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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:

Famous cyberpunk racing game with a strong narrative dimension, Screamer is set to make its big comeback thanks to a reboot planned for 2026. Announced at The Game Awards, this new installment is being developed by the Italian studio Milestone.

The developers are well known for their expertise in racing games. MotoGP, F1, Monster Truck, Hot Wheels... so many diverse franchises that have captivated a wide community of players, notably thanks to rich and well-packed content.

The goal now is to revive a legendary franchise from the 90s. Originally developed back then by Milestone (then known as Graffiti), Screamer is an arcade racing game released on PC, inspired by titles like Ridge Racer and Daytona USA. It offered a fast-paced, intense, and very colorful racing experience, in the pure tradition of arcade halls.

The game had several sequels (Screamer 2, Screamer Rally, Screamer 4x4), but the very first remains an important milestone in the history of PC racing games, often cited as one of the best arcade titles from the mid-90s.

A gameplay video of the reboot was released this weekend, offering a glimpse of the game running on PS5. It showcases a graphic style marked by colorful cel-shading, set in a nighttime atmosphere bathed in retro-futuristic neon lights.

We also see the possibility of performing takedowns and what appear to be power-ups. While the aesthetics are promising, the game seems—at this stage of development—to lack dynamism and feels a bit stiff. But many months of production are still ahead, and the resources involved give hope for a strong evolution.

“Drawing inspiration from 80s and 90s anime and manga, the game’s narrative and visual universe will be its heart and soul,” states the press release.

“The game benefits from collaborations with leading partners, including animated cinematics created in partnership with Polygon Pictures (Love, Death + Robots, Star Wars, Transformers, Godzilla…), one of the oldest and most renowned Japanese animation studios, as well as the participation of Troy Baker, famous American actor and one of the most iconic voices in video games (The Last of Us, BioShock Infinite, Uncharted…).”

Let’s keep our fingers crossed for this new project that we leave you to discover in the video below:

If you’re a fan of shoot’em ups, you surely know R-Type Delta. Released in 1998 on the original PlayStation, this entry marked a turning point for the series with its 2.5D style and impressive graphics for the time. Good news: R-Type Delta is coming back in a remastered version, called R-Type Delta HD Boosted!

Announced during the latest IGN Live, this remaster is developed by City Connection and published by Clear River Games. It will launch sometime in 2025 on Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox, and PC (Steam). If you want to brush up on the saga, know that the R-Type titles are playable on Recalbox.

For younger players or those who missed the train back then: R-Type is a cult series born in 1987 on arcade machines. Created by Irem, the franchise quickly established itself as a genre-defining reference with its biomechanical enemies, dark atmosphere, and massive bosses. Delta marked the series’ move into the 3D era while maintaining precise and challenging 2D gameplay.

This HD Boosted version promises a modern visual overhaul while respecting the original gameplay. The exact release date is still unknown aside from a vague “2025,” but one thing’s for sure: the Bydo Empire better watch out!

And that’s not all: fans of the franchise can also look forward to the arrival of R-Type Tactics I & II Cosmos, also scheduled for 2025. Needless to say, it’s shaping up to be a great year for the saga’s enthusiasts.

We often say it, but it’s always a pleasure to see these classics that have marked video game history come back. R-Type Delta HD Boosted promises a great opportunity to (re)discover a shmup masterpiece in the best conditions.

Commodore is much more than just a computer brand. For an entire generation, it represents the dawn of personal computing and an era where innovation went hand in hand with accessibility and creativity. The Commodore 64, a true icon of the 80s and 90s, continues to captivate the hearts of retro computing enthusiasts well beyond its golden age.

Today, a dedicated team of fans has embarked on an ambitious project called Let’s Buy Commodore, aiming to bring this legendary brand back to life — not just as a nostalgic tribute, but as a genuine revival driven by the community itself. These are the people who grew up with these machines, loved and used them, and now want to revive the Commodore spirit.

A Community-Driven Project

Over the years, several initiatives have tried to keep the flame alive. Among them, Mike de Clanto has worked to preserve and distribute Commodore ROMs, thus keeping the memory of the past alive. But it is especially Shawn Donahghue, founder of My Retro Computer Limited, and Leo Nigro, creator of dedicated systems, who have injected new momentum. They even launched an official computer, the Commodore 64X, despite heavy financial difficulties and high licensing fees imposed by the current rights holders of the brand.

They understood that the survival and revival of Commodore can only come from a united community capable of bringing together creators, enthusiasts, and investors around a clear and sustainable project. Together, they began to devise a plan to negotiate an exclusive license with Commodore Corporation BV to allow fair and equitable use of the brand.

A Clear and United Vision for the Future

The project does not stop at reissuing computers or accessories. A significant part is devoted to the social dimension, with the creation of a Commodore Care fund. The idea? To provide underprivileged children access to technology through Commodore computers installed in hospitals, schools, or care homes. A meaningful gesture, fueled by nostalgia but focused on the future.

This initiative also benefits from the support of historic Commodore figures, such as Jerry Ellsworth, a recognized industry veteran who brings his expertise and advice.

On the economic front, the team proposes a simple and transparent model: a moderate royalty fee, far from the heavy constraints that hampered previous projects. A license designed to encourage creation while respecting the brand’s heritage.

