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Welcome to Newsletter 45! In this edition, we dive into the exciting world of retro gaming, bringing you the latest news and updates. 

Can you guess the game released in history during the week of May 22nd? Stay tuned until the end for the answer

Riddle: I’m a classic shooter, commanding a starfighter, Blasting enemies in space, and feeling like a victor. Alien hordes I must fend, with precision and might, A timeless challenge, a retro gaming delight.

Can you guess the game? The answer awaits you at the end of this newsletter.

News

In an interesting connection between the past and present, one of the new powers in the game “Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” is based on a 1966 Nintendo toy called the Ultra Hand. This demonstrates Nintendo’s ability to draw inspiration from its rich history to create new and exciting gameplay elements. [Ruetir] Link

Nintendo’s potential plans for a Metroid movie following the success of the Super Mario Bros. film raise concerns about capturing the game’s atmospheric and solitary essence on the big screen. [CinemaBlend] Link

LEGO has teased an upcoming Pac-Man project, sparking excitement among fans of both the classic arcade game and LEGO, with details yet to be revealed about this exciting collaboration. [Brick Fanatics] Link

Rumours suggest that the iconic Nintendo 64 game, “Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask,” will be added to the Nintendo Switch Online service, giving players the chance to experience this beloved title once again. [Inverse] Link

Three Super Mario Advance games, including Super Mario Advance, Super Mario Advance 2: Super Mario World, and Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3, will soon be joining the Game Boy Advance lineup on the Nintendo Switch [Crunchyroll] Link (Note: we don’t usually cover GBA games, but you recently said you wanted more content relating to retro games on modern consoles we adding it in)

And..The SNES version of Bust-A-Move, a classic puzzle game, is set to make its way to the Nintendo Switch on May 23rd, 2023, offering fans a nostalgic and addictive experience on the modern console. [GoNintendo] Link

Introducing the FunnyPlaying Retro Pixel Pocket, a retro-themed portable gaming console that combines nostalgia with modern technology, allowing gamers to enjoy their favourite retro games on the go in a stylish and compact device. [FunnyPlaying] Link (Note: sold out as I share this)

Introducing the RG Nano, a compact retro gaming console that fits in the palm of your hand, offering a nostalgic gaming experience with its library of classic games and sleek design, perfect for gaming enthusiasts on the go. [TrendHunter] Link

The classic platformer game Cyber-Citizen Shockman – initially only released for the PC Engine in Japan has made its way to the Nintendo Switch (see below), offering players a chance to experience its retro charm and challenging gameplay on the modern console. [Go Nintendo] Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/wpQ1jEayM04?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Analogue have launched pre-orders for their PC Engine/TurboGrafx 16 offering both a Jap (white) and USA (black) model for $249 – I am still waiting for my pocket, so I will pass on this one [Analogue]. Link

Features

“The Legend of Zelda: Revolution – Redefining Videogames” – This article explores how “The Legend of Zelda” series has revolutionized the world of video games through its innovative gameplay, immersive storytelling, and enduring legacy. [Softonic] Link

A cool YouTube video explaining how Sonic saved Sega [YouTube]. Link

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

This comprehensive article delves into the intricate timeline of The Legend of Zelda series, connecting the various games and providing insights into the lore and chronology of this beloved franchise. [Mirror] Link

In a thought-provoking article, the author discusses their opinion that modern gaming is inferior to the golden age of retro gaming, highlighting factors such as excessive microtransactions, lack of innovation, and the nostalgic charm that made the old days so special. [Game-News24] Link

A new project aims to transform the classic Game Boy handheld console into functional Bitcoin wallets, combining nostalgia with modern cryptocurrency technology for a unique and geeky twist. [Ruetir] Link

Discover the best iOS iPhone emulators, allowing users to experience iOS apps and games on their smartphones, an often challenging scene given Apple’s policies. [Android Authority] Link

Some smart person has hacked a $10 calculator to play Doom which I thought was a useless, but cool project worth sharing [YouTube]. Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/XmY83eCzHwI?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

