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Released in 2004 in Japan and in 2005 in the rest of the world, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony's first portable console. And for a first attempt, it was a success: the console sold 80 million units (or even 82 million, according to some sources).

With graphics well ahead of its time and an original game format, UMD (Universal Media Disc), the PSP won over many gamers. It was also able to build on a catalogue of high-quality titles, drawing on PlayStation's iconic franchises.

Produced for 10 years, until March 2015, PSPs still in production are now beginning to reach the end of their life. As with all older-generation handheld consoles, those still in circulation are becoming increasingly difficult to repair.

The main problems are often with the screens or game buttons, which make the console unusable despite the hardware and software still working. Aware of this situation, Retromodwork came up with the idea of giving these faulty models a new lease of life in an original way.

The recovered PSPs have been transformed into home consoles. To achieve this, a number of modifications have been made:

• a Bluetooth motherboard for connecting PS4 DualShock controllers and ‘other compatible devices’;
• a TV output has been added to broadcast the image on a screen;
• a 3D-printed shell, inspired by the design of the PlayStation 2, houses the modified PSP.

It is important to note that the consoles used in this kit are unusable in their original portable form, due to faulty components and modifications. Nevertheless, the consoles can play digital games and UMDs, with the player still accessible and functional.

Priced at $274.99, this redesigned version of the PSP (PSP 2000 or PSP 3000 models) has been a huge success. Barely 24 hours after pre-orders opened, more than 100 units had already been snapped up. This success came as a surprise to the creator, who has no official supplier and has to look for PSPs that are out of service but still usable in order to transform them.

The project has won over fans, particularly owners of the original PSP. As well as being innovative (it's rare to see a portable console transformed into a home console), it's also part of a healthy approach to recycling machines that were originally destined for the scrap heap.

Photo: Macho Nacho Productions

It's impossible to miss the release of Indiana Jones and the Ancient Circle. This Xbox exclusive, launched at the beginning of December, has been a huge success.

The game is a declaration of love to the famous franchise, plunging players into an adventure packed with references to the iconic films directed by Steven Spielberg and produced by George Lucas.

Right from its first trailer, the title surprised with a bold choice: a first-person view, a first for the series. This was a departure from the standards set by genre behemoths Uncharted and Tomb Raider, which favoured a third-person view.

It's a winning bet, with critics and gamers alike praising the immersion offered by this perspective. It's an experience that's sure to bring back childhood memories of dreaming of being ‘Indy’.

For some, these memories are also video games, because Indiana Jones games are not new! The website Retrogaming.me has compiled a list of the five best retro games based on the legendary adventurer:

• Indiana Jones and the Mystery of Atlantis (PC, 1992)
• Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (PC, Amiga, Atari, 1989)
• Indiana Jones: The Emperor's Tomb (PC, PS2, Xbox, 2003)
• Indiana Jones' Greatest Adventures (SNES, 1994)
• LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Trilogy (PS2, PS3, PC, Xbox 360, Nintendo DS, PSP, 2008)

You'll find full details of all these titles on the Retrogaming.me, the perfect opportunity to (re)discover these games that will take you to the four corners of the world.

If you're feeling adventurous and own any of these games, especially the three titles released before 2000, don your best hat, whip and go on an adventure with Recalbox.

Limited Run Games, well known to the retrogaming community for its physical editions of retro and neo-retro games, has unveiled news that will delight nostalgic fans: the forthcoming release of Virtua Fighter 2 on Xbox One and Xbox Series.

SEGA's famous title made its debut on arcade terminals in 1994. A real revolution at the time, it introduced two new playable characters compared to the first opus, bringing the cast up to 10 fighters. With its fast-paced, edgy gameplay, the game immediately stood out in a genre already dominated by heavyweights.

Virtua Fighter 2 was also released on home consoles. The Sega Saturn version, released in 1995, won over fans, while a completely redesigned 2D adaptation on Megadrive failed to convince, somewhat distorting the original experience. If you own these versions, they are still accessible and perfectly playable on Recalbox.

For this physical edition from Limited Run Games, don't expect a remaster or any kind of graphical polish. The game will retain its original aesthetic and gameplay, putting you back in the same conditions as when it was released in arcade form.

However, an online mode will allow players to compete across the globe. An excellent way to relive the experience while adding a modern competitive dimension.

Two editions available

Limited Run Games offers two options:

• The Standard Edition at $34.99, which includes only the game.
• The Classic Edition for $64.99, which includes :
  • a box inspired by the Sega Saturn,
  • 10 art cards depicting the combatants,
  • and a commemorative coin celebrating the golden age of the arcade.

Pre-orders are already open, with delivery scheduled for June 2025. A perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of the series before the highly-anticipated release of Virtua Fighter 6, announced at The Game Awards 2024.

The Games Awards ceremony was held last night in Los Angeles. While the evening is eagerly awaited for the Oscars-style awards, it's also an opportunity for developers to unveil their projects.

We'll skip the announcements about blockbusters and next-gen games to concentrate on our favourite area: retrogaming!

