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Tag Archives: retro gaming

New Hardware For Retro, Nintendo, Sony

MemCard Pro Series Receives Exciting Firmware Updates

Posted on by Owen

8Bit Pro’s MemCard Pro lineup, renowned for revolutionizing memory solutions for classic gaming consoles, has recently introduced several firmware updates, enhancing functionality and user experience across its products.

Credit: 8BitMods

MemCard Pro GC Firmware v2.0.2

The GameCube variant of the MemCard Pro has been updated to firmware version 2.0.2, introducing:

• Default Boot Card Selection: Users can now designate a default memory card to load upon startup, streamlining the gaming experience.

• Card Template Feature: An existing card can serve as a template for new cards, preserving preferred settings and configurations.

• Bug Fixes: Enhancements include improved on-screen error handling and resolution of issues related to specific games like “Puyo Pop Fever.”

MemCard Pro2 Firmware v1.2.0

The MemCard Pro2, compatible with PlayStation 1, 2, and 3, has been updated to firmware version 1.2.0, featuring:

• Card Templates: Users can create templates for new virtual memory cards, ensuring consistency across multiple cards.

• OLED Display Rotation: The display can now be flipped 180 degrees, accommodating various hardware setups.

• Enhanced Cloud Backup Setup: The WebUI now provides guidance on configuring cloud backups, simplifying data preservation.

• Additional Improvements: Faster firmware installation, increased drive strength for better compatibility with third-party peripherals, and various bug fixes.

MemCard Pro GC Cloud Saves

A significant update for the MemCard Pro GC introduces cloud backup capabilities:

• Cloud Backups: Users can back up their memory cards to Google Drive, with plans to support additional providers in future updates.

• Screen Rotation: The OLED display can be flipped 180 degrees, beneficial for Nintendo Wii users.

• Performance Enhancements: Overall performance improvements, including faster SD card access and reduced firmware update times.

These updates demonstrate the ongoing commitment to enhancing the MemCard Pro series, providing retro gaming enthusiasts with modern features and improved performance. You can get the beta firmwares on the 8bitMods Discord server.

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Nintendo, Rom Hack

The Legend of Zelda: Dreaming Island – A Restoration of Link’s Awakening’s Original Vision

Posted on by Owen

The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, released in 1993 for the Game Boy, has long been celebrated for its unique charm and engaging gameplay. However, recent discoveries from the 2020 Gigaleak have unveiled aspects of the game’s original design that were altered or omitted in the final release. Enter “Dreaming Island,” a comprehensive ROM hack that seeks to restore these elements, offering players a glimpse into what Link’s Awakening might have been.

Credit: Romhack Plaza

Restoring the Overworld and Characters

One of the most significant restorations in Dreaming Island is the overworld map. The hack reinstates the original map design, complete with areas like Kakariko Village, Hyrule Castle, Death Mountain, and the Eastern Palace. These locations initially intended to mirror those in A Link to the Past, provide a more expansive and varied world for players to explore.

In addition to the overworld, several non-playable characters (NPCs) have been reintroduced. Notably, Princess Zelda, who was absent from the final version of Link’s Awakening, now appears in the sanctuary. Other characters, such as the Old Man from the original The Legend of Zelda and Aginah from The Desert Sanctuary, enrich the game’s narrative and depth.

Credit: Romhack Plaza

Enhanced Gameplay and Debug Features

Dreaming Island doesn’t stop at visual and character restorations. The hack includes a debug pre-save labelled “ZELDA,” granting players all items, 10 hearts, and 509 rupees—mirroring early press screenshots of the game. This feature allows for immediate exploration and experimentation within the restored world.

Moreover, players can utilize debug functions such as warping to any location via the mini-map and toggling collision detection, providing a more flexible and user-friendly experience.

Accessing Dreaming Island

To experience Dreaming Island, players need to apply an IPS patch to a legitimate copy of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (USA, Europe) ROM (v1.0). Detailed instructions and the necessary patch file are available on RomHack Plaza.

Credit: Romhack Plaza

A Tribute to Zelda’s Legacy

Dreaming Island serves as both a tribute to the original vision of Link’s Awakening and a testament to the dedication of the fan community. By restoring these unused elements, the hack offers a fresh yet nostalgic experience for both new players and longtime fans of the series.

For more information and to download the patch, visit RomHack Plaza.