Lists & Rankings

Even decades after their release, the retro NES games from Nintendo, such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid, still hold up and offer timeless gameplay experiences that resonate with players of all ages. [CBR] Link

Explore the world of underappreciated Nintendo video games, including titles like Captain Rainbow and Chibi-Robo! that may have flown under the radar but still offer unique and enjoyable gaming experiences for fans. [CBR] Link

This article highlights 8 overlooked platformer games for the Sega Genesis console that have stood the test of time, providing entertaining gameplay and nostalgic charm that retro gaming enthusiasts will appreciate. [GameRant] Link

In this video, WatchMojo gives you the 20 worst video game consoles of all time. [YouTube]. Link

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/90o3WBQHGAs?rel=0&autoplay=0&showinfo=0&enablejsapi=0

From the Atari 2600 to the Atari Jaguar, this article provides a comprehensive breakdown and ranking of the various Atari consoles, considering factors such as historical significance, game library, and overall impact on the gaming industry. [Cultured Vultures] Link

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CBR takes a deep dive into 10 quirky and lesser-known spin-off games from the Legend of Zelda franchise, showcasing their unique concepts and unexpected departures from the main series. Link

That’s all folks! Thank you for being a part of our retro gaming community. If you enjoy this newsletter, we would appreciate your support by liking and sharing it with other retro gaming enthusiasts. Don’t forget to visit our Substack to see older editions. 

Please visit www.retroshell.com to explore their fantastic range of premium hard 4mm acrylic retro game protection products.

Answer to today’s riddle: Galaga / Atari 2600 / Launched May 22nd, 1983 in North America making it 40 years old!

Welcome to Newsletter 43! This week’s edition covers news and updates from the world of retro gaming. A bit Zelda and list-heavy this week, but hope you enjoy it.

For this week’s riddle, I present to you a game released in the week of May 9th for the Nintendo Game Boy:

I’m a puzzler of a different kind, with coloured tiles and lines to find. Some say I’m like Tetris, but I’m unique. With a name like a city that’s hard to pronounce, I’m sure to keep you amused for hours. What game am I?

News

A prototype of a Game & Watch handheld console featuring the classic game “Tetris” has been discovered 40 years after it was first developed, and it features a unique version of the game with a different soundtrack and sound effects. [Stealth Optional] Link

“Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” is a new manga series set to launch in Japan later this year, following Link’s adventure to help a kingdom plagued by drought, featuring a new storyline with familiar characters [Japan Times]. Link

The infamous Zelda CD-i game has been given a much better-looking makeover, with a Game Boy-style version now available to play thanks to a fan-made ROM hack. [IGN] Link

A new game for the Game Boy! In “Batty & Zabella”, players take on the role of a dynamic duo who must work together to escape a mansion filled with supernatural creatures and other obstacles. The game features beautiful pixel art, challenging gameplay, and a great soundtrack. [Pocket Gamer] Link

A Steam game leak appears to reveal an N64 collection featuring many classic Nintendo 64 games that could potentially be heading to PC. [Comicbook.com] Link

Valiant Comics’ Shadowman will make a return to consoles with a new action and horror game that will be based on the comics, featuring the game’s protagonist Jack Boniface who is a human possessed by a supernatural spirit and is expected to be released for multiple platforms. [Ruetir] Link

 

Features

This article looks at the history of the iconic Nintendo logo, from its origins in 1889 as a playing card company to the colourful and modern design that is now instantly recognizable worldwide. [Fast Company] Link

According to a recent report, Nintendo was not a big fan of Tiger and Hasbro’s Pokedex toy, which was a handheld device that allowed kids to listen to information about Pokemon creatures. [Nintendo Life] Link

This article discusses the history of the Wario Land series and how it evolved over time, as well as why it has been absent from Nintendo platforms in recent years. [Softonic] Link

Gamerant’s article talks about how some gaming consoles, like the Sega Saturn and the TurboGrafx-16, were considered commercial failures in North America, but managed to succeed in other parts of the world like Japan and Europe, and even gained cult followings in these regions. [Gamerant] Link

