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A new artist joins your Recalbox playlist in the Patrons mixtapes! Retrokid is here to delight your ears with 36 new tracks available on your Recalbox thanks to your Patron key.

The artist, with a synthwave style, offers his compositions through two mixtapes:

• SynthFighter: available from the very first day of your support, featuring 15 iconic themes from Street Fighter.
• DonkeyWay: a tribute to our favorite gorilla, Donkey Kong, with 21 tracks accessible after one month of support via Patreon.

As you may have guessed, Retrokid revisits video game music (but not only that): among them, classic retro gaming hits (Street Fighter, Donkey Kong, GTA Vice City, Zelda…) as well as more recent titles like Clair Obscur: Expédition 33 or Hollow Knight: Silksong.

We strongly encourage you to visit his YouTube channel to explore his universe. And if you enjoy his work, you can also support him on his Patreon page! A big thank you to Retrokid for this partnership.

On your side, if you support Recalbox via Patreon, you don’t need to do anything: the mixtapes will start automatically as soon as your Recalbox is connected to the Internet (playlists are streamed).

This is also a great opportunity to remind you of your Patron benefits: early access to Recalbox versions (currently V10 beta), promo codes from our partners, lightning-fast automatic game scraping, a dedicated Discord channel to chat with developers and participate in alphas, and of course a top-tier retrogaming music selection!

Thank you all for your support.

The verdict is in! After a fierce competition, the PlayStation 2 (PS2) has been crowned the best retro console of all time by the Retro Dodo community. Over 52,000 players participated in this tournament, featuring 16 iconic consoles from the late 1970s to the 2000s.

The Finalists: PS2 vs N64

Among the consoles in the running were legends such as the NES, SNES, PlayStation 1, Master System, and many more. After several rounds of competition, the final pitted the PlayStation 2 against the Nintendo 64. It was a tough choice for many players, but the PS2 prevailed thanks to its lasting impact on the video game industry.

Why the PS2?

The PlayStation 2 is not only the best-selling console of all time with over 155 million units sold, it also left a mark with a legendary game library, featuring iconic titles such as Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Final Fantasy X, Metal Gear Solid 2, Gran Turismo 3, Tekken 5, and many others that are still widely played today.

Another key point: backward compatibility with PlayStation 1 games, widely available in homes, allowing players to enjoy a vast library of games from launch. It also featured a built-in DVD player, offering dual functionality that appealed to many households eager to explore this new medium.

What About the Other Consoles?

While the PS2 took first place, other consoles also left their mark:

• Nintendo 64: known for legendary multiplayer games like Super Mario 64, GoldenEye 007, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
• Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES): a console that laid the foundations for many video game classics.
• NES: the console that revived the video game industry.
• And many more...

Everyone Has Their Favorite Console

The choice of the PlayStation 2 as the "best retro console" is a tribute to its legacy and influence on the video game industry. It continues to inspire new generations of players and remains a symbol of the golden age of video games.

This tournament brought the retro gaming community together around a shared passion. Each round provided opportunities for lively debates and shared memories, strengthening the connection between players and their own gaming history.

Source and images: Retro Dodo

It’s the end of this ZEvent 2025 marathon weekend! Thanks to you, we shattered our previous record of €11,500, raising no less than €23,510! Your contributions make all the difference — thank you for being there, so supportive and engaged. Together, we made retrogaming shine… along with the generosity of its community!

56 hours of non-stop streaming

We shared more than 56 hours of non-stop streaming around retrogaming on our Twitch channel, filled with challenges and the constant good vibes of our guests, including: Bigkam, Mr Garcin, Défékator, Régis Monterrin, Musée Odyssée, Papy Geek, Cartridge 1987, Eucclidia, and HyperionKTV, who all joined this incredible weekend hosted masterfully by Fab2Ris.

Eucliddia and HyperionKTV during the Metal Slug marathon on Saturday night through Sunday.

The generosity of our guests

Let’s also highlight the generosity of our guests, who offered gifts to our viewers to boost donations. For example, Mr Garcin gave away two books of his creations, Cartridge 1987 contributed three vinyl records, and the Musée Odyssée signed a collector’s book for one of our viewers, along with exclusive prototype hoodies.

