Tag Archives: Atari

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0138

A bumper 52 stories coming your way this week, including 30 years of Ristar, more GTA for the Dreamcast, Terminator 2 is back and 100 years of Pokemon? 

News

⚽ Super Soccer Exits Switch Online in Japan – Nintendo is removing Super Soccer from the Switch Online SNES library in Japan on March 5, 2025, marking a rare case of a game being delisted from the service. Retroshell

💰 Rare Pokémon Game Sells for Over $80,000 – A sealed copy of Pokémon Red (1996) set a new auction record, fetching more than $80,000 due to its rarity and pristine condition. JustCollecting

🎸 Gibson & CRKD Unveil New Guitar Controllers – Gibson has partnered with CRKD to launch officially licensed Guitar Hero-style controllers, designed for modern and retro gaming platforms. Retroshell

🎮 Retroid Pocket Flip 2: Specs and Colors Revealed – The upcoming Retroid Pocket Flip 2 handheld will feature a clamshell design, improved hardware, and multiple color options, appealing to retro gaming enthusiasts. Retrododo

🦎 Gex Trilogy Set for Summer 2025 Release – Limited Run Games confirms the Gex Trilogy will launch in Summer 2025, bringing the cult-classic platformer series to modern consoles. Retroshell

🚀 Sigma Star Saga Gets Enhanced DX Cartridge Release – The cult-classic GBA title Sigma Star Saga is receiving an upgraded physical release with new features, celebrating its 20th anniversary. Time Extension

🤖 Terminator 2D: No Fate Brings Retro Action to Modern Consoles – Terminator 2D: No Fate is set to deliver classic side-scrolling action with modern enhancements, launching on current platforms. Retroshell

📥 Anbernic Pulls Controversial Firmware Update – Anbernic has removed a firmware update that allowed direct ROM downloads, following backlash over potential legal issues. Time Extension

🕹 Old Towers Expands to Atari Jaguar – The indie puzzle platformer Old Towers is making its way to the Atari Jaguar, continuing the trend of modern games arriving on retro hardware. Retroshell

🎶 Sega Rally 30th Anniversary Soundtrack Now Streaming – The official Sega Rally soundtrack is available to stream for the first time, celebrating 30 years of the arcade racing classic. Time Extension

🎮 8BitDo Unveils Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller – 8BitDo’s new Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller blends modern technology with retro gaming appeal, supporting multiple platforms. Retroshell

🧱 Breakout: Beyond Coming to PC & Consoles in March – The former Amico-exclusive game Breakout: Beyondis set to release on PC and modern consoles next month. Time Extension

🟨 Tetris Forever Update Brings MS-DOS Classics to Modern Players – The latest Tetris Forever update adds MS-DOS game support, expanding its retro gaming library. Retroshell

🕹 GamesCare Unveils New Dev Cart for Sega Genesis – A new development cartridge for the Sega Genesis promises enhanced functionality for homebrew and prototype game creators. Retroshell

🔥 King of Fighters ‘98 Leads Arcade Archives 2 on PS5 & Xbox – King of Fighters ‘98 is the first Arcade Archives 2 Neo Geo title launching for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Retroshell

🐺 Wolfenstein RPG Gets Unofficial PC Port – The rare Wolfenstein RPG from 2008 has been ported to PC by fans, making the mobile-exclusive title more accessible. Retroshell

👊 Final Vendetta Neo Geo Release Delayed for Quality Enhancements – The Final Vendetta Neo Geo version has been delayed, with developers promising improved features and performance. Retroshell

🚀 Fan-Made Genesis R-Type Port Expands with New Content – A homebrew R-Type port for the Sega Genesis is receiving exclusive levels and enhancements. Retroshell

🌙 Sonic’s Lunar Adventure: Unfinished Fan Game Released – An incomplete Sonic fan game, Sonic’s Lunar Adventure, has unexpectedly surfaced online. Retroshell

🎮 Hyperkin Confirms PC Engine / TurboGrafx-16 Clone – Hyperkin has officially announced a new clone console that will support PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 games. Retroshell

🌍 English Translation of Dreamcast RPG Segagaga in Progress – The fan translation of Sega’s cult-classic Segagaga is making steady progress toward completion. Time Extension

