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Tag Archives: Sega

Retro Gaming News

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0139

Posted on by Owen

In this week’s newsletter we cover the greatest Game Cube games, linking the Dreamcast and the Neo Geo pocket, the rise of retro and a load more.

News

🛡️ Halo meets Hyrule – A modder has introduced Halo-inspired weapons and vehicles into The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, blending two iconic gaming franchises. Retroshell

🕹️ New classics on Switch Online – Donkey Kong ’94 and Mario’s Picross are now available on Nintendo Switch Online, expanding its library of retro games. Polygon

🇯🇵 Suda51’s lost story translated – A fan translation of Super Fire Pro Wrestling Special makes the game’s dark and legendary narrative accessible to Western audiences. Retroshell

🎮 NES history at GDC 2025 – GDC attendees are invited to explore the lost history of the Nintendo Entertainment System in a special presentation. GoNintendo

🐷 Snout lands on Game Boy Color – Snout, a new Game Boy Color adventure, is seeking funding on Kickstarter, promising fresh retro-style gameplay. Retroshell

🔍 Zelda’s hidden secrets – A deep dive into The Legend of Zelda series reveals fascinating hidden details and Easter eggs that many fans may have missed. Ranker

🦖 Baby T-Rex returns – The classic dinosaur platformer Baby T-Rex is making a comeback on the Game Boy, reviving a nostalgic adventure. Retroshell

🚀 Sigma Star Saga DX preorders open – Preorders are now live for Sigma Star Saga DX, a revamped version of the Game Boy Advance cult classic. Capsule Computers (below)

⚖️ Nintendo blocks piracy site – Nintendo has successfully taken down a French file-hosting site that was distributing pirated retro games. Retroshell

⭐ Underrated N64 gems – A look at some of the most overlooked yet beloved Nintendo 64 games, including Super Mario 64 and GoldenEye 007. ComicBook

🧩 Puyo Puyo gets English patch – The Sega Mega Drive/Genesis classic Puyo Puyo has received a full English fan translation. Retroshell

🎮 Analogue’s silence on N64 console – Analogue has yet to provide an update on its rumored 4K Nintendo 64 console, leaving fans waiting. Technowize

🏛️ Acclaim makes a comeback – The legendary game publisher Acclaim is returning in 2025, aiming to reclaim its place in the industry. Retroshell

🫧 Kiddy Bubble review – Kiddy Bubble, a love letter to the Game Gear era, delivers classic emulation a modern twist. Time Extension

The Kiddy Bubble. Strange name.

⚔️ Suikoden I & II return – Konami is reviving the beloved Suikoden JRPG series, bringing new life to these classic titles. Retroshell

🕹️ Namco’s Vs. Mystery Tower – The puzzle-platformer Vs. Mystery Tower is the latest Arcade Archives release, preserving another classic. Time Extension

🏆 Masahiro Sakurai honored – Super Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai is being celebrated for his influential game designs and lasting legacy. Retroshell

📢 Hyperkin apologizes for delays – Hyperkin has admitted to overpromising and underdelivering, addressing concerns about its gaming hardware. Time Extension

🎵 A Link to the Past joins Nintendo’s music library – The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past has been officially added to Nintendo’s music catalog. Retroshell

🦇 Castlevania: Dracula X revisited – A fresh look at Castlevania: Dracula X argues that it’s better than its reputation suggests. CBR

🕹️ Geometry Dash meets NES – Famidash, a new homebrew title, brings Geometry Dash-style gameplay to the NES. Retroshell

🎉 PlayStation 2 turns 25 – As the PlayStation 2 celebrates its 25th anniversary, its impact as the best-selling console in history is revisited. Gagadget

👻 GameCube games on Switch 2? – Rumors suggest that Luigi’s Mansion 4 and other GameCube titles could be part of the Nintendo Switch 2 lineup. ComicBook

Features

🎬 The Legend of Zelda movie update – New details have emerged about The Legend of Zelda live-action movie, including its creative team and production status. Retroshell

📈 Retro gaming’s digital rise – The resurgence of retro gaming in the digital era is explored, highlighting emulation, re-releases, and collector demand. Goomba Stomp

📉 Nintendo drops out of Metacritic’s top 20 – For the first time in years, Nintendo has fallen out of Metacritic’s top 20 publishers of 2024. Retroshell

🕹️ Inside the rare Nintendo PlayStation – A deep dive into the history and functionality of the ultra-rare Nintendo PlayStation prototype. XDA Developers (below)

The gaming world could have been a very different place

🤖 Super Mario as an AI benchmark – Super Mario is now being used as a key test for AI performance, influencing machine learning research. Retroshell

🔌 GameCube HDMI upgrade – A new mod delivers crisp and clear HDMI output for the GameCube, enhancing its visuals on modern displays. Time Extension

