Features
🎴 A gaming legend is using a SF2 cart as a business card holder.EventHubs
🎮 A game labeled as Japan’s worst ever is now being reevaluated by retro gaming fans.Time Extension
🚖 Nintendo once operated a taxi company and allegedly ran a love hotel before becoming a gaming giant.Inc.
🕹️ A new feature explores the chaotic 1990s console wars between Nintendo and Sega.ComicBook
👟 A dedicated Nintendo fan walked nearly 70 miles to create GPS art of Super Mario.Metro
🏎️ A fan has managed to run F-Zero on the Sega Genesis—sort of.Time Extension
⌚ A new Atari Asteroids-themed watch has been released, prioritizing aesthetics over functionality.Gizmodo
🔗 A comprehensive list of Sega Game Gear titles that supported the Gear-to-Gear link cable has been compiled.MyGamer
🦸 A fan-made reimagining of X-Men: Mutant Apocalypse for SNES is now available for PC and Android.Time Extension
📼 A new documentary explores the continued rise of retro gaming culture.PRWire
🎥 Sylvester Stallone once starred in a notoriously bad Demolition Man video game adaptation.SlashFilm
🚗 Gran Turismo 3 offered ultra-widescreen support on the PlayStation 2 nearly 25 years ago.Time
Lists & Rankings
🎮 A list of the 10 best Nintendo games from the 1980s celebrates the company’s golden era.Bleeding Fool
🕹️ A look at the rarest Nintendo 64 games that most collectors will never own.XDA Developers
🎮 A ranking of the greatest N64 games ever made highlights the console’s enduring classics.Beebom
⚔️ A breakdown of the most iconic battles in Nintendo game history.Hardcore Gamer
💰 The rarest Sega Master System games and their current market values.CBR
🕹️ A nostalgic look at 1990s video game consoles that have been largely forgotten.GameRant
🔄 PlayStation 1 games that deserve a full remake on the PS5.CBR
💸 A list of the most expensive retail video games ever sold.ScreenRant
📺 The best product placements in video game history, ranked.CBR
🎮 A ranking of the best games ever released by Activision.Hardcore Gamer
AYANEO has stepped forward to dispel rumours swirling around the fate of its FLIP handheld, a device that’s captured the hearts of retro gaming fans with its nostalgic dual-screen design. Addressing recent confusion, the company confirmed that the FLIP is not discontinued—production is merely on a temporary hiatus. This news should reassure enthusiasts who feared the innovative clamshell console had been shelved for good. Instead, AYANEO is gearing up to produce several hundred more units within the next three months, with a global restock planned through official channels.
Credit: Ayaeo
The FLIP, unveiled in 2024 via an Indiegogo campaign, harks back to the golden age of portable gaming. Its dual-screen setup echoes the beloved Nintendo DS, a staple of the mid-2000s, while packing modern muscle with an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor. The 7-inch 1080p IPS display, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, promises crisp visuals whether you’re revisiting retro classics or tackling newer titles. It’s a love letter to gamers who grew up with Game Boys and PSPs, blending vintage vibes with cutting-edge tech—a perfect fit for emulating everything from MS-DOS gems to PlayStation 2 hits.
AYANEO also updated backers on the crowdfunding front: 98% of FLIP orders have shipped, leaving just 18 pending. The company’s been in touch with those affected, offering refunds or swaps to keep everyone happy. Looking ahead, the FLIP series isn’t just a one-off. AYANEO plans to refine it with community feedback, enhancing hardware and adding features while preserving that iconic clamshell charm.
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Fans of classic adventure gamebooks have reason to celebrate—Fighting Fantasy is making a comeback, thanks to a new Kickstarter campaign. The legendary solo adventure series, created by Steve Jackson and Ian Livingstone, is returning to print, giving both longtime fans and new readers a chance to experience these interactive stories once again. I grew up reading these books so it is great to see them being remade for newer generations to enjoy.
Credit: Kickstarter
The Fighting Fantasy series, which debuted in the early 1980s, revolutionized the gamebook genre by blending branching narratives with dice-based combat and character progression. Each book allows players to make choices that shape the story’s outcome, creating a dynamic and immersive experience. The newly announced Kickstarter campaign aims to bring back several beloved titles in beautifully reprinted editions, staying true to the original while incorporating high-quality production values.