🥷 Justice Ninja Casey Brings SNES Classic to the West – The 1994 SNES game Justice Ninja Casey is finally getting an official Western release this week. Retroshell

💖 ToHeart Remake Launching in Japan on June 26, 2025 – The ToHeart visual novel remake is set to release in Japan with updated visuals and gameplay enhancements. Retroshell

🎥 ToHeart Remake Opening Movie Compared to PS1 Version – A side-by-side comparison showcases the graphical improvements in the upcoming ToHeart remake. Siliconera

Features

📖 Metroid Prime’s Legacy Celebrated in New Visual Retrospective – A new book explores the artistic and historical impact of Metroid Prime, offering fans a detailed look at the franchise’s evolution. Retroshell

🕹 Unreleased Popeye Game for Sega Genesis Resurfaces After 31 Years – A long-lost Popeye beat-’em-up from the makers of Double Dragon has been discovered, shedding light on a canceled 16-bit project. Time Extension

Si pappy

🏆 BAFTA Calls for Votes on Gaming’s Most Influential Title – The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is inviting gamers to vote on the most influential video game of all time. Retroshell

💻 Developer Ports x86 Linux to the NES – A developer has successfully ported a version of x86 Linux to the Nintendo Entertainment System, demonstrating the console’s unexpected capabilities. Research Snipers

🎮 Pokémon Boss Aims for a Century-Long Gaming Legacy – Pokémon Company president Tsunekazu Ishihara discusses the franchise’s long-term vision, aiming for a lasting impact over the next 100 years. Retroshell

🎮 Battle of the Handhelds: Which Portable Console Reigns Supreme? – A deep dive into the best handheld consoles, comparing classic and modern devices in the ever-evolving portable gaming landscape. Nerdbot

🕹 AYANEO Clarifies Production and Future of Flip Handheld – AYANEO has addressed concerns about the production status of its Flip handheld, reaffirming its commitment to upcoming releases. Retroshell

🐴 Link’s Iconic Horse Was Almost a Moose, Reveals Miyamoto Interview – Newly unearthed insights from Shigeru Miyamoto reveal that The Legend of Zelda nearly featured a moose instead of Epona. Creative Bloq

⚔ BioWare Co-Founder Reflects on Jade Empire’s Lost Potential – A BioWare co-founder looks back on Jade Empire, expressing regret over the studio not expanding the franchise further. Retroshell

🤼 Play Classic WCW Games with New Mods for N64 – Modders have recreated WCW Saturday Night using Virtual Pro Wrestling on the Nintendo 64, offering a fresh way to experience classic wrestling games. TheSportster

📟 The Unused Terminal of the NES Disk System – A look into a forgotten feature of the NES Disk System, revealing an unused terminal mode that was never fully implemented. Retroshell

🎰 All the Classic Sega Games Featured in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (aka Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii) includes numerous classic Sega titles as playable minigames. Siliconera

🎨 Collector Digitally Preserves Iconic Street Fighter II Figures – A gaming historian has scanned and preserved rare Street Fighter II action figures, ensuring their legacy in digital form. Retroshell

🎵 Streets of Rage Composer Disappointed by Lack of Recognition – Yuzo Koshiro, the legendary Streets of Ragecomposer, expresses disappointment that his influential work isn’t more widely recognized. Time Extension

🌟 Ristar at 30: A Cult Classic Fans Want Revived – As Ristar turns 30, fans are calling for a modern revival of the beloved Sega platformer. CBR

⭐ Ristar Turns 30, Fans Demand a New Game – The 1995 Sega platformer Ristar reaches its 30th anniversary, reigniting discussions about a potential sequel. Metro

🕹 Tokyo Arcade Shares Update on Post-COVID Recovery – A famous Tokyo arcade has provided an update on its business performance after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Time Extension

🦇 Castlevania: Dracula X—Better Than You Remember? – A fresh look at Castlevania: Dracula X argues that the game deserves more appreciation than it originally received. CBR

🔗 The PlayStation Had a Hidden Multiplayer Mode Using Game Boy Cables – A forgotten multiplayer feature on the original PlayStation allowed link-cable gaming using Game Boy peripherals. Ruetir

🏈 Classic NFL Game Gets Online Multiplayer Mode via Fan Mod – Modders have introduced online multiplayer functionality to a classic NFL video game, reviving it for modern players. AppTrigger

