• GBPGBP
  • EuroEuro
  • USDUSD

Tag Archives: Retro Gaming News

Nintendo

Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered Receives New Physical Switch Release

Posted on by Owen

Aspyr Media has announced a new physical release of Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered for the Nintendo Switch. This remastered collection, which launched digitally in December 2024, brings together the iconic action-adventure titles that originally captivated players in the late ’90s and early 2000s.

The standard edition is priced at $29.99, while a deluxe edition is available for $49.99. Pre-orders are currently open on Amazon, with the release scheduled for June 2025.

Previously, Limited Run Games offered its own physical versions, including a standard edition for $34.99 and a collector’s edition priced at $149.99.

Deluxe Edition: Credit: Amazon

For collectors and fans of physical media, this new release offers another opportunity to own these classic titles in a tangible format.

Retro games deserve the best protection! Get RetroShell to keep your collection pristine. And if you’re here for the news, make sure to subscribe to our Substack for weekly updates!

Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony, Steam

Lunar Remastered Collection: Physical Release Details for North America

Posted on by Owen

The Lunar Remastered Collection, featuring updated versions of the classic JRPGs Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete, is set to launch on April 18, 2025. Publisher GungHo Online Entertainment has announced that in North America, the physical edition will be available exclusively through Amazon ($54.99). Notably, there will be no pre-order option; purchases can be made directly on the release day.

Credit: Lunar Remastered

GungHo has assured fans that the physical release is not limited, stating, “There will be plenty of copies available for everyone interested.” However, it’s unclear if the physical edition will be available in brick-and-mortar stores. For European customers, Clear River Games will handle the physical distribution, with more details forthcoming.

The remastered collection offers enhanced graphics and audio, widescreen support, and both Japanese and English voice options. Players can choose between “Remastered” and original “Classic” graphics, and the games include quality-of-life improvements like sped-up battle animations.  

Given the high resale value of the original PlayStation versions, this remastered collection provides an accessible way for both longtime fans and newcomers to experience these beloved titles.

Preserve your gaming history! Protect your collection with RetroShell, the world’s finest video game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our Substack—it’s free!

Uncategorized

Peter ‘Navy’ Tuiasosopo, ‘Street Fighter’ E-Honda Actor, Passes Away at 61

Posted on by Owen

Peter ‘Navy’ Tuiasosopo, renowned for his portrayal of E. Honda in the 1994 Street Fighter film, passed away on February 10, 2025, at the age of 61 due to heart complications in Phoenix, Arizona.  

Tuiasosopo in Street Fighter (1994)

Born on May 24, 1963, in San Pedro, California, Tuiasosopo began his career in the entertainment industry in the early 1990s. He made a memorable debut as Manumana in Necessary Roughness (1991), showcasing his talent and versatility. His role as E. Honda in Street Fighter further cemented his place in Hollywood, bringing the beloved video game character to life on the big screen.  

Throughout his career, Tuiasosopo appeared in various films and television series, including The Scorpion King, The Fast and the Furious, Austin Powers in Goldmember, and NCIS. His diverse roles highlighted his adaptability and dedication to his craft.  

Before venturing into acting, Tuiasosopo had a brief stint in professional football, signing with the St. Louis Cardinals and later playing for the Los Angeles Rams during the 1987 NFL players’ strike.  

His son, Manoah, announced his passing on Facebook, stating, “My dad lived an amazing life and in no way does his impact stop here. We will continue to live with him in spirit.”  

Tuiasosopo’s legacy as a trailblazer for Polynesian actors in Hollywood remains significant. His contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark, and he will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.

Preserve your gaming history! Protect your collection with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our Substack—it’s free!

PC Gaming, Steam

Neverwinter Nights 2 Remaster Hinted by Steam Database Listing

Posted on by Owen


Fans of Dungeons & Dragons-based RPGs have reason to be excited, as recent developments suggest that Neverwinter Nights 2 may be receiving a remastered edition and its first release on Steam. According to a report by GamesRadar+, a new listing titled “Dungeons & Dragons Neverwinter Nights 2” was recently added to the Steam Database, with updates as recent as February 11, 2025.

Credit: SteamDB

Originally developed by Obsidian Entertainment and released in 2006, Neverwinter Nights 2 is based on the D&D 3.5 edition ruleset. The game offers a rich narrative experience, separate from its predecessor, and features a character creation process, companion system, and turn-based combat mechanics that fans of titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 would find familiar.

