Bitmap Books presents The SNES Pixel Book, a 272-page hardcover tribute to the golden age of 16-bit gaming on Nintendo’s Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). This meticulously crafted volume showcases thousands of screenshots, sprites, and level maps from iconic titles such as Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Super Metroid. Grouped by genre, the book offers thoughtful insights into the evolution of game design and its lasting impact on today’s video game landscape. Authored by Robert Bannert and Christine Bauer, with translation by Thomas Nickel, the book is encased in a spot-varnished protective slipcase, reflecting Bitmap Books’ commitment to high-quality publications.
Limited Run Games has announced that pre-orders for the Gimmick! 2 Collector’s Edition are now open for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. This sequel to SUNSOFT’s legendary 8-bit platformer Gimmick! invites players to embark on a new adventure with the green yokai Yumetaro, featuring physics-based gameplay, puzzles, and hidden treasures. The Collector’s Edition, priced at $99.99, includes the game with a booklet, a collector’s edition box, original soundtrack, a Yumetaro vinyl figurine with a light-up star and remote, an Ohagi squishy, artbook, and sticker sheet. Pre-orders are available until January 19, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
Limited Run Games has announced that pre-orders for the Slipstream Deluxe Edition are now open for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. Slipstream is a racing game inspired by the visuals, music, and cars from the late ’80s and early ’90s, offering an authentic retro feel with modern gameplay mechanics. The Deluxe Edition, priced at $79.99, includes the game, a deluxe plastic case, soundtrack, 12” x 16” double-sided poster, acrylic standee, and enamel keychain. Pre-orders are available until January 19, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
Retro Mod Works has unveiled the ‘PS Placeable,’ a modification that converts a PlayStation Portable (PSP) into a console-style device resembling a miniature PlayStation 2. This mod allows users to play PSP games on a TV using Bluetooth controllers, all while retaining access to the original UMD drive. The PS Placeable is compatible with PSP-2000 and PSP-3000 models, utilizing the native video output capabilities of these versions. Retro Mod Works offers pre-built units for $274.99, though due to high demand, these are currently waitlisted. Alternatively, they provide a service to modify customer-supplied PSPs for $174.99, and DIY kits are available for those interested in assembling the mod themselves. This innovative project breathes new life into PSP consoles, especially those with broken screens, by repurposing them into functional home consoles.
Indie developer Amaweks has released Marlow, a platform game for the ZX Spectrum 128k inspired by The Great Giana Sisters. Players navigate an apocalyptic world, jumping, stomping on enemies, collecting crystals, throwing molotov cocktails, and breaking blocks across 17 levels and 5 boss battles. The game features 7 catchy soundtracks, 10 full-screen illustrations, and fluid gameplay mechanics. Developed using MPAGD Gen2, Marlow is available for purchase at $6.00 USD.
Indie developer Psyco has launched Microcraft, a fan-made demake of Minecraft designed for the original Game Boy. Developed using GB Studio, Microcraft offers a nostalgic 8-bit rendition of the popular sandbox game, featuring a creative mode where players can build and explore procedurally generated worlds. The game includes a functional seed system for world generation and charming 8-bit renditions of Minecraft’s music. While still in development, future updates are planned to introduce additional features such as survival mode, more mobs, cave systems, and multiplayer support. Microcraft is available for free, with an option to support the developer through donations.
Indie developer A. V. Dossow has released The 14th Axe Wound, a retro-style horror RPG that pays homage to classic slasher films. Players guide a group of stereotypical horror characters through a haunted forest, making strategic choices to survive the relentless pursuit of undead serial killer Mason Mourder. The game features an estimated 35-minute story mode with eight possible endings, a bonus killer mode, original artwork by NewmoniaCute, and an original soundtrack by Dossow. Notably, the game incorporates permanent death mechanics, ensuring that decisions have lasting consequences. The 14th Axe Wound is available for free, with optional contributions to support the developer.
MultiSystem FPGA has announced the development of a new retro gaming console, aiming to provide enthusiasts with an authentic experience across multiple classic platforms. The console utilizes FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) technology to accurately replicate the hardware of vintage gaming systems, ensuring precise gameplay and compatibility. While specific details about supported platforms and release dates are forthcoming, the announcement has generated significant excitement within the retro gaming community.
Columbus Circle has unveiled a new cartridge release of Sol-Deace for the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis. Originally launched in 1992, Sol-Deace is a side-scrolling shoot ‘em up where players pilot the Sol-Deace starfighter to thwart an evil supercomputer’s galactic domination plans. This reissue aims to provide both nostalgic players and new audiences with an opportunity to experience the classic gameplay on original hardware. The cartridge is compatible with both the Mega Drive and Genesis consoles. Pre-orders are now open, with the release date set for December 13, 2024.
The SNES, or Nintendo Super Nintendo Entertainment System is a beloved console from what I consider to be the golden generation of gaming. The limited 8-bit era was over and the stage was set for more colours and better graphics. The two winners of the era were the Sega Megadrive/Genesis, and the Super Famicom, or Super Nintendo.