Lists & Rankings

🎮 The Rarest NES Games and Their Prices – A look at some of the rarest and most valuable NES games, with prices reflecting their rarity and collector demand. CBR

Looks familiar…

🦔 Sonic’s Surprisingly Weak Characters – A ranking of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise’s weakest characters, highlighting those who fall short in terms of power and impact. GameRant

⚔ Best 32-Bit Tactical RPGs, Ranked – A list of the top tactical RPGs from the 32-bit era, showcasing strategic gameplay and memorable stories. GameRant

🕹 The Best Arcade Games of All Time – A curated selection of the greatest arcade games ever, celebrating their lasting influence on gaming history. Digital Trends

🎮 Best Third-Party GameCube Games, Ranked – A ranking of the best third-party titles on the GameCube, spotlighting hidden gems and fan favorites. CBR

Atari Revives a Classic with Breakout Beyond

Atari is set to breathe new life into its classic arcade title with the announcement of Breakout Beyond, developed by Choice Provisions, the team behind the Bit.Trip series. This reimagined version of the 1976 classic introduces a fresh horizontal perspective, challenging players to smash through vibrant walls of blocks from left to right.

Credit: Atari

The game boasts 72 levels, an endless mode with online leaderboards, and a two-player local co-op feature, allowing friends to team up for the brick-breaking action. Dynamic procedural audio and visual effects enhance the experience, intensifying with each successful combo.

Originally conceived as an exclusive for the Intellivision Amico in 2020, Atari recognized the game’s potential and collaborated with Choice Provisions to adapt it for modern platforms. Breakout Beyond is slated for release later this year on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC (via Steam), Atari VCS, and Nintendo Switch.

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👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0134

Welcome to this weeks newsletter, this week I started to play Elden Ring and wow, what a game – my retro gaming might get a little bit hampered by this game, but lets see. 

This week we have 39 stories including some new games for the NES and Genesis/Megadrive, a new motherboard for the PS1 and one adaptor to power all your consoles – plus a lot more.

News

🕹️ A Famicom enthusiast in Japan is selling an almost complete collection of the console’s games before passing away, sparking significant attention online. Automaton Media

Got, got, need

🎵 “Banjo-Kazooie” composer Grant Kirkhope has cast doubt on the possibility of the beloved series making a return. Retroshell

🔥 The risqué shoot-’em-up “Steam Hearts” and fighting game “Advanced Variable Geo” are getting modern console releases. Time Extension

🚀 Sega has filed a new trademark for “Skies of Arcadia,” fueling speculation about a potential remaster. Retroshell

⛏️ Data Man: New NES Game Launches via Broke Studio. Retroshell

🎮 A determined modder has released a “GTA: Vice City” mod despite takedown threats. Retroshell

🐱 “SkateCat,” a retro-inspired adventure game, is rolling onto Nintendo Switch, Itch, and Steam. Retroshell

🔫 The indie shooter “Lethal Wedding” is gearing up for a Kickstarter campaign. Retroshell

🕹️ A custom PlayStation 1 motherboard, “NSOne,” has been unveiled, marking the first in 30 years. Retroshell

⌚ Atari has teamed up with Nubeo to launch a luxury watch inspired by the classic game “Asteroids.” Retroshell

👽 “The Thing: Remastered” has become Nightdive Studios’ fastest-selling game to date. Retroshell

🎮 Songbird Productions is reviving classic Atari Jaguar titles with high-quality reprints. Retroshell

🎼 The “Super Mario RPG” soundtrack is set to release on April 9, including a Super Famicom version in Japan. Retroshell

🔄 A roundup of the best Sega-related posts on Reddit from the past week. Retroshell

🎮 A collection of the most popular original Xbox, PS1, and PS2 posts on Reddit this week. Retroshell

🕹️ Highlights of the best retro Nintendo gaming posts on Reddit from the last week. Retroshell

📼 A roundup of this week’s best Reddit posts covering Atari, Neo Geo, WonderSwan, TurboGrafx, and the 3DO. Retroshell

🕹️ “Quarter Arcades” is adding “Bad Dudes vs. DragonNinja” and “Lunar Lander” to its collection of mini arcade cabinets. Retroshell

🧙 The “Elminage” series is making its way to modern consoles for the first time. Retroshell