🎂 Mario’s 40th anniversary tribute – A special Mario 40th-anniversary cover celebrates gaming’s most iconic hero and his enduring legacy. Retroshell

🔗 Dreamcast and Neo Geo Pocket link-up – A guide to connecting the Sega Dreamcast with the Neo Geo Pocket Color, unlocking exclusive features. MyGamer

Lists & Rankings

💰 Rarest Sega Genesis games – A look at the rarest and most valuable Sega Genesis games, with some fetching high prices among collectors. CBR

⚔️ Best 8-bit tactical RPGs – A ranking of the greatest 8-bit tactical RPGs, showcasing the strategy classics that defined the genre. GameRant

🕹️ Games that thrived on clones – Many famous games owe their success to unofficial clones and bootlegs that helped spread their popularity. How-To Geek

🎮 Best GameCube games – A definitive list of the greatest GameCube games, celebrating Nintendo’s beloved sixth-generation console. Beebom

Arcade, Modern Retro Games

Frogger RX Revives a Classic for the ZX Spectrum in 2025

Posted on by Owen

Frogger RX has hopped onto the scene, reinvigorating the timeless appeal of the 1981 arcade classic Frogger for the ZX Spectrum. Originally developed by Konami and published by Sega, Frogger captivated players with its deceptively simple yet challenging gameplay – guiding a frog across busy roads and perilous rivers to reach safety. Today, this new iteration, highlighted by Indie Retro News, brings that same arcade excitement to a platform that remains cherished by a generation of gamers.

The ZX Spectrum, launched in 1982 by Sinclair Research, was a cornerstone of home computing in the UK and Europe. With its modest 48KB of RAM, Z80A processor, and a distinctive, quirky colour palette, the Spectrum required developers to exercise considerable ingenuity. Despite these technical limitations, the platform became home to countless arcade ports, with titles such as Frogger setting the standard. The enduring popularity of the ZX Spectrum has cemented its place in gaming history, turning bedrooms into vibrant gaming hubs during the early 1980s.

The “RX” in Frogger RX suggests a remix or redux, likely offering sharper visuals, new levels, and refined controls tailored to the Spectrum’s unique capabilities. This modern reinterpretation bridges the gap between the original arcade experience and contemporary expectations, demonstrating the indie retro gaming community’s dedication to preserving and celebrating gaming heritage. By updating a beloved classic for modern audiences, Frogger RX not only pays homage to the legacy of Frogger but also ensures that the spirit of vintage gaming continues to thrive.

Keep your treasured retro collection secure with RetroShell – your reliable protector of vintage games. For the latest in retro gaming insights, subscribe to our free Substack and receive weekly updates straight to your inbox!

Retro Gaming News

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0138

Posted on by Owen

A bumper 52 stories coming your way this week, including 30 years of Ristar, more GTA for the Dreamcast, Terminator 2 is back and 100 years of Pokemon? 

News

⚽ Super Soccer Exits Switch Online in Japan – Nintendo is removing Super Soccer from the Switch Online SNES library in Japan on March 5, 2025, marking a rare case of a game being delisted from the service. Retroshell

💰 Rare Pokémon Game Sells for Over $80,000 – A sealed copy of Pokémon Red (1996) set a new auction record, fetching more than $80,000 due to its rarity and pristine condition. JustCollecting

🎸 Gibson & CRKD Unveil New Guitar Controllers – Gibson has partnered with CRKD to launch officially licensed Guitar Hero-style controllers, designed for modern and retro gaming platforms. Retroshell

🎮 Retroid Pocket Flip 2: Specs and Colors Revealed – The upcoming Retroid Pocket Flip 2 handheld will feature a clamshell design, improved hardware, and multiple color options, appealing to retro gaming enthusiasts. Retrododo

🦎 Gex Trilogy Set for Summer 2025 Release – Limited Run Games confirms the Gex Trilogy will launch in Summer 2025, bringing the cult-classic platformer series to modern consoles. Retroshell

🚀 Sigma Star Saga Gets Enhanced DX Cartridge Release – The cult-classic GBA title Sigma Star Saga is receiving an upgraded physical release with new features, celebrating its 20th anniversary. Time Extension

🤖 Terminator 2D: No Fate Brings Retro Action to Modern Consoles – Terminator 2D: No Fate is set to deliver classic side-scrolling action with modern enhancements, launching on current platforms. Retroshell

📥 Anbernic Pulls Controversial Firmware Update – Anbernic has removed a firmware update that allowed direct ROM downloads, following backlash over potential legal issues. Time Extension

🕹 Old Towers Expands to Atari Jaguar – The indie puzzle platformer Old Towers is making its way to the Atari Jaguar, continuing the trend of modern games arriving on retro hardware. Retroshell