Okami: the long-awaited return

Fans have been waiting for it, Capcom has done it: Okami Sequel was announced last night with a poetic trailer. Drums and flutes, wisps of flowers left in the wake of what appears to be Amaterasu, all interspersed with the familiar brushstrokes of this completely atypical title released in 2006 on PlayStation 2 (2007 in Europe).

The director of the first opus, Hideki Kamiya, will be at the helm of this new adventure with his studio Clover. This is excellent news, since we're dealing with the same team that worked on Okami nearly 20 years ago.

For the moment, there's no release date: the game is in the pre-production phase.

Onimusha : The Way of the Word

Nous restons au Japon avec Capcom, qui joue sur la nostalgie une seconde fois avec Onimusha : The Way of the Word. Le hack’n’slash Onimusha Warlord était sorti en 2001 sur PlayStation 2 et avait été porté en 2003 sur Xbox. Trois suites avaient suivi, dont une avec Jean Reno interprétant Jacques Blanc dans Onimusha 3 : Demon Siege.

Le dernier Onimusha, basé sur le scénario du jeu Dawn of Dreams, est sorti en 2006. Il vous faudra cependant vous montrer patient : Onimusha : The Way of the Word n’est pas attendu avant 2026.

Turok Origins : vous reprendrez bien un peu de dinosaures ?

Très belle surprise de la soirée, Turok nous revient après 16 ans d’absence. Le dernier titre, très oubliable, était sorti en 2008. C’est le début de la saga qui a marqué les joueurs, notamment avec le tout premier Turok : Dinosaur Hunter, sorti en 1997 sur Nintendo 64.

À une époque où les FPS de qualité étaient rares sur console, Turok avait su s’imposer grâce à un univers rafraîchissant. Turok Origins sera, comme son nom l’indique, un reboot/préquel de la série sous forme de FPS coopératif.

C’est l’équipe de Saber Interactive qui s’occupera du développement, ce qui semble être une excellente nouvelle au vu du succès critique et commercial de leurs dernières productions, comme Warhammer : Space Marine 2.

« Turok a été l'un des premiers jeux de tir sur console auxquels j'ai joué. Lorsque nous nous sommes penchés sur les franchises de jeux qui méritaient d'être remises au goût du jour, Turok figurait en haut de notre liste. Chez Saber, nous aimons prendre des classiques et les combiner avec un nouveau gameplay. Nous sommes ravis d'annoncer enfin le jeu, mais nous serons encore plus heureux lorsque nous aurons livré cette expérience à l'ancienne avec une exécution moderne. »
– Matthew Karch, PDG de Saber Interactive

Si vous possédez les jeux Turok et souhaitez réduire dinosaures et aliens en chair à pâté, plusieurs opus sont jouables sur Recalbox.

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound - a fine pedigree in development and publishing

Ninja Gaiden is an old franchise. It may be easy to forget, but the very first instalment was released on arcade terminals in 1988. The series has maintained a certain aura through sequels, compilations and a few remasters, with fairly regular releases that have come to a halt since 2014.

To relaunch the machine in due form, Koei Tecmo has called on two great connoisseurs of pixel art and dusting: the Spaniards from The Game Kitchen (Blasphemous) for development and the French from Dotemu (TMNT: Shredder's Revenge, Streets of Rage 4) for publishing.

This talent will be responsible for bringing Ryu Hayabusa to the United States, in a game that looks very dynamic, with demanding platforming and combat.

The game is expected for summer 2025.

Virtua Fighter

This is not an announcement, as SEGA had already confirmed that a new Virtua Fighter was in development.

But tonight, we had a first teaser of one minute and a half, briefly staging a street fight and a few seconds of gameplay that make you want to.

The project is thought to be a major player in eSports. We can only hope for a good development from SEGA, in order to compete with giants like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat.

If you are a fan of the SEGA saga and you own Virtua Fighter, the titles are playable on Recalbox.

Sonic Racing CrossWorlds

We stay at SEGA with a very short teaser announcing the Mario Kart-like Sonic Racing CrossWorlds. We see Shadow getting ready to board his speedboat. Sonic’s eternal enemy is in the limelight these days, not least with the release of the movie Sonic 3, where he leads the way.

SEGA continues to rely on its licenses, but it must be said that the Sonic Racing remains very good racing games.

No release date has been announced for this game, which still seems to be in pre-production.

Screamer: a classic revisited

Released in 1995 for PC, Screamer, inspired by Ridge Racer, stood out with its compelling graphics for the time and its more subtle gameplay than arcade games.

For this reboot, the developers go beyond mere copy and integrate combat and narrative elements into a science fiction universe, drastically changing the artistic direction and overall style of the game.

Be patient: the title is not expected until 2026.

Shadow Labyrinth: when Pac-Man changes his face

We end with a very surprising game, completely revisiting the universe of Pac-Man. You play as a warrior reanimated by PUCK (Pac-Man), who will have to travel through a hostile planet.

Bandai Namco says the game focuses on an evolving combat system, allowing you to adapt your style based on the skills you’ve gained.

Planned release 2025, new generation consoles only.

Of course, we will continue to follow the news of these games as they are announced and will keep you informed.

