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Fun Things, Uncategorized

Fighting Fantasy Gamebooks Return with New Kickstarter Campaign

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

Fans of classic adventure gamebooks have reason to celebrate—Fighting Fantasy is making a comeback, thanks to a new Kickstarter campaign. The legendary solo adventure series, created by Steve Jackson and Ian Livingstone, is returning to print, giving both longtime fans and new readers a chance to experience these interactive stories once again. I grew up reading these books so it is great to see them being remade for newer generations to enjoy.

The Fighting Fantasy series, which debuted in the early 1980s, revolutionized the gamebook genre by blending branching narratives with dice-based combat and character progression. Each book allows players to make choices that shape the story’s outcome, creating a dynamic and immersive experience. The newly announced Kickstarter campaign aims to bring back several beloved titles in beautifully reprinted editions, staying true to the original while incorporating high-quality production values.

This revival is not just about nostalgia—it’s also an opportunity for a new generation to discover the magic of Fighting Fantasy. With a growing interest in solo tabletop gaming, these books offer an engaging alternative to traditional RPGs. The campaign also promises additional perks for backers, including exclusive editions, collector’s items, and stretch goals that may unlock even more content.

Gamebooks have seen a resurgence in recent years, fueled by digital adaptations and renewed interest in interactive storytelling. The Fighting Fantasy franchise, in particular, has remained a fan favourite, with past titles inspiring video games, role-playing systems, and even board games. The Kickstarter campaign ensures that these timeless adventures remain accessible to modern audiences while preserving their classic appeal.

Presently the campaign has reached £91k massively exceeded the goal of £19,850 and has seen over 2,000 backers despite having 26 days to go. The options for backers are $15 (£12) for a single book up to $60 (£48) for the entire series.

For those who fondly remember rolling dice and navigating treacherous dungeons through the pages of a book, this reprint project is an exciting opportunity to relive the adventure. Whether you’re a veteran adventurer or a newcomer eager to explore the world of Fighting Fantasy, this revival promises to deliver thrilling solo experiences once more.

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Microsoft

Microsoft Explores AI to Bring Classic Xbox Games Back to Life

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

Microsoft is looking toward artificial intelligence as a potential tool for reviving classic Xbox titles. The company has hinted at the possibility of using AI-driven technology to enhance, remaster, or even fully restore beloved games from its extensive back catalogue using its Muse technology.

During a recent discussion, Microsoft executive Phil Spence suggested that AI could assist in modernizing older games by upscaling graphics, improving frame rates, and even restoring missing content. AI-driven restoration techniques have already been used in the gaming industry to remaster textures and voice work, so Microsoft’s move to explore this technology isn’t entirely unexpected.

The potential applications of AI in gaming preservation are vast. From updating older titles with modern features like improved physics and lighting to assisting in porting classic games to newer platforms, AI could play a key role in keeping gaming history accessible to future generations. This initiative aligns with Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to backward compatibility, which has already seen hundreds of legacy Xbox titles made available on newer consoles.

Although Microsoft has yet to confirm specific games that might benefit from AI enhancements, fans have begun speculating on which classics could receive the revival treatment. Titles like Fable, MechAssault, and Crimson Skies remain fan favourites that many would love to see enhanced for modern hardware.

If Microsoft follows through with AI-assisted restoration, it could set a new precedent for the preservation of video game history. With an increasing focus on maintaining and celebrating gaming’s past, AI technology might be the next step toward keeping classic experiences alive for both long-time fans and new audiences.

Fun Things, Nintendo

Nike’s Latest Shoe Design Pays Homage to Donkey Kong Country

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

Nike is no stranger to drawing inspiration from video game culture, and their latest sneaker release is turning heads with a design that subtly nods to Donkey Kong Country. The newly revealed footwear features a distinctive aesthetic reminiscent of the classic platformer, particularly its iconic character design and jungle-themed world.

The inspiration comes from the exaggerated proportions often seen in Donkey Kong Country’s character models, a trait that fans of the franchise will recognize immediately. The sneakers showcase bold, rounded shapes with an oversized silhouette, echoing the “big head” look that was a staple of Rare’s groundbreaking graphics in the 1994 SNES title.

Aside from the playful shape, the shoes incorporate earthy tones, referencing the lush environments of Donkey Kong Island. Hints of brown and green mimic the colour palette of the game’s levels, while subtle design elements—such as textured fabric resembling tree bark—add an extra layer of nostalgia for longtime fans.

