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WipEout, the iconic PlayStation 1 franchise, made its mark with its avant-garde approach in many respects: soundtrack, graphics, polished gameplay, and the most dedicated fans will also remember the lore that justified the locations and teams (For those who doubt it, I invite you to check out this image).

Three games were released on PS1: WipEout, WipEout 2097, and Wip3out. PlayStation continued to ride the wave of its anti-gravity racing game until 2012 with WipEout 2048 on PS Vita, although in 2017 we got the WipEout Omega Collection which gathered and “remastered” the last three games in the series.

Since then, complete silence. The dissolution of Psygnosis in 2012 (previously renamed Studio Liverpool) has left little room for any ongoing project for now. Players have therefore turned to other franchises, more or less successful, such as Redout.

For now, SONY keeps the ships in the garage

That was before the arrival of a game on the Xbox Store early this year, called Anti-Gravity Racing WipEout. You have probably heard little or nothing about it, and for good reason: there was very little communication about this game...

Tested recently by Digital Foundry (see the video below), the game was brought to the community’s attention — and it’s safe to say it wasn’t for praise. So much so that the game was removed from the store just a few hours later.

Here are the main points from Digital Foundry’s analysis:

• Performance limited to 30 frames per second (FPS): a low framerate, especially compared to current expectations, harms the essential fluidity in a fast-paced racing game.
• Graphical issues: the port shows visual bugs and display quality below modern standards, affecting the immersive experience.
• Lack of optimization for Xbox One: Digital Foundry notes that this game is clearly not adapted to the console, with errors and technical limitations.
• Generic emulation experience: overall, it feels like a poorly polished emulator, without any improvement or specific adaptation, which degrades the gameplay enjoyment.

Testers say:

“Yes, WipEout is available on Xbox, but this is not the right way to enjoy it. It feels like a generic emulation experience and all changes made are downgrades.”

Another point: right from the start of the game, something seems off, as highlighted by laportedesjeux.fr:

“The shock comes with a stunning CGI intro, faithfully reproducing the original WipEout intro with a modern look. The problem? This intro is a work by Benjamin Brosdau dating from 2021! Did he give his consent? Mystery… And the music, with its licensed tracks, strangely recalls that of the PlayStation version.”

Indeed, beyond the technical flaws, an essential question hangs over this port: intellectual property rights. The WipEout franchise belongs to Sony, which holds exclusive rights since the series’ creation.

However, this port:

• Was apparently not authorized by Sony, as evidenced by its swift removal from the Xbox Store shortly after Digital Foundry’s report was published.
• Seems to be an unofficial port, probably using original ROMs via basic emulation, without any license or official agreement.
• Used an ambiguous title, mixing Anti-Gravity Racing (a generic term) with WipEout to try to bypass strict rights enforcement.

Players were refunded their purchase. For those wishing to rediscover WipEout, they will need to turn to legitimate versions like the WipEout Omega Collection on PlayStation, or legal port projects like the Phantom Edition on PC, which enhance the experience while respecting rights.

Remember: last month, we talked on the blog about the release date of Earthion, the retro-futuristic shoot'em up developed by the Japanese studio Ancient, accompanied by its stunning 8BitDo collector’s controller.
👉 Check out the article here

But bad news for console players: the publisher Superdeluxe Games has just announced that the downloadable versions of the game on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, and Xbox Series X|S have been pushed back to mid-September. Originally scheduled for July 31st, they will have to wait a little longer.

The PC / Steam version, however, remains firmly scheduled for its planned release date, which is July 31, 2025.

“We sincerely apologize to everyone who has been looking forward to Earthion. We appreciate your continued support.”
— Superdeluxe Games, Ancient & Limited Run Games

This official statement was co-signed by developer Ancient (led by Yuzo Koshiro, the legendary composer of Streets of Rage) and Limited Run Games, which handles Western distribution.

Finally, a word for purists: the Mega Drive / Genesis version of the game, announced from the start as a tribute to 16-bit consoles, has now been pushed back to 2026. So patience will be needed before sliding an Earthion cartridge into your Sega console.

Arcade closures are becoming increasingly common these days, and all types of business models are affected. A perfect example is RGS Arcade, located in Pourrières, which is facing a difficult time despite its non-profit status.

We're sharing this with you here and on our social media because this venue holds a special place for Recalbox. Our team visits regularly, and it's also the location where we host IRL meetups with members of our community based in southern France.

A Space for Everyone, But a Delicate Balance

Today, due to insufficient funding, RGS Arcade may be forced to close its doors after only three years of existence. With an annual membership fee of €20 and a €5 entry fee for unlimited playtime, the association’s mission honors our shared passion: making retrogaming accessible (consoles, arcade cabinets, and pinball machines) to the widest possible audience.

Unfortunately, this level of accessibility comes at a cost. Each opening costs the association around €50, due to unavoidable fixed expenses (rent, insurance, machine maintenance…) and occasional low attendance.

More Than Just an Arcade: A Community Hub

RGS is more than just an arcade — it's a true community space that brings life to the village, as Mike, the venue’s co-founder, explains:

"We had a lot of people come in during the first year.
Over these three years, we’ve hosted tons of tournaments: arcade cabinets, consoles (modern and retro), and pinball nights with special challenges.
It’s open to everyone — women, men, kids, regardless of age."

"Throughout the year, we run high-score tournaments on arcade games — both classics (Pac-Man, Donkey Kong…) and titles of historical interest like Le Bagnard (the first French game with digitized voices), or original games like QBert, with its diagonally positioned joystick."*

"It’s given many people the chance to discover games they wouldn’t normally play at home.
The combination of community spirit and friendly competition in the arcade is fantastic.
All the contests offer prizes (which often cover the entry fee).
We’ve got regulars who come every week, and kids who stop by after school on Fridays to have a snack and play some pinball."

