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Tag Archives: Indie Games

Modern Retro Games, New Games, Nintendo, Sega

Flea 2 Brings More Retro Platforming Madness to the Dreamcast and NES

Posted on by Owen

Indie developer Lowtek Games is back with Flea 2, a sequel to their 2020 retro platformer, bringing even more flea-jumping action to the Dreamcast and NES. Continuing the adventures of Henry the flea, this installment introduces new mechanics, levels, and characters while keeping the challenging, fast-paced gameplay intact.

Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, Flea 2 offers tight, responsive controls and a unique jumping mechanic where Henry bounces uncontrollably, requiring precise timing to navigate obstacles and enemies. This time around, the game features a branching level system, allowing players to explore different paths as they collect blood packs and avoid deadly hazards.

Credit: Steam

The game is being developed for both the NES and Dreamcast, with physical copies available for collectors. NES cartridges are being made in limited batches, while Dreamcast editions come with a full-colour manual and case, embracing the spirit of classic releases.

Reviews from early players highlight Flea 2’s quirky pixel-art style, catchy chiptune soundtrack, and satisfying difficulty curve. The game maintains the retro aesthetic while introducing quality-of-life improvements, including optional paths for less experienced players.

Credit: Steam

Flea 2 is currently available on Steam as well, making it accessible to a wider audience beyond the original hardware. For fans of NES-style platformers and those who appreciate the thriving homebrew scene, this is one to watch.

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Modern Retro Games, Sega

Dream Ride: A New Micro Machines-Style Party Racer for the Dreamcast

Posted on by Owen

The Sega Dreamcast continues to defy time, with a steady flow of new indie releases keeping the console alive. The latest addition is Dream Ride, an arcade-style party racer inspired by the classic Micro Machines series. Developed by Dream Quest Games, the title promises fast-paced, top-down multiplayer racing with chaotic twists.

“Dream Ride” supports single-player and multiplayer modes, accommodating up to four human players and eight CPU opponents. The game includes eight unique cars, each with distinct handling and speed, and features four different game modes.

Credit: Itch IO / Ginger Beard Man

The gameplay in “Dream Ride” emphasizes momentum and drift, requiring players to adapt to each vehicle’s characteristics. Power-ups such as magnets, ghosts, shields, and speed boosts are integral, with hazards like oil slicks and thunderbolts adding strategic depth.

The game runs at a consistent 60 frames per second, with dynamic sound effects and CD audio music. It also includes a cheat system for additional gameplay options. “Dream Ride” is playable on both original Dreamcast hardware and emulators, and is also compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android platforms. It can be downloaded from gingerbeardman’s itch.io page under a “name-your-own-price” model.

The release of “Dream Ride” follows the trend of indie games revitalizing the Dreamcast, with titles like “Xeno Crisis”, “Intrepid Izzy”, and “Rush Rush Rally Reloaded” also contributing to the console’s ongoing legacy.

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Modern Retro Games, Nintendo, PC Gaming, Steam

SkateCat Rolls Onto Nintendo Switch, Itch, and Steam: A Retro-Inspired Adventure

Posted on by Owen

Indie gaming continues to shine with the release of SkateCat, a unique skateboarding adventure where players take on the role of a feline hero navigating a vibrant world. Developed by SJ Games, this innovative title is now available on Nintendo Switch, Itch, and PC via Steam, with the added option of physical NES and Famicom cartridges for retro collectors.

SkateCat stands out as a homebrew gem, crafted using NESmaker software. The project exemplifies how accessible development tools can empower indie creators to revive retro consoles while showcasing fresh ideas. Led by a young developer, SJ Games collaborated with industry talents like dale_coop for custom coding and Raftronaut for a memorable chiptune soundtrack.

In SkateCat, players are tasked with saving Nekocity from monsters, blending quirky storytelling with exciting skateboarding gameplay. This mix of charm and action reflects the passion and creativity found in modern indie game development.

Physical editions are open to order for both the NES and the Famicom (both €45 with ~€17 shipping), catering to retro enthusiasts keen to experience the game on classic hardware. Meanwhile, the digital Steam ($9.99) and Switch ($9.99) versions are also available, offering a modern way to explore this nostalgic journey.

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Modern Retro Games

Vampire Survivors Developer Teases Major Updates for 2025

Posted on by Owen

The developer behind Vampire Survivors, Poncle, has outlined ambitious plans for 2025, including a new expansion, online co-op, and potential new projects.

Credit: Poncle

Key Highlights:

• New Expansion: Following the success of the Castlevania crossover DLC, Poncle plans to release at least one more original expansion for Vampire Survivors.

• Free Updates: The focus will be on substantial free updates, including new Adventures for existing expansions like Tides of the Foscari and possibly Ode to Castlevania.

• Online Co-op: Building on the couch co-op introduced in 2023, Poncle is working to implement online multiplayer, aiming for a release within the year.

• New Projects: The studio hints at non-Vampire Survivors projects, suggesting that 2025 will be its “biggest, chaotic-est, surprising-est” year yet.

These developments indicate a commitment to expanding the Vampire Survivors universe and exploring new creative avenues.

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