The Sega Megadrive/Genesis was (and still is) the most modular of consoles. But how big can it get – well see below? [YouTube]. Link

Here we have 30 interesting facts about the history of video games, including the first video game ever created, the first video game console, the first game to feature a save function, and more. [Facts Chronicle] Link

 

Lists & Rankings

Digital Trends lists the 15 best characters in The Legend of Zelda series, including the main character Link, the villainous Ganon, and the fan-favourite Midna. Link

Screen Rant recommends five retro games that are still enjoyable and hold up well today: Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Sonic the Hedgehog, Tetris, and Doom. Link

What is the first console boot-up screen when I write this (for me its Seeeegaaaaa), well PC Mag has weighed in on their view of the 10 best intro screens. Link

“Digg” presents a fun article about some of the most ridiculous Game Boy accessories ever made, including a Game Boy printer, a sewing machine, and a karaoke machine [Digg]. Link

Discover the seven ultimate and best sandbox games that were released for the SNES, including games such as SimCity, Utopia: The Creation of a Nation, and Super Mario World [MSN] Link

The best Sega characters of all time have been ranked, and Sonic the Hedgehog predictably comes out on top. Other iconic characters from franchises such as Phantasy Star, Virtua Fighter, and Shenmue also make the list. [TheGamer] Link

The list kings (Gamerant) have compiled a list of the 8 hardest N64 games of all time, including titles like Conker’s Bad Fur Day, Turok 2: Seeds of Evil, and Jet Force Gemini. Link

Digital Trends has compiled a list of the 50 best games of all time, including classics like Super Mario Bros, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Tetris, as well as newer titles such as The Last of Us and Breath of the Wild. Link

And that’s all for this week, thanks for reading – and thanks to RetroShell for sponsoring. Check out their premium video game protectors, which are made from 4mm hard acrylic.

The answer to the riddle was: Kwirk, Nintendo Game Boy, May 9th, 1989, 34 years old this week

Hello and welcome to Newsletter 42! We have some exciting news and articles to share with you today, covering Ocarina of Time secrets, the WOAT, DK Lego and Wi-Fi for the NES(?!).

This week a game as hard as they come was released, in case this is not enough to guess, here is a riddle [answer at the bottom]:

Welcome to this week’s Retro Gaming Newsletter!

In this week’s newsletter we cover Nintendo taking a cautious approach to controversy, the Sega Lynx portable that never was, Atari on an IP buying frenzy, and even some love for the Neo-Geo.

????️ Can you guess the game released this week in history?

I’m a spinning marsupial, quite brave and bold, On a 32-bit Sony console, my adventures unfold. Against an evil scientist, I constantly fight, To save my girlfriend and make things right.

Can you guess the game? ????

News

???? Nintendo reportedly changed the name of a character in the Mario Bros Movie to prevent any racial controversy [Yahoo]. Link

The fan’s word on the best Nintendo controllers is here – from Nintendo Life. Link

 

Did you know the Atari Lynx ???? was almost Segas first handheld [Globe Live Media]? Link

Code breakthrough: Coders successfully decompile Paper Mario, paving the way for a potential fan-made PC port [Overclock3D]. Link

Atari has purchased a load more Retro gaming IP, including Bubsy. They are on a spending spree. Not sure why [Metro]. Link

Classic additions: Nintendo Switch Online expands its retro game lineup with titles like Street Fighter II and more [Niche Gamer]. Link

 

 

Features

Masahiro Sakurai, a Nintendo legend, delves into the rich past of the Famicom and NES, gaming’s golden consoles [Essentially Sports]. Link

Explore a comprehensive (????) ranking of the best Super Mario Bros. games, from classics to Nintendo Switch titles [Kotaku]. Link

Hackaday looks back at the Sega Master System 8-Bit 3D glasses ????. Link

The Neo Geo was a thing of legend when I was younger, with crazy expensive games, I saw it in magazines and could only imagine what owning one must be like. News Nation World has the top 5 most expensive carts just in case you were one of the lucky owners. Link