"The atmosphere is just great."

How to Support RGS Arcade

If you’d like to support the association and this human adventure, you can:

• visit the arcade in person — open Fridays from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 2:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. — in Pourrières (near Aix-en-Provence) ;
• make a donation through the HelloAsso platform ;
• and of course, share this article or our social media posts.

We don’t need to remind you how rare such places are in France — and how important these initiatives are in helping people rediscover, and share, our favorite games in authentic conditions, in a space filled with passion and community spirit.

We recently told you about Infidelity, the talented ROM hacker known for his impressive work porting NES games to the SNES, particularly his remarkable adaptation of Mega Man VI. If you missed it, check out our article here: 👉 Mega Man VI ported to the Super Nintendo by Infidelity

Well, he’s not stopping anytime soon! On his social media, Infidelity just announced his next big project: porting three iconic Konami NES titles to the Super Nintendo. The lucky picks? Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1989), Super C (1990), and Contra Force (1992).

In recent years, homebrew NES-to-SNES ports have become increasingly popular, but Infidelity has established himself as the undisputed leader in the field. His past work on legendary titles like The Legend of Zelda, Punch-Out!!, and Metroid shows not only technical mastery but also a deep respect for the source material.

Contrary to what you might expect, the goal of these ports isn’t to “modernize” the graphics or make them look like native SNES games. Instead, the focus lies in eliminating technical limitations from the NES, such as slowdown and sprite flickering, while unlocking new possibilities like MSU1 audio or FMV-style cutscenes.

Since releasing his Mega Man VI port last May, Infidelity has also updated one of his previous projects: the SNES version of Contra (1988, Famicom), which is now fully playable in English. He’s now moving on to the three upcoming Konami titles, which are sure to thrill fans of retro action games.

No official release schedule has been shared yet, nor the order in which the ports will arrive—but one thing is clear: these new versions will be well worth the wait. They aim to let players rediscover these classics under the best possible conditions, while retaining their beloved 8-bit essence.

To stay updated on the progress of these projects, make sure to follow Infidelity on Twitter/X, where he regularly shares updates and behind-the-scenes looks at his work.

Source : Time Extension

Following the success of the LEGO Atari 2600, NES, and the Pac-Man Arcade set, LEGO continues to delight retro fans with a brand-new build that will thrill pixel art and brick lovers alike: the LEGO Arcade Machine. A small arcade cabinet to assemble, full of charm and geeky references, available starting August 1st, 2025 for just €39.99.

A mini retro arcade… full of surprises

Made up of 468 pieces, this arcade cabinet stands about 16 cm tall and sports a distinct old-school style, with its red and black color scheme, colorful buttons, and a screen featuring a "Space Game" sticker. But the real surprise is hidden at the back: the cabinet opens like a dollhouse, revealing a tiny gaming universe inside.

Inside, you’ll find a gamer minifigure comfortably settled in a cozy retro room, surrounded by decorations, a couch, a CRT-style TV, and even… a mini LEGO arcade machine! A fun touch that will delight fans of playful displays.

Easter eggs for retrogaming fans

LEGO has packed this set with plenty of easter eggs for savvy builders. Among them:

• A micro arcade cabinet paying tribute to Junkbot, a cult LEGO Flash game released in 2001.
• A tiny Galaxy Explorer, a nod to the iconic LEGO Classic Space spaceship.
• Posters referencing the world of Insectoids, a sci-fi LEGO theme from the late '90s.
• Graphical elements that evoke legendary game consoles.

Altogether, this set turns into a true miniature museum of retrogaming… in bricks!

Available in August for €39.99

Offered at the very reasonable price of €39.99, the LEGO 40805 Arcade Machine set is aimed at both LEGO fans and retro gaming enthusiasts. Compact, original, and rich in detail, it will look great on a shelf, desk, or proudly displayed as part of any gaming collection.

Available starting August 2025 on LEGO.com and through official retailers, this set could well become a must-have for brick and pixel lovers alike — and let’s be honest, it might be a little easier to get approval for this in the living room than a full-size arcade cabinet…

Remember back in late November, we introduced you to the RetroFlag 64Pi Case, a superb case paying tribute to the Nintendo 64, specially designed to house the Raspberry Pi 5. Today, it's Sega fans’ turn to celebrate, with the arrival of a new case steeped in nostalgia: the RetroFlag Dream Case, inspired by the legendary Dreamcast.

A miniature Dreamcast... for your Raspberry Pi 5

At first glance, the Dream Case impresses with its aesthetic accuracy: white color, clean lines, fake disc tray, functional buttons, stylized logo... every visual cue of the Dreamcast is here. Enough to warm the hearts of fans of Sega's last home console!

But beyond the nostalgic wink, the case is also very well designed: it provides easy access to the Raspberry Pi 5 ports, effective thermal management, and most importantly, wired power and reset buttons for a proper system shutdown, just as we've come to expect from RetroFlag.

A case built for retrogaming

Just like the 64Pi Case that won us over (see our YouTube video), RetroFlag has really taken user experience into account:

• The POWER button lets you safely turn your Recalbox on or off.
• The RESET button, connected to the GPIO, is fully programmable (return to menu, soft reset, etc.).
• A silent fan and aluminum heatsink ensure stable temperatures, even with demanding platforms like Naomi or N64.
• Two front-facing USB ports allow direct connection of your controllers.
• On the back, you’ll find the usual HDMI, USB-C, Ethernet, and microSD ports, easily accessible without disassembly.

