Retro gaming enthusiasts have a chance to own a piece of gaming history with the Hitachi Game & Car Navi High Saturn, now in stock at the BEEP Akihabara store. This Sega Saturn-compatible console is a rare multimedia terminal that could also function as a car navigation system—a unique blend of gaming and practicality.
Credit: Akiba PC Watch
The current stock is a used unit with the following features:
• Missing Components: No box, manual, TV tuner, navigation disc; Navi operation not confirmed
• Monitor: Originally paired with a 4-inch dedicated monitor (sold separately)
The console is priced at 580,000 yen, reflecting its rarity and premium value. Converted into other currencies (as of today’s rates):
• USD: Approximately $4,000
• EUR: Around €3,650
• GBP: About £3,200
A Brief History of the High Saturn
Released in December 1995 by Hitachi, the High Saturn was a multimedia version of the Sega Saturn designed to integrate gaming with in-car navigation—a forward-thinking concept for its time.
• Launch Price:
• Console: 150,000 yen (tax excluded)
The High Saturn in all its glory
While innovative, its high price and niche market focus meant that it saw limited production, making it a rare find today.
The High Saturn’s compact design (252 x 214 x 57mm) made it smaller than the standard Sega Saturn (260 x 230 x 83mm), and it supported dual power supplies: an AC adapter for home use and a car adapter for mobile gaming. This versatility set it apart from other consoles of its era.
Due to its limited circulation and unique concept, the High Saturn has become a highly sought-after collector’s item. The price at BEEP Akihabara highlights its rarity, with original accessories and functionality checks adding to its allure for retro gaming fans.
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This week in gaming has been mostly focused on trying to source a guitar for the PS3 for a reasonable price (and with a dongle), and still playing Marvel Snap and Rivals. I’m also playing a game called Retro Bowl on IOS which is very cool! If anyone has any good IOS games like this, please let me know in the comments.
29 featured stories this week, and I have now added Gamecube, PS1/2, Xbox and Dreamcast to the list of consoles covered. Atari announce a new console, lego Game Boy and a load more.
News
🎮A Wi-Fi and AI-enabled Game Boy game, Do You Like, is in development—blending retro vibes with futuristic tech! [RetroShell] Link
💒Wedding Peach, the SNES party game, just got a brand-new fan translation—perfect for your next retro multiplayer session. [Time Extension] Link
👾The final build of DOOM 64 has arrived for Sega Dreamcast fans, bringing a cult classic to a beloved console. [RetroShell] Link
📱The all-purpose emulator Provenance is now available on iOS, making retro gaming on Apple devices easier than ever. [Gearrice] Link
🌬️Pre-orders are now open for The Secret of the Four Winds Collector’s Edition for Sega Mega Drive/Genesis—secure yours now! [RetroShell] Link
🥋A new Virtua Fighter project was previewed at CES 2025, teasing fans with what’s next for the iconic fighting franchise. [RetroShell] Link
🤖The modular Mecha Comet, priced at $160, is giving us serious DIY Game Boy vibes—retro gaming meets modern ingenuity. [Time Extension] Link
🔥A new Gunstar Heroes: Ultimate Edition ROM hack has dropped for Sega Genesis, packed with fresh features for fans. [RetroShell] Link
🖼️Step into DOOM: The Gallery Experience and explore the game’s art and legacy in an innovative way. [RetroShell] Link
🎮The BackBit Neo Geo ROM cart has been announced at $400, providing new ways to explore the Neo Geo library. [RetroShell] Link
🕹️An XXL arcade machine for Street Fighter Alpha 2 has been unveiled at CES 2025, bringing the iconic title to life on a massive scale. [RetroShell] Link
🌟A homebrew Dreamcast game with 82 playable characters has been released for PC and Android, pushing the boundaries of retro creativity. [RetroShell] Link
Features
💾 Explore the tech revolution fueling retro gaming in 2025 and how it’s shaping the future of nostalgia-driven gaming experiences. [RetroShell] Link
🦔 Sonic Adventure 2 has been adapted twice, but do these versions do justice to the blue blur’s legacy? [CBR] Link