We're stepping away from hardcore retrogaming news to talk about a partnership that's as unexpected as it is exciting.

On 11 December, The Pokémon Company announced that a joint project with Aardman was in production and would be released in 2027.

Pokémon needs no introduction, and I'm sure you're already familiar with Aardman's productions, even if the name may sound less familiar.

This British studio is behind such titles as Wallace and Gromit, Chicken Run and Shaun the Sheep - three major hits. The Aardman style is instantly recognisable, thanks to a unique ‘paste’ 😉 both literally and figuratively.

The studio uses the stop motion technique, animating models and characters made from modelling clay. This time-consuming and meticulous process produces a stunning result that no computer-generated image can match.

This partnership is particularly surprising, as Aardman has never before collaborated with a company as large as The Pokémon Company. Until now, the studio had concentrated on its own universes, animating mainly its emblematic characters mentioned above.

I say ‘work’ rather than ‘film’ because the final format of this project remains unknown. A feature film seems obvious, but Aardman also excels in series. In fact, Pokémon has already explored stop motion with the Japanese series The Pokémon Receptionist in 2023, although it went relatively unnoticed.

For now, we'll have to make do with the press release, in which the vice-president of the Pokémon Company said:

This is a dream partnership for Pokémon. Aardman is a master of their craft, and we've been blown away by their talent and creativity. What we've been working on together ensures that Pokémon fans around the world are in for a real treat!

Sean Clarke, CEO of Aardman, added:

We feel truly privileged to be responsible for bringing the Pokémon characters and universe to life in a whole new way. Bringing together Pokémon, the world's biggest entertainment brand, and our love of craft, characters and humorous storytelling is incredibly exciting. ‘

Pokémon has conquered many formats, from video games first and foremost to TV series and card games. Even if we retrogamers are sometimes a little lost when faced with multiple generations, many of these creatures were with us during our youth.

We can't wait to rediscover them in a new light, in the talented hands of a studio as creative as Aardman!

In the meantime, there's plenty to keep you busy! If you own the titles, you can already rediscover the first three generations of Pokémon on Recalbox, thanks to the Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance, across eight games!

If you enjoyed Konami's arcade game WEC Le Mans, released in 1986, you're sure to love Faster, the new title developed for the Atari STE.

Developed by a small team, Faster has won us over. The game features bright colours, lots of sprites, a day/night cycle and a soundtrack that includes engines, sound effects and music. Above all, it runs at 50 fps, offering an exhilarating sensation of speed and a level of gameplay rarely achieved on Atari.

The man behind the project is Jonathan Thomas, aka RetroRacing, an experienced developer well known to Atari users. He notably worked on the Atari STE version of Pole Position and was part of the team that ported Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge to the Atari ST.

The work of RetroRacing is all the more impressive for being entirely handmade. Faster imitates the technique of scaling sprites (which get bigger the closer you get to them), a feature that the Atari ST does not natively support.

Excellent news: Faster is available as a free download here, allowing you to play on original hardware. The game can also be played on Recalbox!

All you need to do is insert the ROM in a sub-folder "ste “ in the roms/atarist folder, launch the game with the BIOS ”Emutos “, force the memory to ”2MB “ in the emulator menu, then exit the menu without forgetting to select ”reset machine ’.

An update will soon allow you to launch the game without having to do this.

This year, Tetris celebrates its 40th anniversary! Developed in 1984, the cult game was only released on Game Boy in 1989, after Nintendo obtained exclusive rights thanks to an agreement with the USSR government.

To celebrate this anniversary, Nintendo is offering Switch Online subscribers Tetris (1989) and Tetris DX (1998), in their NES and Game Boy Color versions.

Alexey Pajitnov, the creator of Tetris, also marked the event by sharing a special message in a video that you can find at the bottom of this article. In it, he warmly thanks fans for their loyalty:

This is the first time Tetris for NES has been available since 1989 [...] I'd like to thank all the fans around the world. You've been part of the Tetris legacy for 40 years and will continue to be for years to come. ‘

This is the perfect opportunity to rediscover this monument to the history of video games, which has also been adapted into a film in 2023. This feature-length film tells the story of Henk Rogers, who risked everything by travelling to the USSR to work with Alexey Pajitnov and introduce Tetris to the whole world.

Finally, if you already own Tetris or Tetris DX, you can still stack the famous bricks on Recalbox or almost any other platform imaginable, as the game has been ported multiple times over the generations of consoles.

If there's one controller that has left its mark on gamers, it's the Nintendo 64. With its three ‘arms’ and central joystick, it's often been mocked, but it's nonetheless iconic in the world of video games. It was also one of the first mainstream offerings of a joystick of this type.

However, users of this console will no doubt remember a well-known flaw: its joystick. After a certain period of use, the joystick would present problems, such as an enlarged dead zone or malfunctions that prevented the joystick from returning to its initial position.

You might think that this is a problem that no longer concerns us in 2024, but think again. The Super Smash Bros. competitive scene remains very active, and the speedrunner community continues to tackle iconic Nintendo 64 titles. These activities require intensive use of the controller, putting the joystick to a severe test.