⚖️ A local supermarket has won a trademark dispute against Nintendo. Retroshell

🎲 Atari has launched 15 “mystery patch” packs for collectors and retro gaming fans. Retroshell

🏎️ “Dream Ride,” a Micro Machines-style party racer, is coming to the Dreamcast. Retroshell

Dream Ride

💰 Nintendo Switch Online is adjusting its regional pricing, affecting subscribers worldwide. Retroshell

🎮 “The Sims” nostalgia is in full swing with a new Y2K-themed website dedicated to the classic life-sim. Retroshell

🚗 “Ridge Racer 64” is drifting onto Nintendo Switch Online. Retroshell

🦤 A bizarre Kazooie puppet just sold for over $2,000, despite its unsettling appearance. Time Extension

Nightmare Fuel

🎮 A fan is developing an NES-style version of “Celeste,” and it’s already playable. Time Extension

Features

🎲 Technōs Japan’s Famicom RPG Sugoro Quest is finally receiving an official English translation next month. Destructoid

🎨 A look at how Kirby’s box art has evolved across cultures, from cute to combat-ready. Retroshell

🕹️ Megami Tensei’s author explains why the game had two distinct versions for the Famicom and Japanese computers. Time Extension

⚙️ A deep dive into the differences between FPGA hardware and traditional software emulation for retro gamers. Retroshell

📜 A complete timeline of video game consoles, from the industry’s origins to today. Digital Trends

🐵 Donkey Kong designer discusses the character’s iconic redesign and the creation of Diddy Kong. Retroshell

🦇 A look back at why Castlevania’s Nintendo 64 entries are considered some of the franchise’s biggest missteps. CBR

⚖️ Nintendo’s legal battle against emulators intensifies, raising concerns for preservationists and retro gamers. Android Police

🔌 The Retro-Tap lets users power up to 10 retro consoles with a single power block. Retro Dodo

📖 An excerpt from a book detailing the history of the Intellivision console and its impact on gaming. Polygon

🎮 A guide to modern retro gaming consoles, including top systems like the SuperStation One. GeekSided

Lists & Rankings

🛡️ A list of games where players must heavily rely on equipment to survive and progress. TheGamer

🎨 A showcase of SNES games with some of the most incredible box art designs. CBR

Atari Launches $15 Mystery Patch Packs

Atari are really having a resurgence, buying up IP, releasing mini consoles, doing co-labs with luxury watch makers and re-releasing classic games. So what is next for the iconic retro brand. Well, you should have guessed from the title, but they announced today that they are releasing a limited number of (500) Atari Patch Packs. Each one is a mystery from a number of different options.

Credit: Atari

As of the time of writing almost all have sold, so be quick if you want your chance.

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Songbird Productions Revives Classic Atari Jaguar Titles with Stunning Reprints

The Atari Jaguar is getting a well-deserved shot of nostalgia, thanks to Songbird Productions. The company has announced reprints of iconic Jaguar titles, giving retro gaming enthusiasts the chance to own pristine, authentic versions of some of the rarest and most beloved games from the ’90s.

Atari Karts: Racing Back to the Past

Leading the charge is Atari Karts, making a triumphant return at $89.95. This limited-edition reprint brings back the 1995 classic in all its glory, featuring Bentley Bear and a cast of quirky racers. Licensed directly from Atari, this version includes a brand-new box, a meticulously crafted cartridge, and a full-colour 16-page manual—just like the original release.

Credit: Songbird

The production run is set at 250 copies, split across two phases in February and April, with pre-orders opening Thursday 30th January. However, if demand surges, Songbird Productions is open to expanding the run, ensuring fans don’t miss out on reliving this underrated karting gem.

SpideX & Wormhole 2000: Classic Arcade Shooters Reimagined

Accompanying Atari Karts are SpideX and Wormhole 2000, two intense arcade shooters priced at $79.95 each. These aren’t just simple reprints—they come with stunning, all-new box art, reflecting Songbird’s dedication to enhancing the Jaguar experience. Now fully owned by Songbird, both titles are receiving the premium treatment, making them must-haves for collectors.

Each package includes a fresh box, cartridge, and an 8-page full-colour manual. The initial run is limited to just 50 copies in February, but as with Atari Karts, a larger release could follow if demand proves high.

