Retro Gaming
Ongoing coverage on Retro Gaming.
Latest coverage
ZX Spectrum returns with new Spectral White version for 44th anniversary
Retro Games and Plaion have released a new anniversary edition of the ZX Spectrum, titled the Spectrum White ZX Spectrum, to celebrate its 44th anniversary. This full-sized recreation includes a rubber keyboard, 48 built-in classic games, modern HDMI output, USB ports, and a rewind feature. The standard edition costs £129, with a collector's edition available for pre-order at £199.99.
The ZX Spectrum that never was, until now - The Spectrum White Edition inspired by the ‘one millionth’ legend launches today
Retro Games Ltd, in collaboration with PLAION REPLAI, has launched The Spectrum White Edition, a new all-white recreation of the iconic ZX Spectrum 48k computer. This collector's edition, inspired by community folklore of a white model marking one million units sold, features the original rubber keyboard, 48 built-in games, HDMI output, and USB support. It launches on the 44th anniversary of the original ZX Spectrum's release, priced at £129.99, with a matching THEGAMEPAD (White) controller available separately.
ZPF Review | TheXboxHub
ZPF is a retro-inspired horizontal-scrolling SHMUP that successfully captures the feel of classic games while standing on its own. Developed by Team ZPF, the game features challenging gameplay, multiple characters with unique abilities, and a striking pixel-perfect presentation with a chiptune soundtrack. Despite some minor menu and visual clarity issues, ZPF offers a hardcore experience that rewards player skill and nostalgia.
Pull The Pure Retro Punches With Arcade Archives 2 STREET SMART
Arcade Archives 2 STREET SMART, a 1989 arcade fighting game originally by SNK, has been released on Xbox Series X|S by HAMSTER Corporation for £7.49. This port preserves the classic arcade experience with modern features like save states, online leaderboards, and VRR support, making it a nostalgic addition for retro fans.
Steam Deck and PCs Get Access to Retro Games on CD and Cartridge With Polymega Remix
Polymega Remix is a new system allowing players to digitize and play original CD- and cartridge-based retro games on PCs and handhelds like the Steam Deck. The system includes a base unit for reading discs and a Windows app for digitization and playback, with optional cartridge adapters sold separately. It aims to preserve physical game collections for modern hardware without relying on ROMs.
45+ PS5, PS4 Games to Buy in PS Store's Big Games Big Deals Sale
The PlayStation Store is currently hosting its Big Games Big Deals sale, featuring thousands of discounted PS5 and PS4 titles until May 6, 2026. The article highlights a curated selection of recommended games, many of which are at their lowest-ever prices.
Ninja Gaiden III The Ancient Ship of Doom Joins Console Archives April 23
Hamster announced that Ninja Gaiden III: The Ancient Ship of Doom will be released for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch on April 23, 2026, as part of its Console Archives lineup. This re-release of the 1991 Tecmo title features side-scrolling action, ninjutsu, and Tecmo Theater cutscenes, with added quality-of-life features like customizable controls and save/load functionality.
Ninja Gaiden 3: The Ancient Ship of Doom is this week’s Console Archives game on Nintendo Switch 2
Hamster has announced that Ninja Gaiden 3: The Ancient Ship of Doom will be released on the Nintendo Switch via the Console Archives series on April 23. Originally released in 1991 for an 8-bit console, this side-scrolling action game follows Ryu Hayabusa as he fights to prove his innocence. The digital version will be available for $7.99.
Console Archives NINJA GAIDEN III: The Ancient Ship of Doom launches April 23
Console Archives announced that Ninja Gaiden III: The Ancient Ship of Doom will launch on April 23 for PlayStation 5. The game is a port of the classic title, bringing it to modern platforms.
Evening Previews
Wolfhound is a new game that draws heavy inspiration from classic 8-bit titles. The preview suggests it has learned from the best of the genre, offering a nostalgic experience for players.