With this in mind, a group of modders have set themselves the task of solving this problem. Their aim: to reproduce as faithfully as possible the components of the original controller, in particular its unusual joystick design.

"Last year, I spent hundreds of hours of my life and thousands of dollars to effectively recreate the original N64 controller, as close as possible to Nintendo's OEM specifications," explains RockerGaming. "Once that goal was achieved, I began modifying the module to bring it up to modern standards."

The ambition of these enthusiasts is to design a Nintendo 64 controller that offers the same precision as the original version, while using modern, more resistant materials. Their product would be capable of meeting the demands of Smash Bros. competitions and speedrunners.

In a recent post on X, RockerGaming gave an update on the progress of its project, dubbed the ‘Renaissance Project’, which appears to be well underway. The moulds needed to produce the parts are currently being adjusted, a painstaking process requiring precision to within a third of the thickness of a human hair.

Some parts have already been sent to speedrunners for comfort and reliability tests. The ultimate aim is clear: to offer controller components that are "good enough for professionals and affordable enough for enthusiasts ".

Photos: RockerGaming

If you follow retrogaming news, and more particularly FPGA console projects (equipped with reprogrammable chips that reproduce the hardware of old consoles), you've probably heard of the SuperSEGA project.

However, it's likely to be in unflattering terms. And with good reason: this project is racking up dubious presentations and surprising behaviour on the part of its designers, arousing suspicion and criticism.

SEGA rises to the occasion

Already viewed with scepticism by the retrogaming community, it would appear that the main people involved, SEGA, are not at all happy about this turn of events. According to the MO5 website, SEGA has demanded that the project be stopped altogether, and that existing prototypes be destroyed.

A flawed project from the start

Announced this summer, SuperSEGA's ambition was to become an FPGA console capable of reading the cartridges and CDs of SEGA's historical consoles, notably the SC-3000/SG-1000, Mark III, Master System, Mega Drive/Genesis, Mega-CD, Saturn, and Dreamcast.

Unfortunately, as soon as its design was presented, observers expressed doubts. And these doubts were reinforced a few weeks later during a video presentation: a device supposedly in operation behind a television, a prototype switched off, inexplicable cuts... The demonstration left more questions than answers.

Opaque communication and controversial decisions

Journalists wishing to test the machine were categorically refused by the designers, who cited fears that ‘competitors’ such as Analogue would steal their ideas.

Despite this lack of clarity, around 200 people pre-ordered the console. But these buyers were in for a nasty surprise: instead of being debited on dispatch, as initially announced, their accounts were debited €400 at the end of the reservation campaign, without any notice or warning...

SEGA wants to protect its image

Faced with what is looking more and more like a fiasco, SEGA is starting to worry. The famous Japanese company obviously does not want its name to be associated with an initiative that could be perceived as a scam.

On 30 November, SEGA denounced the misuse of its brand and the ambiguity surrounding the project.

Response expected

In a letter published by SuperSEGA, the Spanish company behind the project justifies its position, asserts its legitimacy and demands a response from SEGA within two weeks. So the matter is far from over.

You don't change a winning team! Following on from the success of the Pi 400, launched shortly after the Pi 4, the Raspberry Foundation has announced the imminent arrival of a new microcomputer with an integrated keyboard: the Pi 500.

A familiar architecture

As you might expect, the Pi 500 is based on the same architecture as the Raspberry Pi 5. So you'll find the same features and performance as the latter, released just over a year ago.

If you're new to this range, the Pi X00 models are personal computers built into a keyboard. All you need to do is add a mouse (optional but recommended), a screen and install an operating system (Linux, Recalbox, etc.), just like on a Pi 5.

Improved performance

Like the Pi 5 and the Pi 4, the Pi 500, equipped with 8 GB RAM, outperforms the Pi 400 thanks to its Quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 64-bit processor running at 2.4 GHz and its updated GPU VideoCore VII.

Connectivity and features

The Pi 500 offers everything you'd expect from a modern microcomputer for everyday use:

• Dual-band Wi-Fi** (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
• Bluetooth 5.0
• 2 USB 3.0** ports and 1 USB 2.0** port
• Ethernet port** for wired connection
• 2 micro HDMI** ports, allowing two screens to be connected simultaneously
• micro SD port** SDR104 compatible
• 40-pin GPIO **Header

Design and layout

The Pi 500's keyboard incorporates a one-piece aluminium heat sink, guaranteeing passive cooling. This may come as a surprise in the absence of a fan, but it's justified by the extra space inside the keyboard, reducing the overheating common to components. The result is total silence, even during intensive use.

In terms of dimensions, the Pi 500 remains faithful to the Pi 400: 286 mm × 122 mm × 23 mm. As a practical addition, a power button is now integrated into the top right-hand corner of the keyboard.

Availability and price

Pre-orders are now open on the Kubii website, where the Pi 500 is priced at €112.80. Please note, however, that this price does not include the power supply, micro HDMI to HDMI cable or mouse.

To benefit from these accessories, you'll need to opt for the Pi 500 Kit at a price of €144. As usual, we recommend investing in the official power supply for the best possible experience.