I was given a Megadrive for my birthday, which made me firmly team Sega – but as I have gotten older, I have learned to appreciate the amazing SNES. So without further ado, I give you my top 20 SNES games ever (my opinion!).
#20 – Mortal Kombat II is a classic fighting game that defined the genre in the 90s. With a roster of iconic characters and brutal finishing moves, it’s a must-play for fans of fighting games. Metacritic score 76%, expect to pay: $15-$90
#19 – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles- Turtles in Time is a classic beat-’em-up with fast-paced action and memorable levels. With up to four player co-op, it’s a great game to play with friends. Metacritic score 87%, expect to pay: $45-$500
#18 – Kirby’s Dream Course is a unique and charming take on mini-golf, featuring the iconic pink character. With fun power-ups and challenging levels, it’s a must-play for fans of Kirby games. Metacritic score 79%, expect to pay: $30-$110
#17 – Star Fox (Star Wing) is a classic on-rails shooter with a memorable cast of characters and iconic levels. With smooth gameplay and a sense of speed, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre. Metacritic score 82%, expect to pay: $15-$50
StarWing SNES Game Box Protector
#16 – F-Zero is a high-speed racing game with futuristic vehicles and challenging courses. With tight controls and a sense of speed, it’s a must-play for fans of the racing genre. Metacritic score 80%, expect to pay: $15-$55
#15 – Super Mario RPG- Legend of the Seven Stars is a classic RPG that combines the best elements of the Mario franchise with traditional RPG mechanics. With a memorable storyline and engaging combat, it’s a must-play for fans of both genres. Metacritic score 88%, expect to pay: $90-$500
#14 – Shadowrun is a classic RPG based on the popular tabletop game. With a deep story and complex character progression, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre and of the franchise. Metacritic score 84%, expect to pay: $60-$150
#13 – ActRaiser is a unique blend of city-building simulation and action platformer. With an epic storyline and memorable music, it’s a must-play for fans of both genres. Metacritic score 79%, expect to pay: $50-$230
#12 – Contra III- The Alien Wars is a fast-paced and challenging run-and-gun shooter. With cooperative multiplayer and memorable levels, it’s a classic that’s still fun to play today.Metacritic score 81%, expect to pay: $30-$225
#11 – Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts is a challenging action platformer that’s known for its difficulty. With tight controls and beautifully designed levels, it’s a classic game that still holds up today. Metacritic score 78%, expect to pay: $20-$210
#10 – Mega Man X2 is a classic action platformer that builds upon the success of its predecessor. With fast-paced action and challenging levels, it’s a must-play for fans of the Mega Man franchise. Metacritic score 83%, expect to pay: $150-$500
#9 – Super Mario All-Stars is a collection of four classic Mario games, updated with improved graphics and sound. It’s a must-have for fans of the franchise and a great way to experience some classic Mario games on the SNES. Metacritic score 87%, expect to pay: $25-$80
#8 – Donkey Kong Country is a landmark platformer with fluid animations and tight controls. Its levels are challenging and well-designed, and its use of pre-rendered graphics was revolutionary at the time. Metacritic score 85%, expect to pay: $10-120
#7 – Super Castlevania IV is a beautifully designed platformer with tight controls and challenging levels. It’s a must-play for fans of the genre, and its stunning visuals still hold up today. Metacritic score 77%, expect to pay: $25-$150
#6 – Secret of Mana is a classic action RPG that features a memorable storyline and engaging combat. With up to three player co-op, it’s a great game to play with friends or family. Metacritic score 87%, expect to pay: $25-$150
#5 – Super Mario World 2- Yoshi’s Island is a charming platformer that puts players in control of Yoshi. The game’s graphics and sound design are distinctive and memorable, and it remains a fan-favorite to this day. Metacritic score 89%, expect to pay: $35-$150
#4 – Super Mario Kart is a classic kart racing game that is still popular today. With fun power-ups and a roster of beloved Mario characters, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre and of Mario games.Metacritic score 82%, expect to pay: $35-$175
#3 – Super Street Fighter II Turbo is a legendary fighting game that defined the genre in the 90s. With a roster of iconic characters and smooth gameplay, it’s a must-play for fans of fighting games. Metacritic score 83%, expect to pay: $20-$150
#2 – Final Fantasy IV is a classic RPG that was ahead of its time. It has a deep story and characters, and was a pioneer in the use of active time battles. It’s still enjoyable to play today. Metacritic score 83%, expect to pay: $50-$500
#1 – EarthBound is a quirky RPG with a unique storyline and humor. Players control a group of kids on a journey to save the world from aliens. It’s a classic and beloved game for fans of the genre. Metacritic score 90%, expect to pay: $400-$2000
So there you have it! Some classic games and great memories. Sadly the Super Nintendo game boxes were made of cardboard, unlike their Sega counterpart, so they are getting more valuable and getting hold of a nice version of these games is getting more and more expensive. If you are a collector and are looking for the best game box protector for your Super Nintendo games, then trust in RetroShell to give you the best Super Nintendo game box protection. Our SNES game protectors are made from 4mm hard acrylic and offer a sliding door for easy access.