🎶 Sega Rally 30th Anniversary Soundtrack Now Streaming – The official Sega Rally soundtrack is available to stream for the first time, celebrating 30 years of the arcade racing classic. Time Extension

🎮 8BitDo Unveils Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller – 8BitDo’s new Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller blends modern technology with retro gaming appeal, supporting multiple platforms. Retroshell

🧱 Breakout: Beyond Coming to PC & Consoles in March – The former Amico-exclusive game Breakout: Beyondis set to release on PC and modern consoles next month. Time Extension

🟨 Tetris Forever Update Brings MS-DOS Classics to Modern Players – The latest Tetris Forever update adds MS-DOS game support, expanding its retro gaming library. Retroshell

🕹 GamesCare Unveils New Dev Cart for Sega Genesis – A new development cartridge for the Sega Genesis promises enhanced functionality for homebrew and prototype game creators. Retroshell

🔥 King of Fighters ‘98 Leads Arcade Archives 2 on PS5 & Xbox – King of Fighters ‘98 is the first Arcade Archives 2 Neo Geo title launching for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Retroshell

🐺 Wolfenstein RPG Gets Unofficial PC Port – The rare Wolfenstein RPG from 2008 has been ported to PC by fans, making the mobile-exclusive title more accessible. Retroshell

👊 Final Vendetta Neo Geo Release Delayed for Quality Enhancements – The Final Vendetta Neo Geo version has been delayed, with developers promising improved features and performance. Retroshell

🚀 Fan-Made Genesis R-Type Port Expands with New Content – A homebrew R-Type port for the Sega Genesis is receiving exclusive levels and enhancements. Retroshell

🌙 Sonic’s Lunar Adventure: Unfinished Fan Game Released – An incomplete Sonic fan game, Sonic’s Lunar Adventure, has unexpectedly surfaced online. Retroshell

🎮 Hyperkin Confirms PC Engine / TurboGrafx-16 Clone – Hyperkin has officially announced a new clone console that will support PC Engine and TurboGrafx-16 games. Retroshell

🌍 English Translation of Dreamcast RPG Segagaga in Progress – The fan translation of Sega’s cult-classic Segagaga is making steady progress toward completion. Time Extension

🥷 Justice Ninja Casey Brings SNES Classic to the West – The 1994 SNES game Justice Ninja Casey is finally getting an official Western release this week. Retroshell

💖 ToHeart Remake Launching in Japan on June 26, 2025 – The ToHeart visual novel remake is set to release in Japan with updated visuals and gameplay enhancements. Retroshell

🎥 ToHeart Remake Opening Movie Compared to PS1 Version – A side-by-side comparison showcases the graphical improvements in the upcoming ToHeart remake. Siliconera

Features

📖 Metroid Prime’s Legacy Celebrated in New Visual Retrospective – A new book explores the artistic and historical impact of Metroid Prime, offering fans a detailed look at the franchise’s evolution. Retroshell

🕹 Unreleased Popeye Game for Sega Genesis Resurfaces After 31 Years – A long-lost Popeye beat-’em-up from the makers of Double Dragon has been discovered, shedding light on a canceled 16-bit project. Time Extension

Si pappy

🏆 BAFTA Calls for Votes on Gaming’s Most Influential Title – The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is inviting gamers to vote on the most influential video game of all time. Retroshell

💻 Developer Ports x86 Linux to the NES – A developer has successfully ported a version of x86 Linux to the Nintendo Entertainment System, demonstrating the console’s unexpected capabilities. Research Snipers

🎮 Pokémon Boss Aims for a Century-Long Gaming Legacy – Pokémon Company president Tsunekazu Ishihara discusses the franchise’s long-term vision, aiming for a lasting impact over the next 100 years. Retroshell

🎮 Battle of the Handhelds: Which Portable Console Reigns Supreme? – A deep dive into the best handheld consoles, comparing classic and modern devices in the ever-evolving portable gaming landscape. Nerdbot

🕹 AYANEO Clarifies Production and Future of Flip Handheld – AYANEO has addressed concerns about the production status of its Flip handheld, reaffirming its commitment to upcoming releases. Retroshell

🐴 Link’s Iconic Horse Was Almost a Moose, Reveals Miyamoto Interview – Newly unearthed insights from Shigeru Miyamoto reveal that The Legend of Zelda nearly featured a moose instead of Epona. Creative Bloq

⚔ BioWare Co-Founder Reflects on Jade Empire’s Lost Potential – A BioWare co-founder looks back on Jade Empire, expressing regret over the studio not expanding the franchise further. Retroshell

🤼 Play Classic WCW Games with New Mods for N64 – Modders have recreated WCW Saturday Night using Virtual Pro Wrestling on the Nintendo 64, offering a fresh way to experience classic wrestling games. TheSportster