Recalbox compatibility

For all you retrogaming fans out there, we'll keep you posted in due course on Recalbox compatibility, as the announcement was made only recently and no tests have yet been carried out. On the assumption that Recalbox was easily ported to the Pi 400, the same should apply to the Pi 500, which follows the same architecture as the Raspberry Pi 5. Stay tuned! 😉

By now you've probably heard about the long-awaited remaster of Croc: Legend of the Gobbos, the PlayStation game developed by Argonaut Games and published by Rock It Games. The last few days have brought both good news and bad news for fans of the game.

The good news:

A collector's version of the remaster, originally planned for Nintendo Switch and PS5, will also be available on PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series and PC.

This collector's edition will include:

• A digital code for the game (although a physical medium would have been appreciated),
• A DVD case with the game manual printed in colour,
• A 20 cm statue of Croc with a certificate of authenticity,
• The game's original soundtrack on 4 CDs,
• A key ring and a double-sided poster.

The collector's version is already available for pre-order on the Rock It Games website.

The bad news:

The game's release has been postponed. Argonaut Games announced the decision via its X account, stating that ‘the decision has not been taken lightly’, but that ‘a little more time is needed to add the finishing touches and ensure the game meets the high standards they aspire to, and that you deserve’.

No specific date has been given, apart from a vague ‘Q1 2025’. The original game was released on PlayStation in 1997, 27 years ago, so fans shouldn't be far behind.

Croc still has a strong community of fans who keep the game alive. At the time, the title received a favourable reception from both the press and the public, enough to allow the release of a second opus in 1999. Sadly, this would remain the franchise's last, hopes of a sequel having been dashed by the closure of Argonaut Games in 2004 (which reopened its doors in 2024 for this remaster).

DIY enthusiasts and people who hate to throw things away, the Youtuber Dubesinhower recently posted a video test/tutorial on his channel to present a new range of cables that will allow you to change the original cable of your NES / Famicom controllers.

We've all - or know someone who has - thrown away a wired controller when it was simply a problem with the cable. While some cables are easy to change, it can be difficult to find quality models dedicated to our old consoles.

Dubesinhower's video features "high quality cables ’ for NES and Famicom controllers from JT Studios and Retro Game Restore. These braided cables are ideal for repairing original controllers or creating new ones, while guaranteeing a premium look and robustness.

With all the safety precautions that need to be taken, we can only encourage this type of approach, which on the one hand helps to avoid throwing away equipment, and above all preserves a videogame hardware heritage that is increasingly difficult to find in good working order.

Prices and availability

• NES cables: available individually for $12.
  Buy an NES cable

• Famicom cables**: sold in pairs for $18
  Buy a set of Famicom cables

Precautions before installation

Original consoles and controllers are often more than 30 years old, which means you need to take a few precautions when installing them:

• Set your desoldering iron to a low temperature (around 175°C or 350°F).
• Use dedicated solder remover, and remember to add a little fresh solder to the original connections before desoldering them.
• Go gently to avoid damaging fragile components.

Value for money to consider

Dubesinhower points out that while these cables represent an investment, their quality clearly sets them apart from cheap alternatives. Indeed, it is possible to find replacement cables for a few dollars on Aliexpress, but without quality control, the result can vary: imperfect fits, poor durability, or badly designed connectors.

A clarification on prototypes

Finally, the Famicom cable shown in the video was a pre-production prototype. Final versions may therefore have minor variations in pinout or colour. Follow the instructions on the box for a successful installation.

Source: RetroRGB

The RG34XX is not compatible with Recalbox

This weekend, Anbernic presented its latest creation: the RG34XX, a portable console dedicated to retrogaming. If you're a Recalbox user, you'll be aware that Anbernic is no stranger to retrogaming.

The Chinese manufacturer has already developed several portable retrogaming consoles that are 100% compatible with Recalbox (such as the RG353M and RG351M) and offers many other models, both for retrogaming and gaming.

With this new console, Anbernic is banking on nostalgia by drawing inspiration from the Game Boy Advance, the famous Nintendo console released in 2001.

What we know about the RG34XX

The video presentation gave away very little information, but here are the main features we can tell you about:

• 3.4-inch IPS** screen
• Resolution**: 720 x 480
• Operating system** : Linux 64 bits
• HDMI output**: the console can be used as a joystick
• Connectivity**: 5G Wi-Fi (for online gaming) and Bluetooth 4.2
• Multimedia player**: support for videos, music and e-books
• Compatibility with a wide range of platforms, including PS1, Nintendo 64 and PSP

Colourful design

The RG34XX will be available in four colours:

• Purple
• Black
• Transparent red
• Transparent green

An important clarification

The RG34XX is not compatible with Recalbox at this time. No release date or price has yet been announced.

If you'd like to create a Recalbox-compatible retrogaming handheld console, check out all the supported models on our site: Recalbox-compatible handheld consoles.

One of the most eagerly awaited games in the retrogaming scene, ZPF, a shoot ‘em up (shmup) designed for the Sega Mega Drive by Mega Cat Studios, recently appeared on Kickstarter. The project has quickly captured the imagination of retro gamers, thanks in no small part to its style of play and graphics, which are faithful to the golden age of shmups.