The overall design feels sturdy, well-ventilated, and easy to assemble, with an included screwdriver.

Expected to be available in France starting Fall 2025 from all usual retailers, for around €35 to €40, this case is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to combine retro looks with modern reliability, thanks to functional buttons and thermal protection tailored to the Raspberry Pi 5.

MAME released version 0.278 on Monday, June 30. This well-known emulator among arcade retrogamers is a free and open-source solution whose mission is to preserve video game heritage by allowing old arcade games, consoles, computers, and electronic games to run on modern machines.

Created in 1997, MAME (Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator) is today one of the most comprehensive preservation projects, supporting a plethora of systems, ranging from classic arcade cabinets to LCD games, TV plug-and-play games, 8/16-bit computers, and much more.

MAME’s main goal is not just to play games, but to document and faithfully preserve the operation of the original machines.

Today marks a new milestone in development with version 0.278, for which you will find the announcement and details below:

“After two long months of waiting, MAME 0.278 is finally ready. And of course, the big new feature is the arrival of the new audio system! Here is what it brings:

• Native support for WASAPI on Windows and PipeWire on Linux.
• Support for audio input on emulated systems equipped with microphones or other sound capture devices.
• Support for multichannel audio inputs and outputs.
• Built-in effects, including a parametric equalizer and a dynamic compressor.
• Better quality for sample rate conversion and mixing, with reduced latency.

As this is the first version integrating this major component, there will undoubtedly still be some imperfections. But we are already considering several improvements to be made in the coming months.

We have been very busy with the new audio system, but we have not neglected emulation. This version brings several graphical fixes for 3D systems, notably Sega Model 2 and Taito Type Zero. But it doesn’t stop there: classic 2D games have also received attention. Several Konami games benefit from improved rendering, including better support for cocktail mode, often neglected. Additionally, all missing graphics from the famous mahjong game Long Hu Bang (IGS) have finally been fixed.

This month, the list of new supported systems is long. It includes:

• Arcade games from Exidy and Taito from the 1970s
• LCD games from behind the Iron Curtain
• A large number of recently dumped TV plug-and-play games
• Several new versions of Gaelco arcade games, released from the archives
• Some Capcom rarities, music workstations, game watches, casino games, and much more

⚠️ If you play casino games, note that some default keyboard shortcuts have been changed in this version.

On the computer system emulation side, there are also many new features:

• The Victor 9000 benefits from completely revamped floppy disk support, as well as SASI hard disk support
• Several improvements have been made to the Sanyo PHC-25
• Support for serial communication via the POKEY chip, used on Atari 8-bit computers, is now properly implemented

👉 To discover in detail all the development adventures of MAME over the past two months, check the whatsnew.txt file.
As always, the source code and Windows 64-bit packages are available on the download page.”

⚠️ Given the importance of MAME in the history of emulation, we felt it was important to share this update with you, even though for now, this version is not planned to be integrated into Recalbox. The system currently relies on MAME 0.274, in its V10 version, which is currently reserved for our supporters. Of course, we will keep you informed of any future developments on this topic.

Remember, last December a statement from Shuji Utsumi, the current CEO of Sega America and Europe, disappointed some in the retrogaming community. At the head of an empire that dominated the video game market in the 90s and backed by iconic franchises, the Japanese executive declared:

“We are not a retro company. We truly appreciate our heritage, we value it, but at the same time, we want to offer something new, otherwise we will become a thing of the past. That is not our goal.”

This statement is quite understandable when you look at the number of remasters, remakes, and reboots of series that often fall into easy solutions (although Sega does not forbid itself from this with remakes/reboots planned for Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio…), but it had upset some players who would like to see Sega more openly embrace its heritage and play on players' nostalgia.

Utsumi came back to his vision for Sega and the company’s direction in an interview given to The Game Business Show, admitting he wants to rediscover that classic Sega spirit:

“I would really like to revive that Sega spirit. Around 2000, and even already in the 80s, we were regarded as a very cultural company. If you compare it to the music industry, I think Sega represented rock and roll. In the arcade halls, we really had that rock and roll mindset, always trying to bring something new. Today, we want Sega to continue innovating, while respecting the heritage of the past.”

That “rock and roll” spirit he mentions refers to the vibrant creativity and boldness of the arcade years, a time when Sega was synonymous with offbeat innovations and memorable arcade cabinets and games.

Utsumi clarifies his thoughts:

“This is a topic I constantly discuss with studios and developers. Even if we take care of our old games, we must also innovate to attract a new audience. Luckily, nowadays, everything related to the 2000s is becoming trendy again. It’s a favorable tailwind for us. But at the same time, we need to integrate new elements into the games. Developers know and understand that the nostalgic element, the old, and the new are both important.”

As mentioned at the start of the article, Sega is currently working on reboots of cult franchises like Jet Set Radio, Streets of Rage, Golden Axe, Crazy Taxi, and Shinobi. Utsumi explains the different approaches depending on the titles:

“Some of our franchises like Sonic are less risky; we can count on a good return. But for others, we try wilder things. It’s riskier, but the return can be much higher.”

His strategy: target less broadly but more accurately:

“We target certain audiences more specifically. You might think a game appeals to a niche, but if it is well exploited… it can sometimes reach a much larger audience.”

You can find the full statement at this link.

Great news for PlayStation 2 fans! The PCSX2 emulator has just been updated to version 2.4.0, bringing a host of technical improvements and welcome fixes. The goal: to make PS2 emulation even smoother, more accurate… and more compatible!

Already praised for its 2.0 release last year — described by its developers as the biggest update in the project’s history — this 2.4.0 version continues along that ambitious path.