This revival is not just about nostalgia—it’s also an opportunity for a new generation to discover the magic of Fighting Fantasy. With a growing interest in solo tabletop gaming, these books offer an engaging alternative to traditional RPGs. The campaign also promises additional perks for backers, including exclusive editions, collector’s items, and stretch goals that may unlock even more content.
Gamebooks have seen a resurgence in recent years, fueled by digital adaptations and renewed interest in interactive storytelling. The Fighting Fantasy franchise, in particular, has remained a fan favourite, with past titles inspiring video games, role-playing systems, and even board games. The Kickstarter campaign ensures that these timeless adventures remain accessible to modern audiences while preserving their classic appeal.
Presently the campaign has reached £91k massively exceeded the goal of £19,850 and has seen over 2,000 backers despite having 26 days to go. The options for backers are $15 (£12) for a single book up to $60 (£48) for the entire series.
For those who fondly remember rolling dice and navigating treacherous dungeons through the pages of a book, this reprint project is an exciting opportunity to relive the adventure. Whether you’re a veteran adventurer or a newcomer eager to explore the world of Fighting Fantasy, this revival promises to deliver thrilling solo experiences once more.
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Peter ‘Navy’ Tuiasosopo, renowned for his portrayal of E. Honda in the 1994 Street Fighter film, passed away on February 10, 2025, at the age of 61 due to heart complications in Phoenix, Arizona.
Tuiasosopo in Street Fighter (1994)
Born on May 24, 1963, in San Pedro, California, Tuiasosopo began his career in the entertainment industry in the early 1990s. He made a memorable debut as Manumana in Necessary Roughness (1991), showcasing his talent and versatility. His role as E. Honda in Street Fighter further cemented his place in Hollywood, bringing the beloved video game character to life on the big screen.
Throughout his career, Tuiasosopo appeared in various films and television series, including The Scorpion King, The Fast and the Furious, Austin Powers in Goldmember, and NCIS. His diverse roles highlighted his adaptability and dedication to his craft.
Before venturing into acting, Tuiasosopo had a brief stint in professional football, signing with the St. Louis Cardinals and later playing for the Los Angeles Rams during the 1987 NFL players’ strike.
His son, Manoah, announced his passing on Facebook, stating, “My dad lived an amazing life and in no way does his impact stop here. We will continue to live with him in spirit.”
Tuiasosopo’s legacy as a trailblazer for Polynesian actors in Hollywood remains significant. His contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark, and he will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
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My week in gaming has been mostly Elden Ring, expect limited retro updates for the foreseeable future, this game is great.
This is our biggest ever newsletter, with a whopping 54 stories (mainly due to me being laser focused on sourcing every drop of retro news from around the web). We have lots of new games for retro consoles, including some fan translations and some exciting Shining Force III news (one of my favourite games ever). Thanks for reading!
News
🎮 Next-gen PS2 memory cards allow for seamless game loading and data saving, offering a modern twist on classic hardware. Retroshell
🕹️ Famicom board game RPG Kamen Rider SD: Granshocker no Yabou gets an English fan patch, making the 1990 title accessible to a wider audience. TimeExtension
🦍 Donkey Kong’s new look hints at possible changes for the franchise’s future, sparking speculation among fans. Retroshell
⌨️ 8BitDo’s retro mechanical keyboards, styled after C64 and NES designs, are getting European layouts, expanding accessibility for international users. TimeExtension
📉 Nintendo reports a 46% drop in operating profit, citing weaker hardware and software sales. Retroshell
🚀 Operation Night Strikers is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch, bringing a classic-style shooter to modern audiences. MyNintendoNews
🕹️ Retro platformer Flea 2 is coming to the Dreamcast and NES, continuing the indie hit’s quirky adventure. Retroshell
📀 Sega CD titles Earnest Evans and Anett Returns are receiving their first official English releases, making them more accessible to global players. TimeExtension
💀 Doomlings puts a dark twist on Lemmings for the MSX, offering a new challenge for retro gaming fans. Retroshell
🌐 A new hack aims to take Shining Force III online, expanding multiplayer possibilities for the classic RPG. TimeExtension
🎵 Nintendo adds Super Mario World soundtrack to its music app, giving fans a nostalgic listening experience. Retroshell