Back to basics

ZPF stands out for its homage to the classic shmups of the 90s, with polished gameplay and an electrifying soundtrack. The game features intense action and fluid ship control, where players must battle a series of enemy waves and giant bosses as they traverse six different levels. The pixel graphics and aesthetics of the Mega Drive are impeccably reproduced, which will delight nostalgic fans of classics such as R-Type or Gradius.

Successful funding

Funding for ZPF on Kickstarter was a huge success, reaching its target in record time. Contributors were able to pre-order limited editions, including physical versions of the game and goodies. This kind of project highlights the passion of independent developers for retro consoles and, above all, shows the ever-growing interest in ‘amateur’ games on machines like the Sega Mega Drive.

To give you an idea, out of the $15,000 requested, the developers raised a whopping $204,670... That's what we call a success.

A modern Shmup for a classic console

What makes ZPF particularly interesting is that it combines the charm of retro games with modern elements. Although the Mega Drive is a decades-old console (1989), ZPF uses all the machine's capabilities to offer an intense gaming experience, with impressive visual and sound effects for the platform. So shmup fans old and new can look forward to a thrilling adventure that doesn't compromise on quality.

You'll be able to traverse the six levels at the controls of three different ships. The developers promise plenty of secrets and different endings. A fifteen or so musical tracks will accompany your scoring attempts (tracks that should be pressed on vinyl).

When will it be released?

The game is already available for pre-order, with a release date in the coming months. If you're a fan of the Sega Mega Drive and enjoy quality shoot ‘em ups, ZPF should be in your library soon.

On December 5, 2024, Konami has relaunched City Bomber, a car combat game, with the teams at HAMSTER Corporation, as part of its Arcade Archives series. Available now on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation, the title is part of a series of re-releases of vintage arcade games from the Japanese publisher.

Originally released in 1987 on arcade terminals, City Bomber is a game where players take control of an armoured vehicle to destroy targets in a city (and a few other settings) while avoiding obstacles and enemies.

A Retro Arcade Experience

City Bomber stands out for its simple yet addictive gameplay. The player must drive a vehicle through a city, dropping bombs to destroy buildings while avoiding obstacles such as enemy cars.

The game is based on the destruction mechanic that marked the first arcade games: the aim is to score points by eliminating targets while avoiding being destroyed.

City Bomber is typical of 80s arcade games, with :

• Simple but effective pixel graphics.
• An energetic soundtrack that amplifies the dynamics of the game.

Although simple in its approach, it's easy to immerse yourself in for long hours thanks to the increasing difficulty and challenges it offers.

A return to Switch and PlayStation

With the game's arrival in the Arcade Archives collection, City Bomber benefits from a subtle modernisation that allows players to enjoy this classic game with improved definition and a smooth experience on modern consoles.

For those nostalgic for the 80s, but also for new players, this return to the roots is an excellent way to discover or rediscover a game that left its mark on arcade fans.

The release of City Bomber in this collection is part of Konami's drive to revive its arcade classics, which has already begun with other popular titles such as Gradius and TwinBee. This trend allows old fans to relive memories and young players to discover the origins of gaming and scoring.

Perhaps you've already tried City Bomber on Recalbox, the game being playable on MAME or FB Neo. The Arcade Archives series continues to help us discover or rediscover these gems of the past.

Photo: Konami screenshot

On 3 December 1994, we had no idea of the impact that the release of the first PlayStation would have on the world of video games. Whether you like the brand or not (no console wars here), PlayStation's imprint is indelible, and there's no end in sight.

At the beginning of the 90s, the console hierarchy was well established, and the general public found it hard to imagine any brand other than Nintendo or SEGA gaining a foothold in the home.

But then Sony came along with the PlayStation. To retrace this success story, Sony has launched a website dedicated to the history of PlayStation and published a video (see below) to thank gamers for this shared adventure.

The site traces the chronology of consoles, iconic games and accessories that take us back 30 years (Memory Card, Multitap...), while sharing some impressive figures. Videos also illustrate the brand's iconic moments, with gameplay footage and enthusiastic crowds at the launch of new models.

Video celebrating PlayStation's 30th anniversary:

A Sacred History

The Origins of PlayStation (1988-1994)

The story of PlayStation began in the late 80s. Sony collaborated with Nintendo** to develop a CD player for the Super Nintendo, called the Nintendo Play Station. The partnership was cancelled in 1991, but Sony continued the project on its own.

On 3 December 1994, Sony launched the PlayStation 1 (PS1) in Japan, followed by North America and Europe in 1995. It was an immediate success, with iconic titles such as Final Fantasy VII, Crash Bandicoot, and Metal Gear Solid. It became the first home console to sell more than 100 million units.

Ascension with the PS2 (2000-2006)

In 2000, Sony released the PlayStation 2 (PS2), a huge commercial success. With backward compatibility for PS1 games and a built-in DVD player, it appealed to a wide audience. Games such as Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, God of War, and Shadow of the Colossus boosted its popularity.

Today, the PS2 is the best-selling console in history, with 160 million units sold**.