The Musée Odyssée, generous just like its community.

A flood of gifts

We also wanted to spoil our viewers and donors: an avalanche of gifts was given away! Among them, controller stands, books from our partners, Recalbox hardware (RGB DUAL 2, RGB JAMMA 2), Raspberry Pi 5 kits, and even a PlayStation 5 — which, with the community’s vote, was awarded to the channel’s top donor instead of being raffled.

The impressive Metal Gear Solid speedrun, streamed live with commentary and explanations.

ZEvent enters the legend

ZEvent 2025 will be remembered: the global fundraiser — bringing together hundreds of streamers both on-site and remotely for nine associations supporting patients, caregivers, health, and children — reached €16,179,096, while no previous edition had ever exceeded €11 million.

An unprecedented opening concert

Kicking off at the Zénith de Montpellier, the opening concert introduced something new: it was possible to donate live during the show, with certain milestones triggering special happenings — a festive and engaging innovation.

Thank you once again

For one weekend, you transformed retrogaming into a true force of solidarity. Thank you to the donors, the guests, the viewers, the Recalbox team, Fab2Ris, and everyone who made this unforgettable weekend possible.

Papi Geek, who after showing us the Vectrex Mini, took us on a tour of his lair.

The engine is running, and Recalbox is once again taking part in the ZEvent, the major charity marathon that brings the gaming community together around a common goal: raising as many donations as possible for essential associations. And this year again, retrogaming will be at the heart of the celebration!

Over 56 hours of live streaming kick off this Friday at 6 PM, featuring around twenty guests, including: Bigkam, Mr Garcin, Défékator, Régis Monterrin, the Odyssée Museum, Papy Geek, Cartridge 1987, Eucclidia, and HyperionKTV (who will allow Fab2Ris to get a few hours of sleep)…

The ZEvent would be nothing without its donation goals, the challenges unlocked by your donations. This year, Fab2Ris has set the bar high:

Needless to say, every euro counts, bringing both comfort to the supported associations and cold sweats to Fab2Ris as he tackles the challenges.

The Community at the Heart of ZEvent

As always, the Recalbox adventure at ZEvent would be nothing without you. Your donations, your encouragement, your shared retro setups… all of this is part of the magic that transforms this weekend into a true celebration of video games.

So join us from September 5 to 7 on the Recalbox Twitch channel for three days of laughter, challenges, and above all, solidarity. We’re counting on you to make retrogaming shine while contributing to a cause that unites us all.

Many of you follow us and own little gems in your retrogaming spaces. It’s time to shine a light on them!

On the occasion of our participation in the ZEvent THIS WEEKEND, we want to take a moment to showcase your retro setups: gaming rooms, bartops, arcade cabinets, CRTs, Recalbox… in short, your most beautiful gaming spaces!

The ZEvent will take place from September 5 to 7, 2025. We have planned a varied program, special guests, challenges, and of course donation goals to challenge Fab2Ris with dares we hope he won’t forget anytime soon…

The goal is to collect as many donations as possible for essential associations and to break records, all while shining a spotlight on video games and retrogaming.

If Recalbox is today one of the leading names in retrogaming, it’s also thanks to its community. That’s why it’s essential to talk about you and showcase your worlds, your spaces — whether they are simple or, on the contrary, as extravagant as we hope to discover.

👉 To share your setups with the community, head over to this link:
https://swll.to/VosSetupsRetro

Tell us about your spaces, your setups, your hardware specs, your creations (we know there are some artists among you, with some stunning bartops, among other things!), and send us some photos to illustrate it all.

We’ll be presenting your setups live on our Twitch channel this weekend in front of the entire community.
Come in numbers, come as you are — we’re counting on you!

The first Challenge of the first season of the One Credit Challenge is here!

As a reminder, this first season runs from September 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, featuring 20 arcade games of all kinds, with two games per month (from the 1st to the 15th and from the 16th to the last day of the month).

At the end of each Challenge, the winner will receive a game from a list of about 100 titles (provided they have not won one in the past three months; otherwise, the key will be given to the second-place participant, and so on).

And we start with … Tinkle Pit!

