RetroGaming

In September of 1994, Illusion of Gaia made its North American debut. Known for being much darker than the other RPGs Nintendo was allowing at the time, it left players with a lot to think about... but unfortunately, the localization was often incomprehensible.

Now, thanks to the efforts of L Thammy, the game has received a new fan translation 30 years after its western release. The GitHub project page for this translation can be found here.

Key points:

• The new translation aims to make the English script more comprehensible and closer to the original Japanese dialogue.
• A demo is available on GitHub, including the translation up to South Cape location.
• In addition, the patch improves load times by decompressing all assets in the game.

Do you remember being confused by the original localization?

LEGO Discontinues NES, Atari 2600, and Sonic Green Hill Zone Packs

LEGO has announced the retirement of several popular themed sets based on classic gaming consoles and iconic video game levels. This includes the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Atari 2600, and Sonic the Hedgehog’s 'Green Hill Zone'.

Key Information

• Nintendo Entertainment System (NES): £229.99 in UK, $269.99 in US.
• Atari 2600: £209.99.
• Sonic the Hedgehog – Green Hill Zone: £69.99.

These discontinuations are part of LEGO's strategy to phase out older sets and make way for new releases.

Availabilty and Purchasing

• These sets will retire soon once current inventories are depleted. Fans should act quickly to secure them before they run out.
• Remaining stock can be found on LEGO's official website or authorized retailers.
• Retired sets may become collector's items, potentially increasing in value over time.

Would you consider purchasing these sets despite (or because of) their limited availability?

A fan-driven project has made it possible for English-speaking players to fully enjoy Dezaemon 3D, a shoot 'em up game creation tool originally released for the Nintendo 64DD. The release includes full English translations of nearly all game elements, as well as the Nintendo 64DD functionality that was initially designed for expanded game features.

• Key Features: A comprehensive translation covering tutorials, menus, prompts, and sample games. The only untranslated element is a label on a single cup of tea.
• Nintendo 64DD Support: Emulators like Ares support the 64DD disks, making it easier to explore these features.
• Community Contribution: Lead by Whowasphone404 and implemented by Zoinkity, this community effort highlights the dedication to translating and preserving retro gaming experiences.

Which games do you wish had a fan translation?

I was going to post this in /c/retropie but it seems they haven't had any activity in 8 months. So I figure here is the next most appropriate place.

I recently brought out my raspberry pi, and started taking care with it. I downloaded some new themes. I put a hell of a lot more roms into it.

One problem is, if I try to connect a controller, I can map every button except LT and RT.

At first I thought it was because I was using the 8 Bitdo Switch arcade stick (which also has the ability to connect to PC/Linux/Raspberry Pi.

I didn't understand it, but I thought "Ok. Maybe something about it being an arcade stick means I can't use those two buttons on THIS stick. Whatever. I'll just use a different controller.

So I pull out my WiiU Pro Controller......SAME EXACT ISSUE.

So now I don't know WHAT to think. I WAS going to connect it to my switch, and see if I could do a button test on that, to see if it registers the inputs for those two buttons, but now I'm not sure that's needed if it's had the same issue with two unrelated controllers with two different form factors, made by two different companies.

Is this a common issue with an easy fix, or has life once again said "FUCK YOU Lost_My_Mind!!!" ?

PLAY magazine, known as the last stronghold of PlayStation print media, has released its final issue. This signals the end of an era for the magazine.

Bryan77233 has crafted a stunning Wipeout craft set on the LEGO Ideas page. This kit, designed with FEISAR in mind, brings back memories of the iconic PS1 game and Studio Liverpool’s initial designs.

• Total Pieces: 1905
• Unique Features: Repair drones, power-up plates, and a cradle holder would be included.
• Vote Threshold: Needs to reach 10,000 supporter votes, with only 189 days remaining from the current 2046 votes.

So, if you're interested in seeing this set on your shelf and supporting a community project, make sure to support the project.

Should we collectively support this LEGO set to bring LEGO Wipeout into our lives? 🚀

The Ryujinx emulator, a popular tool for emulating Nintendo Switch games on PCs, has been taken down following a request from Nintendo. This action is part of Nintendo’s broader crackdown on emulation and homebrew communities, particularly as the company seeks to protect its intellectual property and revenue streams.

Katsuhiro Harada, a prominent figure in the Tekken series, has expressed skepticism about the demand for a classic Tekken collection. His perspective is that while there is a dedicated fan base for Tekken, the interest in a classic collection might not be significant enough to justify its development.

Key Points from Harada’s Perspective:

• Perceived Interest: While Tekken has a rich history and a substantial following, market analysis suggests that the interest in revisiting older titles is not as strong as some might assume.
• Focus on New Content: The focus on new installments like Tekken 7 shows the game developers' priority towards innovation and engaging with newer gaming experiences within the franchise.
• Community Feedback: Although nostalgic fans appreciate older games, the broader gaming audience tends to lean towards new content.