Or maybe more interesting? Discover the 15 least-loved Mario video games that failed to live up to the franchise’s high standards [Yardbarker]. Link

Retro revival: Ryo Mukai’s one-component light pen build offers a modern replacement for the rare 1980s Vectrex accessory [Hackster.io]. Link

 

Explore the evolution of handheld gaming and the impact of culture and technology on the market [Tech EDT]. Link

Celebrate a classic: The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past turns 31, reflecting its enduring legacy and impact on Nintendo [Inverse]. Link

Unearth the past: Naughty Dog’s long-forgotten RPG, Rings of Power, offers a glimpse into the studio’s early days – and had a topless woman in the intro ???? [DualShockers]. Link

The Guardian (of all places – Retro is really getting mainstream) gives you a beginner’s guide to the world of Super Mario, covering essential games, tips, and trivia. Link

 

Lists & Rankings

????️ Uncover the secrets: Delve into 15 lesser-known facts about the iconic Super Nintendo console and its history [Den of Geek]. Link

Discover top retro Sega games that have yet to be ported, leaving fans eagerly awaiting their potential return [CBR]. Link

???? Blast from the past: Check out these 10 formerly huge gaming franchises that are ripe for a revival [Destructoid]. Link

Thanks for reading, please do check out our sponsors RetroShell (www.retroshell.com) if you are a game collector – their cases are the best, and without them, this newsletter would likely not exist.

[Answer: Crash Bandicoot, Sony PlayStation, Released in Europe on April 24, 1996 – turning 27 years old this week]

Happy easter Monday for those of you that celebrate it. I hope you are enjoying some chocolate, time off work and some retro gaming (or maybe all three). 26 years ago today for the Sony Playstation, a genre-defining RPG was launched – in my opinion, probably the best of its kind. See if you can guess it from the riddle (answer at the bottom).

In this game, a hero with spiky hair and a giant sword,

Fights against Shinra, the evil corporation’s horde.

With a team of friends, he battles through a fantastic story,

Saving the planet from Sephiroth’s ultimate glory.

News

Rumours suggest that the infamous and widely mocked “Zelda” games released on the Philips CD-i console are being remastered for the Nintendo Switch, offering players a chance to revisit the cult-classics with updated visuals and improved gameplay [Nintendo Life]. Link

Discover the mysterious and challenging Japanese role-playing game, “SaGa Frontier,” which first appeared on the Super Famicom in 1997 [Yahoo! Entertainment], and why it’s making a comeback on modern consoles. Link

Get ready to relive your childhood (or your parents) with the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series, bringing back the original classics with revamped 2D graphics and a fresh coat of paint [N-Europe]. Link

To celebrate the release of the “Tetris” movie, gamers can now access the secret “Level 30” and “Level 40” in the classic game on various platforms (Tetris Effect), featuring new visuals and music [GameSpot]. Link

An ex-Rare developer explains the origin and inspiration behind the creation of the various environments and settings in the classic video game “Donkey Kong Country” [GoNintendo]. Link

Get ready for some retro action with “Xeno Crisis,” a new video game released for the GameCube and Nintendo 64 that takes players on an exciting sci-fi adventure filled with aliens and intense combat [Ruetir]. Link

Fans of Rare’s classic titles for the Nintendo 64 console can rejoice as co-founder Tim Stamper teases the development cartridge for “Dream 64,” a cancelled project that could have been a hit game on the system [My Nintendo News]. Link

Exciting video game news surfaces as leaked footage allegedly showcases a reboot of Sega’s classic “Jet Set Radio” and a remake of “Persona 3,” two beloved titles that could be making a comeback soon [My Nintendo News]. Link

Gamers can now use retro Nintendo controllers with their Nintendo Switch thanks to the Raspberry Pi Pico W, a new microcontroller that allows users to program and connect classic controllers to the Switch wirelessly [Tom’s Hardware]. Link