Developed by Namco in 1993 and released exclusively in Japanese arcades, Tinkle Pit is a colorful maze game mixing action and puzzle elements. You play as Pitt (or Patti) armed with a mysterious Tinker Ball, which you place in the maze and recall like a yo-yo to defeat enemies.

A fun feature: the game is full of references to the Namco universe, from Pac-Man to Xevious, as well as Mappy and Dig Dug.

Very colorful, the game offers a wide variety of levels and a surprisingly rich set of enemies for its genre. Bonuses and different enemy patterns add a strategic dimension, allowing you to score quickly… or get trapped!

Despite a discreet original release, this mix between Pac-Man and Bomberman is now considered a retro gem, brought back into the spotlight in 2024 thanks to its re-release on Switch and PS4 in the Arcade Archives collection.

🏆 Challenge rules

Your goal is to achieve the highest score in a single credit.
The challenge runs from September 1 to 15, 11:59 PM. You can attempt as many times as you like.

📢 How to participate?

1. Launch the game (rom "tinklpit")
2. Play and try to beat the highest score
3. Take a screenshot or a photo of your final score
4. Share your score on the Discord #challenges channel, including your username and score

⚖️ Rules to follow

To ensure fairness:

• The score must be achieved in a single credit, without save states, rewind, cheats, or auto-fire (unless part of the game)
• Gentlemen’s agreement: using glitches to artificially inflate your score is also prohibited

🎁 Rewards and fair play

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

• The winner will receive a game key (GOG, Steam, etc.) to choose from a list of around 100 titles
• If you have won a challenge in the past three months, the reward will go to the next player 🥇🥈🥉
• Your ranking will be added to the One Credit Challenge leaderboard
• The champion of the first season will choose between a free RGB Dual 2 or a one-year Recalbox Patreon subscription

Good luck to everyone, and may the best score win!

The Chinese manufacturer AYANEO, already well known for its portable consoles oriented towards PC gaming, has just announced a new product line specifically dedicated to retro. The name of the project: Code R.

When pixels meet modernity

The presentation highlights a simple philosophy: blending the charm of classic pixels with modern technology. The company seems to be targeting a very specific audience (the retrogaming community), stating that Code R is not just a gaming device, but also "a legacy of an era." On X, one can read:

“When classic pixels meet modern technology, handheld gaming is redefined. AYANEO’s entry-level, high-value retro handheld is about to be unveiled. Not just a gaming device, but the legacy of an era. Join AYANEO and enter the new era of retro gaming.”

An entry-level console with great value

Unlike the premium models often offered by the brand, this new line is clearly positioned in the entry-level segment. The goal is to provide an affordable device, while maintaining great value for retro enthusiasts.

A strategic choice that should open the doors of the AYANEO ecosystem to a wider audience, especially those looking for a simple and accessible experience to enjoy their favorite classics.

AYANEO already has a more "budget-friendly" line, the Konkr series, including the recent Konkr Pocket Fit. However, the article stresses that Code R is a distinct line, designed specifically for the retro market, and not just an economical version of existing models.

A new era announced

It was on its social media channels that AYANEO unveiled the name Code R, emphasizing the idea of opening "a new era" for retro handheld gaming. For now, no technical details, price, or release date have been communicated, but the promise is clear: to make retro accessible through a modern machine designed for nostalgia.

One thing is certain: after investing in the market of powerful handheld consoles and then offering more affordable alternatives with the Konkr range, AYANEO is now targeting another segment with Code R, turning decisively toward the retro community.

Attention

For now, no AYANEO console is compatible with Recalbox, and development on this platform is currently not planned. If you are looking for a portable console compatible with Recalbox, visit this link.

Source: Time Extension

Last March, we already told you about the big return of Acclaim, the iconic 90s publisher that defined a whole generation with Mortal Kombat, NBA Jam, and Turok. A few months later, the project is shifting into high gear: the brand has just announced its very first event, the Play Acclaim Showcase, scheduled for September 10, 2025.

A rebirth beyond nostalgia

Behind this new adventure is Alex Josef, former head of Graffiti Games, joined by industry veterans and unexpected investors such as former wrestler Jeff Jarrett. The stated ambition is clear: to revive the spirit of Acclaim without simply exploiting its glorious past.