The potential remaster follows the precedent set by the original Neverwinter Nights, which received an Enhanced Edition in 2018, making its way to PC, PS4, Xbox One, and mobile platforms. This move not only modernized the classic but also introduced it to a broader audience. The absence of Neverwinter Nights 2 from Steam has been a notable gap for RPG enthusiasts, and this development could signify a long-awaited update.

While official confirmation from the developers or publishers is pending, the SteamDB listing has ignited speculation and anticipation within the gaming community. If the remaster comes to fruition, it would provide both longtime fans and newcomers an opportunity to experience the game with enhanced features and accessibility.

Protect your gaming collection with RetroShell, the world’s finest video game protector, offering premium quality and superior display and protection. Stay updated with the latest retro gaming news by subscribing to our free weekly Substack, delivered every Monday, at Retro Gaming News.

Nintendo, Rom Hack

F-Zero SNES Receives Fan-Made ‘Bower League’ Expansion

Posted on by Owen

The classic Super Nintendo racing game F-Zero has been revitalised by the fan community with the introduction of the “Bower League,” a custom league featuring five new courses. This project emerged from a month-long challenge within the F-Zero Online Discord community, where participants utilised the FZEdit tool to design tracks using only assets from the original SNES game and its BS-X sequel.

Credit: RomHack Plaza

The newly crafted courses are:

1. MUTE CITY V by Zephyrum and Erik64

2. SAND STORM III by Moshikomi

3. SILENCE III by Vulduv

4. RED CANYON III by Zephyrum

5. SAND OCEAN II by Fennor

Each track was designed to match the original game’s difficulty level while introducing unique features to enhance the racing experience. The hack was initially released on Satellaview+, a fan-made recreation of Nintendo and St. Giga’s satellite service from the mid-‘90s. It’s now accessible for players to download and apply to a U.S. version of the game.

For those interested in experiencing the Bower League, the patch is available for download at RomHack Plaza.

Preserve your gaming history! Protect your collection with RetroShell, the world’s finest video game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our Substack—it’s free!

Fun Things, Nintendo

Massive Mario Kart LEGO Set Rumoured to Be on the Way

Posted on by Owen

A new rumor suggests that LEGO and Nintendo might be gearing up for one of their biggest collaborations yet: a massive Mario Kart LEGO set. According to sources, this unannounced set is expected to include iconic characters, vehicles, and tracks from the beloved racing franchise.

LEGO and Nintendo have already partnered on several successful sets, including Super Mario interactive playsets and detailed recreations like the Mighty Bowser. However, a fully-fledged Mario Kart set could take things to another level. Fans are speculating about potential builds, such as a detailed Rainbow Road, Bowser’s Castle, or even a modular track system that allows for real racing-style mechanics.

While there’s no official confirmation yet, the rumor aligns with LEGO’s trend of expanding into more ambitious video game-themed sets. If true, it could be one of the most anticipated releases for both LEGO and Nintendo fans in 2025.

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!

Credit: Brickfanatics

Modern Retro Games, Sega

Earnest Evans & Annet Returns Get Official English Releases

Posted on by Owen

Two Sega CD cult classics, Earnest Evans and Annet Returns, are finally receiving official English releases, thanks to Limited Run Games. These side-scrolling action titles, which originally launched in Japan in the early 1990s, have never been officially localized—until now.

Credit: Limited Run Games

A Long Time Coming for Earnest Evans & Annet Returns

Originally developed by Wolf Team, Earnest Evans (1991) and Annet Returns (1993) are part of the El Viento series, a lesser-known but beloved trilogy in retro gaming circles. Earnest Evans puts players in the shoes of an Indiana Jones-style adventurer with a unique, segmented sprite animation style that has divided players for decades. Meanwhile, Annet Returns follows the story of Annet Myer, a powerful sorceress wielding magic-infused weaponry in fast-paced side-scrolling combat.

Despite their niche appeal, these titles have remained largely inaccessible to Western audiences outside of fan translations. That changes now, as Limited Run Games has officially announced physical editions for the Sega CD, complete with English text and improved presentation.

Credit: Limited Run Games

Limited Run’s Physical Editions

Both games will be available in standard and collector’s editions, featuring restored artwork and special extras. Earnest Evans is listed at $59.99, while Annet Returns shares the same price point. Given the high demand for retro Sega CD titles, these are expected to sell quickly.

Credit: Limited Run Games

For collectors and fans of obscure Sega gems, this marks an exciting moment. The Sega CD library has long been overlooked, and official English releases of Japanese-exclusive titles are rare. With this move, Limited Run Games continues to support retro preservation in a way that few companies do.

Want to protect your classic game collection? RetroShell offers the best premium game protectors on the market—perfect for displaying and safeguarding your Sega CD gems. And for more retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack, delivering fresh updates every Monday!

