Nintendo, historically revered for its consistently polished releases, has slipped outside the top 20 in Metacritic’s 15th Annual Game Publisher Rankings. The news has come as a shock to long-time followers who have come to expect high scores for the company’s titles, many of which have roots stretching back to the 1980s and beyond. Metacritic’s annual ranking analyses critical reception and overall performance, making Nintendo’s lower placement a notable departure from its usual standing near the top.
Credit: Metacritic
The 2025 ranking suggests that the publisher’s newer releases, while not necessarily lacking in quality, have not reached the stellar acclaim of previous generations. Still, this could be influenced by the competitive nature of the modern gaming landscape, where publishers vie for attention across multiple platforms.
Though the rankings are surprising, many believe Nintendo’s legacy of imaginative gameplay and focus on hardware innovation will endure. After all, the gaming giant has weathered various market cycles since its early ventures, including its transition from playing card production to pioneering family-friendly consoles. Whether it’s the ongoing popularity of Super Smash Bros. tournaments or enduring fan communities sharing tips, gaming history shows that a single ranking rarely defines a publisher’s overall standing in the long run.
Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!
Acclaim, once a powerhouse of 1980s and 1990s gaming, has officially returned to the spotlight under the leadership of new CEO Alex Josef. Industry reports suggest that this revival will focus on supporting independent developers and rekindling beloved classic franchises. For gamers who remember Acclaim’s heyday, this news represents a new lease of life for titles that once defined console gaming.
This is what I’m hoping for…
In its original form, Acclaim was a major name in publishing and distributing on systems such as the NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis. Perhaps best known for its home-console versions of arcade hits like Mortal Kombat (under licence from Midway), Acclaim also boasted original ventures, including the dinosaur-hunting adventure Turok (which recently had a remaster including a few enhancements). During the 1990s, the company experimented with an array of genres—from sports titles, such as All-Star Baseball and NBA Jamcollaborations, to action-heavy adaptations like WWF WrestleMania. While arcade conversions made Acclaim a household name, the publisher proved it could excel at original games too, catering to varied gaming tastes.
By the early 2000s, Acclaim faced mounting financial pressures, leading to its eventual closure in 2004. The rights to certain properties were sold off, and for years, the once-distinctive Acclaim logo faded into industry memory. As of 2025, the brand’s re-emergence signals a determined effort to capitalise on rising nostalgia for classic games and new opportunities in the indie market. According to newly released statements, Acclaim’s strategy involves leveraging modern distribution platforms while also offering development support to small studios interested in working with legacy IPs. This might open doors for reimaginings of fondly remembered titles—an enticing prospect for enthusiasts of classic games who crave updates on storied franchises.
Historically, Acclaim’s success lay in its ability to bring arcade-quality gameplay to home systems, often bridging the gap between coin-op experiences and living room consoles. With the resurging interest in retro gaming and platforms like IOS now open for emulation and mini-consoles, the potential for revisiting Acclaim’s back catalogue is evident.
Now, under fresh leadership, the publisher is ready to make the most of today’s retro gaming resurgence. Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz, Josef explained: “Acclaim’s legacy stretches back to a golden era for console gaming. We want to reinvigorate that legacy by partnering with indie studios that share our passion for timeless gameplay.” He also noted a commitment to modernising fan-favourite series: “Players remember the thrill of discovering Turok’s hidden levels or mastering combos in Mortal Kombat. We aim to harness that nostalgia while incorporating fresh ideas for contemporary audiences.”
Reportedly the company’s strategy involves offering developmental resources to smaller studios interested in working with legacy IPs, rather than simply re-releasing classic titles: “Our plan is to go beyond mere remasters. We’re looking at how to introduce new mechanics, deeper narratives, and polished visuals, but without losing that retro spark,” Josef said. Several key franchises—dormant for years—are set to be revisited, and there are hints of new projects inspired by the spirit of Acclaim’s original catalogue.
