NES fans have a reason to rejoice as Data Man, a brand-new game for the Nintendo Entertainment System has launched. Developed by Broke Studio, this quirky title blends fast-paced action with tricky puzzles, delivering a fresh experience for fans of retro gaming.
In Data Man, players take on the role of a data courier navigating a digital world. Your mission? Deliver important data packages across labyrinthine levels filled with dangerous glitches, rogue programs, and environmental hazards.
Broke Studio is no stranger to new NES titles, having previously released games like Twin Dragons and Steel Legion. The studio’s dedication to publishing games that work natively on NES hardware ensures that Data Man will appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike. Like their past efforts, Data Man will ship in a full physical edition, complete with a cartridge, box, and manual.
The game is currently available to order on Broke Studio’s website.
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The Video Game History Foundation (VGHF) has announced that its extensive digital library of gaming publications will become accessible to the public starting next week. This move represents a significant milestone in the preservation and sharing of video game history, offering enthusiasts, researchers, and developers access to a treasure trove of historical gaming materials.
Good things come to those who wait – the Video Game History Foundation Digital Library launches on January 30th, 2025. (We'll tell you all about it then!) pic.twitter.com/pKHoAS9Qkw
— Video Game History Foundation (@GameHistoryOrg) January 23, 2025
What the Digital Library Offers
The VGHF’s digital library includes scans of rare gaming magazines, strategy guides, promotional materials, and other print resources that document decades of gaming history. These materials, previously available only to researchers or through in-person visits, will now be accessible online for anyone interested in exploring the evolution of the video game industry.
Credit: Gamehistory.org
To protect the intellectual property rights of these materials, access will initially be limited to “controlled digital lending.” Users will need to check out specific materials from the library, similar to borrowing books from a physical library. This approach ensures the preservation of copyright while still enabling public access to invaluable resources.
Why This Matters
The opening of the VGHF’s digital library underscores the importance of preserving video game history. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, many early gaming materials risk being lost or forgotten. The Foundation’s efforts aim to safeguard these artefacts, providing a window into how games were created, marketed, and received by audiences over the years.
For gamers and researchers alike, this library offers a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the gaming industry, from iconic console launches to forgotten titles that shaped the medium.
About the Video Game History Foundation
Founded in 2017, the VGHF is a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of video games. The Foundation works to digitise and archive materials, ensuring that the legacy of gaming is not lost to time.
Sipeed, a company known for its work in FPGA and embedded systems, has announced the Tang Console, an affordable FPGA-powered device that functions as both a development platform and a retro gaming handheld. Priced at just $69, the Tang Console is aimed at hobbyists, developers, and retro gaming enthusiasts seeking an entry point into FPGA technology.
🎮 Your Dream #FPGA#RetroGame Console is here! ✨ #Tang Console start at just $69—half the size of MiSTer, supports NES,SNES,GB,GBA,MD,Amiga & even handheld form! 🚀 🌍 Open to the community: Free samples for game core devs! 👉 Apply or Preorder now: https://t.co/cne9Md2bHdpic.twitter.com/To4zrak4aj
At an attractive price point and supporting a range of FPGA cores, the tiny device sold the first 200 units sold out in one day.
What Is the Tang Console?
The Tang Console is built around the GOWIN GW1NSR-LV4C FPGA, a flexible and powerful chip that enables custom hardware development. This device comes with a 3.5-inch IPS display (320×480 resolution) and features a compact handheld form factor with built-in controls, making it an ideal platform for experimenting with FPGA cores or running retro games.
Credit: Tang
The device is equipped with 16MB of SDRAM, 32MB of Flash memory, and an ESP8285 chip for wireless functionality. This configuration allows it to handle a wide range of FPGA cores for systems like NES, Game Boy, and more.
Key Features and Use Cases
• Retro Gaming: The Tang Console supports FPGA cores, enabling accurate emulation of classic systems. Sipeed has demonstrated it running games like Super Mario Bros. on an NES core.
• Development Platform: With its affordable price and versatile hardware, the device is a great starting point for those looking to learn FPGA development.
• Portable Design: Its small size and built-in controls make it a convenient handheld device for gaming and experimenting on the go.
Community and Expansion
Sipeed is actively encouraging community involvement in expanding the Tang Console’s capabilities. They’ve already teased compatibility with open-source FPGA projects, and with the right community support, the console could become a robust platform for both development and retro gaming.