Improved compatibility with "Render Target in Render Target"

One of the main technical improvements is called "RT in RT". Behind this somewhat cryptic acronym lies a rendering method used by certain PS2 games, especially for split-screen effects.

Until now, this technique caused display issues in the emulator’s Hardware mode. Thanks to the work of refraction, former lead developer of the project, this mode is now much better supported.

In practical terms, this means that games like Jak X: Combat Racing, Drakengard, Hitman: Contracts, and Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex now display correctly.
A real boost to overall emulator compatibility!

Other notable improvements

PCSX2 2.4.0 also introduces:

• The ability to manually set the game’s internal real-time clock, allowing certain Easter Eggs to be unlocked (like in Metal Gear Solid 3)
• Direct3D 11 rendering optimizations
• A brand-new, modern debugger system
• SDL 3.0 support
• And signed macOS builds, for improved security and ease of use

If you’re playing PS2 games on PC, Mac, or Linux, this 2.4.0 version of PCSX2 can significantly improve your gaming experience. You can find the full update details on the official PCSX2 blog, where the team also discusses features from earlier releases.

PS2 emulation on Recalbox relies on this emulator, and PCSX2 updates may be integrated into our system if our internal testing proves successful. Finally, a quick reminder: PS2 emulation on Recalbox is currently available only on PC, and as of now, we do not support PS2 on Raspberry Pi.

Source: Time Extension

As a reminder, this friendly competition pits the The Challenge community against the Recalbox community. Everyone is welcome! Whether you play on an arcade cabinet, with a controller, on CRT, LCD, or even on a portable device, you can participate.

It’s important to note that this challenge is a “challenge” in name only: all skill levels are welcome, from the hardcore scorer aiming for the top of the leaderboard to the newcomer (like me!) who just wants to discover games and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Be warned though: arcade gaming can quickly become addictive, whether in terms of playtime or hardware... You have been warned!

Rules

For this first month of Summer Camps 2025, three games have been selected to compete. You are not required to play all three; you can focus your efforts on the game(s) you prefer.

You have until July 31 at 11:59 PM to submit your best score, achieved on a single credit, for each game you have played. The top 10 scores per game and per community will be counted to determine the final score.

If you manage to finish a game on a single credit, your community will earn an additional 15 points. As with previous Recalbox challenges this year, rewind, save states, cheats, and autofire (unless built into the game) are prohibited.

The full rules and scoring table are listed below, followed by the three games for July.

Games of the Month

Gunbarich – Puzzle (Psikyo, 2001) – Tate

rom: gnbarich

Gunbarich was developed by Psikyo and released in 2001. A dynamic mix of breakout and pinball, it stands out with fast-paced, colorful gameplay. The player controls a character on a moving platform, bouncing a ball to break blocks while using “flippers” to deflect its trajectory.

With unique power-ups, eccentric bosses, and a strong manga style, Gunbarich offers a fun and intense experience true to the Japanese arcade spirit.

Armored Warriors – Beat them all (Capcom, 1994) – Yoko

rom: armwar

Armored Warriors is a beat’em up developed by Capcom and released in 1994. In this futuristic world, you play as a mecha pilot fighting hordes of mechanical enemies in an intergalactic war setting.

The gameplay features dynamic combat, with the ability to customize your robot by picking up and swapping parts (weapons, arms, legs…) in real time. With detailed graphics and a powerful soundtrack, Armored Warriors is a must-play blending brutal action and mechanical strategy.

Blood Bros – Third-person shooter (TAD, 1990) – Yoko

rom: bloodbro

Blood Bros. was released in 1990, developed by TAD Corporation, the creators of Cabal. It is a third-person shooting gallery set in a wild-west fantasy world. You play as an unlikely duo (in co-op mode): a cowboy and a native American, united to track down a notorious outlaw across the country.

The gameplay is simple but intense: you control a crosshair to shoot waves of enemies while moving your character sideways to dodge projectiles. You can also destroy the environment (buildings, wagons, etc.) to reveal bonuses or weaken your foes.

With its cartoonish graphics, quirky humor, and frantic action, Blood Bros. is a great example of arcade games that are tough, fun, and demanding. For this challenge, co-op play is not allowed.

Score Submission

To submit your scores, go to the Discord server of the community you represent and post a screenshot (or photo) of your score, including: your username + score + game title (example: LittleG4M3, 24,300, Blood Bros).

• If you represent the The Challenge community (and are therefore a traitor 👀), share your score via this Discord link.
• If you represent the Recalbox community, share your score via this Discord link.

Finally, note that Recalbox is offering a game key from a list of over 100 different titles to the top player from each community for every game — that’s 6 keys to win for The Challenge participants, and 6 keys for Recalbox players. Each person can only win one key throughout the entire challenge.

Good gaming everyone! Feel free to share your sessions, experiences, and tips on Discord… And above all: let’s have fun!

You read that right: Commodore is making a big comeback, and not just in any form. The iconic brand from the 80s is not settling for a simple nostalgic marketing stunt: it’s being revived with original team members, a true vision, and even a Chief Creative Officer from the Silicon Valley series!

We talked about it a few weeks ago. It all started taking shape through the YouTube channel Retro Recipes, run by enthusiast Perifractic. After securing the official rights to the brand, Perry (real name Christian Simpson) surrounded himself with historic figures from the Commodore adventure. Here you find Bill Herd, creator of the Commodore 128, Michael Tomczyk, father of the VIC-20, and David Pleasance, former head of Commodore UK. They all now contribute to the brand’s revival, each in a strategic or symbolic role.