Context:

The Tekken series has evolved significantly since its debut in arcades in 1994. Over the years, it has built a substantial following due to its deep combat mechanics and engaging storylines. However, as with many long-running franchises, balancing nostalgia with innovation is a constant challenge.

Do you believe that 2D games age better than 3D games?

Nintendo has been actively taking down YouTube videos that feature its games being emulated or modded, which has sparked significant discussion and concern within the gaming community.

I know this might be an unusual post, since this is a new game, but hear me out!

I just picked up UFO 50 this week, and I can't recommend this enough to anyone who loves retro gaming. The premise is that this is a collection of 50 games from a fictional 8-bit console in the 1980s, with a little info card for each one providing its release date, developers, and some trivia. The game selection screen shows 50 cartridges to choose from:

These are all full games like you might have seen during the era - not minigames or demos, and the ones I've booted up feel pretty authentically 8-bit (with some modern QoL things thrown in). There are all sorts of cool ideas and game types: platformers, a point and click adventure, bullet hells, at least one full JRPG, etc.

Some examples:

It looks like as you browse through the chronological library, you see a sequel or two of previous titles. This was made by the team that created Spelunky, and it wasn't even on my radar until I fortunately saw a video a few days ago of one of the individual games (followed by some confusion when I couldn't figure out where to buy that game by itself). If any of this appeals to you at all, I highly recommend checking it out.

Key Points:

• Platform: Sega MegaDrive/Genesis
• Developer: Monster Bath Games, best known for games like Deathwish Enforcers and Guardgrave.
• Method: Using the Scorpion Engine, a modern chiptune artist provided music.
• Release Plan: The developer plans to release one section per week until complete, starting with level 2.

Background:

Splatterhouse was originally an arcade game released in 1988 by Namco. It was notably left out of the Sega MegaDrive/Genesis lineup, despite its popularity among fans and other platforms like PC Engine/Turbo Grafx-16 and FM-Towns computer in the early '90s.

What's Next?

Monster Bath Games has committed to developing this fanmade port into a playable fangame.

Which levels or aspects of Splatterhouse did you find the most challenging?

Coming later this year, the retro action game Earthion continues to impress with its modern visuals and retro gameplay. From Yuzo Koshiro's Ancient studio, this Sega Genesis / Mega Drive game promises a unique experience pushing the console to its limits.

Key Points:

• Developer: Ancient Studio
• Release Date: End of 2024 (Confirmed)
• Distributors: Limited Run Games for physical copies and Super Deluxe Games in Japan
• Platforms: Modern systems will also support it, alongside the original Mega Drive / Genesis.

Visual and Audio Showcasing

The demo on display at TGS 2024 features new boss battles and stunning visual effects that blend old-school aesthetics with modern enhancements.

Community Reaction

The game is generating excitement among gamers, with some commenters noting the scaled visuals and others looking forward to the expanded capabilities of modern cartridges.

What retro gaming trends do you think are redefining the genre in 2024?

Another Metroid 64, a passion project from InDenial Game Studio inspired by fans' longing for an unmade Metroid game on the Nintendo 64. Their creation aims to deliver a captivating and immersive experience, staying true to the essence of the original "Metroid" series by Nintendo.

• Level Design: showcases intricate maps designed to offer varied exploration opportunities.
• Gameplay: features mechanics that align with the Metroid universe's core gameplay elements.
• Animated Cutscenes: add depth to the story, enhancing the narrative experience.
• Developer Update Coming Soon: more details on the game's progress and future plans will be shared.

Does this match or exceed the way you imagined a Metroid game on the Nintendo 64?

The New Law that Reveals: We Don't Own Digital Games

In the modern era, digital media has revolutionized how we consume entertainment. The shift towards streaming music and movies has made physical products less common. The same trend is now affecting video games, with over 90% of games sold in the UK being digital.

While digital media offers convenience—like instant access without the need to visit a physical store or manage multiple discs—it also comes with hidden terms and conditions. Digital storefronts are now required by California’s new law (AB 2426) to disclose that buyers do not hold unrestricted ownership over their digitally purchased content.

Key Points:

• Disclosure Requirement: Californian sellers must clearly state they are providing a license, not selling digital goods outright.
• Limited Ownership Rights: While this does not preclude the right to access your purchases temporarily, it highlights the transient nature of licensed media.
• Permanent Exclusions: The law does not apply when products can be permanently downloaded and is not applicable in situations where buyers are notified of terms clearly.

Implications:

This new law adds awareness that digital games, as well as other digital content, do not confer long-term ownership. It also brings to light the challenges of preserving retro or modern games through permanent downloads or physical media.