Tang is presently offering the 3D step file for creating your case and offering a free console for the winning design.
The device is available for pre-order through Sipeed’s official website and is expected to ship soon.
An affordable entrant to the FPGA console world
While FPGA devices like the Analogue Pocket have gained popularity for their precise hardware emulation, the Tang Console stands out for its affordability and development potential. Whether you’re a developer eager to experiment or a retro gaming fan looking for a budget-friendly handheld, the Tang Console offers something unique at a price point that’s hard to beat.
For more details, check out Sipeed’s official announcements on X (Twitter) and their product page.
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I don’t get to share too much news on the 3DO, for those of you who are not familiar, the 3DO company was founded by one of the co-founders from Electronic Arts in 1991, and at the time had a price tag of $699 (approx $1,300 in today’s money). The 3DO Company did not build the hardware itself, each manufacturer built their own, with Panasonic being the most popular model – releasing in 1993.
When it launched, the 3DO was technically advanced. It featured a 32-bit RISC CPU, two custom graphics processors, and support for full-motion video (FMV). It also had a built-in CD-ROM drive, which was not standard then.
It supported daisy-chained controllers, meaning multiple controllers could be connected in a series without the need for separate ports. It also came with stereo sound and high-resolution graphics for its era.
Despite its technological superiority, the 3DO sold poorly due to its high price and lack of killer apps. It sold around 2 million units worldwide, far below competitors like the PlayStation (102m units) or SNES (~49m units).
Anyhow, enough of the history lesson – the 3DO scene, whilst naturally not as big as some of the other consoles from its generation, still has a scene alive and kicking.
In an exciting development for fans of the console, the fan-made port of Mortal Kombat II for the 3DO console has reached its Release Candidate stage, with version 5.01 now available as a public BETA.
Shaun, the developer behind the project, shared this news through the 3DO HD YouTube channel, emphasizing that while this version is still in beta, it marks a significant step towards a complete port for a console that never officially received one.
This project, not affiliated with NetherRealm Studios or Warner Bros., is purely a non-profit fan endeavour. As noted in community comments, the port does not yet include all features from the arcade version, such as fighter-specific fatalities. Current limitations include Shang Tsung only morphing into the opponent and potential audio skips during background changes in the intro and ending scenes. However, Shaun has committed to addressing these and other bugs, as they are reported by the community.
The latest update includes gameplay improvements and bug fixes, with plans for a “complete” version in the future that will feature all the classic MK2 moves including fatalities, babalities, and friendships.
For those interested in contributing to or exploring this nostalgic project, the ISO can be downloaded from Google Drive, and fans can support Shaun’s ongoing work via Ko-fi.
This endeavour showcases the dedication of the retro gaming community to breathe new life into classic games on platforms they were never intended for, celebrating the 30-year legacy of both the game and the console.
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Retro gaming isn’t just about dusting off old cartridges, trying to hook up an ageing console or grabbing a handful of coins for the local arcade. For me, it is a story of how the industry became the juggernaut that it is today, the more basic times when gaming was still a niche hobby. It’s a journey through the stories, innovations, and cultural moments that shaped the massive video game industry we know today.
The more I write about retro, covering news stories and carrying a flame to support the communities that are keeping the retro scene not just surviving, but thriving. Whilst replaying the classics can bring back fond memories, there’s no better way to uncover the behind-the-scenes drama and unsung heroes than reading books dedicated to gaming’s golden eras. In an era of dopamine overload, what better way to give yourself a detox and uncover some of the fascinating stories that made the gaming industry?
Below, you’ll find 10 recommended reads, in no particular order—each offering a unique perspective on the games and consoles that defined generations. Lets begin.
The Ultimate History of Video Games by Steven L. Kent
Why You’ll Love It: This hefty tome covers everything from the earliest computer experiments to the modern console battles. Kent explores iconic companies like Atari, Sega, Nintendo, and more, unveiling how each shaped the industry’s highs and lows. I love the pixel art cover and this book (the first of two) will take pride of place on any coffee table.
Key Takeaway: If you want a thorough overview—complete with anecdotes about the arcade boom, the rise of home consoles, and the role of major players—this is your all-in-one starting point.
It has 847 reviews, giving it 4.6 stars at Amazon and 4.13 ⭐️ from over 2,900 review at Goodreads.