But the project is not limited to a mere trip down memory lane. Commodore wants to embody a “retrofuturistic” philosophy, blending old-school design, a digital minimalism ethic, and modern innovations. The current machine, the Commodore 64X, already runs “Vision OS 3,” a homegrown operating system with a deliciously 80’s look.

To embody this new era, Perry convinced Thomas Middleditch, actor known for the HBO series Silicon Valley, to become Chief Creative Officer. A big Amiga fan in his youth, Middleditch brings his personal touch and humor to the project, while representing a generation of creators inspired by the dawn of home computing.

On the funding side, the project remains independent, although a public investment option is being studied. Perry insists: no vague crowdfunding, no empty promises. The priority is quality, respect for heritage, and coherence.

Even better: new games are in development, physical products are coming, and a licensing portal will soon allow the community to submit their creations. All with a light, inclusive tone, and genuine respect for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Commodore doesn’t seem to be coming back just to capitalize on nostalgia (not only at least). It’s coming back to inspire once again. We can only wish the team good luck on this new adventure.

Images: My Retro Computer Ltd

If you follow this blog and hang out on our Discord, you probably already know that Beubeud regularly organizes challenges where the community competes on a selection of arcade games.

This summer, get ready for a brand-new format, organized together with our friends from The Challenge (their story is shared at the end of this article).
The concept is simple: the The Challenge and Recalbox communities will face off over six games (three in July, three in August).

How to participate?

Anyone can join the event: just play and post your best score on the Discord server of the community you’re supporting.

The top 10 scores from each community will be counted for each game, using the points system detailed below:

Points system

Bonus: +15 points for each 1CC (clearing the game with one credit).

Game schedule:

• First round: from July 1st to July 31st, 2025
• Second round: from August 1st to August 31st, 2025

The list of the 3 games for July will be revealed on Tuesday, July 1st.

👉 If you're playing as a member of The Challenge, post your score on their Discord.
👉 If you're playing for Recalbox, post your score on our Discord.

Goal

At the end of all six games, the points from each community will be totaled to determine the overall winner!

Everyone is welcome—from joystick pros to curious newcomers discovering arcade games. Every point matters, so we’re counting on you!

Of course, while neither community will accept defeat lightly, this challenge is above all about fun, gaming, discovery, and sharing our passion (along with a few friendly tips... but not too many!).

The story of The Challenge, by Angelfred (co-organizer with Beubeud)

The story begins in spring 2020, during lockdown, on the Discord server GAME THEM UP (GTU), which I wasn’t even part of at the time.
To bring a bit of community spirit in those strange times, a group of enthusiasts came up with the idea of challenging each other on arcade games.

The first host was Wildpumpk1n. Several others took over as their availability allowed. In October 2022, I offered to help organize, with the goal of adding more structure and a real competitive spirit.

My idea: bring in what I knew from sports—like an overall ranking, voting to choose games, a points system, and anti-cheat rules.

We called it Season 0, a friendly but competitive setting. With WiLLY, a key pillar of the project, we reached out to Meth from the HFS PLAY association at the end of that season.
Meth had launched the Smallcab Challenge on the HFS forum, which was later run for nearly 10 years by Ukogans.

With the merging of our two communities, we wanted to create a strong identity: THE CHALLENGE, sponsored by Smallcab (thanks Erwan!), well known among arcade cabinet fans.

Today, we’re celebrating our third champion, with an average of 25 participants per challenge, a season that runs from September to June with 22 challenges, and even monthly tournaments by popular demand.

This summer, for the SUMMER CAMPS, the idea of a community battle with Recalbox was born—especially thanks to the arrival of the RGB JAMMA in our members' arcade cabinets.

The goal isn’t to prove who’s best, but to continue sharing our passion.
That’s the spirit in which Beubeud and I imagined THE CHALLENGE x RECALBOX event.

Ready to take on the challenge?

Plug in your sticks, post your scores… and may the best community win!

The studio Retro Sumus, well known among Dreamcast fans for the game Xenocider, is back in the spotlight with a new project that is as bold as it is retro: Sovietborgs, a top-down run 'n' gun inspired by classics like The Chaos Engine. After more than a year of teasing, the Indiegogo campaign is finally live, and the game promises to be as rich as it is wild.

An alternate world, Soviet cyborgs… and bold pixel art

Sovietborgs plunges players into a radical alternate history: in 1989, a Soviet artificial intelligence named Tovarisch-Prime takes control of Arpanet and triggers the self-destruction of the capitalist nuclear arsenal. As a result, the planet becomes an irradiated no man’s land, populated by hostile mutants. This is where the Sovietborgs come in — ultra-resilient cyborgs sent by the Red Army to eradicate all resistance.

With its pre-rendered graphics style reminiscent of Donkey Kong Country or Vectorman, and its classic top-down view, the game clearly targets nostalgic fans of the 16/32-bit era.

Ambitious development across multiple platforms

Retro Sumus is not cutting corners. Sovietborgs is planned for:

• Sega Mega Drive / Genesis
• Sega Dreamcast
• Neo Geo (AES and MVS)
• PC MS-DOS (Big Box edition, on floppy disk or CD-ROM)

Each version receives special care in packaging, including a Dreamcast steelbook edition, rigid Mega Drive cases in PAL or US format, and even a retro-style MS-DOS edition, fully embracing the 90s spirit.

Prices for all tastes… or almost

Prices vary depending on platform and edition:

• Dreamcast: from €45 (standard) to €100 (PAL or steelbook edition)
• Mega Drive: €60 or €150 with collector’s box
• MS-DOS: €80 (CD-ROM) or €100 (floppy disk)
• Neo Geo: €350 (MVS) and €400 (AES)

First shipments are expected in December 2026. A playable demo is already available here to give a taste of the gameplay.