We are very excited to see what legendary franchises might get the remaster treatment in the coming months.
Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, designed to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered to your inbox every Monday!
Interestingly, Acclaim once produced motion-sensing game controllers in the 1990s, demonstrating an early foray into technology now commonplace in modern gaming peripherals.
RetroSouls’ fast-paced action title Old Towers is gearing up for a grand revival, this time landing on the Atari Jaguar. First launched in 2018 for Windows and later adapted for the Sega Genesis, Old Towers won over retro gaming fans with its blend of puzzle-platforming chaos, drawing comparisons to timeless classics like Tetris and Lode Runner. Now, Songbird Productions has unveiled an expanded port for the Atari Jaguar, set to refresh this modern retro gem for a new audience.
Credit: Song Bird Productions
This isn’t just a nostalgic rehash. Songbird Productions promises enhancements tailored to the Jaguar’s quirky hardware, including sharper graphics, extra levels, and a punchy soundtrack that taps into the console’s 64-bit potential. The original Old Towers thrived on its relentless pace—players raced to stack blocks and outwit enemies in a pixel-perfect frenzy—and this port aims to amplify that thrill while staying true to its roots. The Atari Jaguar, a system often celebrated for its ambition rather than its market success, gets a rare chance to shine with a release that honours its unique place in gaming lore.
Credit: Song Bird Productions
Eager players can secure their copy now, with pre-orders open on Songbird Productions’ website for $79.99. The physical cartridge, due in April 2025, will be a limited run—a tantalising prospect for collectors and Jaguar devotees alike. It’s a fitting move for a console that, since its 1993 debut, has cultivated a loyal following despite its rocky commercial past.
RetroSouls, the indie outfit behind Old Towers, has form in this space, having delivered retro-inspired hits like Alter Ego. Teaming up with Songbird Productions, a stalwart of Atari homebrew, they’re proving the Jaguar’s enduring appeal. Launched as Atari’s final home console, the Jaguar aimed to outmuscle Sega and Nintendo but faltered. Yet, its legacy lives on through projects like this, keeping the flame alive for a niche but passionate crowd.
Preserving gaming’s past takes effort, and releases like Old Towers keep that heritage accessible. Protect your own classics with RetroShell, a service built to shield your retro treasures. For more on the vintage gaming scene, sign up for our free Substack newsletter, landing in your inbox every Monday.
Brazilian company GamesCare has revealed an open-source development cartridge for the Sega Genesis, known as the Mega Drive in the UK and Europe. This new tool promises to empower indie developers to craft games that exceed the original limitations of the iconic 16-bit console, potentially sparking a fresh wave of creativity within the Genesis homebrew community.
Credit: Games Care
The Sega Genesis first arrived in 1988, hitting UK shores in 1990 as the Mega Drive. It quickly became a household name, challenging Nintendo’s dominance with a stellar lineup including Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage, and Phantasy Star IV. By the time production ceased in 1997, the console had sold over 30 million units worldwide, cementing its place in gaming history. Even today, its passionate fan base keeps the system alive through collecting, modding, and homebrew projects.
Guys, in order to encourage the production of new games for MegaDrive / Genesis, the GamesCare team created an open source cartridge to facilitate the sale of physical games. In addition, the cartridge has several features so that the creative minds of indie developers can create… pic.twitter.com/CAn3KlqVxE
GamesCare’s dev cart is designed to unlock new possibilities for this classic platform. While full technical specs remain under wraps, the company claims it offers “several features” to help developers create titles that go “beyond the power of the console.” This could mean enhanced memory, additional processing capabilities, or support for larger game sizes—features that sidestep the Genesis’s original Motorola 68000 CPU and 64 KB RAM constraints. For a system capped at 4 MB per cartridge in its commercial peak, this represents a leap forward.