Console Wars: Sega, Nintendo, and the Battle That Defined a Generation by Blake J. Harris
Why You’ll Love It: Get ready for an intense business showdown. Harris weaves a narrative about the cutthroat competition between Sega and Nintendo in the 16-bit era, focusing on Sega of America’s bold marketing tactics and Nintendo’s iconic family-friendly approach. The 90’s console wars were a wild ride.
Key Takeaway: You’ll see how characters like Sonic and Mario weren’t just mascots—they were front-line soldiers in a global corporate battle for gamers’ hearts, and how this battle played out, with Sega being the plucky underdogs taking a great fight to Nintendo.
Its a “Goodreads Choice” award nominee and has a rating of 4.4⭐️ from over 3,700 reviews on Amazon, and 3.97⭐️ from over 11,500 reviews on Goodreads.
Game Over: How Nintendo Conquered the World by David Sheff
Why You’ll Love It: Sheff’s book zooms in on Nintendo’s journey from a humble playing card company to a juggernaut of interactive entertainment. It provides insight into the company’s inner workings, strategies, and the people behind the Mario and Zelda phenomena. Its quite an old book so getting a copy might be a challenge, bit it talks about a time before the modern console wars with Sony and Microsoft taking over from Sega and Atari as Nintendo’s challengers.
Key Takeaway: Learn how Nintendo’s innovations—and sometimes controversial business tactics—reshaped the entire gaming landscape and forced competitors to catch up.
It has 4.6⭐️ from a feeble 28 reviews on Amazon, but a score of 4.1⭐️ from over 1,500 reviews on Goodreads.
Masters of Doom by David Kushner
Why You’ll Love It: Travel back to the early ’90s PC revolution with John Carmack and John Romero, the rockstar developers of Doom and Quake. Kushner’s fast-paced storytelling shines a light on the creative frenzy that turned first-person shooters into a worldwide obsession which is still finding ports to weird and wonderful devices today.
Key Takeaway: Witness how garage start-ups and coding genius changed the face of gaming—sometimes literally overnight—and paved the way for eSports and modding communities.
It has a whopping 4.6 ⭐️ from over 3,300 reviews on Amazon and 4.3 from over 19,000 reviews on Goodreads.
Replay: The History of Video Games by Tristan Donovan
Why You’ll Love It: Donovan’s global perspective sets this book apart. Rather than centring only on North America, it delves into arcade scenes in Europe and Japan, uncovering overlooked pioneers and cultural influences that shaped game design.
Key Takeaway: If you’re curious about the worldwide tapestry of retro gaming—beyond the usual Sega vs. Nintendo focus—this book is a must-read to give you an expanded view.
It has 4.5⭐️ from over 250 reviews on Amazon, and 4.04⭐️ from over 1,400 reviews on Goodreads.
Power-Up: How Japanese Video Games Gave the World an Extra Life by Chris Kohler
Why You’ll Love It: Kohler uncovers how Japanese culture and design philosophies became a driving force in video game innovation. From RPGs like Final Fantasy to Nintendo’s family-friendly hits, you’ll discover what makes Japanese titles so influential and also so different from Western styles.
Key Takeaway: A fantastic read if you love JRPGs, the creativity behind Nintendo’s classics, or the cultural crossover that turned Japanese games into global phenomena.
It gets 4.5⭐️ from over 100 reviews on Amazon and 3.99⭐️ from over 430 reviews on Goodreads.
The CRPG Book: A Guide to Computer Role-Playing Games edited by Felipe Pepe
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for those who spent hours exploring dungeons on classic PC titles. This community-driven project covers the evolution of role-playing games, from text-based adventures on mainframes to groundbreaking hits like Baldur’s Gate and The Elder Scrolls.
Key Takeaway: You’ll discover hidden gems, learn how mechanics evolved, and see how CRPGs paved the way for today’s sprawling open-world epics.
It has a strong 4.8⭐️ from 130 reviews on Amazon and 4.45 reviews from over 240 reviews on Goodreads.
Sega Mega Drive/Genesis: Collected Works by Darren Wall
Why You’ll Love It: A deep dive into the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis era (which for me was the best era of gamine, the Megadrive being my first proper console), this beautifully compiled collection includes artwork, developer insights, and fan-favourite game retrospectives. It also highlights how Sega’s edgy approach contrasted with Nintendo’s family-friendly image.
Key Takeaway: A visual feast and a historical record for anyone who ever popped in a cartridge to play Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage, or Golden Axe.
It has a solid 4.6⭐️ from over 200 reviews on Amazon and 4.5⭐️ from over 50 reviews on Goodreads.
Arcade Perfect: How Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat, and Other Coin-Op Classics Invaded the Living Room by David L. Craddock
Why You’ll Love It: Craddock focuses on the beloved arcade-to-home conversions that fueled the console wars. From Pac-Man’s bumpy journey to the Atari 2600 to the faithful (and not-so-faithful) ports of Mortal Kombat, it’s a fascinating snapshot of how developers tackled arcade magic on limited hardware.
Key Takeaway: Learn about the technical tricks—and occasional flops—behind bringing arcade hits into living rooms, plus the cultural ripple effects of each release.
It gets 4.1⭐️ on Amazon from over 40 reviews and 4.15⭐️ also from over 40 reviews on Goodreads.
The Game Console 2.0: A Photographic History from Atari to Xbox by Evan Amos
Why You’ll Love It: Evan Amos’s updated photographic encyclopedia offers high-quality images and essential details for consoles spanning generations—from the earliest Ataris to modern Xboxes. It’s both a nostalgic trip through gaming hardware and an informative reference that highlights each console’s design and evolution with beautiful photography.
Key Takeaway: If you love the look and feel of classic hardware (or want a visual refresher on every major console in gaming history), this book’s stunning photos and concise summaries make it a perfect coffee-table companion.
It has a stellar 4.9⭐️ from over 650 reviews on Amazon, and 4.45⭐️ from over 140 reviews on Goodreads.
So there you have it, it is not an exhaustive list as there are several amazing books coming out all of the time. Publishers such as Bitmap Books are constantly releasing beautiful new publications celebrating retro games and gaming history. As I try and spend less time glued to my mobile, I al finding a lot of enjoyment in carving out some time to get my kindle and expand my knowledge of gaming history with a good book.
What are your favourite books, have I missed anything – please do let me know in the comments below. Thanks for reading.
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Mark your calendars! Taki Udon’s highly anticipated FPGA-based PlayStation console finally has a name: the Superstation One. Pre-orders for this innovative system are set to open on 25th January 2025, starting at just $149 USD for early backers, making it an exciting and affordable addition for retro collectors.
mark your calendars! Taki Udon’s highly anticipated FPGA-based PlayStation console finally has a name: the Superstation One. Pre-orders for this innovative system are set to open on 25th January 2025, starting at just $149 USD, making it an exciting and affordable addition to the retro gaming world.
The Superstation One isn’t just another retro console—it’s a gateway for both newcomers and enthusiasts to experience gaming history in its truest form. By combining accuracy, affordability, and ease of use, it’s poised to be a game-changer in the FPGA console space.
Pre-orders begin on 25th January 2025 at 9PM EST / 26th January @ 3AM CET.
Tiny Duck Hunt 3D brings back the charm of classic duck-shooting action in a delightful three-dimensional format. The newly released demo, available on Steam, gives players a sneak peek at how developer Siactro has taken a familiar concept and injected it with fun new visuals and mechanics. Veteran gamers will recall the nostalgic rush of clearing flocks of ducks on the NES with your lighgun pressed again the screen – as your trusty dog helps. This modern version packs vibrant colours, smoother animations, and playful touches that appeal to contemporary tastes.
Credit: Steam
One of the standout features in the demo is its light-gun style shooting. Despite not pointing a plastic zapper at the screen, you’ll still feel that arcade-like excitement with each successful shot. There’s even a canine companion who pops up from time to time. The straightforward controls ensure players of all ages can jump in without any fuss.
Credit: Steam
You can grab it here on Steam, ahead of the anticipated release date of 4th March ’25.
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The Virtua Fighter series has been a groundbreaking force in gaming history, widely regarded as the first 3D fighting game when it debuted in 1993. Over time, it inspired iconic franchises like Tekken and Dead or Alive, proving that strategic gameplay could flourish in 3D. Now, to honour 30 years of fighting, Sega is celebrating with a 30th Anniversary Soundtrack Collection.
This special compilation includes every memorable tune from the entire Virtua Fighter catalogue—plus previously unreleased tracks. These hidden scores give us a fresh perspective on the series’ creative journey, letting us peek behind the curtain of Virtua Fighter’s musical evolution.
If you’re looking to grab the 30th Anniversary edition, it’s on Steam right now at a 20% discount. This special sale lasts until 3 February 2025.