🛡️Uncover the untold story behind Link’s Awakening, one of Nintendo’s most unique Zelda games. [RetroShell] Link
🎮 Relive the console wars with a deep dive into the rivalry between Sega Dreamcast and PlayStation 2—who really came out on top? [CBR] Link
🦁 Games like The Lion King and The Phantom Menace are infamous for being abandoned after one level—find out why! [The Gamer] Link
🍄 Celebrating Super Mario Bros. 3, a game whose legacy redefined what gaming could be—discover its incredible impact. [RetroShell] Link
💥 This Street Fighter Alpha 2 commercial delivered iconic jokes that still resonate with fans today. [EventHubs] Link
🔧 Protect your cherished retro game collection with the best tips and tools for keeping games in mint condition. [RetroShell] Link
🌀 Unlock hidden debug menus in the cult Dreamcast RPG Segagaga with this new patch—fans rejoice! [Time Extension] Link
🧱 A LEGO PS2 design with moving internals could become reality alongside Simpsons and Jumanji kits—dreams really do come true! [Games Radar] Link
Lists & Rankings
🌐Discover the top 10 retro gaming Reddit communities ranked by members for January 2025—find your next favourite group! [RetroShell] Link
🎮Explore the best Nintendo games exclusively available on the Game Boy Advance—classic handheld gems! [Game Rant] Link
💰Dive into the world of the rarest PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 games—find out how much they’re worth today! [Game Rant] Link
🎸Rolling Stone ranks the top 50 video games of all time—see which classics made the cut and which were snubbed! [RetroShell] Link
🔄Forgotten Sega games that truly deserve a remake—relive these hidden gems and imagine the possibilities! [DualShockers] Link
😱From censorship scandals to disturbing themes, these are the most controversial horror games ever created. [Game Rant] Link
👻The scariest enemies in non-horror games—proof that even action and adventure titles can send shivers down your spine! [WhatCulture] Link
The Super Mario Land series holds a special place in gaming history. These Game Boy classics were Nintendo’s first foray into adapting their legendary Super Mario Bros. franchise for a handheld console. Spanning just three games, the series introduced new characters, mechanics, and worlds that still resonate with fans today. Yet, these gems often remain overlooked in favour of Mario’s larger console adventures.
A Game Boy Launch Essential
Released in 1989 as a launch title for the Game Boy, Super Mario Land showcased the console’s potential. The game introduced Sarasaland, a new setting filled with unique kingdoms inspired by real-world locations, such as the Egyptian-style Birabuto and the mysterious Easter Island-inspired Easton. Princess Daisy also made her debut here, adding a fresh face to the Mario universe.
Super Mario Land managed to condense the magic of Mario’s NES adventures into a 12-level portable experience. Despite its brevity and slightly “off” physics, the game sold over 18 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling Game Boy titles of all time.
The Original Box from Japan
Innovating the Mario Formula
In 1992, Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins took the series to new heights. With richer graphics, an overworld map, and new power-ups like bunny ears for hovering, the game felt closer to the console-based Mario games fans knew and loved. This sequel also introduced Wario, the greedy anti-hero who would later star in his own successful series.
Unlike its predecessor, Super Mario Land 2 gave players more freedom to explore non-linear worlds, including the eerie Pumpkin Zone and the whimsical Mario Zone, a giant mechanical version of Mario himself. The game sold over 11 million copies, cementing its place as a Game Boy classic.
Wario’s debut from the game, Super Mario Land 2
Wario Takes the Spotlight
The third instalment, Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3, shifted the spotlight entirely to Wario. Released in 1994, this game introduced slower, treasure-focused gameplay and unique mechanics like Wario’s hat power-ups. It marked the start of the Wario Land series and was a fitting end to the Super Mario Land saga, which had now sold over 34 million units across all three titles.