Check out their website and X account for more Atari products and stay tuned for more products.

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Atari Collab with Nubeo to Launch Luxury Asteroids Watch

Atari and luxury watchmaker Nubeo have teamed up to create a limited-edition watch series inspired by the classic arcade game Asteroids. The collection brings retro gaming nostalgia to high-end timepieces, featuring intricate dial designs that mimic the chaotic asteroid fields from the game. These mechanical watches blend horological craftsmanship with Atari’s iconic 8-bit aesthetics, making them a collector’s item for both watch enthusiasts and gaming fans. The watch is available in 5 colours, and is priced at €488 / $499 and get are listing them with a discount of <$1000 from the original RRP. Interestingly, when you price the website in USD they are showing as all out of stock, but when you switch to Euros, they have most models aside from the grey.

Credit: Nubeo Watches

The collection includes different colours, each incorporating details reminiscent of Asteroids, from meteor-shaped subdials to pixelated elements referencing the game’s vector graphics. The watches feature automatic movements, ensuring a balance between classic mechanical watchmaking and digital nostalgia. While gaming collaborations in fashion and accessories have become more common, Atari’s partnership with Nubeo elevates the concept by integrating game-inspired visuals into high-end horology.

Credit: Nub

Unlike typical digital gaming watches, these pieces focus on subtle design cues rather than overt branding, making them wearable beyond gaming circles. Atari has been expanding its brand through various collaborations – such as hot sauces, tapping into nostalgia-driven markets. This partnership with Nubeo aligns with its strategy of blending retro gaming with modern lifestyle products, catering to fans who appreciate both classic arcade culture and fine craftsmanship.

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👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0133

This week has not been very focused on gaming, as I built a new app (more details to be shared very soon), however, I did manage to play Marvel Snap a lot and also get my Analogue Pocket updated with a load of cores and I started to put some ROM’s on it for future reference. I also got accepted to “Stars Reach” pre-Alpha, but do not have a PC to run it. This looks like a good Star Wars Galaxy successor (the 🐐 in my opinion), but let’s see.

This week we have 40 entries to the newsletter, making it the biggest yet. We cover more “new” Game Boy games, updates on the Superstation One (FPGA PS1), a Tang $69 FPGA console, and a load more.

News

🎮 Embark on a Retro Adventure with PokettoHiro for Game Boy Color. A new retro-style game called PokettoHiro has been released for the Game Boy Color, offering an exciting mix of platforming and RPG mechanics. Retroshell.

🎵 Gimmick! Gets a New Arranged Album Featuring an All-Star Lineup. A newly arranged album for the NES classic Gimmick! is in production, featuring contributions from renowned musicians. Time Extension.

🕹️ Ultima VII Revisited: Version 0.1.0 Breathes New Life into a Classic RPG. A fan project updating Ultima VII has released version 0.1.0, introducing modern enhancements while preserving its classic RPG charm. Retroshell.

🎮 Balenciaga’s Limited Edition Game Console Misses the Mark. Balenciaga’s new luxury game console highlights the disconnect between high fashion and gaming culture. Yanko Design.

👻 The Demo for Cronela’s Mansion Has Dropped. A playable demo for Cronela’s Mansion is now available, teasing a spooky new experience for fans of indie horror games. Retroshell.

🎮 Metal Miracle: A New Game Boy Color Title from Hermano’s Creators (below). The developers of Hermanohave unveiled Metal Miracle, a fresh RPG for the Game Boy Color. Retrododo.

🕹️ Mega EverDrive Core: Affordable Flash Cartridge for Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. The Mega EverDrive Core is a cost-effective flash cartridge offering new accessibility for Sega Genesis and Mega Drive gaming. Retroshell.

⚔️ Game Boy Classic Ninja Five-O Returns February 25. Ninja Five-O, a beloved Game Boy Advance action game, will make a comeback on February 25. Hardcore Gamer.

⚔️ Ninja Five-O: Konami’s Forgotten GBA Gem Returns. Konami’s cult classic Ninja Five-O is being re-released, rekindling interest in the overlooked GBA title. Retroshell.

🎨 Limited Run Games Adds Phantasy Star Online Merch Line. Limited Run Games has launched new merchandise inspired by Phantasy Star OnlineGoNintendo.

