Retro Gaming
Ongoing coverage on Retro Gaming.
Latest coverage
There's a "TV apocalypse" in video game preservation as CRTs go extinct, expert says, and that's just the tip of the iceberg as work continues to save retro hardware
The extinction of CRT televisions poses a significant challenge to video game preservation, as many retro games were designed with their display characteristics in mind. Experts at the Game Developers Conference 2026 highlighted this 'TV apocalypse' as part of a larger crisis facing game historians, who are working to preserve not only playable games but also crucial development materials like schematics to aid in emulation and future game presentation.
MapleStory Classic World opens registration for its first online closed test starting April 16
Nexon has opened registration for the first online closed test of MapleStory Classic World, a throwback server for the MMORPG. The test will run from April 16th to April 23rd, with applications accepted until April 7th. This test is crucial for refining the experience to match the original MapleStory.
Console Archives Sonic Wings Special launches March 12
Console Archives announced that Sonic Wings Special will launch for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch on March 12. The game is a port of the classic arcade title.
Review: Prison City (Nintendo Switch)
Prison City is a high-quality action platformer inspired by classic NES titles, now available physically for the Nintendo Switch. Despite its challenging retro-style difficulty, the game offers customizable options and multiple paths to accommodate a wider audience. The review praises its colorful visuals, immersive atmosphere, and satisfying gameplay loop, ultimately awarding it an 8.5.
You can now use an OG Virtual Boy controller wirelessly with the Switch, and I'm hoping it inspires Nintendo to…
Modder RetroOnyx has developed a wireless mod board for the original Virtual Boy controller, making it compatible with the Nintendo Switch, PC, and Meta Quest VR headsets. The $99 mod replaces the original internal components with a new PCB, adding Bluetooth connectivity. This project aims to inspire Nintendo to release more official retro gaming accessories.
I respect the Virtual Boy as a collectable Switch 2 gadget, but it’s not exactly a retro console remake
The new Virtual Boy accessory for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 is a detailed collectible that replicates the original's look and feel, offering a unique way to experience retro games. However, its high price, lack of a dedicated controller, and reliance on the Nintendo Switch Online subscription prevent it from being a true retro console remake.
Scott Pilgrim EX Review – The Sequel We’ve Been Waiting For
Scott Pilgrim EX is a loving spiritual successor to Scott Pilgrim vs The World: The Game, featuring fantastic pixel art and an incredible soundtrack. While it excels as a modern retro brawler with satisfying combat and fun co-op, some repetition and balancing issues prevent it from reaching the absolute top tier of the genre.
Mario Day Virtual Boy reviews - Mario Clash, Mario’s Tennis, and more
Nintendo celebrated Mario Day by releasing three classic games on the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service: Mario's Tennis, Mario Clash, and the original Mario Vs. Donkey Kong, all originally from the Virtual Boy and Game Boy Advance. While Mario's Tennis and Mario Clash offer a glimpse into Nintendo's past, their limited gameplay and the Virtual Boy's inherent flaws make them novelties at best. Mario Vs. Donkey Kong, a puzzle game, is also available, though its remake for the Switch is generally preferred.
Steam Next Fest 2026 | Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War!
The demo for Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War, developed by Auroch Digital and published by Dotemu, offers a retro-styled first-person shooter experience reminiscent of the PS1 era. The preview highlights the game's vibrant graphics, challenging gameplay, and the ability to call in supply drops and use mechs, all set during the iconic Starship Troopers bug war.
Mario Day brings three classic games to the Switch library
To celebrate Mario Day and the franchise's 40th anniversary, Nintendo has added three classic Mario games to its Nintendo Switch Online service. Mario's Tennis and Mario Clash are now available on the Virtual Console, while Mario vs. Donkey Kong has been added to the Game Boy Advance library. Access to these titles depends on the user's Nintendo Switch Online subscription tier.