The implications are exciting for retro gaming enthusiasts. The Genesis homebrew scene has thrived in recent years, buoyed by tools like the Mega Everdrive Pro, which lets users play ROMs on original hardware. GamesCare’s cartridge, however, focuses squarely on creation, not just playback. It could pave the way for ambitious projects—think sprawling RPGs or visually stunning platformers—that were once unimaginable on the 16-bit machine.
This isn’t the first time developers have sought to expand retro consoles’ potential. The Everdrive series, for instance, has long supported multiple systems, while SNES homebrew has flourished with modern tools. Yet, GamesCare’s offering stands out for its Genesis-specific innovation, aligning with a growing trend of indie developers revisiting classic hardware. Still, some fans have raised concerns online about power draw potentially straining ageing consoles—a challenge GamesCare will need to address.
With the Sega Genesis now over 35 years old, this dev cart bridges its storied past and a future ripe with possibility. Protect your classic cartridges with RetroShell, the ultimate safeguard for your retro gaming treasures. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack newsletter, Retro Gaming News, delivered straight to your inbox every Monday.
A recent study in the Metro has revealed that retro gaming is alive and well among younger generations, with one in four Gen Z Brits owning a classic gaming console. Despite growing up in an era dominated by digital downloads and high-end graphics, many younger gamers are gravitating towards the nostalgia and simplicity of older systems.
The research highlights a growing appreciation for vintage gaming, with consoles like the PlayStation 1, Super Nintendo, and Game Boy remaining popular choices among younger players. The appeal appears to stem from a mix of factors, including an interest in gaming history, a love for pixel art aesthetics, and the desire for a more straightforward, pick-up-and-play experience compared to modern, complex titles.
Another contributing factor is the rising trend of second-hand and refurbished console markets, making it easier for younger generations to access older hardware. Many online retailers and independent sellers cater specifically to the demand for classic gaming, offering refurbished consoles and cartridge-based games in near-original condition.
Social media and content creators have also played a major role in fueling the resurgence. Popular YouTubers and TikTok influencers frequently showcase retro games, sparking curiosity among their followers. Additionally, modern re-releases and mini-console versions, like the SNES Classic Edition, have made it even more convenient for newcomers to experience old-school gaming without hunting down original hardware.
This study reinforces the idea that retro gaming isn’t just for those who grew up in the ’80s and ’90s—it’s a timeless hobby being rediscovered by new audiences. With gaming history becoming more accessible and celebrated, it’s clear that classic consoles and their iconic games will continue to find a place in the hearts of future generations.
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!
With the gaming industry on the brink of a new generation, a former Xbox designer in an interview with Video Gamer, has weighed in on the ongoing debate about hardware power. As speculation surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to build, the veteran developer argues that raw performance is becoming less critical, with content now taking centre stage.
Seamus Blackley with the original Xbox
Seamus Blackley, often credited as the father of the original Xbox, recently discussed how he might have approached console development differently today. According to Blackley, the industry’s landscape has shifted dramatically since the early 2000s, when the race for the most powerful hardware was a key factor. Now, he believes that content and player experience outweigh sheer graphical capabilities.
His comments come at a time when Nintendo, a company known for prioritizing innovation over technical specs, is preparing to launch its next console. The Switch proved that high-powered hardware isn’t always necessary to achieve commercial success, thanks to a robust library of first-party exclusives and strong third-party support.
Blackley’s perspective aligns with an industry trend that prioritizes accessibility and creative game design over raw computing power. Services like cloud gaming and cross-platform experiences are changing how players interact with games, reducing the reliance on cutting-edge specs.
While power will always have a role in shaping game experiences, it’s clear that software innovation, unique gameplay mechanics, and a strong library are what truly define a successful platform. As the Switch 2’s announcement looms, it will be interesting to see how Nintendo balances hardware advancements with its signature emphasis on gameplay.
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!
Retro gaming isn’t just about dusting off old cartridges, trying to hook up an ageing console or grabbing a handful of coins for the local arcade. For me, it is a story of how the industry became the juggernaut that it is today, the more basic times when gaming was still a niche hobby. It’s a journey through the stories, innovations, and cultural moments that shaped the massive video game industry we know today.