In the age of digital content, do you think it's more important to own a permanent copy or have accessible licensed rights?

Square Enix has announced the release of die-cast miniature models of classic Sega consoles as part of its “Bright Arts” series. These detailed replicas are designed to celebrate some of Sega’s most iconic gaming hardware and will be available in multiple regional variants.

Naoki Yoshida, known as Yoshi-P and the director of Final Fantasy 14, has expressed skepticism about the feasibility of remaking Final Fantasy 9 as a single title.

Ken Kutaragi: Sony’s Doubts About the PlayStation Success

Ken Kutaragi (often referred to as the “father of PlayStation”) has revealed a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the early days of PlayStation's development.

Key Insights From Ken Kutaragi:

• Initial Skepticism: During the Tokyo Game Show 2024, Kutaragi shared that Sony executives and industry insiders were highly skeptical of entering the video game market. Many viewed games as mere children’s toys and doubted their potential to rival other forms of entertainment like movies or television.
• Industry Doubts: Kutaragi and his team faced significant pushback from both internal and external stakeholders. Developers were often uninterested in pursuing the project, predicting failure based on previous unsuccessful attempts by others.
• Vision and Determination: Unwavering in his vision of gaming as a major entertainment medium, Kutaragi worked tirelessly to attract key developers and secure exclusive titles like Final Fantasy VII. These strategic moves played a crucial role in establishing PlayStation’s success.

Impact on Gaming:

Kutaragi's leadership transformed Sony into a major player in the gaming industry. The PlayStation became hugely successful despite initial doubts.

Are you glad that the Nintendo/Sony "Play Station" deal fell through and that Sony went their own way? How might the gaming landscape look today if the partnership had continued?

Time Crisis is bringing back the nostalgia with a new AI powered gun compatible with modern TVs. This kit from Achievement Electric will allow you to use light guns conveniently without needing to worry about acquiring an old CRT or tinkering with setups.

The AI Gun Con system comes pre-loaded with the original Time Crisis game, designed for all LCD monitors. The pricing starts at $89.99 for a basic unit and goes up to $119.99 for an arcade mode setup which includes a pedal controller.

Expect an official release date announcement soon as the Tokyo Game Show approaches shortly.

Would you want to know more about how AI is used in this device before buying?

The Super Game Boy has received a significant upgrade with the introduction of the Super Game Boy Plus, an unofficial enhancement developed by @BucketMouseBite. This new version addresses several limitations of the original Super Game Boy, which allowed Game Boy games to be played on the SNES but had a faster clock speed than the original Game Boy, affecting gameplay and compatibility with link cables.

Arika's Return to Tetris The Grand Master

Arika has signed an agreement to develop a brand new Tetris The Grand Master game.

Scheduled Release and Evolution

Scheduled for release during the fiscal year 2024, the concept revolves around 'making players good at Tetris'. Given Arika's track record with these sequels, fans anticipate not just another level increase but perhaps new gameplay layers or mechanics that add depth to strategy and challenge — all while respecting the core elements of the classic.

Historical Context

Originating in 1998, Tetris The Grand Master breathed new life into the arcade with a more complex yet addictive version compared to the original 1988 arcade release.

Past and Present Projects

Prior iterations such as Tetris The Grand Master 2 (2000) and Tetris: The Absolute - The Grand Master 2 Plus have been celebrated for introducing elements that made the traditional Tetris gameplay more compelling. Further, Tetris The Grand Master Ace, despite being developed for Xbox 360, retained its essence while adapting to new console capabilities.

What does Arika need to do to craft a worthy successor?

Retro Gaming Update: Star Fox CD

An upcoming project goes by the name 'Star Fox CD', inspired by the legendary SNES game. Its developer, @RealSunlitSpace, is utilizing the MSU-1 chip for high-quality CD music.

The ultimate goal of this hack project is not only to leverage Randy Linden's unofficial Super FX 3 chip for potential enhancements but also integrate rumble support on the SNES system.

Will you be playing Star Fox CD when it's released?

At a glance

Atari Jaguar emulation is set to grace iPhones, thanks to the efforts of programmer and Jaguar enthusiast, Richard Whitehouse, Head of Digital Conservation at The Video Game History Foundation. He's nearly ready to publish his iOS emulator.

Still in development stages but with hopeful plans for release next month. He posted this update on Twitter: "It’s alive! Still lots of work to be done", suggesting much more work is needed before full public availability. But the potential to play beloved games like Tempest 2000 is exciting.

Context

While iOS has seen its fair share of retro game emulators, this marks a significant addition for Jaguars fans. The emulator's release would provide another piece to the vibrant puzzle of nostalgic gaming on mobile platforms.

What are your favourite memories of the Atari Jaguar?