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Category Archives: Uncategorized

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Building a Nintendo 64 Mini Classic Edition with Raspberry Pi 5

Posted on by Owen

The retro gaming scene thrives on nostalgia—a powerful force that keeps us hooked on the cherished games of our youth. Despite Nintendo’s successful ventures with the NES and SNES Classic Editions, fans have long awaited a Nintendo 64 Mini Classic Edition. While no official product exists, the creative spirit of the gaming community has bridged the gap. This blog explores the creation of a DIY Nintendo 64 Mini Classic Edition using the versatile Raspberry Pi 5, blending nostalgia with modern technology.

A Nostalgic Look Back

When Nintendo introduced the NES and SNES Classic Editions, they rekindled the flame of retro gaming. These consoles catered to a generation that grew up on Mario, Zelda, and Metroid, packaged in sleek miniaturised forms. Released between 2017 and 2018, these editions aligned perfectly with the launch of the Nintendo Switch, providing a sense of continuity in Nintendo’s gaming universe.

The SNES Mini (EU Edition)

What Made Them Popular?

• Nostalgia Reimagined: Players relived classic games with modern ease.

• Plug-and-Play Convenience: No fiddling with cartridges or blowing on connectors—just pure gaming.

• Speculated Expansion: Rumours about potential Game Boy or Nintendo 64 Mini editions buzzed for years, fuelling anticipation.

However, the Nintendo 64 Mini never materialised. Meanwhile, Sega dipped into the nostalgia pool with its Genesis Mini, but consumer interest in such official products eventually waned. Enter the enthusiasts who take matters into their own hands.

Enter the DIY Nintendo 64 Mini Project

Determined to bring the Nintendo 64 Mini to life, a creative gamer embarked on a project to build one from scratch. At the heart of this endeavour was the Raspberry Pi 5, a credit-card-sized computer renowned for its versatility and affordability. The Pi, coupled with a custom Nintendo 64-style case, created the foundation for this retro revival.

Raspberry Pi Model 5

What Made This Project Special?

1. Authentic Aesthetics: A Retro Flag case designed to mimic the colourful charm of the original console.

2. Powerful Hardware: The Raspberry Pi 5’s advanced specs made it perfect for emulating Nintendo 64 games.

3. Tailored Experience: A handpicked selection of 60 iconic titles ensured every gaming session was a trip down memory lane.

Building the Console

The Components

Before diving into the build, assembling the right tools and components was essential:

1. Raspberry Pi 5 ($45-$80 depending on spec): The brain of the operation.

2. Retro Flag Case ($29.99): Shaped like the Nintendo 64 for that authentic retro feel.

3. Heat Sinks and Cooling Fans: To keep the Pi running smoothly during intense gaming sessions.

4. Micro SD Card ($21.05 – suggested Sandisk 256gb): For storage, loaded with games and the operating system.

5. Nintendo 64 Controller ($19.99): To replicate the classic gameplay experience.

6. Batocera OS (Free): An emulation-focused operating system.

Retroflag N64 Pi Case

Assembly Steps

1. Prepare the Raspberry Pi: Remove any pre-installed heat sinks carefully to avoid damaging the board.

2. Install Cooling Components: Attach the new heat sinks and connect the fan to the Pi’s power supply.

3. Fit into the Case: Place the Pi snugly inside the Retro Flag case, ensuring all ports align correctly.

4. Insert Micro SD Card: Preloaded with Batocera, the card acts as the console’s “hard drive.”

5. Connect Peripherals: Plug in controllers and an HDMI cable.

Setting Up the Software

Installing Batocera

1. Download the OS: Get Batocera from its official website.

2. Flash the SD Card: Use Win32 Disk Imager (or a similar tool) to write the image to the card.

3. Boot Up the Pi: Insert the SD card into the Pi, power it on, and let Batocera work its magic.

Adding Games

Transferring ROMs (game files) is a straightforward process:

1. Connect to Wi-Fi: Configure your network for easy file transfers.

2. Use FileZilla: This FTP client allows you to drag and drop ROMs into the Pi’s storage.

3. Organise Your Library: Add box art and video previews for a polished look.

Reliving the Nintendo 64 Experience

Gaming Setup

Once everything is in place, the DIY Nintendo 64 Mini boots to life, displaying a clean interface and an array of familiar games. With a controller in hand, the nostalgic journey begins.

• Customisation: Users can tweak splash screens, add background music, and personalise settings.

• Controller Pairing: A quick Bluetooth sync connects the classic Nintendo 64 controller for an authentic feel.