Alex Josef speaks of retro-future-nostalgia, a concept that sums up their vision: drawing from the energy and chaos that made Acclaim unforgettable, while projecting them into a new era. The goal is to deliver brand-new experiences rather than just capitalizing on the old catalog.

The “Play Acclaim Showcase”

On September 10, 2025, YouTube will host this first major event. It promises to highlight the publisher’s new projects, with the promise of a few surprises.

A first 40-second teaser has already been released. It shows clips from iconic games such as Mortal Kombat, NBA Jam, Double Dragon, and Alien Trilogy, projected onto old CRT screens. A staging that fully plays the 90s nostalgia card, while keeping fans guessing about what Acclaim is truly preparing.

Growing anticipation

The return of Acclaim is intriguing. Of course, there’s the symbolic impact of seeing this legendary name resurface after so many years, but also the curiosity to discover what it can bring to today’s gaming landscape. In a market where the retro wave shows no sign of slowing down, the arrival of a historic player like Acclaim naturally draws attention.

The question now is whether the promise of novelty will live up to expectations. This Play Acclaim Showcase will be the

After the LEGO Game Boy released earlier this year, LEGO continues to explore the world of retrogaming with a brand-new collector’s item: the LEGO 40769, a brick-built replica of the legendary SEGA Mega Drive controller.

Fans of the 16-bit console will be thrilled: this set will be available starting September 8, 2025, but not for direct purchase. You’ll need to spend €130 on another LEGO set from the official store in order to receive the Mega Drive controller in brick form.

A faithful reproduction of the iconic controller

The set measures about 15 x 10 cm and consists of 260 pieces. Designed with adult collectors in mind, LEGO has carefully recreated the controller’s iconic features: the A, B, C buttons, the D-pad, and the interchangeable SEGA/Genesis logo.

But the real surprise lies inside: the controller’s faceplate can open up to reveal a mini Green Hill Zone diorama, featuring Sonic mid-run. A detail that transforms this decorative piece into a true geek culture nod, perfect for the shelves of Mega Drive nostalgics.

LEGO and video games, a story that continues

With this new set, LEGO reinforces its commitment to video game culture. After the NES, the Game Boy, Mario sets, and even arcade cabinets, it’s now SEGA’s turn to join the LEGO lineup.
This choice will delight collectors and retro gaming fans, who will find in its details all the 90s nostalgia they’ve been waiting for.

Where and when to get it?

The set will be available starting September 8, 2025 on LEGO’s official website. As mentioned earlier, you’ll need to spend €130 in the online store to qualify for this 260-piece set. It’s clearly aimed at LEGO and retro gaming enthusiasts willing to invest in another set to walk away with this piece, which is bound to become a collector’s item.

We can imagine this set is just the beginning: if the collaboration with SEGA proves successful, why not dream of a full LEGO Mega Drive console, or even other SEGA classics like the Saturn or the Dreamcast?

It should be noted that, at the time of writing, the set has not yet been officially confirmed by LEGO but has been reported by several specialized media outlets.

Since its beginnings, Android has established itself as the ideal platform for emulation enthusiasts. Thanks to sideloading (installing applications outside the Play Store), users can access a wide range of emulators missing from official stores: Nintendo, Sega, PlayStation consoles… you name it. But a recent decision by Google could change the game entirely.

A new restrictive policy

Starting in 2026, developers based in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand will be required to verify their identity if they want to distribute Android apps — even outside the Play Store. This means providing a full name, address, phone number, and even an official ID. In 2027, this requirement will be extended to all countries where Android is certified.

On paper, Google presents this measure as a way to strengthen security. In practice, however, many see it as a blow to the indie and emulation scene. Behind the big retro names, there are often small, passionate developers who value their anonymity, especially given the legal risks posed by publishers.

A direct threat to emulators

Today, most recent emulation projects (3DS, Switch, even PS3) are offered via directly downloadable APKs. If developers refuse to comply with this verification, many may choose to abandon their work rather than hand over personal information. The result: the progress of emulation on Android could come to a sudden halt.

Voices within the community already fear that Google is killing what made Android strong: its openness. Some developers even call it a fatal blow to the indie scene, which thrives precisely because of this freedom of distribution.

What alternatives for tomorrow?

In response to these restrictions, a few options remain:

• using uncertified Android forks (LineageOS, /e/OS) ;
• turning to more open systems like Linux ;
• or opting for dedicated emulation devices (Linux-based handhelds, FPGA, etc.).

On this subject, Recalbox developer Beudbeud reminds us: “Recalbox is a GNU/Linux distribution based on Buildroot.”

But some of these alternatives are not accessible to everyone. And for the general public, Android’s appeal has always been its simplicity: buy a smartphone or portable console, download an emulator, and play.

A turning point for mobile emulation

It’s hard not to see this decision as a philosophical shift: Android is becoming more and more like iOS, closing doors that once appealed to enthusiasts. If the measure is indeed enforced globally in 2027, the mobile emulation ecosystem could be seriously weakened.

Atari takes a seat at the table! The legendary video game brand has teamed up with Sauce Shed to create Atari Sauce, an official collection of 10 hot and BBQ sauces inspired by its most iconic classics.
An original idea from Atari which, in the absence of a promising new video game, certainly highlights its expertise in merchandising…

“With this new Atari Sauce line, we’ve fused the nostalgia of your favorite Atari games with mouth-watering sauces that are as epic as the high scores you chased in arcades,” says the official website.

A concept designed to appeal both to retrogaming fans and to food lovers in search of bold flavors.

Passionate creators

Behind this project are two enthusiasts: Olly “Chilli Olly” Reynalds and Dave “Chilli Pepper Perrett”. Both grew up with the Atari 2600 and have always shared a passion for chili and cooking.
Olly, a multi-award-winning chef and the creator of the Street Fighter Hot Sauce range, joined forces with Dave, who brings over 25 years of experience in the hot sauce world.

Flavors inspired by Atari classics

Each sauce in the collection is linked to a legendary title: Yars’ Revenge, Breakout, Adventure, Asteroids, Pong, or Crystal Castles. The result is a range of flavors, from tangy BBQ to the fiery punch of chili, all designed to reflect the spirit of each game. The bottles’ design is equally thoughtful, featuring packaging that draws directly from the visual universe of Atari classics.

An official collaboration

This collaboration was made possible through an official licensing agreement between Atari and Sauce Shed, brokered by Tinderbox (Beanstalk). It’s another example of how the world of retrogaming continues to inspire creative projects—sometimes relevant, sometimes more debatable—always riding on the nostalgia of players.

"It’s the game we wish had existed 40 years ago!" With this phrase, Time Extension perfectly summed up the excitement of fans when the news broke: the cult series Ulysses 31 is finally getting a video game adaptation. But be careful — this is not a AAA production or an official project from a major publisher. Instead, it’s the passionate work of an independent creator, Sequentia Soft (Fran Kapilla), who is developing a retro homage called Odyssey 31.

A project born of passion

Coming soon on Itch.io, Odyssey 31 is presented as a freeware game, designed for the ZX Spectrum. Far from being a strict adaptation of the 1981 French-Japanese animated series, it’s more of an original adventure, inspired both by the show’s universe and by classical Greek mythology.

Fran Kapilla emphasizes that the project is being developed non-commercially, purely for the enjoyment of fans and the preservation of the retro spirit. The game will combine 8-bit pixel art graphics with a choice-based adventure system, a style reminiscent of both 1980s home computers and the interactive stories of that era.

A retro adventure in the making

On its official page, Sequentia Soft explains that Odyssey 31 is still in development (work in progress), with a release planned for 2025. The project is moving forward step by step, and players who want to support the initiative can do so through a voluntary donation. A nice touch: contributors will have their name appear in the game as a thank-you.

The creator promises a story that respects the spirit of Ulysses 31, without directly copying the original plots. The idea remains that of a wandering hero, facing epic challenges in a universe halfway between mythology and science fiction.

A gem for retro fans

Time Extension points out how this project fits into a wider trend: bringing cult classics back to life through passionate fan-driven initiatives. For many players, it’s also the chance to relive the unique atmosphere of Ulysses 31, a series that left its mark on a whole generation with its unforgettable opening theme and bold blend of mythology and space opera.

While waiting for the release of Odyssey 31, curious fans can follow its development and eventually download it from the official page: Sequentia Soft – Odyssey 31. A great example of how, even four decades later, the journey of Ulysses continues to inspire.