The Transition to High Definition: PS3 (2006-2013)

The PlayStation 3 (PS3), released in 2006, introduced the Blu-ray player, but had a difficult launch due to its high price and competition from the Xbox 360. Exclusives such as Uncharted, The Last of Us, and LittleBigPlanet, however, helped it to establish itself with 87 million sales.

The Golden Age of the PS4 (2013-2020)

The PlayStation 4 (PS4) was released in 2013 and was an immediate success with games such as Horizon Zero Dawn, God of War (2018), and Spider-Man. It reached more than 117 million sales.

The Next Generation Era: PS5 (2020 to present)

In 2020, Sony launches the PlayStation 5 (PS5), with 4K graphics, an ultra-fast SSD, and the new DualSense controller. Despite supply problems, titles such as Demon's Souls (remake), Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and God of War Ragnarök mark this new generation.

PlayStation Portable Consoles

1. PlayStation Portable (PSP) - 2004

The PSP is Sony's first portable console, released in 2004.
Features :

• Universal Media Disc (UMD) player.
• Multimedia functions: music, videos, Internet.
• Over 80 million units sold**.

2. PlayStation Vita (PS Vita) - 2011

The PS Vita succeeds the PSP in 2011 with an OLED screen and graphics similar to the PS3.
Features :

• Front touchscreen and rear touchpad.
• Compatible with PS4 games via Remote Play.
• Critical but limited success, with 16 million units sold.

PlayStation VR (PSVR)

1. PlayStation VR (2016)

Features :

• OLED screen with 1080p resolution.
• Motion tracking via PlayStation Camera and Move controllers.
• Popular games : Astro Bot: Rescue Mission, Beat Saber, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard.

2. PlayStation VR2 (2023)

Features :

• 2000x2040 resolution per eye.
• Eye tracking and haptic feedback on the headset.
• Notable games : Horizon: Call of the Mountain, Gran Turismo 7.

Sony's handheld consoles, while not as dominant as their Nintendo rivals, have left their mark on the industry with their technical innovations. As for PlayStation VR, it illustrates Sony's desire to explore immersive technologies in order to offer new gaming experiences, but in my humble opinion, these are still just ‘big demos’ which, while undeniably of high quality, are struggling to attract and enthral audiences over time.

The PlayStation legacy

Today, PlayStation embodies a gaming culture that has shaped generations. With constant innovation and a focus on quality exclusives, the brand remains a pillar of the video game industry.

The recent release of the PS5 Pro seems out of step with the history of its predecessors, perhaps due to a somewhat questionable commercial strategy. With re-releases and remasters often priced at around ten euros, even if you already own the game, Sony seems to be exploiting its franchises (too) intensively. This approach gives the impression of a certain ease, at the risk of compromising the quality and innovation of its franchises, which has forged the brand's reputation.

PlayStation and Recalbox

Remember that you can play PlayStation (PSX) on your Recalbox, with the added bonus of ‘multi-disc’ game management that lets you change ‘DISC’ directly via RetroArch or via a very simple joystick shortcut that Fabrice explains in this video:

A charity collaboration 🎉

Super Excidium Event is the result of a collaboration between publisher Mega Cat Studios, the [Video Game Sage] community(https://www.videogamesage.com/) and members of Reddit r/retrogaming. Why so many partners? Quite simply because all profits will be donated to Child's Play, a charity that provides children in hospital with entertainment through video games and therapeutic technologies.

An edgy retro space shoot'em up

This 16-bit game puts you in command of a spaceship capable of firing in four directions - or eight, according to the trailer. Your mission? Repel waves of enemies while battling fearsome bosses who will put your reflexes to the test.

"Set in space, this interstellar epic is a return to the glory days of arcade games that will soothe even the most itchy trigger fingers."

"As intrepid space pilots soar through perilous alien terrain, they exchange fire with swarms of enemy ships and an epic boss bestiary, intent on turning your starfighter to dust " - reads the press release.

Promising trailer

The game was unveiled on 29 November in a colourful trailer that reveals a dynamic game in keeping with the Super Nintendo. You'll have several types of weapon at your disposal, which you can use without restraint in a variety of settings.

"Not only does Super Excidium Event allow players to fend off waves of invaders, it also helps to improve the daily lives of countless children in hospital, thanks to the partnership with Child's Play."

"It's been an amazing experience working on this project. We've created something special with Super Excidium Event, and we can't wait to share it with the retro community. We hope you enjoy playing it as much as we enjoyed developing it!"

• Shares Zachary Girgenti of r/Retrogaming

Where to get it

You can already get Super Excidium Event on SNES for €57.95** by following this link. A purchase will keep your SNES happy and help children fight boredom in many hospitals around the world.

The publisher Côté Gamers has just launched a crowdfunding campaign on Ulule for its new book: **Chronogames: Les jeux vidéo de 1940 à 1981’.

Côté Gamers is already well known to fans of videogame encyclopaedias, having published several reference works on iconic licences such as Zelda, Castlevania, and the history of Shmups and LucasArts.

This time, the publisher is focusing on the history of video games from 1940 to 1981, a pivotal period marked by the emergence of legendary titles and often little-known precursors. From the first arcade games to the beginnings of major licences such as Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, this book promises to reveal all their secrets.