A passionate team, strong supporters

The game will feature music by Xenocider composer and Spanish electronic musician Juango Martín, and original cover art by Agustín Padilla, an illustrator who worked on Green Arrow, Borderlands, and G.I. Joe. Many retro gaming influencers, such as Dreamcast Junkyard and The Sega Guru, have already praised the early playable footage.

With Sovietborgs, Retro Sumus delivers an explosive tribute to 90s action games, while pushing the boundaries of homebrew development. A project to watch closely for any retro gaming enthusiast.

👉 See the Indiegogo campaign

What if the era of lightgun shooting games made a comeback thanks to modern technology? That’s exactly what G’aim’e offers, a plug-and-play lightgun compatible with current TVs, bringing back the classic arcade favorites.

A next-generation lightgun

Unlike lightguns from older consoles, which required a cathode ray tube (CRT) TV, G’aim’e uses innovative technology combining a high-resolution camera and artificial intelligence. This system allows playing classic shooting games on LCD TVs, which were previously incompatible with such accessories. A small technological revolution — and perhaps one of the most exciting uses of AI for retro gamers.

A lightning-fast start on Kickstarter

Developed by Tassei Denki, G’aim’e launched on Kickstarter on June 24, 2025. The funding goal of approximately €41,581 was reached in less than ten minutes. At the time of writing, the campaign has already raised over €323,000 and there are still 57 days left to participate.

The product holds official licenses from Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc., which allows it to include several iconic games: Time Crisis, Point Blank, Steel Gunner, and Steel Gunner 2. For reference, Steel Gunner, released in 1990, was Namco’s very first lightgun shooting game.

Two editions available

• The G’aim’e Basic pack (around €87) includes: the gun with a 3m cable, a TV unit dedicated to Time Crisis, the necessary cables (power and HDMI), a manual, and an exclusive Kickstarter keychain.
• The G’aim’e Premium pack (around €118) adds: Point Blank, Steel Gunner, Steel Gunner 2, a pedal with a 3m cable, and a collectible pin badge.

What about Recalbox?

If you’re a lightgun purist who prefers CRT displays, know that Recalbox also offers perfect hardware solutions for this. Thanks to the RGB JAMMA 2 for arcade cabinets and the RGB Dual 2 for home CRTs, it is possible to connect a genuine GunCon lightgun via the RCA video input. The result: near-zero latency and 100% faithful gameplay experience.

On modern screens, Recalbox also allows you to play "Lightgun" games using the Wiimote and the Mayflash Dolphin Bar for those who want to explore all aspects of trigger-based retrogaming.

Source: retronews.com

With the arrival of Recalbox 10 and official support for Xbox emulation, it’s time to take a look at the mini PCs best suited for a smooth and quiet retrogaming experience. Among the recently tested machines, the Geekom A5 2025 Edition clearly stands out. Here’s why.

Sleek design and quality build

Right out of the box, the tone is set. The Geekom A5 comes in neat packaging with everything you need: HDMI 2.0 cable, power adapter, VESA mount, and a setup guide. The mini PC itself features a minimalist design, with a soft pink hue framed in chrome. Compact (12 x 12 cm), it feels solid thanks to its metal chassis and flawless finish.

Complete connectivity for all needs

This model includes a wide range of ports: two HDMI 2.0, four USB ports (including two USB-C), an SD card reader (non-bootable), a 2.5Gb RJ45 Ethernet port, and classic USB-A ports. Bonus: support for four simultaneous displays thanks to the USB-C ports — a rare feature in this price range!

For wireless, you get Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring seamless connectivity with all your devices.

Solid performance under the hood

The Geekom A5 2025 runs on an AMD Ryzen 5 7430U, 6 cores / 12 threads, with 16 GB DDR4 RAM (expandable to 64 GB) and a 512 GB NVMe SSD. There's no dedicated graphics card, but the integrated Radeon Vega 7 GPU easily handles 4K video playback, office tasks, and even some recent games on low settings.

Its very quiet cooling system is a real advantage. Even under heavy load or during emulation sessions, the fan remains nearly silent.

A perfect fit for Recalbox

Testing Recalbox 10 on the Geekom A5 was a clear success. From the PSP to the Wii, including the PS2, GameCube, and even Xbox, performance is impressive. Games often run in 1080p at 60 FPS with smooth visuals. Special mention for the machine’s silence, even during Burnout 3 or Halo 2 sessions!

Installing Recalbox on a USB stick (without altering the original Windows OS) is easy via Raspberry Pi Imager, and lets you switch between systems at boot.

Verdict

Available for under €350, this mini PC offers great all-round value. Its price-performance ratio, silent operation, and emulation capabilities make it an ideal choice for retrogaming fans, but also a solid option for office or multimedia use.

Please note that we do not recommend purchasing a mini PC solely for Recalbox use.

Sun, sound of waves, warm sand… and nice retro pixels! To celebrate the summer solstice, here’s a selection of ten games that breathe vacation vibes. Beaches, convertibles, surfing or jet skiing: these video game classics evoke carefree summer days and flip-flop gaming sessions. Ready to dive back into your summer memories in 8, 16, or 64-bit style?

Out Run – SEGA, 1986 – Arcade

Developed by Yu Suzuki for SEGA AM2, Out Run is the very embodiment of the 80s summer fantasy: a convertible Ferrari Testarossa, a blonde passenger, palm-lined roads, and a legendary soundtrack composed by Hiroshi Kawaguchi. A global success at release, the game made arcade history with its branching road system, its "Mediterranean vacation" aesthetic, and its chill vibe long before the term was popular.