The more I write about retro, covering news stories and carrying a flame to support the communities that are keeping the retro scene not just surviving, but thriving. Whilst replaying the classics can bring back fond memories, there’s no better way to uncover the behind-the-scenes drama and unsung heroes than reading books dedicated to gaming’s golden eras. In an era of dopamine overload, what better way to give yourself a detox and uncover some of the fascinating stories that made the gaming industry?
Below, you’ll find 10 recommended reads, in no particular order—each offering a unique perspective on the games and consoles that defined generations. Lets begin.
The Ultimate History of Video Games by Steven L. Kent
Why You’ll Love It: This hefty tome covers everything from the earliest computer experiments to the modern console battles. Kent explores iconic companies like Atari, Sega, Nintendo, and more, unveiling how each shaped the industry’s highs and lows. I love the pixel art cover and this book (the first of two) will take pride of place on any coffee table.
Key Takeaway: If you want a thorough overview—complete with anecdotes about the arcade boom, the rise of home consoles, and the role of major players—this is your all-in-one starting point.
It has 847 reviews, giving it 4.6 stars at Amazon and 4.13 ⭐️ from over 2,900 review at Goodreads.
Console Wars: Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation by Blake J. Harris
Why You’ll Love It: Get ready for an intense business showdown. Harris weaves a narrative about the cutthroat competition between Sega and Nintendo in the 16-bit era, focusing on Sega of America’s bold marketing tactics and Nintendo’s iconic family-friendly approach. The 90’s console wars were a wild ride.
Key Takeaway: You’ll see how characters like Sonic and Mario weren’t just mascots—they were front-line soldiers in a global corporate battle for gamers’ hearts, and how this battle played out, with Sega being the plucky underdogs taking a great fight to Nintendo.
Its a “Goodreads Choice” award nominee and has a rating of 4.4⭐️ from over 3,700 reviews on Amazon, and 3.97⭐️ from over 11,500 reviews on Goodreads.
Game Over: How Nintendo Conquered the World by David Sheff
Why You’ll Love It: Sheff’s book zooms in on Nintendo’s journey from a humble playing card company to a juggernaut of interactive entertainment. It provides insight into the company’s inner workings, strategies, and the people behind the Mario and Zelda phenomena. Its quite an old book so getting a copy might be a challenge, bit it talks about a time before the modern console wars with Sony and Microsoft taking over from Sega and Atari as Nintendo’s challengers.
Key Takeaway: Learn how Nintendo’s innovations—and sometimes controversial business tactics—reshaped the entire gaming landscape and forced competitors to catch up.
It has 4.6⭐️ from a feeble 28 reviews on Amazon, but a score of 4.1⭐️ from over 1,500 reviews on Goodreads.
Masters of Doom by David Kushner
Why You’ll Love It: Travel back to the early ’90s PC revolution with John Carmack and John Romero, the rockstar developers of Doom and Quake. Kushner’s fast-paced storytelling shines a light on the creative frenzy that turned first-person shooters into a worldwide obsession which is still finding ports to weird and wonderful devices today.
Key Takeaway: Witness how garage start-ups and coding genius changed the face of gaming—sometimes literally overnight—and paved the way for eSports and modding communities.
It has a whopping 4.6 ⭐️ from over 3,300 reviews on Amazon and 4.3 from over 19,000 reviews on Goodreads.
Replay: The History of Video Games by Tristan Donovan
Why You’ll Love It: Donovan’s global perspective sets this book apart. Rather than centring only on North America, it delves into arcade scenes in Europe and Japan, uncovering overlooked pioneers and cultural influences that shaped game design.
Key Takeaway: If you’re curious about the worldwide tapestry of retro gaming—beyond the usual Sega vs. Nintendo focus—this book is a must-read to give you an expanded view.