Sega sparks controversy among Sonic fans as they remind them that Tails, Sonic’s sidekick, technically died 30 years ago in the game “Sonic the Hedgehog 2,” and has been a ghost ever since [TheGamer]. Link

 

Features

Get ready to become a Super Mario expert with these 30 key facts about the beloved video game character, including his origin, abilities, and even his favourite food [It’s A Stampede]. Link

Rediscover “Axelay,” one of Konami’s classic shoot ’em up games for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), that was overshadowed by other titles in the company’s library, but still remains a hidden gem [Destructoid]. Link

Travel back in time and learn about the fascinating history of “The Legend of Zelda” franchise, from its early beginnings and development to its evolution and influence on video game culture [GamesRadar]. Link

t the inside scoop on the Super Mario Bros. movie as its creators discuss their vision for bringing the beloved video game characters to the big screen, including their approach to humour, music, and staying true to the spirit of the games [CNET]. Link

Get a dose of nostalgia as the upcoming Super Mario Bros. movie is filled with references and Easter eggs from the classic video games, including familiar characters, items, and even sound effects [Den of Geek]. Link

Discover some of the forgotten and unusual sports video games from the past, including titles like “ESPN Extreme Games” and “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater,” that introduced gamers to unique and exciting sports they might not have otherwise tried [GameRant]. Link

Lists and Rankings

Discover the top 25 best Mario games of all time, including classics like “Super Mario Bros.” and “Super Mario 64,” as well as newer releases like “Super Mario Odyssey” and “Super Mario 3D World” [MSN]. Link

We are taking a look at the Top 20 N64 games ever, and sharing some intersting facts [RetroShell]. IG TikTok

Take a look back at some of the worst video games based on cartoon franchises, including infamous titles like “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “The Simpsons Wrestling,” that left fans disappointed and frustrated with their poor gameplay and lack of quality [CBR]. Link

The game in the riddle was Final Fantasy VII!

That’s all for this week’s video game newsletter! From leaked footage of “Jet Set Radio” and “Persona 3” remakes to the creation of the Super Mario Bros. movie, there’s been plenty of exciting news in the gaming world. Whether you’re a fan of classic titles or new releases, there’s always something to look forward to. So, grab some snacks, fire up your console or computer, and have fun playing some great games!

 

Welcome to the 38th issue. In this week’s newsletter, this week we cover articles from the New Your Times and Esquire (????), alternative Nintendo inventions, Ryu promoting eye care and the best controllers for button mashing.

Released on the 6th of April in 1992 was one of the very best gun and run games. Here is a riddle to give you a clue as to what it is.

In the land of the rising sun, an invasion began, On a console with 16 bits, it’s where I stand. Two heroes, their mission to thwart and to thwart, The year’s ninety-two, the sixth of the fourth.

My title speaks of conflict, the third in the row, Alien adversaries, they must overthrow. A run-and-gun adventure, in your hands it lies, What am I? A game where heroes shoot for the skies.

News

8Bit do are a solid company that makes some excellent products based on retro designs. They have just upgraded their SN30 Pro controller so it now works like a dream for Mac emulation [Ars Tech]. Link

In the most random news, the characters from Street Fighter II have appeared in an advert for Eye Drops in Japan [YouTube]. Link

Project EGG is reportedly going to bring MSX and Neo Geo titles to the Nintendo Switch [Nintendo Life]. Link

A Rare co-founder demonstrated a beta copy of Twelve Tales: Conker 64, which was eventually scrapped and replaced with Conkers Bad Fur Day [My Nintendo News]. Link

A Reddit user has converted an N64 into an arcade cabinet ????. Link

The Ocarina of time is one of the very best, and CryZENx has given it a makeover using Unreal Engine 5.2 – and it looks very cool [TecheBlog]. Link

Features

The New York Times rarely gets a hallowed slot on here, but they have a cool-looking article on Why Tetris consumed your brain. Link

Pocket Lint has a feature on older technologies that will baffle the modern generation. An excellent trip down memory lane to relive such delights as cassette tapes, overhead projectors and Gamegears. Link