Collecting, Fun Things, Nintendo

Video Game Maps: SNES Volume 2 Now Available for Pre-Order

Posted on by Owen

For those who love the intricate worlds of 16-bit gaming, a new book is on the way that might be essential for your collection. Video Game Maps: SNES Volume 2 is now available for pre-order, bringing another deep dive into the pixel-perfect maps of some of Super Nintendo’s most beloved games.

Following the success of the first volume, Volume 2 expands the collection, featuring detailed maps from The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Kirby Super Star, Mega Man X, Secret of Mana, and many more. The book is officially licensed by Retro Game Books, a publisher known for producing high-quality gaming reference materials.

Credit: Retro Game Books

For those unfamiliar with the concept, these books compile full overworlds, dungeon layouts, and level designs in meticulous detail. It’s a way to appreciate the artistry of classic games while also acting as a resource for players looking to explore every corner of these 16-bit worlds.

Credit: Retro Game Books

The maps themselves are created using the original game assets, ensuring accuracy and authenticity. Whether you’re revisiting Super Mario World or studying the enemy placements in Contra III, this book is perfect for collectors and gaming historians alike.

Credit: Retro Game Books

Pre-orders are open now, and considering the popularity of Volume 1, this will likely sell out fast. If you’re a fan of gaming cartography or simply want to immerse yourself in the golden era of Super Nintendo, this might be one to add to your shelf.

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!
RetroShell – Premium Game Protectors
Retro Gaming Weekly – Free Substack

Modern Retro Games, Sony, Steam

PlayStation Strikes Down Bloodborne PSX Demake, But Nightmare Kart Races On

Posted on by Owen

As reported yesterday, PlayStation has issued a DMCA takedown against the beloved Bloodborne PSX demake, forcing its complete removal from Itch.io and other platforms. The project, a passion-driven recreation of Bloodborne in the style of a PlayStation 1-era game, has built a devoted following since its release in early 2022. Fans of the demake praised its authentic retro aesthetic and faithful reinterpretation of Bloodborne’s opening sections.

Credit: Itch.io

The takedown, however, does not affect developer Lilith Walther’s other project, Nightmare Kart, a gothic racing game that began as an April Fools’ joke but evolved into a standalone title. Originally conceived as a Bloodborne Kart fangame, Nightmare Kart has since transformed to distance itself from Sony’s intellectual property, with original character designs and worldbuilding.

Credit: b0tster

Walther confirmed that development on Nightmare Kart continues, and the game will receive a DLC expansion, despite the legal roadblock on Bloodborne PSX. This news comes as a disappointment to fans who had hoped Sony might embrace the Bloodborne demake, particularly in the absence of an official PC or PS5 remaster of the game.

While Sony’s crackdown is unsurprising given its IP protection stance, it does little to alleviate the ongoing frustration among Bloodborne fans who have been clamouring for a modern re-release. For now, Nightmare Kart lives on, ensuring that the spirit of Walther’s work isn’t entirely lost.

Preserve your gaming history! Protect your collection with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered every Monday!

Modern Retro Games, Nintendo

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD Demo Now Available on Switch

Posted on by Owen

Nintendo has released a demo for Donkey Kong Country Returns HD on the Nintendo Switch via the eShop. The full game, which launched on January 16, 2025, is a high-definition update of the original Wii title, featuring enhanced visuals and additional content.

Credit: Nintendo.com

In this adventure, Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong set out to reclaim their stolen banana hoard from the mischievous Tiki Tak Tribe. Players can navigate through 80 levels across nine diverse worlds, including content from the Nintendo 3DS version. The game offers both solo and two-player local cooperative modes, allowing friends to team up and tackle challenges together.

The gameplay involves classic platforming elements such as stomping enemies, blasting through barrels, and riding vehicles like mine carts and rockets. Players can also ride Rambi the Rhino to smash through obstacles. The game introduces various moves, including the Ground Pound, Roll, Blow, and Grab and Cling, to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.

Credit: Nintendo

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the game offers an option to reduce difficulty, providing extra hearts and other aids to make the journey smoother. This feature makes the game accessible to a wider audience, ensuring that both newcomers and veterans can enjoy the adventure.

Since its release, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD has seen significant success, with over 107,000 retail copies sold in Japan during its opening week.

For those interested in trying out the game before purchasing, the demo provides a glimpse into the vibrant world of Donkey Kong and the challenges that await. It’s a great opportunity to experience the enhanced graphics and refined gameplay that this HD version offers.

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!