Windjammers – Data East, 1994 – Neo Geo

Behind its somewhat quirky sports game appearance, Windjammers gained cult status thanks to its fast-paced gameplay and flashy style straight out of the 90s. The concept is simple: two opponents throw a frisbee on a rectangular court, like Pong on steroids. The vibe is undeniably summery: beaches, deck chairs, sweaty crowds, and hyped-up characters. The game was rediscovered thanks to its competitive scene before enjoying a revival with a sequel in 2022.

California Games – Epyx, 1987 – Commodore 64, Atari, Lynx, Mega Drive...

Developed by Epyx, this game compiles several mini-games inspired by popular sports on the US West Coast: BMX, surfing, skating, frisbee... All soaked in a postcard-like Californian atmosphere. California Games was a huge hit on microcomputers, especially on the Commodore 64. Its Mega Drive version is often considered the most polished.

Wave Race 64 – Nintendo, 1996 – Nintendo 64

The first truly convincing 3D jet-ski game, Wave Race 64 was praised for its revolutionary water physics. Developed by Nintendo EAD, it offers breathtaking maritime races between tropical beaches, ports, and misty bays. The atmosphere is sunny, the waves realistic, and the sense of speed exhilarating.

Super Mario Sunshine – Nintendo, 2002 – GameCube

Mario in shorts with a water backpack, on a paradise island called Isle Delfino: Super Mario Sunshine is probably the most "vacation" episode of the saga. Developed by Nintendo EAD, it divided opinions at release, but its summery vibe and water-cleaning gameplay make it a unique experience, now widely appreciated.

Beach Spikers – SEGA AM2, 2001 – Arcade, GameCube

Less known, Beach Spikers is a women's volleyball game developed by SEGA AM2. First released in arcades, then on GameCube, the game shines with its sunny graphics and simple but effective gameplay. A refreshing, fun, and rare title.

T&C Surf Designs: Wood & Water Rage – Atlus, 1988 – NES

This NES game lets you skate or surf in a vibe directly imported from Californian culture. Based on a real surf brand, with cartoon characters and a flashy aesthetic, the game became cult despite its difficulty.

Paperboy – Atari Games, 1985 – Arcade, NES, Master System...

Deliver newspapers by bike in a quiet neighborhood under the sun, while avoiding dogs, cars, and absurd obstacles. Paperboy evokes American suburban summers. Its arcade cabinet with bike handlebars and numerous ports make it a memorable classic.

Pokémon Snap – HAL Laboratory, 1999 – Nintendo 64

In Pokémon Snap, you explore a tropical island aboard a rail-bound vehicle to photograph Pokémon in their natural habitat. Paradise-like settings, zen atmosphere, and originality make it a cult title, perfect for a calm summer session.

Parappa the Rapper 2 – NanaOn-Sha, 2001 – PlayStation 2

This crazy rhythm game plunges you into a cartoonish, musical universe with ice cream, heat, and summer vacations. Less known than the first episode, it remains a colorful pop treat perfect for summer.

Of course, this list is neither exhaustive nor objective; we all have our own memories of “summer holidays.” I could also have mentioned Crash Bandicoot with its tropical setting, especially the first installment (and what about CTR!), Donkey Kong, GTA Vice City, or even Final Fantasy X with a very summery atmosphere. And you probably have even more fitting examples!

🎮 And you, which retro games remind you of summer?
A memory of a gaming session between swims? A console taken on vacation? Tell us in the comments or on social media!

The dream of some PS3 fans might become reality: playing PlayStation 3 games on an Android smartphone! For a few weeks now, a new emulator called aPS3e has been available on the Google Play Store. Developed by someone named aenu, this project is based on a mix of code from RPCS3 (the PS3 emulator on PC), Vita3K, and Termux.

After a chaotic launch in February — with the GitHub repo being pulled and a questionable donation request — aenu seems to want to restore their reputation. The source code is now online, although it comes without an official license, which still raises legal questions.

aPS3e only runs on arm64 smartphones with a Vulkan-compatible GPU, and requires at least Android 7. But to expect smooth PS3 gameplay, a high-end device (such as a Galaxy S23, Pixel 8, or RedMagic) is essential.

The emulator supports games in ISO or PKG format, and requires installing the official PS3 firmware. A Bluetooth controller is highly recommended, although touch emulation is also offered.

The good surprise is that some games run surprisingly well: Terraria, Rayman Origins, and Limbo provide a smooth experience. But don’t celebrate too quickly: compatibility remains very limited, and many games crash or refuse to launch. The emulator is actively being developed, and bugs are common.

aPS3e is offered for free with ads on the Play Store, and an ad-free version is available for $5. The developer states they are not seeking profit, which is a good sign after the launch controversies.

If you’re curious, equipped with a powerful smartphone, and aware that this is a very experimental version, you can give it a try. PS3 emulation remains a huge challenge, especially on mobile, but this project shows progress for PS3 emulation, which is still very young. For the more cautious, it might be better to wait a few more months... or turn to RPCS3 on PC.

Let’s recall that a few months ago, PS3 emulation came back into the spotlight due to a request from a studio working on SONY ports — we covered this here.

🔔 From the Recalbox side, we remind you that we do not offer PlayStation 3 emulation.

Images: Google Play Store

The Ninja Gaiden saga is making a strong comeback with Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, a brand-new entry set to release on September 12, 2025, for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. This time, fans can expect a true tribute to the series’ roots, with a fast-paced and stylish 2D gameplay that will spark nostalgia for retro gaming lovers.