After classic point & click games like Maniac Mansion and The Secret of Monkey Island, Ron Gilbert shifts gears and dives into the roguelike genre with Death by Scrolling. Revealed at Gamescom 2025, this game combines vertical scrolling, RPG mechanics, and a touch of dark humor typical of its creator.

A Fast-Paced Concept: Fleeing the Reaper

In Death by Scrolling, players find themselves in a Purgatory “under new management.” The goal? Collect 10,000 gold coins to pay the ferryman and escape the Reaper. The game features constant vertical scrolling, with each level being a race against time to avoid death and progress.

Retro and Addictive Gameplay

Inspired by classics like Zelda and Vampire Survivors, the game offers pixel art graphics and frantic action. Players can choose from multiple characters, each with unique abilities, and face varied enemies while avoiding the Reaper. Upgrades and side quests enrich the overall experience.

An Evolving Project

Development of Death by Scrolling began in 2019 under the codename “A Little Something.” After a pause to work on Return to Monkey Island, Ron Gilbert resumed the project, merging it with an abandoned RPG concept. With the help of his collaborators Elissa Black and Craig, they refined the game into a coherent and entertaining experience.

Availability and Expectations

Death by Scrolling is currently in development for PC and can be added to your Steam wishlist. Although no release date has been announced yet, fan excitement and the involvement of MicroProse as publisher suggest a promising launch.

After the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and classic Sega titles made their comeback, another 80s legend is ready to step back into the spotlight. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe are returning in a brand new pixel art beat ’em up that captures the spirit of old-school arcade games.

By the power of Grayskull! Fans of He-Man can rejoice: the official new game, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: Dragon Pearl of Destruction, has just been announced. Developed by Bitmap Bureau (Final Vendetta; Terminator 2D: No Fate…) and published by Limited Run Games, this title promises a faithful return to arcade-style action, wrapped in gorgeous pixel art that retro gaming fans are sure to love.

A Nod to Classic Beat ’em Ups

He-Man has had a few game adaptations in the past—on Game Boy Advance, PlayStation 2, and mobile—but none really captured the feel of 80s and 90s arcade action. This new game aims to change that: 12 levels, epic boss battles, and even the chance to ride Battle Cat. If you loved Golden Axe or Final Fight, get ready for a nostalgic punch of excitement.

A Legendary Lineup

He-Man won’t be fighting alone. Teela, Duncan, and other iconic heroes are joining him to battle Skeletor and his minions. A cooperative mode lets you team up with friends, whether in the arcade spirit or for a cozy couch session, smashing enemies side by side.

Retro Style with Modern Flair

Pixel art isn’t just a style choice—it’s a tribute. The animations and vibrant backgrounds recall both the vintage Mattel toys and the classic cartoons that defined a generation. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh gameplay that appeals to longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Coming to All Platforms

While the exact release date hasn’t been revealed yet, the game will launch on PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series. And with Limited Run Games involved, collector’s physical editions are almost guaranteed—perfect for fans who want a piece of Eternia in their hands.

Back to school is almost here! For many, this means work and kids going back to class, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to get back into retro gaming. This year, like last year, Recalbox is launching a new arcade challenge every 15 days starting on September 1st, with an all-new format!

The first season of the One Credit Challenge, running from September 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, will feature 20 arcade games, with two challenges per month (from the 1st to the 15th and from the 16th to the last day). Shoot ’em ups, beat ’em ups, sports, racing, platformers, puzzle games… there’s something for every taste.

Participation & Ranking

You don’t have to play every game to join the season — play at your own pace. Every 15 days, at the end of each challenge, a ranking will be calculated based on scores. The top player will win a game from a list of around 100 titles (as long as they haven’t won one in the past three months; otherwise, the prize goes to the next in line).

Points are awarded based on your ranking (see the table below) and accumulate throughout the season. On June 30th, the overall ranking will crown the champion of Season 1 of the One Credit Challenge.

The champion will choose between a RGB Dual 2 or a one-year Recalbox Patreon subscription.

Challenge Rules

The rules remain the same as last year: each score must be achieved with a single credit. No save states, rewind, or cheats are allowed. Exploiting glitches to artificially inflate scores is also prohibited, ensuring fair play for all participants (gentlemen’s agreement).