While Nike has yet to confirm an official Donkey Kong collaboration, the resemblance has not gone unnoticed by gamers and sneaker enthusiasts alike. This wouldn’t be the first time the brand has leaned into gaming culture—past releases have included designs inspired by Super Mario, PlayStation, and other gaming icons. The name of the shoe is “SWOOSH x Nike Air Max 1” and it is due for a spring ’25 release priced at $150. For more details, you can check out the article on Hype Beast.

For fans of both retro gaming and stylish footwear, this sneaker release is a fun crossover between two beloved worlds. Whether you’re looking to add them to your collection or simply appreciate the gaming references, this latest Nike design is a testament to the lasting influence of Donkey Kong Country on pop culture.

Fun Things, Nintendo

Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Achieve the Impossible—Blindfolded

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

The Super Mario 64 speedrunning community has once again shattered expectations, successfully executing a trick so precise that it was once considered nearly impossible. To make things even more astonishing, it has now been achieved while blindfolded.

The trick in question involves landing Mario on an incredibly tiny in-game coordinate, roughly the size of a single red blood cell in real-world comparison. Previously thought to require frame-perfect accuracy and extensive trial and error, speedrunners have now proven that it can be accomplished without even seeing the game.

Blindfolded speedrunning is already an impressive feat, requiring players to rely entirely on sound cues, muscle memory, and deep knowledge of game mechanics. This latest breakthrough pushes those boundaries even further, demonstrating an almost superhuman level of precision. The accomplishment highlights not only the dedication of the Super Mario 64community but also the game’s enduring complexity, decades after its original release on the Nintendo 64.

Speedrunners have been experimenting with and refining various techniques for years, often uncovering new exploits and mechanics in the process. This blindfolded achievement could open the door for even more refined strategies in future speedrun attempts. It also underscores just how much Super Mario 64 continues to captivate and challenge players worldwide.

While this trick may not have immediate applications for casual play, it adds yet another layer of intrigue to the deep rabbit hole of Super Mario 64’s speedrunning scene. As techniques continue to evolve, it’s anyone’s guess what seemingly impossible feat will be conquered next.

Rom Hack

Jurassic Park 2 for SNES Gets a Stunning Overhaul After 30 Years

Posted on February 20, 2025February 20, 2025 by Owen

More than three decades after its original release, Jurassic Park 2 for the SNES has been given a long-overdue upgrade, thanks to the dedicated efforts of BillyTime!Games. This fan-driven project enhances the classic title with refined visuals, smoother gameplay, and quality-of-life improvements, breathing new life into an often-overlooked sequel.

Originally developed by Ocean Software, Jurassic Park 2: The Chaos Continues launched in the mid-’90s, aiming to build on the success of its predecessor. However, while the game had an ambitious mix of side-scrolling action and top-down exploration, it suffered from clunky mechanics and frustrating difficulty spikes.

The overhaul introduces several key improvements, including infinite continues, More time in some timed missions, health packs giving full health and a few more adjustments.

Well, here it is. Its still a hard game but I feel some of the changes improved it somewhat. May revisit this in the future. Jurassic Park II – The Chaos Continues Redux is LIVE! pic.twitter.com/GF3ea46sI3
— BillyTime!Games (@BillytimeG) February 19, 2025

This project is just the latest example of the retro gaming scene’s commitment to preserving and improving classic games. With homebrew developers and hackers consistently revisiting older titles, forgotten gems like Jurassic Park 2 are getting the recognition and updates they deserve.

While there’s no official re-release in sight, those eager to experience this enhanced version can seek out the mod from Rom Hack Plaza. It’s a great time to revisit the Jurassic Park universe in 16-bit form—only this time, with a much-needed modern touch.

Modern Retro Games

Gold Master Series Brings Classic Games Including Tetris Forever to Physical Form including an Exclusive Handheld

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

For fans of classic gaming, there’s exciting news on the horizon. Digital Eclipse has announced that its Gold Master Series will be receiving physical editions, allowing collectors to own high-quality versions of these carefully curated retro game releases due for release on the 25th of February 2025 from Atari’s website, Limited Run Games, and select retailers internationally.

The Gold Master Series is a line of games dedicated to preserving and celebrating gaming history. Each release is more than just a game—it’s a deep dive into the title’s development, legacy, and impact on the industry. Featuring behind-the-scenes content, developer insights, and historical context, these releases offer a unique look at some of these influential games.