Thanks to this volume, you'll know everything there is to know about games you may have heard of before, but don't really know. You'll get an extraordinary overview of what was being produced at the time and, to take things even further, an overview of the series and their sequels. Enough to enrich your videogame culture while keeping you entertained! Extract from the Ulule contribution page.

The book is priced at €42, including postage for France and Belgium. Please note that the first 50 contributors will benefit from limited exclusives:

• 1 copy of the book with a holographic sticker bearing your name
• 1 A4 lithograph of the cover
• 1 A4 lithograph of the prototype cover
• 6 gold encyclopaedic cards

Shipments will begin in March 2025. However, the number of pages in the book is still unknown.

If you are interested in this project and would like to support it, go directly to the Ulule page to find out more!

Retroflag has just published details of the 64Pi CASE on its official website, confirming the imminent release of this case, which we reported on a few days ago.

A direct tribute to the Nintendo 64

As its name suggests, the 64Pi CASE is directly inspired by the Nintendo 64, faithfully reproducing the design of the cult console released in 1996. To add a splash of colour to its range, Retroflag has opted for a turquoise blue version, recalling one of the 64-bit console's iconic translucent variations.

Designed exclusively for the Raspberry Pi 5

The 64Pi CASE is specifically designed to accommodate the Raspberry Pi 5, and only this model. In fact, it's the first case from Retroflag to be compatible with the Pi 5.

In our last issue of Retrogaming News, we stressed the importance of good accessibility to the Pi 5's connectors, and this case reassures us on this point, with a design that minimises internal electronic complexity.

Connectors and features

The USB 2.0 ports have been moved to the front of the case to serve as joystick sockets (two instead of the four found on the original Nintendo 64). The Raspberry Pi 5's other connectors, such as the power supply, the two Mini HDMI ports, the USB 3.0 and the RJ45 port, remain directly accessible from the rear.
It should be noted that the USB 3.0 and RJ45 ports can be concealed thanks to a small hatch on the side.

The slot for the Micro SD card is located on the underside of the case, providing direct, convenient access.

Optimised cooling

If you turn the case over, you'll notice a large ventilation grille designed to ensure that the Raspberry Pi 5 is properly cooled.
On the active cooling side, the 64Pi CASE is equipped with a fan, which appears to be large enough to maintain optimum temperatures.

Retroflag also supplies a custom-made aluminium heat sink**, which can be attached to the Pi 5 using thermal pastes. We find this complete cooling system particularly convincing.

Functional buttons

In terms of ergonomics, Retroflag is true to its reputation: the Power and Reset buttons are fully functional and connected to the GPIO pins on the Raspberry Pi 5.
This configuration enables the Pi 5 to be shut down or restarted in complete safety, provided that the "Safe Shutdown ’ function has been activated.

A word of warning about Wi-Fi

A word of warning: according to the user manual, using the USB 3.0 ports could affect Wi-Fi in 2.4 GHz mode.
If you encounter this problem, we recommend that you switch to Wi-Fi 5 GHz or use the Ethernet RJ45 port.

Availability and compatibility

The 64Pi CASE will be available in France in early 2025, at an estimated price of 29.99$.
We have not yet received a copy, so Recalbox is not yet 100% compatible with this box.
We'll keep you posted on developments in the coming weeks.

Photos: Retroflag

System 3 Software has announced the release, in December 2024, of a special edition celebrating 40 years of the game Archer Maclean's Dropzone.
This retrogaming classic, originally launched in 1984 for the 8-bit Atari, has since been ported to a number of platforms including the Commodore 64, NES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Gear.

A tribute to Defender.

The gameplay of Dropzone is heavily inspired by Defender (1981), the first horizontal shoot'em up in the history of video games.
From the moment it was released, Dropzone was a critical and commercial success, surpassing its predecessor in terms of its visual and sound advances.

A faithful and respectful remaster

This 40ᵉ anniversary re-release features a HD graphics facelift with smoother, more detailed visuals.
For purists, it will be possible to switch instantly between the remastered and original graphics, without interrupting the action.
The sound work has also been reworked: the game will allow you to switch from the 8-bit version to the remastered sounds at the touch of a button.

This attention to detail can be explained by the fact that the developers have worked on the game's original source code, guaranteeing a re-release that is faithful to the original work, both graphically and sonically.

Gameplay adapted to modern standards

If Dropzone won over gamers as soon as it was released in 1987, it was largely thanks to the precision of its gameplay, which was particularly impressive for its time.
Mindful of this heritage, the developers have adjusted the controls to make them compatible with modern hardware, while preserving the authentic feel of the original game.

To date, no specific date or price has been announced, other than a planned release date of December 2024.
The game will be available on Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation and Xbox.

Play Dropzone on Recalbox

If you want to tackle the 99 levels of Dropzone the old-fashioned way, the game can be played on Recalbox on the Atari, Commodore 64, NES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Gear platforms.

Fun Fact

Our colleagues at Time Extension have tweeted about a "typo ’ in the remaster's illustration image, which you may also have noticed.
More details here.