📟 The Unused Terminal of the NES Disk System – A look into a forgotten feature of the NES Disk System, revealing an unused terminal mode that was never fully implemented. Retroshell

🎰 All the Classic Sega Games Featured in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (aka Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii) includes numerous classic Sega titles as playable minigames. Siliconera

🎨 Collector Digitally Preserves Iconic Street Fighter II Figures – A gaming historian has scanned and preserved rare Street Fighter II action figures, ensuring their legacy in digital form. Retroshell

🎵 Streets of Rage Composer Disappointed by Lack of Recognition – Yuzo Koshiro, the legendary Streets of Ragecomposer, expresses disappointment that his influential work isn’t more widely recognized. Time Extension

🌟 Ristar at 30: A Cult Classic Fans Want Revived – As Ristar turns 30, fans are calling for a modern revival of the beloved Sega platformer. CBR

⭐ Ristar Turns 30, Fans Demand a New Game – The 1995 Sega platformer Ristar reaches its 30th anniversary, reigniting discussions about a potential sequel. Metro

🕹 Tokyo Arcade Shares Update on Post-COVID Recovery – A famous Tokyo arcade has provided an update on its business performance after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Time Extension

🦇 Castlevania: Dracula X—Better Than You Remember? – A fresh look at Castlevania: Dracula X argues that the game deserves more appreciation than it originally received. CBR

🔗 The PlayStation Had a Hidden Multiplayer Mode Using Game Boy Cables – A forgotten multiplayer feature on the original PlayStation allowed link-cable gaming using Game Boy peripherals. Ruetir

🏈 Classic NFL Game Gets Online Multiplayer Mode via Fan Mod – Modders have introduced online multiplayer functionality to a classic NFL video game, reviving it for modern players. AppTrigger

Lists & Rankings

🎮 The Rarest NES Games and Their Prices – A look at some of the rarest and most valuable NES games, with prices reflecting their rarity and collector demand. CBR

Looks familiar…

🦔 Sonic’s Surprisingly Weak Characters – A ranking of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise’s weakest characters, highlighting those who fall short in terms of power and impact. GameRant

⚔ Best 32-Bit Tactical RPGs, Ranked – A list of the top tactical RPGs from the 32-bit era, showcasing strategic gameplay and memorable stories. GameRant

🕹 The Best Arcade Games of All Time – A curated selection of the greatest arcade games ever, celebrating their lasting influence on gaming history. Digital Trends

🎮 Best Third-Party GameCube Games, Ranked – A ranking of the best third-party titles on the GameCube, spotlighting hidden gems and fan favorites. CBR

Retro Gaming News

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0137

Posted on by Owen

I will not bore you with more tales of Elden Ring and my Marvel Snap woes, so straight on with the news.

This week we have 45 stories and cover news of the Lego Gameboy, reviving the Game Boy e-reader, the Dreamcast getting cloud saving, lots of speed running shenanigans and a load more. Thanks for reading!

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News

🎮 Limited Run Games Faces Backlash Over Faulty NES Cartridges – Customers report issues with Limited Run Games’ NES cartridges, including non-functioning copies and poor build quality. Retroshell

🧩 ‘Black Tower Enigma’ Aiming for Game Boy Release – A new puzzle adventure, Black Tower Enigma, is set to launch on the Game Boy, offering a retro-inspired experience. GoNintendo

🤖 ‘Mobile Suit Gundam’ for Sega Saturn Receives English Patch – The long-awaited fan translation of Mobile Suit Gundam for the Sega Saturn is now available, bringing the game to English-speaking audiences. Retroshell

🎥 Amazon-MGM Takes Full Control of James Bond Franchise, Including Games – Amazon has secured full rights to the James Bond franchise, expanding its control over future films, TV, and video game adaptations. Gameranx

🧱 LEGO Nintendo Game Boy Set Launching This October – LEGO is set to release a Game Boy-inspired set in October, blending nostalgia with brick-building creativity. Retroshell

🎬 Legendary’s Live-Action ‘Street Fighter’ Movie Finds Its Director – The upcoming live-action Street Fighterfilm has officially secured a director, signalling progress on the anticipated adaptation. Time Extension

🕹 ‘Mouthwashing’ Brings Classic PS1-Style Horror to Consoles in 2025 – Mouthwashing, a new horror game inspired by classic PS1 aesthetics, is set to terrify players on modern consoles next year. Retroshell

🎮 Blaze’s Next Evercade Cart Features 10 Atari & Stern Games – The upcoming Evercade cartridge will bundle ten classic games from Atari and Stern Electronics. Time Extension

💾 ‘Manic Miner’ Returns with a New Fan-Made Port – The classic platformer Manic Miner has been revived with a new fan-made version, bringing fresh life to the retro favourite. Retroshell