🔑 The New SEGA Account Connects Fans with Iconic Games. Sega introduces a unified account system to enhance access to its game ecosystem. Retroshell.

🕺 Dreamcast Dance Rhythm Game Puyo Puyo DA Now in English. The rhythm game Puyo Puyo DA for the Dreamcast has been translated into English, making it accessible to a wider audience. Time Extension.

🌟 The Meating Special Edition Glow-in-the-Dark Shell Unveiled. A glow-in-the-dark special edition shell for The Meating has been announced. Retroshell.

❄️ Snow Bros. 2 Special Brings Frosty Fun Back. The arcade classic Snow Bros. 2 is set to return with updated visuals and gameplay tweaks. Retroshell.

🎮 Super Technos World: River City & Technos Arcade Classics Gearing Up for Launch. Technos Japan’s arcade classics are bundled into Super Technos World, bringing nostalgic titles to modern platforms. Retroshell.

🤓 Angry Video Game Nerd 8-Bit Coming to Modern Consoles and NES. The Angry Video Game Nerd’s 8-bit game is launching soon for both modern consoles and the original NES. Retroshell.

🦆 Tiny Duck Hunt 3D Demo Available Now. A 3D reimagining of Duck Hunt has released its demo, showcasing a modern twist on the NES classic. Retroshell.

🎮 Three New SNES Games Join Switch Online Library. Nintendo has added three new SNES titles to its Switch Online service. Retroshell.

⚠️ Atari Warns Against Unauthorized Use of Pong Trademark. Atari has issued a warning to a cryptocurrency project for unauthorized use of the Pong trademark. Retroshell.

🥋 Mortal Kombat II Fan Project for 3DO Reaches New Milestone. A fan-made version of Mortal Kombat II for the 3DO has made significant progress, including gameplay refinements. Retroshell.

🕹️ Sipeed Introduces Tang Console: A $69 FPGA Device for Retro Gaming. The Tang Console is a $69 FPGA-based device aimed at retro gaming enthusiasts. Retroshell.

📚 Video Game History Foundation Opens Digital Library to the Public. The Video Game History Foundation is sharing its digital library, granting public access to rare game materials. Retroshell.

Features

🎮 Sega has launched a Japanese Game Centre Guide to help tourists navigate the vibrant arcade scene in Japan. Retroshell

🎸 A deep dive into the “Family Bass,” exploring the unique low-end sounds of the Famicom’s musical capabilities (below). Sonic State

🎨 Takaya Imamura, the artist behind Nintendo’s iconic worlds, is celebrated for his creative contributions to gaming. Retroshell

🕹️ A comparison of the Sega Saturn and PlayStation highlights the defining aspects of the 1990s console wars. CBR

🛠️ A Neo Geo Pocket Color modder has enhanced the handheld with a Raspberry Pi, expanding its capabilities. Retroshell

🚫 Lizardcube, the studio behind Wonder Boy and Streets of Rage, declined the chance to work on a Metal Slug title. Time Extension

🔫 Marvel’s The Punisher celebrates its 20th anniversary, reflecting on the legacy of the brutal vigilante in gaming. Inverse

Lists & Rankings

📚 A list of 10 books about retro gaming offers insights and knowledge for enthusiasts and historians. Retroshell

🎥 The best Super Nintendo movie-based games are ranked, highlighting their impact and quality. CBR

🍌 All mainline Donkey Kong games are ranked from best to worst, showcasing the franchise’s evolution. Augustman

🎯 A ranking of the best pinball video games of all time explores this unique gaming niche. CBR

🎮 The best video game controllers of all time are discussed, emphasizing design and innovation. Digital Trends

🕹️ The best Sega Genesis RPGs are ranked, celebrating the console’s standout role-playing games. CBR

🐵 Donkey Kong’s most iconic characters are ranked based on their contributions to the franchise. TheGamer

✨ A look at SNES RPGs that would benefit from HD-2D visuals highlights the potential for modern remakes. CBR

Atari Warns Against Unauthorized Use of PONG Trademark by Cryptocurrency Project RealPongCoin

Atari has publicly denounced RealPongCoin or $PONG, a cryptocurrency project using its PONG trademark without authorization. In a recent X post, Atari clarified it has no affiliation with RealPongCoin, warning that the project risks deceiving consumers by suggesting a false association. Atari’s legal team is reviewing measures to halt this misuse of its intellectual property, emphasizing the company’s commitment to protecting its brand, which includes over 200 games like Asteroids® and Pong®.