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Retro Gaming News

Super Metroid Soundtrack Reimagined: ‘From the Depths of Zebes’ LP Now Available

Posted on by Owen

Super Metroid enthusiasts have a reason to celebrate with the release of “From the Depths of Zebes: Super Metroid Resynthesized” LP. This album offers a meticulously recreated version of the iconic 1994 game’s soundtrack, providing a fresh auditory experience for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Credit: Pixelcrib

The project is the brainchild of Louisiana-based composer and producer Jammin’ Sam Miller. Miller painstakingly reconstructed the original compositions by sourcing the exact instruments and samples used in the game’s development. He translated the MIDI data into a contemporary studio setting, incorporating modern mixing techniques to enhance the sound quality. Miller explains, “This was made possible by locating the original instrument samples from workstation keyboards and drum machines before they were put into the game and rebuilding the soundtrack from the ground up, applying some modern mixing techniques along the way to lift the veil of 16-bit compression and create an updated listening experience.”  

The album is pressed on biovinyl, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional vinyl. Biovinyl replaces petroleum-based materials with recycled substances like used cooking oil or industrial waste gases, resulting in a significant reduction in CO2 emissions during production. Additionally, biovinyl is fully recyclable and reusable, aligning with sustainable production practices.  

Credit: Pixelcrib

The LP features 27 tracks, including memorable pieces such as “Theme of Super Metroid,” “Brinstar Overgrown With Vegetation Area,” and “Mother Brain.” Each track captures the atmospheric essence of the original game, blending ambient soundscapes with dynamic synth arrangements that mirror protagonist Samus Aran’s journey through the alien world of Zebes.

For those interested in adding this unique piece to their collection, “From the Depths of Zebes: Super Metroid Resynthesized” is available for purchase through PixelCrib, a retailer specializing in video game music and memorabilia.

In addition to this release, PixelCrib offers other Metroid-inspired albums, such as “Samus & Chill,” which reimagines music from the franchise in a lofi hip hop style.  

Whether you’re a vinyl collector, a Super Metroid fan, or someone who appreciates video game music, this album provides a nostalgic yet refreshed listening experience that pays homage to one of gaming’s most acclaimed soundtracks.

For the latest updates on retro gaming and related releases, consider subscribing to the Retro Gaming Substack. Additionally, if you’re a retro gaming collector, don’t forget to preserve your physical game treasures with a RetroShell premium game protector.

Nintendo

Better eShop: A Fresh Alternative to Nintendo’s Online Store

Posted on by Owen

Nintendo Life has introduced the ‘Better eShop’, aiming to enhance the shopping experience for Nintendo Switch users. This initiative addresses common frustrations with the official eShop, such as limited content filters, discoverability issues, and the absence of user reviews.

Credit: Better e-Shop

The Better eShop offers features including content filters, improved discoverability, user reviews, faster loading times, a shopping cart, and background music. While it links to Nintendo’s official marketplace for purchases, it provides a more user-friendly interface for browsing. Nintendo Life plans to add wishlist functionality, screenshots, and more in the future.

It’s worth noting that Nintendo has been criticized for its handling of the eShop, with developers calling for action against ‘cheap fakes’ and other issues.  

For retro gaming enthusiasts, it’s essential to protect your physical game collection. Consider using a RetroShell premium game protector to keep your games in pristine condition. Additionally, stay updated with the latest retro gaming news by subscribing to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.

Nintendo

Super Mario 64 Player Discovers New Log-Clipping Glitch

Posted on by Owen

In the ever-evolving world of Super Mario 64 discoveries, a dedicated player has unearthed a peculiar glitch involving a log, a cliff, and an extraordinary amount of patience. By executing a precise 34-frame loop repeatedly—approximately 2.8 million times over 36 days—the player managed to make a log drift through a cliff. As of now, this glitch has no known practical application in gameplay or speedrunning.

The Discovery

The glitch was identified by a member of the Super Mario 64 community, showcasing the game’s complex mechanics and the dedication of its fanbase. The process involves meticulous timing and repetition, highlighting the intricate possibilities within the game’s physics engine.

Due to floating point imprecision, the rolling log in Tall, Tall Mountain in Super Mario 64 can be very slowly manipulated to go sideways through the cliff. It takes 36 days of nonstop manipulation to reach the limit of how far it can go. This has no currently known purpose.