Not a Mario in sight
Why It Matters
The Super Mario Land series demonstrated Nintendo’s ability to innovate while staying true to their beloved franchise. It introduced enduring characters like Daisy and Wario, while pushing the boundaries of what the humble Game Boy could achieve. Despite their underappreciated status today, these games were instrumental in the Game Boy’s early success.
For collectors and fans, preserving these pieces of gaming history is essential. Protect your treasured Super Mario Land cartridges with a RetroShell premium game protector. And if you’re as passionate about retro gaming as we are, subscribe to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack for more nostalgic deep dives.
Are you ready to dive into retro gaming on your Apple TV? Thanks to Apple relaxing rules on emulators on the Appstore, you can now play your favourite classic Retro games on an Apple TV using a controller—Xbox, PlayStation, or something older like the NES! Let’s walk you through the process step-by-step.
Step 1: Install RetroArch
Head to the App Store on your Apple TV and search for RetroArch. This free app is your gateway to retro gaming. Once installed, open it, and you’ll see a prompt with a web address for transferring files from your computer.
Credit: RetroArch / Appstore
Step 2: Prepare Your ROMs
On your computer, visit the address provided by RetroArch. Use the web interface to create a folder called ROMs (or something similar) for your games. Drag and drop your organised ROM folders (like PS1, GBA, etc.) into the web browser for upload. Want to know the best places to get ROMS – check out the Reddit Guide to Roms.
Pro Tip: Dragging entire folders saves time compared to uploading individual files.
Step 3: Connect Your Controller
• Go to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Bluetooth on your Apple TV.
• Put your controller into pairing mode:
• Xbox: Hold the button on the back until the front light blinks.
• PlayStation: Hold the Share and PS buttons until the light bar blinks.
• Your controller should appear under “Other Devices.” Select it to connect.
Step 4: Update RetroArch
Before diving into games, update RetroArch:
• Navigate to Online Updater and update core info files, assets, controller profiles, cheats, databases, and overlays.
• This ensures a smoother experience and access to the latest features.
Step 5: Customise the Interface
Want a cleaner look?
• Go to Settings > Drivers > Menu and select XMB.
• Restart RetroArch for the new interface, reminiscent of a classic PlayStation dashboard.
Step 6: Scan and Play
• Navigate to ROMs > [Your Game Folder] and select “Scan Directory.”
• RetroArch will scan your games and organise them by system.
• For PlayStation games, select a core (e.g., PCSX ReARMed) the first time you load a game.
Pro Tip: Hover over a game to download its cover art!
Step 7: Play and Enjoy!
Once everything is set up, pick a game, select your emulator, and start playing! Whether it’s Ridge Racer or Super Mario Kart, you’ll be transported back to the glory days of gaming.
Retro gaming news, tips, and unbeatable protection—RetroShell™ and our weekly newsletter have you covered.
SSF Designs has introduced the Virtual Lens Set, a premium replacement for the aging plastic lens covers of the Nintendo Virtual Boy. Available for $23.99 at Stone Age Gamer, this set aims to rejuvenate your console’s visual clarity, ensuring a pristine gaming experience.
Credit: Stone Age Gamer / SSF Designs
Key Features:
• Complete Set: Includes two lenses, catering to both eyes, for a comprehensive upgrade.
• User-Friendly Installation: Designed for easy replacement, allowing gamers to swiftly enhance their console without hassle.
• Enhanced Light Blocking: Engineered to reduce external light interference, minimizing unwanted light bleed and enhancing immersion.
Over time, original Virtual Boy lenses can accumulate scratches and degrade, diminishing the overall gaming experience. The Virtual Lens Set addresses these issues, offering a straightforward solution to restore visual fidelity.
For optimal performance, it’s recommended to handle the lenses by their red plastic sides during installation to prevent fingerprints and dust accumulation. Cleaning with a camera lens cloth or isopropyl alcohol can further maintain their clarity.