For those looking to grab a copy, multiple editions will be available. The Standard Edition includes the game, a collector’s booklet, and digital extras, priced at $39.99. The Deluxe Edition, priced at $69.99, comes with exclusive packaging, an art book, and a behind-the-scenes documentary. Finally, the Ultimate Collector’s Edition, at $129.99, features all Deluxe Edition content plus a numbered certificate, premium display case, and limited-edition physical memorabilia.

Now, with physical editions confirmed, fans will be able to add these historical collections to their shelves. While details on the packaging and additional content are still forthcoming, expectations are high for premium releases that reflect the same level of care Digital Eclipse has shown in past projects.

This move is particularly exciting for preservationists and collectors who value owning tangible copies of gaming history. In an era where digital distribution dominates, physical releases provide a sense of permanence that many retro gamers appreciate.

With the Gold Master Series already showcasing some of gaming’s greatest titles, these physical editions are shaping up to be must-have additions for fans of video game history.

Fun Things, Nintendo

Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Discover Bizarre Underwater Standing Trick

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

Speedrunners and glitch hunters in Super Mario 64 continue to push the game to its limits, and their latest discovery is as impressive as it is seemingly pointless. A recently unearthed trick allows Mario to stand motionless underwater—a feat that requires an astonishingly precise sequence of 41 button inputs.

The technique, uncovered by dedicated members of the Super Mario 64 speedrunning community, demands an extraordinary level of dexterity and timing. While it currently serves no practical purpose in speedrunning or casual play, it stands as yet another example of the game’s deep and complex mechanics, even decades after its release.

This glitch joins a long list of intricate exploits that fans have found over the years. Super Mario 64 remains one of the most dissected games in history, with speedrunners continuously discovering new ways to manipulate its physics and behaviour. From wall-clipping tricks to movement exploits, each new find contributes to the game’s rich legacy within the speedrunning world.

The discovery of this underwater standing technique may not revolutionize the speedrunning meta, but it highlights just how much Super Mario 64 still has to offer for those willing to dig deep. Whether future research into the glitch leads to a useful application remains to be seen, but for now, it’s a fascinating display of skill, patience, and sheer dedication to uncovering the game’s hidden possibilities.

Modern Retro Games, Retro Gaming News

New Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Remaster Possibly on the Way

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

Fans of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series might have something to get excited about, as a fresh remaster could be in the pipeline. The news didn’t come from an official announcement but rather a casual slip-up by one of the game’s voice actors, leading to immediate speculation among fans.

The Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise has seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks in part to the critically acclaimed remaster of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2. The 2020 release was well-received, with its blend of nostalgic gameplay and modern enhancements. However, Activision has remained tight-lipped about further entries—until now.

According to the unnamed actor, on the Breakfast Show podcast, a new remaster is “about to come out,” though details remain scarce (credit Gematsu). This statement has left fans wondering whether the next title in line is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4, or perhaps another classic entry in the franchise getting the remake treatment.

Given the strong sales of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2, it wouldn’t be surprising if Activision has quietly greenlit another project. The skateboarding series holds a special place in gaming history, and with the growing interest in revitalizing retro franchises, a new instalment could be a major win for both long-time players and newcomers.

While we wait for official confirmation, it’s clear that enthusiasm for the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games remains high. Whether or not this new remaster will live up to expectations is yet to be seen, but the possibility alone is enough to get fans talking.

Fun Things, Microsoft

Building the Ultimate Xbox 360: A Modder’s Dream Console

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

The Xbox 360 remains one of the most beloved gaming consoles of all time, but what if you could take it to the next level? With the right mods, hardware upgrades, and a bit of patience, you can transform a stock 360 into the ultimate custom console. This guide walks you through the process of turning a Trinity model Xbox 360 Slim into a powerhouse of gaming potential.

Why the Trinity Model?

Not all Xbox 360s are created equal. The Trinity model is one of the most reliable versions, boasting improved cooling and significantly reduced risk of the infamous Red Ring of Death. Additionally, it offers excellent compatibility with modding kits, making it an ideal choice for this project.

Essential Mods for the Ultimate Xbox 360

1. RGH 3.0 – Unlocking the Console’s Full Potential

The foundation of any fully modded 360 is the Reset Glitch Hack (RGH 3.0). This allows you to run unsigned code, opening the door to custom firmware, homebrew applications, and backup game installations. The process involves soldering a Quick Solder Board (QSB $5) to specific points on the motherboard, a delicate task requiring some soldering expertise.