Sony Does Its Latest Retro Release Justice with a PS5, PS4 Trophy List
Sony has released Wild Arms 4 on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, complete with a full Trophy list including a Platinum. The classic RPG is available for purchase or via a PS Plus Premium subscription. The article also notes that seven new PS5 and PS4 titles have been added to the PS Plus Extra tier.
FPGA dev claims the Neo Geo AES+ is "basically the MiSTer core" broken up into separate chips
FPGA developer Pramod Somashekar claims the upcoming Neo Geo AES+ console, which promises to recreate the original hardware using ASICs, is essentially a repackaged MiSTer FPGA core. While another expert, Furrtek, suggests the device has the potential to be the best remake since SNK's original hardware, Somashekar argues that using hard-wired ASICs prevents future updates, unlike FPGA solutions. The debate centers on whether the Neo Geo AES+ offers genuine innovation or a 'bait and switch' by Plaion.
Kickstarter campaign goes live today!
JanduSoft and Last Chicken Games have launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund the physical production of a retro spin-off for the classic Nintendo Game Boy, set in the universe of Jett Rider. The campaign aims to raise €5,000 over 15 days, offering digital and limited boxed editions of the 8-bit adventure.
You Don't Need a Neo Geo AES+, These Games Are Already on PS5
Many classic Neo Geo games are readily available on PlayStation 5, offering a more affordable alternative to the new Neo Geo AES+ hardware. Titles like Metal Slug, Garou: Mark of the Wolves, and The King of Fighters 2002 can be purchased digitally, with prices ranging from $5.99 to $14.99, often going on sale.
When Childhood Gaming Heroes Fall: The Brutal Reality of Replaying Classic Games
This article discusses the common experience of retro gamers revisiting childhood favorites and finding that gameplay mechanics have not aged well, despite strong visual art direction. It explores how evolving player expectations and rapid industry advancements create a disconnect with older titles. The piece suggests approaching classic games as historical artifacts or seeking out remasters and remakes to balance nostalgia with modern polish.
Maybe some N64 games are better left forgotten, but don't tell that to the reconstituted Star Fox studio seemingly…
Original developer Argonaut Games, which has recently been revived, has teased a potential revival of their 1998 Nintendo 64 title, Buck Bumble. The company posted cryptic messages on social media, suggesting the cyborg bumblebee game could be getting a new lease on life, much like other retro titles such as Gex and Destroy All Humans.
Review: ZPF (Switch) - A Unique-Feeling Mega Drive Shooter With Some Switch Issues
ZPF is a unique Mega Drive-style shoot 'em up for the Nintendo Switch, featuring a blend of fantasy and cyberpunk elements. While visually impressive for its 16-bit roots and offering deep gameplay mechanics, the Switch port suffers from persistent scroll judder and a lack of quality-of-life features, significantly impacting the overall experience.
Sunday Pokemon Red Sessions Show Why Classic Games Never Get Old
A Reddit post highlighting a user playing Pokemon Red on a Game Boy Color sparked discussion about the enduring appeal of classic games. The article argues that despite advancements in graphics and technology, the simple fun and design of games like Pokemon Red continue to resonate with both older and younger generations, proving that great game design is timeless.
Kings Do Not Fall to Be Featured in Steam Medieval Fest!
Kings Do Not Fall, a retro-style beat 'em up developed by HyperDevbox, will be featured in the Steam Medieval Fest from April 20 to April 27. The game will also be available at a 20% discount during the event. Developed by veteran Carlo Perconti, the game pays homage to classic 90s arcade titles with modern gameplay enhancements.
PlayStation Vita: Our Love for a Dead Console
The PlayStation Vita, released in 2011, aimed to bring a home console experience to a handheld device with features like dual analog sticks and an OLED screen. Despite a strong library of JRPGs, fighting games, and indie titles, it struggled against mobile gaming and the Nintendo 3DS due to its high price and proprietary memory cards. However, the console gained a dedicated following through modding, enabling emulation, custom themes, and the use of standard Micro SD cards, preserving its legacy as a beloved handheld.