🕹️ Capcom’s Midnight Wanderers is being ported to the Neo Geo, bringing the arcade classic to a new platform. TimeExtension
🔍 A leaked pre-release build of GTA: Vice City reveals beta content, offering insight into the game’s development. Retroshell
🎮 A rare Nintendo GameCube console has surfaced, sparking interest among collectors. ComicBook
🏆 Donkey Kong’s infamous “kill screen” has been conquered after 44 years, marking a milestone in arcade gaming history. Retroshell
⚡ MAME 0.274 update improves performance and adds new games, enhancing the arcade emulator’s capabilities. Retroshell
🏚️ Retro-inspired game Cronela’s Mansion is now live on Kickstarter, seeking funding for its eerie adventure. Retroshell
🏁 After years of waiting, Daytona USA 2 finally gets a home release—sort of, with a new version available to fans. Retroshell
🌍 A new Skies of Arcadia patch delivers a 60Hz multi-language experience, improving accessibility for players worldwide. Retroshell
⏰ Universal Studios Japan hotels are renting out Nintendo Alarmo Clocks, letting guests wake up like Mario. Retroshell
💾 Ruiki announces X68000 Z Super and X68000 Z XVI, modern takes on the classic computer line.Retroshell
🚫 PlayStation shuts down the Bloodborne PSX demake, but Nightmare Kart is still in development, keeping the fan project alive. Retroshell
🎮 ESA unveils Iicon, a new summit focused on gaming’s future, following the end of E3. Retroshell
🇯🇵 MSX2 RPG Burai Joukan is coming to the Nintendo Switch in Japan this summer, bringing the classic to a modern audience. Retroshell
💘 Wario Land 4 is joining Nintendo Switch Online’s GBA library on February 14, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Retroshell
🗺️ The second volume of Video Game Maps: SNES is now available for pre-order, featuring more classic game cartography. Retroshell
🐱 An indie game inspired by Cat Soup is being developed for original PlayStation hardware, blending surreal aesthetics with retro technology. 80.lv
Features
🕹️ The Nintendo PlayStation’s first game was an FMV space shooter that was nearly completed, shedding light on the lost project. Retroshell
📺 A portable LCD screen for the Super Nintendo and Famicom brings retro gaming on the go (Below). TechEBlog
🦍 Donkey Kong’s new look hints at possible changes for the franchise’s future, sparking speculation among fans. Retroshell
🛠️ A deep dive into the NES’s unique architecture reveals how cartridges interacted with the console, shaping its game library. XDA Developers
🚀 New details emerge about Star Fox, including how Nintendo staff were secretly used as game icons.Retroshell
🎨 HD-2D continues to rise in popularity among retro game fans, blending pixel art with modern visuals. CBR
⚖️ The UK government rejects the “Stop Destroying Video Games” petition, dismissing concerns over game preservation. Retroshell
🎮 A fan remake of Super Mario World in Unreal Engine 5 showcases the classic game in stunning 3D (Below). CreativeBloq
🎨 An artist transforms everyday spaces by adding pixelated pop culture icons, blending nostalgia with reality. NewsBreak
🧵 The Game Boy once powered a functional sewing machine, marking one of Nintendo’s strangest tech crossovers.Retroshell
💻 DOOM has been successfully run on an Apple Lightning-to-HDMI adapter, proving once again that DOOM runs on everything. Gigazine
🗡️ Zelda designer Takaya Imamura clarifies a mistranslation regarding PTSD in a recent interview, addressing fan concerns. Retroshell
🎮 RetroFlag unveils the 64Pi Mini, a compact N64-inspired console, offering a nostalgic design with modern features. TechEBlog
🥋 A hidden Mortal Kombat 1 boss fight named Floyd sparks nostalgia and curiosity about the game’s success.GameRant
💾 Meet the man making retro game save data management easier, simplifying backups for collectors and players. TimeExtension
🎮 The PlayStation 2 celebrates 25 years, reflecting on its impact and enduring legacy.CBR
📀 A look into the Sega Saturn’s backlog highlights Shinobi X and Legions as must-play titles.Express
📚 A new book excerpt explores the history of the Intellivision, offering insights into the early console wars. Polygon
🦴 Bonk, the PC Engine mascot, has been absent from games for two decades—what happened?Softonic
⚡ A Harry Potter PS1 classic could be getting a next-gen remaster, sparking excitement among fans.GamingBible
💡 A DIY PS1 lamp keychain project goes viral, inspiring nostalgic gamers to create their own.GameRant
📱 Can you play Sega Dreamcast ROMs on an iPhone? Here’s what you need to know.MacObserver
Lists & Rankings
🕹️ These platformer sequels surpassed their originals, refining mechanics and expanding gameplay. DualShockers
🎮 A look at how gaming has evolved over the past 30 years, from technology to player experiences. GameRant
🏆 The best multiplayer N64 games ranked, highlighting the console’s most iconic party experiences. Destructoid
⚔️ These underrated PlayStation RPGs deserve more recognition for their unique mechanics and storytelling. TheGamer
Can you guess what it is yet?
🌀 The weirdest Sega Dreamcast games ranked, showcasing the console’s most bizarre and creative titles. CBR
New Skies of Arcadia Patch Delivers the Ultimate 60Hz Multi-Language Experience
A new fan patch for Skies of Arcadia offers the most refined version of the Dreamcast classic, fixing long-standing issues from previous 60Hz conversions. This update fully restores proper animation timings, corrects audio sync issues, and ensures seamless performance across all display modes—including RGB, VGA, and composite—while supporting multiple languages.
This patch builds upon the earlier 60Hz PAL conversion by Japanese_cake but goes a step further by undoing PAL-specific optimizations. The result is a version of Skies of Arcadia that runs identically to the original NTSC releases while allowing players to experience the game in English, Spanish, German, or French at a smooth 60Hz refresh rate.
Key improvements include:
• Perfectly Synced Cutscenes – Audio is now in complete sync with the NTSC releases, eliminating the delays found in the previous patch.
• Restored Sound Effects – SFX have been reverted to match the original NTSC versions, correcting distortions caused by PAL adjustments.
• Accurate Movement Speed – Walking speed now mirrors the JP/US releases, ensuring a faithful gameplay experience.
• Full 60Hz Display Support – Works flawlessly with RGB, VGA, and composite video on all region Dreamcast consoles.
• Region-Free Compatibility – Playable on any Dreamcast without modification.
For those looking for additional enhancements, Skye from the Skies of Arcadia Discord is developing a quality-of-life patch based on this release. It aims to restore censored content, adjust the high encounter rate, and reintroduce the original website functionality.
You can view the patch notes here, and download the new release here.
For now, if you’re seeking the ultimate Skies of Arcadia experience with perfect 60Hz performance, this patch is the definitive way to play.
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!
The latest MAME update, version 0.274, brings significant performance improvements and expands the emulator’s already vast library of supported arcade and console games. The new release enhances the emulation of several platforms while fixing long-standing issues and improving overall compatibility.
One of the major highlights of MAME 0.274 is the improved emulation of several Namco System 10 arcade games, including Gekitoride-Jong Space, which is now fully playable. Performance optimizations have also been applied to the driver for Namco’s Super System 22, allowing for a smoother experience when playing titles like Time Crisis 2 and 500 GP.
Gekitoride-Jong Space Arcade
Additionally, Capcom’s Magic Sword has received a sound fix that properly synchronizes effects with gameplay, addressing an issue that had persisted for years. MAME 0.274 also makes refinements to Sega’s Model 3 emulation, improving stability in games such as Virtua Fighter 3 and Scud Race.
Beyond arcade systems, the update introduces improvements to the emulation of several vintage computers and game consoles. The Atari Jaguar emulation has seen major fixes, allowing better compatibility with homebrew games, while the Tandy 1000 line of computers now supports improved graphics rendering.
The Tandy 1000
Performance optimizations have been applied across the board, reducing CPU usage in various drivers, and making the latest version of MAME more efficient even on lower-end hardware.
For retro gaming enthusiasts, this update ensures a more stable and accurate emulation experience. You can grab the latest MAME version from the official MAME website.
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The universe of Stars Reach has come alive, and adventurers everywhere have etched their mark on this living galaxy. Developed by Playable Worlds, Stars Reach has redefined player-driven exploration, terraforming, and combat, giving pioneers unparalleled freedom to shape their destinies.
The galaxy has stirred with chaos, wonder, and now, anticipation. The Stars Reach team has launched their Kickstarter Coming Soon page, inviting the community to hit “Notify Me on Launch” and join forces in shaping the future of this ambitious MMORPG.
Credit: Stars Reach
August 2024: Movement, Moods, and Community
The first wave of explorers set out to conquer Stars Reach, embracing innovative mechanics that turned movement into art and emotion into storytelling:
• Emote Explosion: With over 60 emotes and 190 moods, players expressed themselves in ways never seen before, from bold dances to sly smirks.
• Wounds System: Heroes healed physically and emotionally, finding solace in hot tubs and firelit gatherings.
Credit: Stars Reach
September 2024: Shaping the Cosmos
Terraforming tools unleashed boundless creativity as players reshaped worlds to their will:
• Extractor and Terraformer: Resources and landscapes bent to player commands, as mountains rose and craters deepened.
• Agitator and Paver: Fire and frost sculpted paths and bases, blending destruction and creation.
• ReLife System: Survival was a cycle of cunning, adaptation, and mastery.
October 2024: Expanding the Frontier
With shimmering portals and vast galaxies, explorers ventured further than ever before:
• Portal Travel: Planets and stars opened seamlessly, creating uninterrupted exploration.
• New Skills: Botany, Mineralogy, Chronophasing, and Ranger survival expanded gameplay depth.
• Combat Evolution:
• Omniblaster: A weapon of crackling energy.
• Drones: Loyal defenders in battle.
• Gravity Gun: A masterstroke for manipulating enemies.
• Space Mechanics: Realistic flight and microgravity combat brought weight and consequence to every duel.
Support Stars Reach
The Kickstarter campaign is more than a funding initiative; it’s a rallying cry for players to build the galaxy of their dreams. With your help, Stars Reach can continue to grow into a dynamic universe of infinite possibilities. Is this the unofficial sequel to Star Wars Galaxies that I have been waiting 20 years for… I hope so.
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The Kickstarter campaign for In This House, a retro-inspired horror game, has 4 days left to hit its funding target of $10,583. Developed for retro gaming enthusiasts, this project aims to deliver a chilling and immersive experience while paying homage to the aesthetics and gameplay of classic 16-bit titles.
Here at RetroShell we are avid supporters of indie developers breathing new life into classic consoles so we are always scouring sources to find new projects that we can support and share with our communities.
Set within a haunted house filled with unsettling secrets, In This House combines eerie visuals, atmospheric sound design, and clever puzzles to create a truly spine-tingling adventure. The game’s developers promise a unique blend of psychological horror and nostalgic gameplay, capturing the essence of classic horror titles while introducing modern twists.
Backers of the campaign can choose from various tiers, including exclusive physical editions for retro consoles, digital downloads, and behind-the-scenes development content. Higher pledge tiers offer unique perks, such as custom in-game content and collector’s items.
With its combination of retro charm and horror storytelling, In This House is poised to become a standout title in the indie scene. Retro horror enthusiasts and collectors are encouraged to support the campaign early to secure exclusive rewards.
Learn more about the project and back it here: In This House Kickstarter, and you can find the creator Jakub on X.
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Retro gaming holds a special place in the hearts of many, offering a portal to the golden era of video games. Over the past two decades, the retro gaming scene has transformed dramatically, influenced by emerging technologies, shifting collector trends, and innovative new ways to enjoy old classics. This reflective journey explores the evolution of retro gaming, spotlighting key milestones and emerging trends that continue to shape the community today.
Before I begin, if you love Retro and want to stay up to date with all the latest news, sign up for our free Substack which delivers all the latest retro news every Monday.
Let’s begin.
The Rise of Emulation: Bridging the Past and Present
The Accessibility Revolution
Emulation has been a cornerstone of retro gaming’s growth, providing an affordable and accessible way for gamers to revisit classics. What started as an underground movement has become a mainstream phenomenon, with emulation software like MAME (Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator) and RetroArch revolutionizing how gamers engage with vintage titles.
As emulators have advanced, they now replicate systems like the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4, while preserving the charm of older consoles like the NES and Sega Genesis. The result? Gamers can enjoy their favourite titles in high fidelity on modern devices, opening a new chapter for classics.