And there you have it! Your own Nintendo 64 mini console. If you are a Nintendo 64 game collector then make sure you protect your precious collection with a RetroShell, and if you love retro, then sign up to our free weekly retro gaming newsletter.

What do you think of this Nintendo 64 Mini Classic Edition? Are you tempted to build your own or perhaps adapt this idea for another console? Let us know in the comments below!

Collecting, Nintendo, Uncategorized

Building the Ultimate Nintendo 64 – Essential Upgrades for 2025

Posted on by Owen

Ah, the Nintendo 64. For many of us, it holds a cherished spot in our gaming hearts, from conquering Rainbow Road in Mario Kart 64 to mastering headshots with Oddjob in GoldenEye 007. But let’s face it: time hasn’t been kind to the hardware. Original controllers wear out, analogue sticks get “grainy” memory paks fail, and that fuzzy video output doesn’t quite cut it on modern screens.

Thankfully, retro gaming enthusiasts and tech wizards have stepped in to give the N64 a 21st-century makeover. Here’s how to elevate your Nintendo 64 into a modern gaming powerhouse.

The Controller Evolution: Comfort Meets Performance

The original N64 controller is iconic, but let’s be honest—it’s not the most ergonomic design. The three-pronged layout feels more like a relic of experimentation than an ideal gaming interface. Enter the Retro Fighters Brawler 64 V2, a modernised take that finally makes sense.

With a sleek two-handle design, larger A and B buttons, and dual Z triggers, it’s a dream for both casual and competitive gamers. Whether you’re racing through F-Zero X or pulling off combos in Super Smash Bros., the improved grip and button placement feel just right.

For those craving wireless freedom, the Retro-Bit Wireless Tribute 64 V2 is a game-changer. Offering up to 20 hours of battery life and compatibility with both PCs and the Nintendo Switch, it’s a versatile upgrade that lets you ditch the cables without sacrificing performance.

Storage Made Simple: Modern Memory Solutions

Remember the frustration of realising your Mario Kart 64 ghost data was gone because the Controller Pak battery died? Well, those days are over. Enter the Forever Pak 64, a battery-free alternative that ensures your saved progress is as eternal as your love for retro gaming. Matching the console’s original aesthetic, it retains the same 123-page storage capacity, making it an essential addition for serious collectors.

For those who dabble in multiple games and genres, modern solutions like the Forever Pak save you from constantly swapping and reformatting memory cards, so you can focus on what really matters—gaming.

Crystal Clear Gaming: Video Output Upgrades

Plugging your N64 into a modern HDTV can be a sobering experience. Those muddy visuals that worked fine on CRTs look decidedly less magical now. Luckily, there are some fantastic upgrades to breathe new life into your N64’s visuals:

1. RGB Modification ($11.50): This hardware modification unlocks the N64’s true potential, providing vibrant, sharp images when paired with modern upscalers. Note, that you will need some soldering skills to install these.

2. S-Video Output ($13.99): If you have an NTSC console, this affordable solution delivers a noticeable improvement over the stock composite output.

3. RetroTINK 5x: Widely regarded as the best plug-and-play scaler for retro consoles, this device makes your N64 games shine on modern TVs. Its ability to reduce input lag and upscale to 1080p ensures a seamless experience. It’s not cheap ($325), but, this is the best solution to get the original console to have the best picture quality.

Your Ultimate Library: The EverDrive-64 X7

The EverDrive-64 X7 is a must-have for any serious N64 enthusiast. This modern cartridge lets you load ROMs directly from a microSD card, unlocking a world of possibilities. Here’s what makes it special:

• PAL and NTSC compatibility ensures it works across regions.

• Rapid loading speeds (up to 23 MB/s) mean less waiting and more gaming.

• GameShark cheat compatibility gives you a fun way to explore games in ways you couldn’t before.

• Built-in save support eliminates the need for memory paks.

Want to explore unreleased titles, fan translations, or even custom ROM hacks? The EverDrive-64 X7 makes it all possible while letting you preserve your original game cartridges for posterity.

Looking for another option? Then you have the SummerCart64, which is an open-source flashcard and offers most of the functionality, for a better price and with full 64DD support. You can grab this for $42.32 from AliExpress.

Boosting Performance: The Expansion Pak

Some of the N64’s most iconic titles demand extra power, and that’s where the Expansion Pak comes in. This RAM upgrade doubles the system’s memory from 4MB to 8MB, unlocking higher resolutions, improved frame rates, and access to otherwise unplayable titles like Donkey Kong 64 and Perfect Dark. Even games that don’t require the Expansion Pak, like Turok 2: Seeds of Evil, see enhanced performance when it’s installed.