The new series of Succession is out (well worth a watch) and Kieran Culkin shares his list of essential video games – with retro games coming out on top [Esquire]! Link

With the new Mario film close to release, CBR revisits how the original 90’s film could have been very different. Link

Geek Tyrant gives you some ideas to relax, by repairing and restoring old video game consoles. Kind of like adult colouring in (but with better results at the end). Link

We Got This Covered go back in time and look at some of Nintendo’s lesser-known games (mostly pre-Famicom). Some cool things I was not aware of. Link

Atari are on a tear, and they are publishing a VR game for the PSVR2 called Pixel Ripped 1978, which is about a woman called bug who is working at Atari during the early days of gaming, and covers a lot of classic Atari games [YouTube]. Link

List and Rankings

The rankers at The Gamer give you their view on the 10 best controllers for maximum button-mashing satisfaction. Link

Destructoid gives the Yoshi franchise some love by giving you the 10 best Yoshi games of all time. Link

GameRant has a list of peripherals that you can buy now for your super Nintendo (mostly controllers). Link

One of the best things about the N64 was the 4 controller ports as standard, this led to some heated multiplayer battles (mostly on ISS and Goldeneye). Critical Hit gives to you the best N64 multiplayer games. Link

The Saturn does not get much love in this newsletter, mostly because there is limited news or features, but this week’s Pro Game Guides gives to you the 15 best games on the Sega Saturn! Link

Game Over. Did you guess the game from the riddle? It was Contra III: The Alien Wars (aka Super Probotector: Alien Rebels).

We are counting down the top 20 games on TikTok and Instagram if you wanted to see our verdict.

Welcome to this week’s retro gaming news roundup. The year is 1986, you are in Japan and this week a game is going to be released which will change gaming forever. You fire up the game, and one of the first things you read is “It’s dangerous to go alone! Take this.” What game is it?

News

Cocaine Bear is the big film release of 2023 and might of just missed the Oscar nominations for this year HOWEVER – the good folk have made an 8-bit game to celebrate the launch and you can play it for free. Link

The Named Cassette Museum in Tokyo is reuniting gamers with their original Famicom cassettes, and other old game cartridges, which had their names, addresses, and additional identifying information written on them [Yahoo]. Link

There is a new game to film release on the horizon! This time, Tetris [YouTube]. Link

Super Nintendo World in Hollywood is open! If you want to know more you can read this from SFGate. Link

Some boffins (I love that word) have created MarioGPT, which is a Mario Bros world generator using GPT-2 [TechXplore]. Link

Limited Run Games wanted to resurrect Cool Spot – Dr Pepper said “no” [Twitter]. Link

To celebrate the 30th Anniversary of StarFox, one of the lead programmers has done a 40-minute play-through [YouTube]. Link

Features

In 1993, The Flash had his own video game on the Sega Master System that tried to replicate his speed in a precise puzzle game rather than emulating Sonic the Hedgehog, and although it received good reviews for its music and level design, it was overshadowed by the console’s lack of popularity in America and never re-released or ported to other consoles [CBR]. Link

Dualshockers have a feature on the life and death of “lives” in video games. Link

SlashGear takes a look at the most bizarre N64 accessories of all time. Link

Nintendo Life looks back at the Nintendo console with the best lineup of first-party games. Link

Lists / Rankings

Destructoid gives you their take on the top 15 games for the SNES. Link

Game news 24 takes a look at the 5 rarest games in the world. Link

Yahoo gets in on the ranking game and gives you their top 20 video game characters from the 90s. Link

And GameRant, who are much more accustomed to giving their rankings – gives you the 10 best Retro Games from the ’90s. Link

In the niche list of the week, The Gamer take a look at the 10 best WarioWare references to other games. Link

Dualshockers gives you their take on the 10 best Sega Franchises. Link

That’s all folks. This week’s game was The Legend of Zelda for the NES, released 37 years ago this week in Japan. Check out our TikTok channel where we are creating our very own list of the top 20 SNES games ever!