Spring Game Showcase 2026 - The MIX Event | Invision Game Community
The Spring Game Showcase 2026, hosted by The MIX and Kinda Funny, highlighted numerous upcoming indie titles during GDC week. Key announcements included new trailers and gameplay for Emberville, Echo Generation 2, Toxic Crusaders, and SACRED: Last Pixel of Ancaria. The event showcased a wide variety of genres, with Emberville targeting an Early Access launch on PC.
Acclaim Brings Retro Arcade Hoops Back to Life with Super Basketball Classics Featuring the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters
Acclaim announced Super Basketball Classics Featuring the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters, a new retro-inspired arcade basketball game. The title will launch on PC and home consoles, coinciding with the Harlem Globetrotters' centennial celebration. The game promises fast-paced action, trick shots, and couch co-op, blending classic 8- and 16-bit gameplay with the iconic flair of the Harlem Globetrotters.
Congo Bongo: The Isometric Edition (MSX) - This version of Sega's Congo Bongo looks incredible on the MSX!
A new version of Sega's classic isometric arcade game Congo Bongo has been released for the MSX, developed by Mastropiero. This port is based on the ColecoVision version and aims to replicate the original arcade experience with features like true isometric perspective, arcade fonts, and an animated title screen.
If you miss the old NBA Jam games, this new Harlem Globetrotters game looks like a slam dunk
Acclaim has announced Super Basketball Classics, a new retro-style basketball game celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Harlem Globetrotters. The game promises trick plays, slam dunks, and competitive arcade action, reminiscent of classic 16-bit titles like NBA Jam. It will be available on PC.
Super Basketball Classics Featuring the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters Announced
Acclaim Entertainment has announced Super Basketball Classics Featuring the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters, an arcade basketball game for PC and consoles. The title blends retro gameplay inspired by 8-bit and 16-bit titles with the showmanship of the Harlem Globetrotters, coinciding with their 100th anniversary in 2026. The game will feature exhibition, season, and tournament modes, as well as local multiplayer.
Game Boy Juke Box Sparks Hit Clips Nostalgia Among Retro Gamers
A Reddit post comparing Nintendo's Game Boy Juke Box accessory to the 1999 Hit Clips music players has sparked widespread nostalgia among retro gamers. The observation highlights the striking design similarities and taps into a shared memory of late '90s portable tech, reflecting a broader trend of retro gaming revival and the enduring appeal of nostalgic design in gaming accessories.
Game History and Preservation
Palmer Luckey's retro gaming venture, ModRetro, is nearing a $1 billion valuation with the upcoming launch of its FPGA-based Nintendo 64 clone, the M64 console. The device will play original Nintendo 64 cartridges and support 4K resolution output.
This Retro Gamer’s 26-Year-Old Pikachu N64 Still Works — And It’s Making Everyone Jealous
A Reddit user shared a photo of their perfectly preserved Pikachu Edition Nintendo 64, which still functions flawlessly after 26 years, sparking discussions about retro gaming hardware and nostalgia. The article contrasts the durability of older consoles with modern hardware issues and highlights the growing value and importance of preserving vintage gaming systems.
Nintendo Is Pulling Out All The Stops For Mario Day Festivities
Nintendo is celebrating Mario Day with various promotions, including access to classic Super NES, Game Boy, and NES titles for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. Participating retailers are offering discounts on games like Super Mario Odyssey and Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. Additionally, Ciniplex theaters will feature Nintendo Switch 2 demo booths, and Mario Kart World is hosting online races for My Nintendo Platinum Points.
Saint Slayer: Spear of Sacrilege – Beta Demo | Alpha Beta Gamer
Saint Slayer: Spear of Sacrilege is an NES-style 2D action game set in late-17th century Europe, featuring pixel art and an 8-bit soundtrack. Players control Rudiger, an ex-soldier, who must protect his people from a power-mad priest and his monsters. A demo is available on Steam, allowing players to experience the game's mechanics and make choices that impact playthroughs.