If you’re serious about your N64 library, this is a no-brainer addition.

Custom Console Shells: Revitalising Your N64’s Look

If you’re looking to take your Nintendo 64 modernisation even further, why not give the console itself a facelift? The Trogg Tech Funtastic Series shells from Stone Age Gamer are the perfect way to breathe new life into your beloved N64. These replacement shells are inspired by the classic Funtastic colours that Nintendo released in the late ’90s, but with a modern twist.

Available in a wide variety of colours—from translucent green and ice blue to vibrant red and purple—these shells let you customise your console to match your personality or gaming setup. Beyond their striking aesthetic, the shells are made with durable, high-quality materials, ensuring they’ll stand the test of time. They’re designed for easy installation, even if you’re new to console modding.

Protecting Your Investment: RetroShell Protectors

For those who cherish their retro game collections, keeping them in pristine condition is key. High-quality acrylic protectors like those from RetroShell ensure your rare N64 boxes, cartridges, and manuals stay safe from dust, sunlight, and wear. RetroShell offers precise fits for every collector’s need—because a complete N64 collection is only as good as its presentation.

Final Thoughts: A Future-Proof N64

The Nintendo 64 has stood the test of time, and these modern upgrades ensure it’ll keep shining for years to come. Whether you’re revisiting old favourites or diving into hidden gems, these enhancements make every gaming session more enjoyable.

From ergonomic controllers to sharper visuals and expanded libraries, there’s no reason your N64 should feel outdated in 2024. So, dust off that console, grab a new controller, and get ready to relive the golden age of gaming in style!

Nintendo, Top 10, Uncategorized

The best Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) products in 2025

Posted on by Owen

The game console that pretty much built an industry, the “Nintendo Entertainment System” or simply the NES as it is more commonly called – was released in the USA in October 1985 (however existed as the Famicom in Japan since July 1983). The gaming industry was pretty much dead on its feet after the video game crash of the early 80s, but through a combination of quality games and better hardware, the NES almost singlehandedly revived and built the gaming industry we know and love today.

As we enter 2025, the scene for the NES has never been more vibrant with a long list of new games being developed alongside console modding and accessories being widely available, so let’s have a look at some of the top products related to this icon.

10. NES Cartridge holder

Starting with something more functional rather than exciting, but if you are lucky enough to own a collection of original NES cartridges, then you probably would like to play them, or at least store them in a way which will make them easier to access. So here we have the simple, but effective cartridge holder, which is an easy way to store your cartridges.

Price: $17.99 (Amazon)

Reviews: 4.8 Stars

Link

9. Cartridge cleaning kit

We all know the drill – game does not load – blow on the cartridge. Right? WRONG! By blowing on the terminal, it can make things worse as you blow condensation which can corrode the connectors. So, how do you protect your treasures to make sure that they can continue to serve you long into the future? Well, 1Up is here with a solution for cleaning your carts.

Price: $19.99 (Amazon)

Reviews: 4.6 Stars

Link

9. Cartridge cleaning kit

We all know the drill – game does not load – blow on the cartridge. Right? WRONG! By blowing on the terminal, it can make things worse as you blow condensation which can corrode the connectors. So, how do you protect your treasures to make sure that they can continue to serve you long into the future? Well, 1Up is here with a solution for cleaning your carts.

Price: $19.99 (Amazon)

Reviews: 4.6 Stars

Link

8. AV to HDMI Converter

You have an original NES, you have a modern TV, sadly these two do not go well together. For the original experience, you need a CRT (or a very expensive adaptor) – which can often cost you more than the console itself, and you need the space for a CRT (check out this beast). But what if perfection was not critical? You are in luck, there a number of simple adaptors that will do a job and connect your console to a modern television.

Price: $9.95 (Amazon)

Reviews: 4.3 Stars

Link

7. Snow Bros.

I love Limited Run Games, they have done a great job of creating new games for this classic console. The latest release they are working on is Snow Bros. To quote them “Evil King Scorch has kidnapped the shimmering Frost Princesses, and is about to take over Snow Land. He’s trapped the Snow Brothers, Nick and Tom, in an ice-house full of freezing baddies. The two cool crusaders sling a slug of snow at their captors to chill them out. But to escape, they’ve got to ice the Abominable Snow Boss!” They are also offering a deluxe edition with an ice themed cartridge, soundtrack and poster for $89.99. Due September 2025 with pre orders closing 26th January ’25.