For a detailed installation guide, SSF Designs provides a helpful video tutorial.
In addition to the Virtual Lens Set, Stone Age Gamer offers a range of accessories and replacement parts for the Virtual Boy, including foam visors and eye shade holders, enabling enthusiasts to fully refurbish their classic consoles.
Preserving the condition of retro gaming hardware is essential for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Upgrading components like the lens covers can significantly enhance the longevity and enjoyment of these classic systems.
For those looking to protect their physical game collections, consider investing in RetroShell premium game protectors. Stay informed about the latest in retro gaming by subscribing to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.
In 1990, the video game industry was ablaze with innovation. Handheld gaming was the new frontier, ignited by Nintendo’s release of the Game Boy in 1989. This monochrome marvel was so successful that Nintendo projected sales of 9 million units by the end of 1990. Atari entered the scene with the Lynx, boasting the first backlit colour display for handhelds. Meanwhile, NEC introduced the TurboExpress, a portable rendition of their TurboGrafx-16 console. Even Sega, Nintendo’s eternal rival, was crafting its handheld, the Game Gear.
Among the titans, a small company from San Jose, California, dared to dream big. BDL Enterprises, led by engineer Paul Biederman, envisioned something revolutionary: a portable version of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Their creation, The Express, promised a gaming experience that could have rivalled the heavyweights of its time. But what happened to this ambitious project? And why did it never see the light of day?
Credit TechEBlog
The Rise of BDL Enterprises
Before diving into The Express, let’s rewind to the origins of BDL Enterprises. Founded in 1989 by Paul Biederman, a former Capcom technician, the company initially carved a niche in arcade technology. Biederman’s expertise in designing testing equipment for coin-operated games quickly earned his firm respect in the industry. Products like JAMMA and monitor testers were their bread and butter, and they even dabbled in contract work for Capcom.
But Biederman’s aspirations didn’t stop at arcade machines. Recognising the explosive growth of home gaming, he ventured into consumer electronics. The company’s first retail product, the Turbo Blaster, allowed NES controllers to gain turbo and slow-motion functionality. Retailing at $39.99, the device was well-received and even became an officially licensed Nintendo product, earning a feature in Nintendo Power Magazine.
Strong name
It was a solid start, but Biederman had his sights set on something much bigger.
The Express: A Portable NES Ahead of Its Time
Biederman’s next brainchild was The Express, a compact, fully functional NES shrunk down to portable size. By meticulously stripping unnecessary circuitry from the NES motherboard, he created a new board measuring just 3 x 5 inches. Housed in a sleek shell, The Express was six inches wide, up to 10 inches long, and two inches thick.
This wasn’t a mere prototype—it was a technological marvel. The console featured:
• A 4-inch backlit colour screen.
• Built-in speakers with simulated stereo sound.
• A headphone jack.
• Ports for NES controllers (later replaced with an integrated controller).
• The ability to play nearly every NES game (excluding Zapper games).
Running on four C batteries, BDL claimed The Express could deliver 30 to 40 hours of gameplay. While these figures were never verified, the potential was undeniable. At an estimated retail price of $149–$169, it was on par with the Atari Lynx but far more versatile.
An early article from Electronic Gaming Magazine
Nintendo’s Reluctance: A Roadblock Too Big to Overcome
In 1990, Biederman presented The Express to Nintendo of America, hoping to secure a manufacturing license. But despite its promise, Nintendo turned him down. Their reason? The concept didn’t align with their long-term marketing strategy.
The rejection wasn’t entirely surprising. Nintendo had no incentive to support a product that might cannibalise sales of their Game Boy or even the NES itself. Why risk undermining two of their best-performing products for a third, untested contender?
Gaming magazines were quick to criticise Nintendo’s decision. Electronic Gaming Monthly called it unfair, arguing that The Express could have helped Nintendo fend off competitors like the Atari Lynx. Meanwhile, GamePro and Game Players Magazine speculated that Nintendo might have had their own portable NES in development. But for BDL Enterprises, the door was firmly closed.