Scores should be shared on the #challenges channel of our Discord server as follows:
Photo of your score screen + your username + your score.
You can also share tips, strategies, and discuss games — the main goal is to play together, discover new titles, and celebrate our shared passion.

Open to Everyone

You can participate on any platform — arcade cabinet, TV, handheld console… no matter your skill level. As they say: come as you are! The goal is to have fun, but be warned — arcade gaming can be addictive!

See you on September 1st, and for any questions, head to the #challenges channel!

The invaders are back… and this time, on the big screen! New Line Cinema is bringing Space Invaders to life with a new film in the works, backed by well-known Hollywood names.

Space Invaders: The Legendary Arcade Game Coming to the Big Screen

Nearly fifty years after invading arcades and leaving its mark on pop culture as one of the most recognizable video games, Space Invaders is set to conquer a new territory: the big screen. New Line Cinema has revived the adaptation project, entrusting the screenplay to Ben Zazove and Evan Turner.

Warner Bros., which holds the rights to the franchise, has been working on this idea for over ten years. An earlier attempt was announced in 2019 with screenwriter Gregg Russo but never came to fruition. The project had been shelved until this new announcement marks a fresh start.

Experienced Screenwriters and Production Team

Ben Zazove and Evan Turner have already collaborated on several productions. Their most recent work is the action-comedy The Out-Laws on Netflix. The duo is also working on Officer Exchange, another action-comedy produced by Amazon MGM Studios, with John Cena attached to the project.

The production of Space Invaders will be handled by Akiva Goldsman through his company Weed Road Pictures, alongside Joby Harold and Tory Tunnell from Safehouse Pictures. Weed Road Pictures is known for producing films such as Hancock, I Am Legend, and Constantine. Greg Lessans and Rachel Wizenberg (Weed Road) as well as Matt Schwartz (Safehouse) will oversee development.

A Mystery Around the Script

For now, no details about the plot have been revealed. It is therefore impossible to know how the film will exploit the minimalist universe of the original 1978 game. The director and cast have also not been announced.

Sources: Retrododo / Deadline

Arcade, a universe full of different cabinets, has evolved alongside technology and games: from the classic two-player panel with two joysticks and twelve buttons, to the steering wheels of timeless classics like Sega Rally or Daytona.

Less known but just as effective in terms of gameplay experience, some cabinets were equipped with a spinner and/or a trackball to provide the most authentic experience depending on the game. These controllers, however, were not unfamiliar to players at the time: Atari and ColecoVision already offered them in the 70s and 80s, and they were later “copied” by other manufacturers on a few rare NES, Mega Drive, or Neo Geo games.

The Atari Trackball

Today, it has become difficult to find this type of peripheral to enjoy certain arcade titles designed for spinners or trackballs. Taito has offered the Egret II Mini panel for a few years now, a device combining a trackball and a spinner, all with high-quality finish… but at a price around €120, depending on the retailer.

Until now, this peripheral was not compatible with Recalbox. But things are changing with V10, currently available in Alpha for our Patrons. Our friend GyuGyu conducted the first serious tests on the subject, accompanied by Recalbox developer Beudbeud. Thanks to their trials and feedback, it is now possible to enjoy an official plug-and-play spinner and trackball on Recalbox.

While some games may require a setting adjustment in RetroArch (accessible to everyone), it is now possible to play in the original conditions games such as Arkanoid, Puchi Carat, Cameltry, Sonic Arcade, Sylvalion… Note that the Egret II Mini is compatible with CRT or arcade cabinets using RGB Dual 1 and 2 and RGB JAMMA 1 and 2, as well as via HDMI.

To discover the product presentation and the various tests on Recalbox, check out GyuGyu’s video below. And if you enjoy Japanese culture — whether video games, anime, or hardware — we highly recommend subscribing to his channel.

Retro gaming and arcade fans on the Switch are about to get a new object of desire. The UK-based company iMP Gaming is preparing the launch of the Mini Arcade PRO, a clever accessory that transforms your Nintendo Switch, Switch OLED, or even the upcoming Switch 2 into a true mini arcade cabinet for your living room.