A Cult Series Since 1988

Ninja Gaiden was born in arcades in 1988 as a dynamic side-scrolling beat’em up before becoming a cult classic on the NES with a trilogy of challenging and unforgettable action-platformers. Its protagonist, Ryu Hayabusa, quickly became a gaming icon. The series transitioned into 3D in the 2000s on Xbox, delivering brutally difficult titles that defined an era of hardcore gaming.

With Ragebound, the series returns to its roots while embracing modern mechanics. This new installment promises a powerful mix of 8-bit intensity and the fluidity of contemporary productions.

Dotemu and The Game Kitchen Join Forces

Bringing this project to life are two acclaimed studios: Dotemu and The Game Kitchen.

Dotemu, the French specialist in retro revivals, is known for top-tier titles like Streets of Rage 4, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, and Windjammers 2. The studio has mastered the art of updating classics without losing their original soul.

The Game Kitchen, an independent Spanish developer, made waves with Blasphemous, a dark and demanding metroidvania praised for its artistic direction. Their experience with intense and stylish 2D gameplay makes them a perfect match for this new Ninja Gaiden.

Physical Editions for Collectors

Bonus for collectors: Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound will be released in both standard and collector’s physical editions — available for pre-order here — including retro-themed goodies, pins, a fabric map, and more. A true delight for fans of boxed games.

All in all, this new chapter looks to be a heartfelt tribute to Ninja Gaiden’s legacy, powered by developers who know how to honor retro history.

Shoot 'em up and retro gaming fans have reason to celebrate: Earthion, the new title from Yuzo Koshiro, now has an official release date. The renowned Japanese composer and developer—best known for his legendary soundtracks and iconic game work—returns with a modern shmup deeply rooted in the spirit of the classics.

A multi-platform release to reach every fan

Earthion will be released on July 31st, 2025 on all major platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam. This wide availability ensures the game reaches a broad audience across both console and PC gamers.

However, nostalgic fans of the Mega Drive will need to wait a little longer. The version for the legendary 16-bit console has been pushed to next year, according to Japanese physical publisher Superdeluxe Games, known for its focus on retro physical editions.

This delay was explained by Yuzo Koshiro himself on his X account:

"We understand that some of you were hoping the MD cartridge version would launch first.
It was originally scheduled for release sometime this year, but the timeline would have been extremely tight.
We’ve already confirmed that the game runs well in its current state, but since physical cartridges can’t be patched after release,
we decided to take more time and make sure the game is in 'perfect condition.'
This decision was made out of respect for the platform and for everyone who’s been waiting for it.
We sincerely appreciate your patience and continued support."

A blend of modern gameplay and classic inspirations

In Earthion, players pilot a spacecraft to take on waves of enemies and massive bosses across varied environments. The game promises fast-paced, demanding shmup action, with modern features like speed boost, weapon customization, and an art style clearly inspired by the golden age of the genre.

Collector's editions for dedicated fans

For collectors, Superdeluxe Games will release an Earthion Deluxe Edition for Switch and PS4 on October 30th, 2025. This special edition launches on the same day as a Limited Run Games version—another key player in the world of limited physical game releases.

And that’s not all: retro controller maker 8BitDo will also launch a special Earthion Edition of its Bluetooth M30 gamepad. The perfect accessory to play the game in true style!

A title to keep an eye on

With its mix of retro tribute and modern gameplay, Earthion is shaping up to be one of the must-play shmups of the year. Yuzo Koshiro’s signature touch is a strong seal of quality, and it’s generating major interest among gamers and video game music fans alike. Keep your eyes on the skies this summer—Earthion is coming in hot!

In the 1990s, the console wars were in full swing. On one side, there was Nintendo and its Super Nintendo (SNES). On the other, SEGA with its Mega Drive (known as the Genesis in North America). Players often saw games released with identical titles on both systems—but once the controller was in hand, they were sometimes completely different experiences.

Even today, this phenomenon is an essential part of retrogaming history.

Two Consoles, Two Philosophies

The differences between SNES and Mega Drive versions of the same game were not random. They resulted from technical and creative decisions driven by the radically different architectures of the two machines.

SNES: Visual Richness and Audio Quality

• Richer color palette (32,768 colors, 256 displayable simultaneously)
• High-quality sound, thanks to the Sony SPC700 audio processor
• Slower main processor, which could limit display speed and responsiveness

Mega Drive: Speed and Synthetic Sound

• Faster processor, the Motorola 68000, ideal for fast-paced action games
• More limited color palette (512 colors, 64 displayable simultaneously)
• More "synthetic" sound, powered by the Yamaha YM2612 chip, famous for its FM-based tones

These differences often led developers to redesign the game entirely for each platform—or even assign the project to completely different studios.

Notable Examples of This "Dual Identity"

Aladdin (1993)

• Mega Drive: Developed by Virgin Interactive, featuring Disney-quality animation and fast-paced action gameplay.
• SNES: Developed by Capcom, without the sword, more traditional platforming, and a slower pace.

Jurassic Park

• SNES: Top-down view gameplay, with indoor sequences in first-person 3D.
• Mega Drive: Side-scrolling action/platformer, with the original twist of playing either Dr. Grant or a raptor.

The Terminator (1993)

• SNES: Stiff gameplay, dull graphics, and a heavy atmosphere, developed by Gray Matter.
• Mega Drive: Much smoother gameplay, more enjoyable overall, with memorable music and improved animations (developed by Probe Software).

A Treasure Trove for Retrogamers

This phenomenon is part of what makes retrogaming so charming: the same title could offer two completely different experiences. Between technical limitations, contrasting artistic styles, and developer liberties, each version stands today as a unique artifact of the 16-bit golden age.

Watch It in Action

We invite you to check out Fabrice's video, which dives into these differences with several real-world examples. Watch it here: