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Tag Archives: Fighting Games

New Hardware For Retro

Retroid Pocket Classic Upgrades with New Six-Button Version

Posted on by Owen

Goretroid has revealed additional details about its forthcoming Retroid Pocket Classic handheld, including a new six-button variant that significantly enhances the device’s gaming capabilities. The updated version represents a substantial improvement over the original design, offering expanded compatibility with classic fighting games and other titles that require additional input options.

Credit: Retroid / X

Enhanced Control Options

The newly announced six-button configuration addresses one of the primary limitations of the original Retroid Pocket design. While the standard model features the traditional four face buttons common to many retro handhelds, the six-button variant adds two additional buttons positioned to allow comfortable access during gameplay. This enhancement particularly benefits players of classic fighting games from the 16-bit era, such as Street Fighter II: Championship Edition and Mortal Kombat, which were designed for six-button arcade configurations.

The layout closely mirrors the button arrangement found on the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis six-button controller, which became the standard for fighting games in the early 1990s. This thoughtful design choice demonstrates Goretroid’s commitment to authenticity in the retro gaming experience.

Technical Specifications

Beyond the control improvements, the Retroid Pocket Classic maintains the core technical specifications that made its predecessor popular. The device features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a resolution optimised for classic games, ensuring sharp visuals without the scaling issues that often plague retro titles on modern screens. The internal components include sufficient processing power to emulate 8-bit and 16-bit systems accurately, with particular attention to frame rate stability.

Credit: Retroid / X

Battery life remains competitive at approximately 8-10 hours of gameplay, positioning the device as suitable for extended gaming sessions. The Classic model also retains the original’s portable form factor, with dimensions making it comfortable for extended play while remaining pocket-sized.

Market Positioning

The introduction of the six-button variant positions the Retroid Pocket Classic more competitively against other retro handhelds in the increasingly crowded market. With the latest additions Goretroid is targeting both casual retro enthusiasts and dedicated fighting game fans with this dual-model approach.

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Fun Things

New Funko Mortal Kombat 11 Figures Celebrate Iconic Fatalities

Posted on by Owen

The Mortal Kombat series, which began thrilling arcade-goers in 1992, has always been known for its intense combat and unforgettable finishing moves. Now, Funko is honouring the legacy of Mortal Kombat 11 with a new line of Pop! figures that showcase the game’s signature Fatalities. Fans who remember the franchise’s early days on classic consoles will recognise the gritty charm that made Mortal Kombat a sensation in the 16-bit era. The new Funko models are due for release on the 16th May and pre-orders are open @ Amazon.

Credit: Funko

These new Funko designs emphasise the vivid details of each character’s finishing manoeuvre. Collectors can expect Scorpion in a mid-attack pose, Sub-Zero with icy effects, and other favourites sporting their distinctive Fatality styles. It’s a clear nod to the franchise’s origins, when digitised actors and controversial violence caught the attention of gamers and parents alike. Despite evolving graphics and modern platforms, Mortal Kombat has retained its essential gameplay and flair, making these figures all the more appealing to those who value both nostalgia and contemporary collectibles.

Get Over Here / Credit: Funko

With over three decades in the spotlight, Mortal Kombat continues to entertain generations of players with its dynamic battles and storylines. This fresh wave of Funko figures reflects that enduring appeal, bridging the gap between seasoned arcade veterans and newcomers who discovered the series via the latest consoles. By combining classic Fatalities with contemporary Pop! artistry, Funko has created a fitting tribute to one of gaming’s most influential fighting franchises.

Kung Lao Exclusive – Credit: Funko Pop

Keep your classic games safe with RetroShell, made to protect your retro collection. For the latest updates on retro gaming, subscribe to our free Substack—it’s delivered to your inbox every Monday! Interestingly, the original Mortal Kombat introduced digitised sprites using real actors, an innovation that set it apart from other fighters of its era.

Modern Retro Games, Sega

King of Fighters ’98 Leads the Charge as First ‘Arcade Archives 2 Neo Geo’ Title for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S

Posted on by Owen

King of Fighters ’98, a cornerstone of the Neo Geo legacy, is coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. Announced by Hamster, this release marks the debut of the Arcade Archives 2 Neo Geo series, bringing the 1998 classic to modern consoles on February 27th, 2025. Packed with a new time attack mode and online matchmaking, this version offers fresh ways to enjoy a game that’s long been a favourite among fighting game fans.

Credit: Arcade Archives

Hamster’s latest effort builds on their Arcade Archives success, with King of Fighters ’98 leading the charge for a series dedicated to SNK’s Neo Geo catalogue. The time attack mode ranks players based on speed through checkpoints, making it easier for beginners to jump in, while online matches cater to competitive veterans. For those who own the original Arcade Archives release on PS4 or Xbox One, an upgrade to the next-gen version costs just £2.29 / $2.99—a small price to revisit a classic on cutting-edge hardware.

First launched in 1998, King of Fighters ’98 earned its reputation through tight mechanics and a roster of 38 characters, each with distinct movesets. The Neo Geo, SNK’s arcade powerhouse, was a fixture in gaming halls through the 1990s, blending high-quality visuals with robust gameplay. Titles like this one helped cement its status among retro collectors, and this release continues the push to keep that heritage alive. Historically, the game—sometimes called The Slugfest—stood out for its “Ultimate Match” mode, letting players tweak team dynamics, a feature still prized today.

Credit: Arcade Archives

This isn’t the game’s first revival; it’s seen ports to PlayStation, Dreamcast, and even mobile devices. Yet, its arrival on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S feels significant, blending nostalgia with modern polish. For retro gaming fans, it’s a chance to experience a pivotal piece of fighting game history, retooled for today’s players. You can read more information on this at Arcade Archives.

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Fun Things

Fighting Game Titans Street Fighter x Mortal Kombat Unite in Unprecedented Crossover Event

Posted on by Owen

A landmark collaboration is set to reshape the gaming landscape as three of the industry’s most celebrated franchises converge. Developers have today announced a crossover event that will merge the worlds of Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, and Fortnite, offering fans the opportunity to see their favourite fighters share a screen for the first time.

Credit: Fortnite

Epic Games has remained tight-lipped on the full scope, but a spokesperson hinted at the vision: “We’re bringing together these beloved universes to create something fresh yet respectful of their legacies. Expect gameplay that celebrates their histories while pushing what’s possible in Fortnite.” The crossover aligns with the season’s “Lawless” theme, featuring a criminal underworld aesthetic that complements the ninja personas of Sub-Zero and Scorpion, alongside Street Fighter’s martial arts icons.

The collaboration promises more than just skins. Leaks suggest limited-time challenges and possibly new points of interest tied to Mortal Kombat, enhancing the battle royale experience with nods to its brutal roots—albeit toned down for Fortnite’s broader audience. While a unified narrative remains speculative, the inclusion of such iconic characters hints at a loose storyline bridging these worlds, a tactic Fortnite has mastered with past crossovers like Marvel and Star Wars.

Analysts see this as a bold step in gaming’s evolution, merging the nostalgia of 1990s fighting games with today’s dominant battle royale format. “This is a landmark moment,” said Trent Murray, a veteran esports writer for Sports Illustrated. “It’s not just about skins—it’s about uniting communities across genres and generations.” The move reflects a growing trend of leveraging intellectual properties to create hybrid experiences, a strategy Epic has honed since Fortnite’s rise to cultural phenomenon status.

With the season now live as of February 21, 2025, excitement is palpable across gaming forums and social media. Posts on X highlight fans’ enthusiasm, with some calling it the closest they’ll get to a Street Fighter vs. Mortal Kombat showdown—a dream matchup long desired but never realized in a traditional fighting game. Ed Boon, Mortal Kombat’s co-creator, even acknowledged the crossover’s significance online, fuelling speculation about future additions like Mileena or Raiden.

This pioneering event not only celebrates decades of gaming heritage but also signals a future where cross-genre collaborations could become the norm. As players dive into Fortnite’s latest season, the stage is set for an unforgettable clash of titans—one that’s already shaping up to be a milestone in interactive entertainment.

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Modern Retro Games

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves – Leaked Roster Details Ignite Fan Fervour

Posted on by Owen

In a development that has captivated the fighting game community, fresh details of the base roster and planned DLC characters for Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves have reportedly leaked online. Reliable sources close to the development team suggest that the leak reveals not only the complete line-up of core fighters but also a selection of surprise characters set to join as downloadable content.

Credit: Monstervine

According to Reddit user MistressMello, a recent data mine of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves has unveiled both launch and DLC characters. The data indicates that several fighters anticipated by fans – including Terry, Rock, Hotaru Futaba, and Gato – are confirmed, alongside well-known favourites such as Mai Shiranui and Tizoc. Additionally, the data mine reveals that some names remain unannounced, including Kim Jae Hoon, Freeman, and Hokutomaru, noted as the young protégé of Andy Bogard. It is also significant that three spots remain available in the launch roster. These additional characters have previously appeared in Mark of The Wolves, and Marco Rodrigues is also confirmed as a member of the City of the Wolves lineup.

The new entry in the iconic Fatal Fury series promises to blend the classic, hard-hitting mechanics of its predecessors with modern graphical enhancements and innovative character designs. According to the leaked information, the base roster appears meticulously balanced, featuring veteran fighters alongside newcomers engineered to bring fresh strategic dynamics to the gameplay. The anticipated DLC is expected to expand the narrative and offer players additional customization options, further deepening the game’s competitive appeal.

Industry insiders have noted that the leak provides intriguing insights into the developers’ approach, highlighting their commitment to honouring the series’ heritage while embracing contemporary design trends. The details have sparked vigorous discussion on social media and dedicated gaming forums, where fans are eagerly speculating on potential match-ups and storyline developments. Despite the excitement, the development team has yet to issue an official confirmation, leaving many questions unanswered.

As anticipation builds for the official release, we wonder what other announcements or leaks might emerge. The leak, while unofficial, has undoubtedly reinvigorated interest in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves as one of the most promising entries in the fighting game genre in recent years.

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Microsoft, Modern Retro Games, Sony

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves Open Beta Announced – Starting February 20th – 24th

Posted on by Owen

It’s hard to believe, but nearly a year has passed since Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves was officially revealed. Now, SNK has announced the Open Beta Test, giving fans their first hands-on experience with the long-awaited sequel.

Credit: SNK

The beta kicks off on Thursday, February 20, and runs until Sunday, February 24. It will be available across all platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. No active PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass membership will be required to join the fight online.

The beta includes 8 playable characters from the confirmed roster of 13 fighters. Players can face off in three online modes—Ranked Match, Casual Match, and Room Matches—or hone their skills in the included Training Mode. However, progress made during the beta won’t carry over to the full release this spring.

The roster revealed so far includes returning favourites like Terry, Rock, B. Jenet, and Hotaru, alongside newcomers such as Vox Reaper and Preecha. Gato, now sporting a fresh new look, was also recently confirmed as part of the cast.

For those looking to pre-order, physical copies of the Special and Deluxe Editions are now available at Best Buy in the United States. Digital pre-orders include a bonus: a few days of early access to the game.

Credit: SNK

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is due out for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store on April 24.

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