Android has always been a good place to emulate, due to its more “open” approach to apps, but with the recent Delta emulator being listed on the app store, it has opened up retro gaming to a huge new audience of Apple users.
Hardware Collecting: A Shift in Focus
The Decline of Vintage Hardware
The early days of retro gaming often revolved around collecting original consoles. From hunting for a pristine NES to tracking down rare Sega Dreamcast peripherals, the thrill of owning authentic hardware was unmatched. However, maintaining these ageing systems has grown increasingly difficult, especially as CRT displays become harder to find and the dwindling supply of many consoles.
Enter Modern Alternatives
Modern recreation systems like Analogue Pocket and Polymega have stepped in, offering vintage gaming experiences with modern conveniences like HDMI support. These devices breathe new life into retro gaming while sidestepping compatibility issues. These devices allow classic games to be played in higher resolutions than the original displays and consoles were able to handle.
The Analogue Pocket
FPGA Technology: Perfecting the Retro Experience
Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology has revolutionized retro gaming by delivering hardware-accurate emulation.
FPGA technology represents a transformative development in retro gaming, offering a solution that bridges the gap between original hardware authenticity and modern convenience. Unlike traditional software emulation, FPGA systems recreate classic gaming hardware at a fundamental circuit level, providing an experience that’s virtually indistinguishable from original consoles.
The significance of FPGA in retro gaming extends beyond mere simulation. By implementing hardware-level recreation, these systems deliver precise timing and behavior that matches original consoles, while simultaneously offering modern amenities like HDMI output and improved reliability. This technological approach has become particularly valuable as original hardware becomes increasingly scarce and unreliable, ensuring that classic games can be preserved and experienced as their developers intended, without the compromises often associated with software emulation. The technology has found commercial success through products like Analogue’s consoles and the open-source MiSTer project, establishing itself as a premium solution for enthusiasts seeking the most authentic retro gaming experience possible.
Mister FPGA
FPGA BenefitsDescription
Accurate Emulation Near-perfect hardware replication
Improved Accessibility Modern features like HDMI and USB support
Enhanced Longevity Reduces wear on original hardware
FPGA consoles blur the line between modern and retro, creating a seamless gaming experience that appeals to purists and newcomers alike.
CRTs and Upscalers: Revisiting Retro Aesthetics
The CRT Era Fades
CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) technology holds a special place in retro gaming, offering unique benefits that modern displays struggle to replicate. Let’s explore why these vintage displays remain relevant in today’s gaming landscape.
CRT displays offer distinct advantages for retro games, particularly in how they handle classic graphics. The technology naturally smooths out pixels and blends colours, making older games appear less harsh and more cohesive than on modern screens. This is especially important for pixel-based games and those with low polygon counts, which were specifically designed with CRT limitations in mind.
CRTs provide virtually zero input lag, making them ideal for competitive gaming and speed runners who require precise timing. The technology’s instant response times and superior motion clarity create a more responsive gaming experience that modern displays still struggle to match.
CRTs remained dominant until the mid-2000s, with the mass migration to LCD displays occurring around 2006. Many gamers continued using CRTs well into the PS2 and GameCube era, as these consoles were primarily designed for CRT displays.
The retro gaming community has sparked renewed interest in CRT displays, driving up their value in the collector’s market. What was once considered obsolete technology has become highly sought after, with some premium models commanding significant prices.
The Upscaler Solution
Modern upscalers like the RetroTINK 5x Pro and OSSC (Open Source Scan Converter) have filled the void, allowing players to enjoy retro visuals on HD and 4K displays. These devices enhance image quality while maintaining the nostalgia of classic graphics.
The OSSC
UpscalerHighlights
RetroTINK 5x Pro Supports multiple input formats, zero lag
OSSC Minimal lag, robust scaling options
Framemeister Advanced filters for pixel-perfect visuals
Evolving Game Collecting Trends
Today’s collectors are increasingly focused on curating meaningful collections rather than amassing extensive libraries. This shift emphasizes personal connection over completionism, with collectors seeking games that resonate with their childhood memories or represent significant cultural milestones. Many collectors now prioritize playing their games rather than simply displaying them, leading to more selective purchasing decisions.