[image or embed]

— Supper Mario Broth (@mariobrothblog.bsky.social) 13 January 2025 at 19:30

Implications for Speedrunning

While the glitch doesn’t currently offer advantages for speedrunners, it adds to the collective understanding of Super Mario 64’s inner workings. The community often explores such anomalies to find potential time-saving strategies or to gain deeper insights into the game’s design.

A Testament to Community Dedication

This discovery underscores the enduring passion and curiosity of the Super Mario 64 community. Even decades after its release, players continue to explore and uncover new aspects of the game, contributing to its lasting legacy in the gaming world.

For more in-depth coverage on retro gaming discoveries and community insights, subscribe to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack and preserve your gaming treasures with RetroShell, the ultimate protector for collectors.

Collecting, Gaming History, Retro Gaming News

GOG Joins European Federation to Bolster Game Preservation Efforts

Posted on by Owen

GOG, a prominent European digital game distribution platform, has become a member of the European Federation of Game Archives, Museums, and Preservation Projects (EFGAMP). This coalition, established in 2012, is dedicated to preserving video games as cultural heritage.

Credit: GoG

EFGAMP comprises over 20 heritage institutions, including VIGAMUS in Rome, MO5.COM in France, and the Computerspielemuseum in Berlin. GOG’s inclusion marks the first Polish institution to join, bridging the private sector with cultural organizations across Europe.

Maciej Gołębiewski, Managing Director at GOG, stated, “GOG was created with video game preservation in mind.” He highlighted the GOG Preservation Program, launched in 2024, which ensures compatibility for over 100 classic games, delivering hundreds of enhancements to keep them accessible on modern systems.

Andreas Lange, COO of EFGAMP, welcomed GOG’s membership, noting that GOG’s experience in making classic games accessible complements the work of existing members and brings additional digital expertise to collective preservation efforts.

GOG’s collaboration with EFGAMP underscores the growing importance of preserving digital media. As concerns about the disappearance of digital content increase, initiatives like this play a crucial role in maintaining access to the titles that have shaped the gaming medium.

By joining EFGAMP, GOG reinforces its dedication to protecting gaming’s cultural legacy, ensuring that players worldwide can continue to enjoy classic games for years to come.

For more information, visit the official announcement.

Collecting, Retro Gaming News

Hand-Drawn Game Guides: Mega Man – Funded in 12 Minutes

Posted on by Owen

NF Publishing, LLC has launched a Kickstarter campaign for an officially licensed, fully hand-illustrated guide to the original Mega Man game – and it got funded in 12 minutes.

Credit: Kickstarter / Capcom

Campaign Highlights:

• Official Licensing: This guide is officially licensed by Capcom, ensuring authenticity and quality.

• Hand-Drawn Illustrations: Every page is meticulously hand-illustrated, capturing the essence of the original game.

Credit: KickStarter

• Comprehensive Coverage: The guide offers detailed walkthroughs, enemy profiles, boss strategies, and more, making it an invaluable resource for both newcomers and seasoned players.

• Collector’s Item: With its unique artistic approach, this guide serves as both a functional manual and a collectable piece of art.

Supporting the Project:

Backers can choose from various pledge levels, each offering different rewards, including digital copies, physical books, and exclusive merchandise. The campaign aims to raise funds to cover production costs, ensuring that the final product meets the highest standards.

Why It Matters:

In an era dominated by digital media, this hand-drawn guide offers a tangible connection to the classic gaming experience. It celebrates the artistry and challenge of the original Mega Man, providing fans with a nostalgic journey back to the game’s roots.

For more details and to support the project, visit the Kickstarter page.

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New Games, Sega

P-47 II MD: Unreleased Jaleco Shoot ’Em Up Revived After 35 Years for the Sega Megadrive/Genesis

Posted on by Owen

Retro-Bit Publishing, in collaboration with City Connection, has announced the revival of “P-47 II: The Freedom Star,” an unreleased shoot ’em-up game originally developed by Jaleco for the Sega Mega Drive in the early 1990s. After 35 years, this title is now available for pre-order as “P-47 II MD.”

“P-47 II MD” is a horizontal scrolling shooter that serves as a sequel to Jaleco’s arcade hit “P-47: The Phantom Fighter.” The game retains the classic shoot ’em up mechanics, challenging players to navigate through enemy-infested skies, dodging bullets and unleashing powerful attacks. The revival aims to deliver an authentic retro gaming experience, preserving the original gameplay while ensuring compatibility with modern hardware.

