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Tag Archives: ClassicGaming

Fun Things, Nintendo

Nintendo Alarmo: Now Available at Best Buy for $99

Posted on by Owen

Consumers with a taste for nostalgia have a new reason to celebrate as Best Buy recently listed the Nintendo Alarmo, an innovative alarm clock that pays tribute to the iconic Nintendo legacy. The device artfully marries modern technology with vintage gaming aesthetics, promising to appeal to both devoted Nintendo fans and collectors of retro tech. Previously only available from the Nintendo Store, and if you had a Nintendo subscription, it is now available for everyone.

Credit: Nintendo.com

Developed by Nintendo, the Alarmo features design cues that evoke memories of classic gaming consoles. Its customizable alarm tones include chiptune sounds reminiscent of early video game soundtracks, offering users a playful wake-up experience steeped in nostalgia. Alongside its retro styling, the clock boasts a clear digital display and intuitive controls, ensuring functionality is never sacrificed for form.

The strategic release of the Nintendo Alarmo is seen as a smart move by Best Buy, targeting a niche audience that values the charm of retro gaming alongside everyday functionality. With demand for nostalgic gadgets on the rise, the product is expected to become a coveted addition to any retro collection.

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Gaming History

Forgotten Feature: The Unused Terminal of the NES Disk System

Posted on by Owen

39 years ago on 21 February 1986, Nintendo’s innovative Disk System was released for the Family Computer (NES), promising a revolution in home gaming. Boasting a 1M capacity—far exceeding that of traditional game cassettes—the system enabled players to save progress and even rewrite games for a modest fee. However, as much as it broke new ground, it also left enthusiasts with a few enduring curiosities.

Among these is the so-called “mysterious terminal” concealed behind the RAM adapter. Originally designed to support additional peripherals, this terminal was covered by a sliding shutter and intended for a communication adapter that would have enabled downloads, animated messaging, and even early forms of online services. Unfortunately, the planned accessory was never released, leaving behind an enigmatic relic of what might have been a pioneering network feature.

For many children of that era, the Disk System was both a marvel and a mild frustration. The novelty of saving game progress was often overshadowed by lengthy loading times—displaying nothing more than a stark “ADING” on a black screen—contrasting sharply with the near-instantaneous transitions seen in earlier cassette-based games. Despite this, the system gave birth to timeless classics such as The Legend of Zelda, Dracula, and Metroid, each contributing to the rich tapestry of gaming history.

While large-capacity cassettes soon eclipsed the Disk System’s advantages, its legacy endures among retro gaming aficionados. It remains a poignant reminder of an era when technical limitations and bold innovation walked hand in hand, leaving a legacy that continues to influence modern game design.

Keep your cherished retro collection secure with RetroShell – your dependable protector of classic games. For the latest updates and deep dives into retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack and receive insights straight to your inbox every Monday!