The Quick Solder Board – from Phenm Mod.

2. Viper Pro Dual NAND – Dual Boot Like a Pro

A Viper Pro ($35) module adds a second NAND to the console, enabling dual boot functionality. This means you can have one profile running a modified dashboard like Aurora for homebrew and emulators while keeping another profile stock for safe online gaming. Switching between these modes is as simple as pressing a button on the Viper Pro’s daughterboard.

3. Storage Upgrade – 1TB SSD for a Library of Games

Stock hard drives are outdated, and an SSD upgrade dramatically improves load times and storage capacity. Installing a 1TB SSD* (Amazon / ~$44.97) allows you to store a vast collection of games, emulators, and media, eliminating the need for physical discs.

4. Optical Drive Mod – The LTU2 Board

This modification replaces the stock DVD drive board with an LTU2 replacement, allowing custom firmware installation for playing burned games. However, this is a finicky process, and success isn’t guaranteed. Thankfully, alternative methods exist for playing backups through software solutions.

5. Custom Shell – A Visual Masterpiece

A fully upgraded console deserves an aesthetic to match. There are a number of 3rd party options from the likes of Etsy and eBay – but Phenom Mod also do a great clear shell which will set your console apart.

The Final Build: A Gamer’s Dream Machine

With all the modifications complete, the final result is an Xbox 360 unlike any other. Features include:

Custom firmware and homebrew support
Dual NAND setup for safe online gaming
Massive storage with instant game access
The ability to run emulators for classic consoles
A custom shell to give your machine a fresh new look

Still looking for more upgrades, you can upgrade the RAM

Final Thoughts

Modding an Xbox 360 takes time, skill, and patience, but the results are worth it. Whether you’re a collector, a homebrew enthusiast, or just looking to breathe new life into a classic console, these upgrades transform the Xbox 360 into the ultimate gaming machine.

Protect your collection! If you’re serious about retro gaming, safeguard your valuable consoles and games with RetroShell—the world’s finest game protector. And for a weekly dose of retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack, delivered fresh every Monday!

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Modern Retro Games, Nintendo

Limited Run Faces Backlash Over Faulty NES Cartridges

Posted on February 19, 2025February 19, 2025 by Owen

Limited Run Games, a company known for publishing physical editions of modern and retro-inspired titles, is under fire for allegedly producing NES cartridges that could potentially harm consoles. Reports from collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts suggest that these new cartridges may cause damage to the internal components of original NES hardware, sparking concerns across the community.

Rugrats may harm your console, picture credit Limited Run Games

The issue first came to light when multiple users reported their NES systems malfunctioning after using Limited Run’s cartridges. Some claim that improper voltage regulation or poor manufacturing could be to blame, with affected consoles showing symptoms ranging from graphical glitches to complete hardware failure. Given that many retro gamers rely on original hardware for an authentic experience, this controversy has raised serious alarm.

Limited Run Games contacted John Riggs who shared the content of the email (below) where they confirmed that “due to an issue with the voltage regulation, there is a small chance that prolonged use of these titles could result in damage to either the cartridge or the console hardware” 😳. The blame has been put on a supplier that is not their regular partner. The games in question are RugRats and PiioPow, both of which have sold out and are no longer available.

My email from Limited Run. Looks like my copy of Rugrats will just stay in the box.

[image or embed]
— JohnRiggs (@johnriggs.bsky.social) 19 February 2025 at 02:20

This incident underscores the risks associated with modern reproductions of retro hardware. While many companies have successfully released high-quality cartridges in recent years, quality control issues can still arise, and collectors are now questioning whether enough testing was conducted before these products hit the market.

For now, affected users are advising others to avoid inserting these cartridges into their NES systems until further investigation clarifies the risks. The retro gaming community will be closely monitoring the situation, waiting to see if Limited Run responds with a solution or refund policy.

Credit to TimeExtension for breaking this story.

Why the Trinity Model?

Essential Mods for the Ultimate Xbox 360

1. RGH 3.0 – Unlocking the Console’s Full Potential

2. Viper Pro Dual NAND – Dual Boot Like a Pro

3. Storage Upgrade – 1TB SSD for a Library of Games

4. Optical Drive Mod – The LTU2 Board

5. Custom Shell – A Visual Masterpiece

The Final Build: A Gamer’s Dream Machine

Final Thoughts

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