🇯🇵 Super Real Mahjong VS for N64 Gets English Patch – The obscure N64 game Super Real Mahjong VS has received an English translation, making it more accessible to global players. Time Extension

🦖 ‘Jurassic Park 2’ for SNES Gets an Overhaul After 30 Years – A major fan-made overhaul breathes new life into the SNES classic Jurassic Park 2, enhancing graphics and gameplay. Retroshell

🎮 ‘Ecli’ is a Puzzling New Platformer Coming to Game Boy Color – Ecli, an upcoming Game Boy Color game, blends puzzle and platforming elements in a unique adventure. Retro Dodo

✨ Final Fantasy Joins Magic: The Gathering in an Epic Crossover – The Final Fantasy universe is set to collide with Magic: The Gathering in a newly announced crossover set. Retroshell

📀 Gold Master Series Brings Classic Games to Physical Form, Including an Exclusive Handheld – A new collection called Gold Master Series will offer physical releases of classic games, including Tetris Forever and a new handheld console. Retroshell

🃏 Mario Hanafuda: Nintendo’s Latest Fusion of Tradition and Nostalgia – Nintendo is reviving its traditional Hanafuda roots with a new Mario Hanafuda product. Retroshell

📀 ‘Ravi & Navi’ Becomes the First New Famicom Disk System Game Since 1992 – The Famicom Disk System is getting a new game after more than 30 years with the release of Ravi & Navi. Retroshell

🔥 Karnov Returns on Neo Geo Platforms – The classic arcade hero Karnov is returning with a new release on Neo Geo systems. Retroshell

🔧 Introducing Game Bub: An Open-Source FPGA Handheld for Retro Gaming – Game Bub is a new open-source FPGA handheld designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. Retroshell

🥷 ‘Special Ninja Squad’ Brings 16-Bit Action to TurboGrafx-16 – A new side-scrolling action game, Special Ninja Squad, is heading to the TurboGrafx-16. Retroshell

☁️ Sega Dreamcast Receives Cloud Save Support in 2025 – The Sega Dreamcast is getting modern functionality with newly introduced cloud save support. Retroshell

📜 Reviving the Game Boy Advance e-Reader with New Games – Developers are creating new content for the Game Boy Advance e-Reader, giving the accessory a fresh purpose. Retroshell

🧩 New 4-Player Puzzle Action Game ‘Block Panic DX’ Arrives on Neo Geo – Block Panic DX, a multiplayer puzzle-action title, is launching on Neo Geo. Retroshell

🌍 Argos no Senshi Gets Full English Translation for NES – The NES classic Argos no Senshi has been fully translated into English for modern players. Retroshell

🛹 New ‘Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater’ Remaster Possibly in the Works – A potential remaster of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater has been hinted at, sparking excitement among fans. Retroshell

🏊 Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Discover Bizarre Underwater Standing Trick – Speedrunners have found a strange new glitch in Super Mario 64 that allows Mario to stand underwater. Retroshell

Features

🎬 The Legend of Zelda Movie Trailer (Fan Video) – A fan-made trailer envisions what a Legend of Zelda movie could look like. ScreenRant (below)

🕹 Retro Gaming Thrives Among Gen Z in the UK, New Study Finds – A recent study highlights the growing popularity of retro gaming among Gen Z players in the UK. Retroshell

💻 Programmer Gets NES to Emulate a PC with Ridiculous Sounds – A programmer has managed to run a PC emulator on an NES, producing bizarre and unexpected audio glitches. TechSpot (below)

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/OooHTDMUSGY?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

🎮 Former Xbox Designer Says Console Power Is No Longer the Priority – A former Xbox hardware designer argues that raw power is becoming less important in modern console development. Retroshell

🥷 How Sega’s Shinobi Games Have Evolved Through the Ages – A retrospective explores the evolution of Shinobi, from its arcade roots to modern reimaginings. Kakuchopurei

🏆 Blindfolded Super Mario 64 Speedrunner’s Near-Record Run Invalidated by Webcam Failure – A blindfolded Super Mario 64 speedrun was disqualified after a critical webcam malfunction. Retroshell

🔄 Mega EverDrive Pro: The Best Flash Cart for Your Genesis/Mega Drive – A review of the Mega EverDrive Pro highlights its features and why it’s a must-have for retro gaming fans. Time Extension

🛠 Building the Ultimate Xbox 360: A Modder’s Dream Console – A deep dive into extreme Xbox 360 modding, showcasing custom hardware and software enhancements. Retroshell

💰 Got $13,000? You Could Own This One-Off ‘Dream’ Copy of Harry Potter on PS1 – A rare, unique copy of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone for the PS1 is up for auction at a staggering price. Time Extension

🌟 Legendary Star Fox and Zelda Developer Emphasizes Creativity Over Budget – A veteran game developer stresses that creativity, not massive budgets, leads to great games. Retroshell

🎥 Sony Canceled a Video Game Movie After Trailer Backlash – Sony reportedly scrapped a planned Sly Cooperfilm after poor reactions to its early trailer. SlashFilm (below)

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/nbXEKZVonko?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

👟 Nike’s Latest Shoe Design Pays Homage to Donkey Kong Country – Nike’s newest sneaker takes inspiration from Donkey Kong Country, featuring a design reminiscent of the classic platformer. Retroshell

🔍 Did You Know the Dreamcast Has a Hidden Menu System? – A newly discovered menu system hidden within the Dreamcast has surfaced, revealing unknown features. Time Extension

🎯 Super Mario 64 Speedrunners Achieve the Impossible Blindfolded – A group of speedrunners has managed to complete nearly impossible feats in Super Mario 64 without sight. Retroshell

🚦 GTA 3 Almost Penalized Players for Running Red Lights – An early concept for GTA 3 included a penalty system for traffic violations, but it was ultimately scrapped. Retroshell

📀 Squaresoft’s Push for CDs on the N64: A Lost Opportunity – A look at how Squaresoft’s efforts to bring CD-based gaming to the N64 could have changed gaming history. Retroshell

Lists & Rankings

🎮 The Rarest Dreamcast Games and Their Prices – A look at the rarest and most valuable Sega Dreamcast games, with some fetching high prices in the collector’s market. CBR

📖 The Best Stories in Sega Games, Ranked – A ranking of the most compelling narratives in Sega’s gaming history, highlighting standout storytelling moments. GameRant

🕹 Best Third-Party GameCube Games, Ranked – A ranking of the best third-party titles released for the Nintendo GameCube, showcasing must-play experiences. CBR

🔥 The Best Sega Franchises of All Time – An in-depth ranking of Sega’s greatest gaming franchises, from classic arcade hits to modern legends. Hardcore Gamer

Nintendo, Retro Gaming News, Sega, Sony, Top 10

👾 Retro Gaming Weekly News #0136

Posted on by Owen

My week in gaming has been dominated by Elden Ring, it has been a while since I have been this involved in a game and I am enjoying the difficulty and the world.

39 stories this week across the word of retro gaming including some new F-Zero courses, a new Punch Out speedrun record, mapping out the entire Mario planet, GTA 8-Bit and lots more.

News

🎮 Glover is set to launch on Nintendo Switch, bringing the cult N64 platformer to modern audiences. Retroshell

🥷 Justice Ninja Casey, a Super Famicom game, is receiving an official English release for Nintendo Switch. GoNintendo

🦊 Star Fox artist is advocating for Star Fox Assault to be released on the rumoured Switch 2. Retroshell

🕹️ Märchen Maze, a classic arcade game, is getting a modern re-release. NicheGamer

🤖 A remastered version of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Battle Destiny has been announced for Switch and PC. Retroshell

🥋 Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is set for an August release, continuing the legendary ninja franchise. Retroshell

🪓 A revitalised Neo Geo port of Golden Axe is now available for players. Retroshell

🕊️ Peter Navy Tuiasosopo, known for portraying E. Honda in the Street Fighter movie, has passed away at age 61. Retroshell

🐄 Save Me Cows, a new action-puzzle adventure for the Game Boy, has been announced. Retroshell

🏎️ F-Zero SNES has received a fan-made Bower League expansion, adding new tracks and challenges. Retroshell

🧱 A massive Mario Kart LEGO set is rumoured to be in development. Retroshell

⚡ Speedrunner Summoning Salt has broken the two-minute barrier in Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!!. Retroshell

🏙️ Hudson Soft’s lost SimCity mobile game for Japanese phones has been preserved. Retroshell

Features

🎂 Happy Birthday to the Game Boy Advance SP, the stylish handheld that revolutionised portable gaming. Retroshell

🎮 Grand Theft Auto 6 gets an 8-bit NES-style demake TechEBlog

📝 Final Fantasy’s creator acknowledges Dragon Quest as a key influence on the franchise’s development. The Popverse

💰 Berkshire Hathaway once considered acquiring both Nintendo and Activision. Retroshell

🌍 A dedicated fan spent 100 days mapping Super Mario’s entire planet (CreativeBlog)

🧝 Zelda’s Marin set the standard for compelling side characters in gaming. CBR

🏁 Diddy Kong Racing is hailed as the true king of N64 mascot racers. VICE

💎 A broken GameCube was sold for $100,000 due to its rarity and history. Jason Deegan

🚐 A Chevy work van features a custom in-dash Nintendo 64 setup for gaming on the go. The Drive

