Tag Archives: platformers

Gex Trilogy Set for Summer 2025: A Nostalgic Return Beckons

Limited Run Games has confirmed that the Gex Trilogy—comprising Gex, Gex: Enter the Gecko, and Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko—will leap onto modern platforms in summer 2025. Announced via a vibrant trailer at IGN Fan Fest 2025, this compilation promises to revive the wisecracking gecko’s adventures for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. As of February 27, 2025, the news has sent ripples of excitement through the retro gaming community, offering both a faithful preservation of a 32-bit classic and a polished experience for today’s players.

The Gex series first emerged in 1995 on the 3DO, a console ahead of its time yet overshadowed by the PlayStation’s rise. Created by Crystal Dynamics, the original Gex was a 2D side-scroller that stood out with its TV-channel-hopping gimmick, skewering pop culture with levels themed around horror flicks and cartoons. Voiced by comedian Dana Gould, Gex’s sardonic quips were a perfect match for the mid-90s zeitgeist. The sequels, Enter the Gecko (1998) and Deep Cover Gecko (1999), embraced the 3D revolution, joining the likes of Banjo-Kazooie in the collect-a-thon craze. Technically, these titles pushed their platforms—the PlayStation and N64—to their limits, with sprawling levels and animations that dazzled at the time.

Limited Run’s revival leverages their Carbon Engine, a tool designed to breathe new life into retro titles. Expect modern touches like save states, rewind features, and widescreen support for the 3D entries, all while retaining the pixel-perfect charm of the originals. The trailer, brimming with Gould’s iconic voice work, suggests a balance of nostalgia and accessibility—ideal for veterans reminiscing about Blockbuster rentals and newcomers curious about gaming’s past. Physical editions, a Limited Run hallmark, will also cater to collectors eager to hold a piece of history.

As summer 2025 approaches, the Gex Trilogy stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic platformers. Protect your treasured games with RetroShell, crafted to shield your retro collection. For more on gaming’s storied past, subscribe to our free Substack newsletter, landing in your inbox every Monday.

Manic Miner Returns with a New Fan-Made Port

One of the most iconic platformers of the 1980s, Manic Miner, is making a comeback in an all-new fan-made port. Originally released for the ZX Spectrum in 1983, Manic Miner quickly became a beloved classic, known for its challenging gameplay, quirky humour, and memorable soundtrack. Now, thanks to a dedicated group of enthusiasts, a new version of the game has been developed for modern hardware, keeping the spirit of the original alive.

Credit: Indie Retro News

This latest port remains faithful to the core mechanics of Manic Miner, featuring the same treacherous platforming challenges, precise jumps, and cleverly designed levels. Players once again step into the boots of Miner Willy as he navigates underground caverns, dodging bizarre enemies and racing against the clock to escape each stage. However, the fan-made release also introduces some subtle quality-of-life improvements, such as smoother animations, minor graphical refinements, and enhanced audio.

Manic Miner has enjoyed a long-lasting legacy, influencing countless platformers and maintaining a strong fanbase decades after its release. This new version ensures that both retro gaming veterans and newcomers can experience its unique blend of difficulty and charm on modern devices. The developers have taken great care to retain the game’s nostalgic appeal while making it more accessible for today’s players.

With the continued popularity of classic gaming and homebrew projects, this Manic Miner revival is another example of how dedicated communities keep gaming history alive. Whether you played it back in the ‘80s or are discovering it for the first time, this fresh take on Manic Miner is a fantastic way to relive a piece of gaming history.

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