Second page of the article above
The Aftermath: A New Opportunity with Camerica
Undeterred, Biederman continued innovating. By the end of 1990, he had developed a Game Boy-to-NES adapter, a product aimed at making Game Boy games playable on NES consoles. Enter Camerica, a Canadian company infamous for its unlicensed gaming products, including the Game Genie. Camerica showed interest in both The Express and the Game Boy-to-NES adapter, even announcing plans to bring them to market in 1991.
However, Camerica’s legal troubles with Nintendo, coupled with internal issues (like routing their 1-800 number through Cuba), led to the company’s closure in 1992. With Camerica gone and Nintendo unwilling to collaborate, BDL Enterprises quietly faded away. By July 1992, the company was listed as inactive.
A Legacy That Lives On
Though The Express never hit store shelves, its concept foreshadowed the future of gaming. Portable versions of home consoles eventually became a reality. The TurboExpress, Sega Nomad, and even today’s Nintendo Switch owe a debt to pioneers like Biederman.
In 2005, when NES patents expired, a flood of clone consoles hit the market, reviving interest in retro gaming. By 2012, devices like the RetroDuo Portable allowed players to enjoy NES cartridges on the go—a dream Biederman had envisioned over two decades earlier. Interestingly, there is a Retro Due V2 due out in 2025.
The now-defunct Retro Duo
Protect Your Retro Gaming Legacy
The story of The Express is a reminder of how innovation can shape the gaming world, even if it doesn’t immediately succeed. For retro gaming enthusiasts, preserving the past is more important than ever. That’s why protecting your classic games with RetroShell’s premium protectors is essential. Keep your cartridges safe from dust, scratches, and the wear of time.
Want more stories like this? Subscribe to the Retro Gaming Newsletter for the latest news and fascinating features about gaming history: https://retrogamingnews.substack.com.
My Arcade has announced the upcoming release of the Super Retro Champ, a handheld console capable of playing original Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis cartridges. First introduced at CES four years ago, the device is now set to launch later this year for $149.99, an increase from the originally planned $110.
Console Wars Over? (Credit: My Arcade)
The Super Retro Champ features slots for both SNES and Genesis cartridges, accommodating international versions like Super Famicom and Mega Drive. Its design includes a six-inch screen with substantial bezels, and while it can function as a handheld with a rechargeable battery, it’s more suited for tabletop use with its folding stand, connected controllers, and power adapter. Additionally, the console offers an HDMI port for TV connection, though it doesn’t support high-definition output.
Portable, kind of. (Credit: My Arcade)
This device caters to retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a versatile way to enjoy their classic game collections. However, its bulky design and lack of HD support may be considerations for potential buyers.
For those looking to preserve their physical retro game collections, consider protecting your cherished games with a RetroShell premium game protector. Stay updated on the latest in retro gaming by subscribing to our newsletter at Retro Gaming Substack.
Homebrew developer ZVitorhas unveiled his latest project: “DC Task Force.” This fan-made game allows players to explore the expansive DC Comics universe, assembling a personalized Justice League to defend Earth from an alien invasion.
“DC Task Force” boasts an impressive roster of 82 playable characters, featuring iconic heroes such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern. Additionally, the game includes unexpected guest appearances from characters like Major Dutch Schaefer and Lieutenant Linn Kurosawa from Capcom’s “Alien vs. Predator” arcade game, The Mask from Dark Horse Comics, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles along with Master Splinter.
The game’s campaign is designed to be completed in just over an hour, but fully exploring the universe and recruiting all available characters can provide up to seven hours of gameplay. Players can visit classic DC locations, adding depth and nostalgia to the experience.
As with ZVitor’s previous projects, “DC Task Force” is an unofficial fan game and is available as a free download for both Windows and Android platforms. Fans of the DC universe and retro gaming enthusiasts can download the game from ZVitor’s official website.