Toward a New Commodore Era

Today, Let’s Buy Commodore embodies the hope of a true revival. It is no longer just about collecting memories or mourning a bygone era, but about building a future for Commodore together. A future where fans and creators regain their central place, where the brand regains its shine and coherence, and where the passion for retro computing continues to inspire.

This story is far from over. With the determination of this team and the strength of the global community, Commodore may well write a new chapter worthy of its legend.

If you want to learn more about the project, check out the Retro Recipes video below:

If you think you've mastered all retro games, it's time to discover RetroAchievements: the retro version of PlayStation Trophies or Xbox Achievements!

What Are RetroAchievements?

RetroAchievements are unlockable achievements tied to your favorite old-school games. For example:

• Finishing a level
• Defeating a boss
• Finding a hidden bonus
• Completing the game 100%

Each game includes a variety of challenges—some quite tricky—that give classic titles a fresh layer of excitement.

How to Activate Them on Recalbox

1. Go to retroachievements.org and create an account.
   ⚠️ Avoid using special characters like $, !, etc. in your password to prevent login issues.

2. On your Recalbox:
   Go to Start > Game Options > RetroAchievements Options.
   Enable the feature and enter your username and password.

3. Launch a compatible game and start unlocking achievements!

Useful Tips

• Most supported games are in NTSC (U.S.) versions.
• Press Hotkey + Y while in-game to view available achievements.
• Check your profile on the site to see:
  • Your progress
  • Recent games played
  • Completion percentage
  • Your global ranking

Hardcore Mode

Looking for a real challenge?
Enable Hardcore Mode in the RetroAchievements options.

This mode disables all emulator aids:

• No save states
• No rewind
• No cheats

You'll be playing like back in the day—with just the original console, your controller, and your skills!

In Summary

RetroAchievements are a fantastic way to:

• Rediscover retro games
• Push your limits with new challenges
• Track your accomplishments in an international community of fans
• Even find similar games based on your preferences!

Don't forget to join us on Twitch, YouTube, and Discord for livestreams, tutorials, and tech support!
Want more details about RetroAchievements? Check out the video below:

Every two weeks, you can take part in a new challenge hosted on the Recalbox Discord. This challenge is open to everyone!

The concept is simple: try to achieve the highest score on a randomly selected game, often from the arcade catalog.

Selected Game: Aqua Rush

🚀 For this seventh challenge of 2025, the chosen game is Aqua Rush!

Summer is here, and what better way to cool off than by diving into the refreshing underwater world of this original puzzle game from Namco?

Developed and published in 1999 on arcade hardware (System 12), Aqua Rush is often compared to Tetris but brings several fresh gameplay mechanics:

• Unlike Tetris, where the pieces fall down, in Aqua Rush they rise from the bottom of the screen.
• Each piece consists of three columns of bubbles: you can’t rotate them, but you can individually adjust the height of each column using three dedicated buttons. So if a piece doesn’t fit, you can adapt it by increasing the height of one or more columns.
• The goal is to fill gaps and clear full lines (called "rushes") to make your way up to the ocean’s surface.

💡 The game is relatively unknown in Europe, as it was never officially released outside Japan, remaining exclusive to Japanese arcade machines.

Challenge Rules

• 🎯 Objective: get the highest score on a single credit.
• 📅 From June 3 to June 16, 2025 at 11:59 PM.
• 🔁 You can try as many times as you want during the challenge period.

How to Participate?

1. 🎮 Launch the game (ROM: aquarush).
   ⚠️ Unlike previous challenges, the game must be launched using MAME, not FBNeo.
2. 🏹 Play and aim for the highest score.
3. 📸 Take a screenshot or a photo of your final score.
4. 📤 Share your score in the Discord channel #challenges
   or use the command: /submit score leaderboard

Fair Play Rules

To ensure a fair competition:

• The score must be achieved on a single credit.
• No save states, rewind, cheats, or auto-fire allowed, unless the game includes auto-fire by default.

🎁 Rewards & Sportsmanship

The challenge is all about discovering games, sharing tips, and having fun, all in a friendly and competitive spirit!

🏆 The winner will receive a game key (Steam, GOG, etc.) of their choice from a list of around 200 titles.

📌 If you’ve won a challenge in the last 3 months, the reward will go to the next player on the podium.

Good luck everyone, and may the highest score win! 🌊

The Nintendo ROM hacker Infidelity, already known for porting classics like The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Punch-Out!!, and the first five Mega Man games from the NES to the Super Nintendo, has now added Mega Man VI to his collection.

Developed by Capcom, this is the sixth and final episode of the Mega Man series released on the NES. The game originally came out in Japan under the name Rockman 6: The Greatest Battle in History!!. Despite the technical limitations of the console, Capcom managed to make the most of it with more detailed backgrounds and polished sprites.

Often seen as a kind of best of the previous entries, Mega Man 6 combines the key elements of the saga while refining the experience. Released late in the NES's life cycle, it unfortunately suffered from less visibility, overshadowed by the arrival of the Super Nintendo.

This port by Infidelity pays it a great tribute by offering a smoother version, free from the NES's performance issues, notably by expanding the ROM size. This allows for improvements impossible on the original hardware, such as better quality audio or even FMV-style cutscenes (Full Motion Video, which are pre-recorded video sequences).

It’s therefore a new opportunity to dive back into the adventure: face the eight Robot Masters, copy their weapons, and progress to the final boss. This port even lets you choose between the Japanese and American versions of the game — a relevant choice for preserving the authenticity of the different versions of this title.

Source: Time Extension