Price: $59.99 (Limited Run Games)

Link

6. 6FT / 1.8m Controller Extension Cables

The NES original controllers are amazing, from their best in class D pad to the very square shape, they are an icon in the world of gaming. One thing they did not forsee in the 80’s was the explosion of TV sizes, and the cables that come with the original controllers are not long enough when you are enjoying your games on the big screen, unless you want to get square eyes. So, I highly recommend getting some extensions for the original cables so that you can enjoy the original experience at a more enjoyable distance.

Price: $8.95 (Amazon)

Reviews: 4.2 Stars

Link

5.5 Our free Substack newsletter

A quick note from our sponsor… We produce a free, weekly roundup of all of the retro gaming news in the past 7 days. If you love retro, you will probably like this newsletter delivered straight to your inbox each week on a Monday.

Price: $0.00 (Substack)

Link

5. Retro-Bit Origin 8 2.4 GHz Wireless Controller

So you have decided that you want wireless for your original console, and maybe the ability to use this controller with another bluetooth device. Retro-Bit have got you covered with their modern take on the retro controllers. The reviews are not great, only 3.8 stars at the time of writing, with some peoiple saying the dongle does not fit and there are some pairing issues – but the versitility of this product probably makes it worth a risk as you can use it as a spare, either for the NES or other gaming systems.

Price: $8.95 (Amazon)

Reviews: 3.8 Stars

Link

4. RetroShell NES Game Protectors

You have a fully boxed, mint condition NES game. They are not making any more of these pieces of history and Nintendo decided that a cardboard box was going to be sufficient to protect this gaming treasure. Well, sadly 30 years of wear and tear is hard on these boxes and few are surviving without some scars from years of use, or being sat in a dusty cupboard. The prices of games will not be going down any time soon, and the better condition, the more it is worth. In steps RetroShell with their premium game display protectors. Offering best in class protection and an trap door for easy accss, this will protect your collection for many years to come ensuring that your investment and collection is in the best hands.

Price: $18.00 (RetroShell)

Link

3. Mega Man X – 30th Anniversary Classic Cartridge

Another new cartridge for a legacy system – this time the iconic Mega Man X. I am 8 bit still has some stock of their 30th Anniversary Mega Man X available. Thes are limited to 8,500 units and are fully playable. Plus, if you are lucky, you will get a glow-in-the-dark blue edition of the cartridge.

Price: $100.00 (RetroShell)

Link

2. Bitmap Books – NES: A Visual Compendium

Bitmap books make wonderful products, all very high quality “coffee table” books which are both beautiful and insightful. The compendium covers 170 classic games across the NES and Famicom over a monstwer 512 pages, covering things such as unreleased games and fan art.

Price: $39.00 (Bitmap Books)

Link

1. T-Shirt: Keep it Classic!

There are a plethora of gaming tshirts available, so it is hard to pick a favourite. Not every t-shirt can be exclusive or limited edition like the numbered Player Clothing tees, so I have gone with a classic. 100% cotton, with some excellent reviews, I give you this NES classic to round of the list.

Price: $14.95 (Amazon)

Link

Thanks for reading! Are there some other products related to the NES that we have missed? Let me know in the comments below.

Uncategorized

Fan-Made GTA III Port for the Sega Dreamcast is Here!

Posted on by Owen

A dedicated fan has brought the iconic Grand Theft Auto III to the Sega Dreamcast, which is a thrilling development for retro gaming enthusiasts. This console missed out on this groundbreaking title back in the day. The fan-made port, recently showcased online, offers Dreamcast players a chance to experience the open-world freedom and chaotic adventures of Liberty City on their beloved console.

The project, spearheaded by an individual passionate about both the Dreamcast and the GTA series, demonstrates not only the enduring love for these gaming classics but also the remarkable capabilities of the Dreamcast hardware. This port isn’t just a simple emulation; it’s been adapted to make use of the Dreamcast’s unique features, including its VMU for saving game progress, offering a truly authentic experience.

The fan behind this ambitious project has shared insights into the development process, highlighting the challenges of porting a modern game to a system from the early 2000s. From texture compression to frame rate optimizations, the journey to get GTA III running smoothly on the Dreamcast has been both a technical marvel and a labour of love.

For fans of retro gaming, this port represents more than just another game to add to their collection; it’s a celebration of what could have been and a testament to the community’s creativity and dedication. While this port is still in its early stages and not officially endorsed by Rockstar Games, it serves as a beacon for what fan projects can achieve, potentially inspiring more developers to revisit and reimagine classics for older platforms.