⭐ Ristar should have been the Sega Genesis mascot instead of Sonic, according to some fans. GameSpot

📈 Retro gaming is experiencing a resurgence, with growing interest in classic consoles and games. COGConnected

🦖 Bobby Kotick aggressively pursued Jurassic Park game rights from Steven Spielberg. Gameranx

🏎️ Mario Kart 64 celebrates 28 years of friendship-ruining races. Nintendo Wire

🎥 An artist recreates classic movies with PlayStation 1-style graphics. eBaum’s World

🎨 A debate emerges over whether a classic Nintendo console logo is the best ever. Creative Bloq

📺 The Sega Dreamcast has a hidden menu system that many fans never knew about. Time Extension

🌐 A deep dive into the online past of the Sega Dreamcast reveals a fascinating glimpse into its early internet features. Forbes

Lists & Rankings

💰 Retro video games are becoming highly valuable, and collectors should know what makes certain titles rare. SlashGear

📱 The best simulation games on Game Boy Advance are ranked by fun and depth. GameRant

🎮 Every Sega console launch lineup is ranked, comparing the strongest and weakest debuts. CBR

🕹️ 20 legendary video game consoles that revolutionised the industry. Go2Tutors

⚔️ The best turn-based combat systems in Sega games are ranked. GameRant

🤼 The weirdest WWE games that most players overlooked. TheSportster

🔥 The best Capcom games of all time are ranked, celebrating the studio’s greatest hits. Hardcore Gamer

Modern Retro Games, Sega, Sony

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance Set for August Release

Posted on by Owen

Sega has officially announced the upcoming release of Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, a 2D action platformer developed by Lizardcube, the studio renowned for Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap and Streets of Rage 4. The game is scheduled to launch on August 29, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam, priced at $29.99 USD.

Credit: Sega

Players will once again step into the shoes of Joe Musashi, the iconic ninja protagonist, embarking on a quest for vengeance across more than a dozen stages filled with challenging platforming puzzles. The combat system is designed to be combo-driven, offering a variety of tools such as the Katana Oborozuki, Kunai, Ninjutsu arts, and Ninpo to defeat adversaries.

Credit: Sega

For enthusiasts seeking additional content, a Digital Deluxe version will be available for $39.99. This edition includes early access to the game, a starter pack with in-game items, a digital art book and soundtrack, and a DLC stage featuring bosses inspired by iconic Sega villains, slated for release in early 2026.

The Shinobi series, which debuted in the late 1980s, has been a cornerstone of Sega’s gaming legacy. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance marks the first new installment in 14 years, following previous revivals on the PlayStation 2 and Nintendo 3DS. Fans of the series and newcomers alike can look forward to experiencing this modern take on a classic franchise.

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Rom Hack

Golden Axe Revitalised: Neo Geo Port Now Available

Posted on by Owen

Golden Axe, the iconic 1989 beat ’em up from Sega, has been meticulously ported to the Neo Geo platform by developer Hoffman. This fan-driven project brings the classic hack-and-slash experience to a new audience, ensuring both authenticity and enhanced features.

Hoffman’s approach combined reverse engineering with new development to closely match the original gameplay and visuals. The port supports MVS, AES, and Neo Geo CD systems, offering flexibility for various hardware setups. Players can select game regions (World/JP) and adjust original arcade difficulty settings to tailor their experience.

A standout feature for Neo Geo CD users is a specially crafted soundtrack by composer Richard Douglas, providing a fresh auditory experience while maintaining the game’s classic feel. Additionally, Hoffman enhanced six voice samples by sourcing higher-quality versions from 1980s films like Conan, American Werewolf in London, and Rambo, enriching the game’s audio authenticity.

The port is compatible with most flash cart solutions, real hardware, and emulators, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of players. While minor differences and edge-case glitches exist, Hoffman’s dedication to visual accuracy and gameplay fidelity shines through, making this a noteworthy addition to the Neo Geo library.

For those eager to revisit the world of Golden Axe on Neo Geo hardware, the port is available for download on Hoffman’s itch.io page.

Retro games deserve the best protection! Get RetroShell to keep your collection pristine. And if you’re here for the news, make sure to subscribe to our Substack for weekly updates!

Sega

Daytona USA 2 Finally Gets a Home Release—Sort Of

Posted on by Owen

The legendary Daytona USA 2 is breaking free from its arcade exclusivity to join the swashbuckling adventure of Like a Dragon: Pirate in Yakuza in Hawaii. This 1998 racing gem, never before ported from its Model 3 hardware, is now part of the pirate-themed Yakuza escapade set in Hawaii.

One of the best arcade racers ever..?