For those looking to preserve their physical retro game collections, consider protecting your cherished games with RetroShell’s premium game protectors. Stay updated on the latest in retro gaming by subscribing to our Retro Gaming Substack.
Nintendo and LEGO have once again delighted fans by announcing their latest collaboration: a LEGO version of the iconic Game Boy. Set for release in October 2025, this nostalgic creation is the latest addition to a series of Nintendo-themed LEGO sets that have been thrilling retro gaming enthusiasts for years.
The LEGO Game Boy is expected to include buildable details like game cartridges, much like the immensely popular LEGO NES set launched in 2020. This partnership between two powerhouse brands has been a resounding success, starting with the LEGO Super Mario line in 2020 and evolving to include everything from themed courses to full-scale console recreations.
For those who grew up in the 90s, the Game Boy is more than just a console—it’s a cultural icon. LEGO’s rendition promises to capture that spirit, offering fans a chance to relive their childhood in brick form. While no images or further details have been revealed yet, anticipation is already at a fever pitch. Could we also see a Tetris cartridge included in the set? Fingers crossed!
This announcement also coincides with LEGO’s recent expansion of Nintendo-themed sets, such as the LEGO Mario Kart. Nostalgia sells—and when paired with the tactile joy of LEGO building, it’s a match made in retro heaven.
If you’re planning to preserve the classics, don’t forget to protect your original games with RetroShell’s premium game protectors. They’re the perfect way to keep your collection safe for years to come.
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 has once again proven to be a playground for retro gaming enthusiasts. My Arcade, a leading name in the retro gaming scene, joined forces with Atari to unveil the Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro, a cutting-edge pinball machine with a nostalgic twist. This collaboration is yet another testament to the undying charm of classic gaming in the modern tech world.
Credit: MyArcade
A Retro-Modern Marvel
For those who grew up in arcades, the Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro is like a time machine—but with a high-tech engine. The pinball machine integrates Atari’s classic gaming heritage with state-of-the-art features, offering players a tactile, immersive experience that pays homage to the golden era of gaming while embracing the future.
Designed for both seasoned pinball players and newcomers, the Pinball Player Pro features vibrant LCDs, immersive soundtracks, and lightning-fast mechanics. It’s a brilliant example of how timeless design and modern engineering can collide to create something truly unique. CES attendees were treated to hands-on demos, and early impressions suggest that this is more than just a pretty machine—it’s set to be a game-changer for pinball enthusiasts.
Credit MyArcade
Why It Matters
Pinball machines, once ubiquitous in the 70s and 80s, have seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks to retro gaming’s growing popularity. Atari and My Arcade’s new creation doesn’t just ride the retro wave; it pushes it forward. With collectors and gamers alike clamouring for physical gaming experiences, this launch could spark a revival in home-based arcade setups.
It also taps into the wider nostalgia trend that has taken over pop culture. Whether it’s the return of vinyl records, remakes of classic films, or vintage gaming, people are looking to reconnect with simpler times. Atari and My Arcade have smartly positioned themselves at the centre of this cultural phenomenon.
A Sign of Things to Come?
This partnership hints at a potential revival for other Atari classics. Could we see updated versions of Pong, Asteroids, or Centipede next? If the buzz around this release is any indication, the retro gaming market is far from tapped out. Atari’s brand power, combined with My Arcade’s hardware expertise, is a promising formula that could pave the way for even more ambitious projects.
If you’re a retro gaming fan, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year. The Atari Balls of Steel Pinball Player Pro promises to reignite arcade nostalgia while setting new standards for pinball enthusiasts.
As retro gaming continues its triumphant return, now’s the perfect time to protect your classics. Keep your favourite retro games pristine with RetroShell premium game protectors—because your collection deserves the best. Visit www.retroshell.com today.
Love retro gaming? Don’t miss out on the latest updates, reviews, and nostalgia-filled stories! Subscribe to the Retro Gaming Newsnewsletter here: https://retrogamingnews.substack.com.