The physical release is priced at $54.99 USD (€69.99 EUR) and includes:

• Clear Black Cartridge: Paying tribute to the original arcade game, the cartridge features a clear black shell, allowing visibility of the red circuit board within.

• Reversible Inlay Artwork: The game case includes reversible cover art, showcasing Tankro Kato’s artwork on one side and the P-47 aircraft’s tail design on the other.

• Full-Color Instruction Manual: A comprehensive manual providing game setup instructions and background information.

• Individually Numbered Slipcover: Each copy comes with a protective slipcover featuring the main artwork and gameplay screenshots.

• 8cm Mini CD Soundtrack: A first for Retro-Bit, this release includes a mini CD featuring the original game’s soundtrack, allowing fans to enjoy the game’s music outside of gameplay.

Credit: retro-bit

Pre-orders are open from January 14 through February 16, 2025, with the game available through various retailers in North America and Europe. Given the limited nature of this release, enthusiasts and collectors are encouraged to secure their copies within the pre-order window.

Credit: retro-bit

For more information and to place a pre-order, visit Retro-Bit Publishing’s official website.

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Protect your retro game collection with a RetroShell premium game protector.

New Games, Nintendo

Annihilator: A Gritty Top-Down Shooter for the Game Boy Colour

Posted on by Owen

“Annihilator” is a new top-down shooter developed by SALT & PIXEL for the Game Boy Color. In this game, players control Shinryu, an ex-marine and activist who awakens from a robotic slumber seeking revenge against the corporation CRUSH, which has taken his family, life, and body. 

Credit: SaltAndPixel / Itch

The game features:

• Gameplay Modes: Three difficulty levels—Easy, Normal, and Hard—each offering a unique challenge.

• Controls: Simple controls with shooting, dodging, and item usage, optimized for the Game Boy Color.

• Cutscenes: Optional cutscenes that can be toggled on or off.

“Annihilator” is available for purchase at $10.00 USD, with a demo version also accessible for those who wish to try the game before buying. 

For the latest updates and to join the community, players can visit the developer’s page. 

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Modern Retro Consoles, New Games

Evercade Unveils Indie Heroes Collection 4: A Retro Gaming Treasure Trove

Posted on by Owen

Evercade has announced the upcoming release of “Indie Heroes Collection 4,” a curated selection of 11 modern retro games crafted by indie developers. This collection is set to launch in February 2025, with pre-orders opening on January 30th. 

The compilation features a diverse array of genres, including platformers, puzzle games, and action-packed adventures, all designed to evoke the charm of vintage gaming. Notable titles in this collection include:

• The Curse of Illmoore Bay: Battle supernatural forces in this action-packed platformer.

Credit: Evercade

• Block’Em Sock’Em: A fun and fast-paced puzzle brawler where strategy meets chaos.

• Nyghtmare: The Ninth King: Explore a haunting realm in this dark fantasy action-adventure.

• Jane Austen’s 8-Bit Adventure: Dive into a charming, literary-inspired journey filled with wit and puzzles.

• Collie Defense: Strategically protect your territory in this quirky defense game.

• Flea!2: Henry the Flea is back in this precision platformer for Evercade.

• Batty Zabella: Batty Zabella’s beloved Husbano has disappeared, and it’s up to you to help her find him in this saucy, spooky adventure for Evercade.

• Murtop: Murti the bomb-pooping rabbit has a mission: eliminate all the nasty moles!

Credit: Evercade

• Soko Banana: An 8-bit puzzler designed in the style of the classic Sokoban block-pushing formula.

• Block Droppin’: Classic “match three” gameplay comes to Evercade with this block-swapping puzzler.

• Starseed: Embark on an interstellar journey in this engaging space-themed adventure.

Each game has been previously featured in Evercade’s “Game of the Month” series, allowing players to experience a variety of indie titles throughout the year. The physical cartridge will be compatible with all Evercade and HyperMegaTech! Super Pocket devices, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of players. 

Priced at £19.99, $24.99, and €24.99, the collection offers an affordable opportunity for gamers to explore new titles inspired by classic gaming aesthetics. The package includes a full-colour manual, providing insights into each game’s development and gameplay mechanics. 

For those interested in securing a copy, pre-orders will be available through Evercade’s official retailers starting January 30th. Given the popularity of previous Indie Heroes collections, enthusiasts are encouraged to act promptly to ensure availability. 

For more information and to stay updated on the latest developments, visit Evercade’s official website

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