Credit: Steam / Virtua Fighter
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If you love a cheeky twist on classic horror, Mega Cat Studios has you covered with The Meating, a retro-style comedic horror experience that’s as colourful as it is silly. The big news? A limited-edition cartridge that actually glows in the dark, giving your game shelf a delightful (yet slightly eerie) glow when the lights go out. It’s a small touch, but it really brings out the playful vibe of The Meating’s tongue-in-cheek storyline.
Credit: Mega Cat Studios
Speaking of story, The Meating doesn’t hold back on laughs or scares. It’s designed for actual retro hardware—so if you’ve still got that trusty old console, you’re in for a proper throwback. The plot, without spoiling too much, revolves around a hodgepodge of comedic horror elements that’ll have you raising an eyebrow one moment and laughing out loud the next. Early adopters have described it as a perfect late-night choice, especially if you like the vibe of cult horror flicks.
Credit: Mega Cat Studios
And then there’s the packaging. The glow-in-the-dark shell isn’t the only thing that sets this release apart. Each limited-edition set comes with a premium slipcover, a fully illustrated manual, and a collector’s box that completes the retro aesthetic. It’s the sort of attention to detail that turns a novelty item into a standout piece. Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone who loves a fresh spin on old-school gaming, The Meating promises a quirky experience topped with a fair share of memorable moments.
Mega Cat Studios prides itself on delivering not just a game, but a whole experience that celebrates vintage design. If you’re itching to add something delightfully offbeat to your collection, this might just be it.
You can find the cartridge on the Mega Cat Studios website for $150 / £124 / €145.95.
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Haunt your collection and sharpen your wits and appetite with #TheMeating's Limited Edition Glow-in-the-Dark #NES Cartridge! 🥩🔥 Unravel the mystery and help the ghostly minotaur put himself back together!
Sega fans have been buzzing lately about a new feature that promises to bring some extra sparkle to their favourite titles: the Sega Account. Officially revealed through Sega’s dedicated website and highlighted by the Ryu Ga Gotoku Twitter account, this online profile system offers tangible bonuses for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Sega’s storied catalogue of games. But what exactly does that mean for the players?
Let’s start with the basics. The Sega Account is a single profile that aims to unify your gaming experiences across a range of Sega properties. Whether you’re a die-hard Sonic fanatic or you can’t get enough of the Yakuza (Ryu Ga Gotoku) series, your new central login is designed to streamline things. Gone are the days of juggling multiple IDs and scattered bonuses. Now, there’s a neat way to manage all your Sega-related perks in one place.
Credit: Sega
One standout element is how Sega is weaving this account system into various game worlds. They’re planning special rewards for account holders, including in-game items, early access to events, and possibly exclusive promotions. It’s not just a corporate checklist—there’s a sense of genuine excitement among fans who’ve already signed up. Some have reported receiving early notices for game updates, while others have seen hints of future collaborations that might be accessible only with this account.
You might wonder if it’s worth signing up, or whether this account is just another email subscription. However, from initial impressions shared online, the sign-up process is straightforward, and the bonuses are pretty compelling. It feels like Sega is really trying to bring fans closer together through a shared hub, offering direct engagement with the community. For folks who’ve been loyal to franchises like Phantasy Star, Virtua Fighter, or the newly revived Jet Set Radio rumours, this is a no-brainer.
Another handy bonus is that the Sega Account is set to evolve. Although details are light, some speculate it could eventually integrate features such as cloud saves or cross-platform progression for certain games. While nothing is confirmed, the mere possibility of more advanced connectivity has intrigued fans who want a cohesive Sega ecosystem. And given the company’s legacy—spanning decades of consoles, arcades, and beloved characters—this push feels like a well-timed nod to Sega’s devoted community.
Of course, it’s also a sign that Sega is interested in deeper fan engagement, rather than simply marketing the next big release. An active, loyal player base is something Sega clearly values, and this new system seems built around that philosophy. For many, it’s about celebrating Sega’s colourful legacy while embracing the promise of what’s next.
If you’re keen on grabbing a Sega Account, you can head straight to the official website. It costs nothing, and you may just get your hands on some cool goodies. And when you’re done exploring, don’t forget to check out our free weekly Retro Gaming Substack at https://retrogamingnews.substack.com for more nostalgic stories. If you’re on the hunt for a safe way to keep your precious retro games intact, look no further than www.retroshell.com—they’ve got premium protectors that’ll save your prized collection from dust, scratches, and clumsy mishaps.