It has 4.5⭐️ from over 250 reviews on Amazon, and 4.04⭐️ from over 1,400 reviews on Goodreads.
Power-Up: How Japanese Video Games Gave the World an Extra Life by Chris Kohler
Why You’ll Love It: Kohler uncovers how Japanese culture and design philosophies became a driving force in video game innovation. From RPGs like Final Fantasy to Nintendo’s family-friendly hits, you’ll discover what makes Japanese titles so influential and also so different from Western styles.
Key Takeaway: A fantastic read if you love JRPGs, the creativity behind Nintendo’s classics, or the cultural crossover that turned Japanese games into global phenomena.
It gets 4.5⭐️ from over 100 reviews on Amazon and 3.99⭐️ from over 430 reviews on Goodreads.
The CRPG Book: A Guide to Computer Role-Playing Games edited by Felipe Pepe
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for those who spent hours exploring dungeons on classic PC titles. This community-driven project covers the evolution of role-playing games, from text-based adventures on mainframes to groundbreaking hits like Baldur’s Gate and The Elder Scrolls.
Key Takeaway: You’ll discover hidden gems, learn how mechanics evolved, and see how CRPGs paved the way for today’s sprawling open-world epics.
It has a strong 4.8⭐️ from 130 reviews on Amazon and 4.45 reviews from over 240 reviews on Goodreads.
Sega Mega Drive/Genesis: Collected Works by Darren Wall
Why You’ll Love It: A deep dive into the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis era (which for me was the best era of gamine, the Megadrive being my first proper console), this beautifully compiled collection includes artwork, developer insights, and fan-favourite game retrospectives. It also highlights how Sega’s edgy approach contrasted with Nintendo’s family-friendly image.
Key Takeaway: A visual feast and a historical record for anyone who ever popped in a cartridge to play Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage, or Golden Axe.
It has a solid 4.6⭐️ from over 200 reviews on Amazon and 4.5⭐️ from over 50 reviews on Goodreads.
Arcade Perfect: How Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat, and Other Coin-Op Classics Invaded the Living Room by David L. Craddock
Why You’ll Love It: Craddock focuses on the beloved arcade-to-home conversions that fueled the console wars. From Pac-Man’s bumpy journey to the Atari 2600 to the faithful (and not-so-faithful) ports of Mortal Kombat, it’s a fascinating snapshot of how developers tackled arcade magic on limited hardware.
Key Takeaway: Learn about the technical tricks—and occasional flops—behind bringing arcade hits into living rooms, plus the cultural ripple effects of each release.
It gets 4.1⭐️ on Amazon from over 40 reviews and 4.15⭐️ also from over 40 reviews on Goodreads.
The Game Console 2.0: A Photographic History from Atari to Xbox by Evan Amos
Why You’ll Love It: Evan Amos’s updated photographic encyclopedia offers high-quality images and essential details for consoles spanning generations—from the earliest Ataris to modern Xboxes. It’s both a nostalgic trip through gaming hardware and an informative reference that highlights each console’s design and evolution with beautiful photography.
Key Takeaway: If you love the look and feel of classic hardware (or want a visual refresher on every major console in gaming history), this book’s stunning photos and concise summaries make it a perfect coffee-table companion.
It has a stellar 4.9⭐️ from over 650 reviews on Amazon, and 4.45⭐️ from over 140 reviews on Goodreads.
So there you have it, it is not an exhaustive list as there are several amazing books coming out all of the time. Publishers such as Bitmap Books are constantly releasing beautiful new publications celebrating retro games and gaming history. As I try and spend less time glued to my mobile, I al finding a lot of enjoyment in carving out some time to get my kindle and expand my knowledge of gaming history with a good book.
What are your favourite books, have I missed anything – please do let me know in the comments below. Thanks for reading.
If you are a fan of retro and want to stay up to date with all the goings on in this world each week – sign up to our free Substack. If you are a collector, then you should check out our RetroShell game protectors to keep your gaming gems in pristine condition.