This issue highlights the complexities companies face with intellectual property in the rapidly evolving crypto market, where unauthorized use can mislead consumers. Atari’s action underscores the ongoing challenge of maintaining brand integrity amidst digital innovation.

Atari and My Arcade Reignite Retro Fever with “Balls of Steel” Pinball Pro at CES 2025

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 has once again proven to be a playground for retro gaming enthusiasts. My Arcade, a leading name in the retro gaming scene, joined forces with Atari to unveil the Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro, a cutting-edge pinball machine with a nostalgic twist. This collaboration is yet another testament to the undying charm of classic gaming in the modern tech world.

Credit: MyArcade

A Retro-Modern Marvel

For those who grew up in arcades, the Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro is like a time machine—but with a high-tech engine. The pinball machine integrates Atari’s classic gaming heritage with state-of-the-art features, offering players a tactile, immersive experience that pays homage to the golden era of gaming while embracing the future.

Designed for both seasoned pinball players and newcomers, the Pinball Player Pro features vibrant LCDs, immersive soundtracks, and lightning-fast mechanics. It’s a brilliant example of how timeless design and modern engineering can collide to create something truly unique. CES attendees were treated to hands-on demos, and early impressions suggest that this is more than just a pretty machine—it’s set to be a game-changer for pinball enthusiasts.

Credit MyArcade

Why It Matters

Pinball machines, once ubiquitous in the 70s and 80s, have seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks to retro gaming’s growing popularity. Atari and My Arcade’s new creation doesn’t just ride the retro wave; it pushes it forward. With collectors and gamers alike clamouring for physical gaming experiences, this launch could spark a revival in home-based arcade setups.

It also taps into the wider nostalgia trend that has taken over pop culture. Whether it’s the return of vinyl records, remakes of classic films, or vintage gaming, people are looking to reconnect with simpler times. Atari and My Arcade have smartly positioned themselves at the centre of this cultural phenomenon.

A Sign of Things to Come?

This partnership hints at a potential revival for other Atari classics. Could we see updated versions of Pong, Asteroids, or Centipede next? If the buzz around this release is any indication, the retro gaming market is far from tapped out. Atari’s brand power, combined with My Arcade’s hardware expertise, is a promising formula that could pave the way for even more ambitious projects.

If you’re a retro gaming fan, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year. The Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro promises to reignite arcade nostalgia while setting new standards for pinball enthusiasts.

As retro gaming continues its triumphant return, now’s the perfect time to protect your classics. Keep your favourite retro games pristine with RetroShell premium game protectors—because your collection deserves the best. Visit www.retroshell.com today.

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👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0130

Happy 2025! I hope you all are enjoying a positive start to the new year.

My week in gaming has been a continued quest to get my PS3 Slim loaded with all the Guitar Hero games from the PS2/3 onto the console with CFW. I do not have a hard-wired solution, so transfers are very slow (especially for the larger PS3 games). The guitar is on order, so gaming should commence this week. Also been playing some (too much) Marvel Rivals and Marvel Snap. I have also been working on some new products for RetroShell, expect some updates on the new collection of protectors soon. Plus, I have been continuing to build RetroShell as a news website.

We have 37 stories this week, covering everything from building a N64 Mini, upgrading your GBC with a radio, a new Sega Sonic game and a whole load more.

The people have spoken, and I will add generation 6 to the next edition. Thanks for reading, and I will always strive to make the newsletter better.