The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their excitement over social media and forums, sharing gameplay footage, and discussing the implications of such fan-made projects for the preservation of gaming history.

Source

Retro Gaming News, Uncategorized

Hacking Games in Hex (Sega Genesis Edition) – A Beginner’s Guide by BillyTime! Games

Posted on by Owen

BillyTime! Games (X: @BillytimeG has released a comprehensive document titled Hacking Games in Hex (Sega Genesis Edition), aimed at beginners interested in modifying Sega Genesis games. This guide explains the hexadecimal format of 68k Assembly used by the Sega Genesis and introduces tools like trace logs and breakpoints. Readers will learn to create cheat codes, alter color palettes, and develop SRAM hacks. The document includes annotated source code snippets from previous hacks to illustrate various techniques. Available in English, the guide was published on December 17, 2024, and is free to download.

For more information and to download the guide, visit: Hacking Games in Hex (Sega Genesis Edition) – RomHack Plaza

Uncategorized

Columbus Circle Announces ‘Sol-Deace’ Cartridge for Sega Mega Drive/Genesis

Posted on by Owen

Columbus Circle has unveiled a new cartridge release of Sol-Deace for the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis. Originally launched in 1992, Sol-Deace is a side-scrolling shoot ‘em up where players pilot the Sol-Deace starfighter to thwart an evil supercomputer’s galactic domination plans. This reissue aims to provide both nostalgic players and new audiences with an opportunity to experience the classic gameplay on original hardware. The cartridge is compatible with both the Mega Drive and Genesis consoles. Pre-orders are now open, with the release date set for December 13, 2024.

For more information, visit: Columbus Circle – Sol-Deace Product Page

Uncategorized

Mega Cat Studios Launches ‘Super Excidium Event’ for SNES to Support Charity

Posted on by Owen

Mega Cat Studios has released Super Excidium Event, a new shoot ‘em up game for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). In this game, players pilot a spaceship to defend Earth against relentless alien invaders, utilizing a variety of weapon systems and facing epic bosses. Notably, this project is a collaborative effort involving the retro gaming community, with 100% of profits directed to Child’s Play Charity, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of children in hospitals through the power of play. The game is available for purchase at $59.99, with all proceeds benefiting the charity.

For more information, visit: Super Excidium Event – Mega Cat Studios

Uncategorized

Konami Reveals Full Lineup for Yu-Gi-Oh! EARLY DAYS COLLECTION and Opens Digital Pre-Orders

Posted on by Owen

Konami Digital Entertainment has announced the complete lineup for the Yu-Gi-Oh! EARLY DAYS COLLECTION, a compilation of classic Game Boy and Game Boy Advance titles from the late 1990s and early 2000s. The collection includes fan favorites such as Yu-Gi-Oh! Dungeon Dice Monsters, Yu-Gi-Oh! World Championship Tournament 2004, and the previously Japan-exclusive Yu-Gi-Oh! Monster Capsule GB. Set to launch on February 27, 2025, for Nintendo Switch™ and Steam®, digital pre-orders are now available in Europe via Steam®. The physical edition will also feature a Quarter Century Secret Rare “Harpie’s Feather Duster” card.

For more information, visit: Konami’s Official Announcement

Uncategorized

Fan-Made Mortal Kombat II Port Nears Completion for 3DO Console

Posted on by Owen

A dedicated developer is on the verge of completing a fan-made port of Mortal Kombat II for the 3DO Interactive Multiplayer console. This ambitious project aims to bring the classic fighting game to the 3DO, a platform that never officially received the title. The developer has made significant progress, with recent updates showcasing improved gameplay mechanics, special moves, and projectile implementations for various characters. The port strives to maintain the original arcade experience, running at a consistent 60 frames per second, and includes features such as stage fatalities and character-specific special moves. While not officially licensed, this project has garnered attention for its technical achievements and dedication to preserving retro gaming experiences.

For a detailed look at the gameplay, watch the full playthrough below:

Uncategorized

Atari Releases M Network Collection for Atari 2600

Posted on by Owen

Atari has launched the M Network Collection for the Atari 2600, reviving four classic titles originally developed by Mattel Electronics in 1982. This collection includes “Armor Ambush,” “Astroblast,” “Frogs and Flies,” and “Star Strike,” each offering fast-paced gameplay that defined the era. Priced at $29.99, the collection is compatible with both the Atari 2600 and 7800 consoles, as well as the newly released Atari 2600+. This release is part of Atari’s ongoing effort to preserve and celebrate retro gaming experiences for a new generation.

For more information, visit: Atari’s M Network Collection 2600