Unlike the original Daytona USA, which saw ports to the Sega Saturn, Dreamcast, and even modern platforms, Daytona USA 2 never made it beyond its Model 3 arcade roots. This marks the first time fans can experience the high-speed action of Battle on the Edge and Power Edition without hunting down a vintage arcade machine.

In Like a Dragon: Pirate in Yakuza in Hawaii, players can not only navigate the high seas but also dive into in-game arcades to experience Daytona USA 2, including “Battle on the Edge” and “Power Edition”. This marks a historic moment for fans who’ve longed to play this game without the need for a vintage arcade cabinet.

While it’s uncertain if it’s an emulated or recreated version, what’s clear is that this fusion of Daytona USA 2 with the pirate adventure of Like a Dragon: Pirate in Yakuza in Hawaii is a unique blend of nostalgia and new thrills. Set sail with Goro Majima on February 21st, 2025, for an experience where racing and piracy collide spectacularly.

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Modern Retro Games, Sega

Dream Ride: A New Micro Machines-Style Party Racer for the Dreamcast

Posted on by Owen

The Sega Dreamcast continues to defy time, with a steady flow of new indie releases keeping the console alive. The latest addition is Dream Ride, an arcade-style party racer inspired by the classic Micro Machines series. Developed by Dream Quest Games, the title promises fast-paced, top-down multiplayer racing with chaotic twists.

“Dream Ride” supports single-player and multiplayer modes, accommodating up to four human players and eight CPU opponents. The game includes eight unique cars, each with distinct handling and speed, and features four different game modes.

Credit: Itch IO / Ginger Beard Man

The gameplay in “Dream Ride” emphasizes momentum and drift, requiring players to adapt to each vehicle’s characteristics. Power-ups such as magnets, ghosts, shields, and speed boosts are integral, with hazards like oil slicks and thunderbolts adding strategic depth.

The game runs at a consistent 60 frames per second, with dynamic sound effects and CD audio music. It also includes a cheat system for additional gameplay options. “Dream Ride” is playable on both original Dreamcast hardware and emulators, and is also compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android platforms. It can be downloaded from gingerbeardman’s itch.io page under a “name-your-own-price” model.

The release of “Dream Ride” follows the trend of indie games revitalizing the Dreamcast, with titles like “Xeno Crisis”, “Intrepid Izzy”, and “Rush Rush Rally Reloaded” also contributing to the console’s ongoing legacy.

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Fun Things, Sega

The Best Reddit Sega Posts in the Last 7 Days

Posted on by Owen

Each week we scour the internet to get the best, and most interesting stories out there in our quest to cover everything retro. We did our first post where we looked at the best of Reddit for Nintendo consoles (up to the Gamecube in terms of console generations) and now we will set our sites to what was hot in on the blue side of the retro gaming world.

Starting with r/Sega – one of the top posts was discussing the Skies of Arcadia potential return, but we were ahead of the curve there, so no need to post twice. One of the top posts was celebrating the backward compatibility of Sega consoles.

Genesis Does (backwards compatibility)! 😉
byu/Kingm0nkey inSEGA

r/SegaGenesis (aka Megadrive to the rest of the world) featured a candy (aka sweet) in a box of Toejam and Earl with the conundrum as to whether to eat it or not.

Should I eat it, guys?
byu/ultimateman55 inSEGAGENESIS

Also, a mystery loot box was found at Walmart which looks very cool.

Saw this loot box at Walmart.
byu/krayhayft inSEGAGENESIS

The r/Megadrive sub was sadly sparse with most of the action being in its American cousin’s sub, the highlight being a case of mistaken identity.

that’s definitively bubsy
byu/Knucklesman12 inMegadrive

I am a big fan of the 32x so always on the lookout for new news for this oddity in the r/Sega32x sub , but it’s usually quite quiet. The main post this week was asking if the 32x had any exclusives worth buying it for (short answer, not really).

Does the 32x have any exclusives worth buying the 32x for?
byu/thinlycuta4paper inSEGA32X

In r/SegaCD some shared they completed Konami’s Snatcher and said it was Amazing (never heard of it personally, but my interest is piqued).

I just beat Konami’s Snatcher and it was AMAZING!
byu/EdgeworthM inSegaCD

In r/SegaSaturn someone was asking for opinions on the controller (it’s a good one IMO)

Thoughts?
byu/Winter_Writer_2508 inSegaSaturn

r/dreamcast had someone showcasing a store demo kiosk.

My Dreamcast Store Demo Kiosk!
byu/Overall_Reference103 indreamcast

Someone asking if the yellowing looked good (🤮).

Is it just me or does this yellowing actually look good?
byu/fosalu indreamcast

In the r/game_gear Reddit, someone rescued a device through some intensive care.

Another one saved
byu/Gamelord86 ingame_gear

And there you have it, let me know in the comments below if there was anything missed or if this is good/bad/indifferent.

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