Price Trends and Accessibility
Retro game prices have skyrocketed, especially for rare titles. As a result, gamers have turned to digital collections or reproductions to avoid hefty costs. This trend underscores a move toward curation over quantity.
Investment Considerations
The market has attracted serious investors, transforming retro games into legitimate investment vehicles. Sealed and graded games have become particularly valuable, with some titles seeing exponential price increases. However, this trend has also introduced market volatility and speculation concerns.
Arcade Culture: From Cabinets to Consoles
Arcade gaming’s influence endures, thanks to the rise of products like Arcade1Up, which offers affordable, home-friendly cabinets. While the novelty of owning a personal arcade setup may have waned, the appeal of the arcade experience remains strong among niche audiences.
One of the finest 2 player games
Accessory Innovations: Keeping Classics Alive
Modern adapters, mods, and accessories are key to preserving retro systems. HDMI mods, updated controllers, and flash cartridges ensure that older hardware remains functional and relevant.
Updated Controllers: Old-School Feel with Modern Comfort
Retro gamers no longer need to compromise comfort for authenticity. A new wave of updated controllers offers modern ergonomic designs while retaining the spirit of classic input devices.
8BitDo Controllers:
Renowned for their retro-inspired controllers, 8BitDo produces wireless options that pair with systems like the NES, SNES, and Genesis. The SN30 Pro+ combines a nostalgic look with features like rumble, motion controls, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Hyperkin Duke:
A reimagined version of the original Xbox’s massive “Duke” controller, this accessory includes modern upgrades like an OLED screen in the centre and USB support for use with current-gen consoles and PCs.
Retro Fighters Controllers:
The Brawler64 offers a modernized take on the Nintendo 64 controller, addressing the infamous joystick durability issues while delivering improved ergonomics for extended play sessions.
8BitDo 64 Bluetooth
Flash Cartridges: Redefining Retro Libraries
Flash cartridges have revolutionized retro gaming by allowing players to load their entire game libraries onto a single cartridge, eliminating the need to swap physical media constantly.
EverDrive Series:
Designed by Krikzz, the EverDrive lineup supports systems like the NES, SNES, Genesis, and Game Boy. These cartridges allow users to load games via SD cards, including fan translations, hacks, and even custom homebrew titles.
FXPAK Pro:
Formerly known as the SD2SNES, this cartridge supports most SNES games, including those that use special chips like the Super FX. Games like Star Fox and Yoshi’s Island run flawlessly, replicating the original experience without the need for multiple cartridges.
MegaSD:
An FPGA-powered flash cartridge for the Sega Genesis and Mega CD, the MegaSD allows players to enjoy CD-based games like Sonic CD directly from an SD card. It even supports Sega Master System titles, making it a versatile tool for Sega enthusiasts.
The Mega SD
The Rise of Remakes, Remasters, and Ports
Modern gaming’s obsession with remakes and remasters has created a bridge between generations. Beloved classics like Final Fantasy VII and Resident Evil 4 have been reimagined for contemporary platforms, introducing these titles to new audiences while preserving their original essence.
Remake ExampleImpact
Final Fantasy VII Remake Expanded story, updated visuals.
Link’s Awakening Preserved charm with modern design upgrades.
FFVII Rebirth for the PS
The Future of Retro Gaming
Growing Communities
The retro gaming community continues to thrive, driven by a shared passion for nostalgia. Platforms like Discord, Reddit, and YouTube provide spaces for enthusiasts to connect, share, and celebrate.
Continued Innovation
As technology advances, expect even more accurate emulation, advanced FPGA devices, and creative accessories that keep retro gaming alive. Additionally, trends like streaming and retro-inspired indie games will ensure that the legacy of retro gaming endures.
Conclusion
Retro gaming is more vibrant than ever, with technological breakthroughs and dedicated communities ensuring its longevity. From emulation and FPGA hardware to upscale and modern accessories, the retro gaming experience has never been more accessible or exciting.
Whether you’re rediscovering old favourites or exploring remakes and remasters, retro gaming offers something for everyone. As the scene evolves, one thing is clear: nostalgia isn’t going anywhere, and the best is yet to come.
Thanks for reading! If you are a retro game collector, check out RetroShell’s range of game display protectors.