News

🎮Atari and My Arcade team up to tease an exciting new console at CES 2025—could this be a retro gaming revolution? [RetroShell] Link

The number pad is a strange addition…

🎨AYANEO’s Pocket Micro gets a Famicom-inspired makeover—perfect for retro enthusiasts! [Time Extension] Link

❄️Snow Bros. Deluxe Edition brings frosty fun to NES, Genesis, Mega Drive, and Game Boy—don’t miss this wintry revival! [RetroShell] Link

🕵️‍♂️A YouTuber’s bizarre saga involving fake Nintendo lawyers and DMCA takedowns—you won’t believe what happened next! [Game Rant] Link

🐉Dragonyhm, a magical retro RPG, breathes new life into the Game Boy Color—explore its enchanting world! [RetroShell] Link

📥Nintendo offers free N64 game downloads—here’s how you can grab these classics for your collection! [Gaming Bible] Link

⚡A fan-made Sega Saturn Sonic Galactic beta is here, and it’s already wowing gamers. [RetroShell] Link

✨Sonic Galactic is so polished it feels like an official Sega product—fan projects don’t get much better than this! [Time Extension] Link

💥Street Fighter IV gets an unexpected retro twist with a fan-made demo for the Sega Mega Drive and Genesis. [RetroShell] Link

🔧The modder behind the Sega Neptune is now eyeing the SNES PlayStation hybrid—could retro gaming dreams come true? [Time Extension] Link

🏴‍☠️Lost Treasure of Lima brings adventurous platforming to the Game Boy—set sail for some retro fun! [RetroShell] Link

🐺36 years later, the Sega Genesis finally gets a proper port of Shadow Dancer—better late than never! [Time Extension] Link

🥷🏻Shinobi surprises fans with a Neo Geo jump in this impressive fan project! [RetroShell] Link

📼The Atari Jaguar is coming to the Analogue Pocket—another win for retro hardware enthusiasts. [Time Extension] Link

🚀Exciting new Sega Genesis shooter ZPF opens for pre-orders—lock in your copy today! [RetroShell] Link

Features

🍄Dive into the unmatched legacy of Super Mario Bros. 3 and discover why it remains a timeless classic. [RetroShell] Link

Choose your weapon

📺How YouTube’s censorship policies are creating new challenges for retro game historians preserving gaming’s past. [Time Extension] Link

💾Explore the Famicom Disk System’s unique take on Mario’s legacy, uncovering a fascinating chapter in Nintendo’s history. [RetroShell] Link

Really want one of these.

📻Meet the Orange FM Game Boy cartridge—a quirky accessory that doubles as a radio! [TechEBlog] Link

🎮Building the ultimate Nintendo 64 in 2025? Check out these essential upgrades for modern gaming perfection. [RetroShell] Link

📼A world record on the Nintendo 64, a dusty VHS tape, and a 15-year-long mystery solved—read this incredible gaming story. [Jason Deegan] Link

🔧Discover what you can still buy for the Sega Genesis in 2025—keeping retro alive in style! [RetroShell] Link

🐉Uncover the story of a fully playable Shenmue port for the PS2 that Sega developed but never released. [DualShockers] Link

🏆Ranking the top 10 Nintendo 64 games by Metacritic scores—how many of your favourites made the list? [RetroShell] Link

📉From ambitious beginnings to unexpected failures, revisit the reasons why Sega’s consoles ultimately stumbled. [SlashGear] Link

👾2025’s best NES products are here! See what’s keeping the Nintendo Entertainment System alive for another generation. [RetroShell] Link

🕵️Masahiro Sakurai’s connection to Detective Club reveals a surprising side of the Super Smash Bros. creator’s legacy. [EventHubs] Link

🎮Building the ultimate Nintendo 64 in 2025? Don’t miss these essential upgrades! [RetroShell] Link

Lists & Rankings

🕹️Explore the hottest Sega Genesis products you can buy in 2025—keeping retro gaming alive and well! [RetroShell] Link

🌀What if Sonic the Hedgehog wasn’t Sega’s mascot? Discover the surprising replacements Sega considered. [CBR] Link

🎮Nintendo’s official ranking of the 10 greatest NES games—find out which classics made the cut! [RetroShell] Link

💾Uncover the rarest PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 games and what collectors are paying to own them. [Game Rant] Link

🎂The best SNES games of all time—Newsweek reveals the crème de la crème of the 16-bit era. [Newsweek] Link

🔍Classic video game fans rejoice—Season 2 of Secret Level dives deeper into gaming history. [CBR] Link

🌟The top 10 Nintendo 64 games ranked by Metacritic scores—are your favourites on the list? [RetroShell] Link

🎮Which handheld gaming consoles had the best graphics? A look at portable powerhouses through the years. [CBR] Link

💎Discover the rarest Neo Geo AES games and how much they’re worth in today’s collector market. [Game Rant] Link