With its compact design and ABS finish (a strong yet lightweight plastic, used for example in LEGO bricks), this little cabinet is designed to deliver authentic arcade sensations with your Switch — no tinkering required.

A "real" arcade stick for an authentic feel

Forget traditional controllers: here, you get a ball-top joystick mounted on a steel shaft, supported by micro-switches for precise, responsive movements. The control panel features eight full-size arcade buttons, along with Turbo, Home, and C buttons.

Perfectly suited for fighting games, shmups, and classic 8/16-bit titles, the Mini Arcade PRO even allows you to switch the joystick between D-Pad mode, left analog stick, or right analog stick to match any game style. Note that the brand of the buttons and joystick is currently unknown.

Designed with practicality in mind

At the back, there’s a built-in storage compartment that can hold up to 12 game cartridges (or SD cards). This keeps your physical library close at hand. The connection to the console is via USB-C, ensuring smooth, lag-free input.

A launch expected by year’s end

The Mini Arcade PRO will make its first public appearance at Gamescom 2025, taking place from August 20–24, before its scheduled release in October 2025. Pricing has not yet been announced, but iMP Gaming promises an affordable product aimed at both collectors and players looking for retro thrills.

Collectors and players have already been busy adapting Nintendo’s hybrid console; if you’re active on social media, it’s not uncommon to see all kinds of homemade creations for the Switch.

Source : gamingretro.co.uk

The legendary Heretic and Hexen, developed by Raven Software in the 1990s, are making a grand return in a remastered version by Nightdive Studios, in collaboration with id Software. This re-release, unveiled at QuakeCon 2025, offers a modernized experience while preserving the essence of these cult classics.

An enriched compilation

The Heretic + Hexen pack includes:

• Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders
• Hexen: Beyond Heretic
• Hexen: Deathkings of the Dark Citadel
• Two new episodes:
  • Heretic: Faith Renewed
  • Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur

In total, players will have access to 117 solo or cooperative levels as well as 120 deathmatch maps, offering an impressive amount of content.

Technical improvements

This remastered version features several major enhancements:

• Support up to 4K and 120 FPS
• Cross-platform online multiplayer for up to 16 players
• Local split-screen up to 8 players
• Remixed soundtrack by Andrew Hulshult, composer of Doom Eternal
• Modernized interface with improved accessibility options
• Integrated mod system with in-game browser
• "Vault" section showcasing concept art and unreleased sprites

Availability and pricing

The pack is available now on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch for €15. Owners of the original versions on Steam, GOG, or Microsoft Store receive a free update. Additionally, the compilation is included in the Xbox Game Pass catalog from its launch.

A timeless classic

Heretic and Hexen stood out at their release thanks to innovative ideas that enriched the FPS genre. With inventory management, character classes with varied skills, and gameplay combining action and exploration, these games laid the foundation for many mechanics still found in fantasy titles today. Their dark and immersive worlds continue to captivate retro enthusiasts who appreciate both their gameplay and unique atmosphere.

Source: rom-game.fr

We have already had the chance to talk about remarkable ports on the Dreamcast, such as WipEout by developer JNMartin, an adaptation originally from the PlayStation that impressed with its fluidity and boldness. Today, another gaming landmark follows the same path: Mario Kart 64.

Everything started with the complete decompilation of Mario Kart 64's code, achieved in 2025, allowing a perfect reproduction of the original game and thus adaptation to other platforms. Building on his experience with WipEout and Doom 64, JNMartin embarked on this adventure. Three weeks after starting the project, the game was already running on the Dreamcast, menus included. Early screenshots showed a result surprisingly close to the original, despite some visual artifacts, occasional performance fluctuations, and initially no sound. Contrary to some rumors, Toad remains playable in this version, with no character replacements.

On tracks like Luigi Raceway, the framerate reaches 30 frames per second, with multiplayer operational. Such achievement confirms how fertile the Dreamcast remains for homebrew developers, even more than twenty years after production ended.

This port is not an end in itself. Even before Mario Kart 64 was fully completed, JNMartin had already started working on Star Fox 64, another classic from the N64. In just two days, a functional version was running on the Sega console, still marked by sound and graphical issues but already promising. These efforts illustrate the passion and creativity of an independent scene breathing new life into cult titles, while pushing the technical limits of machines long considered frozen in time.

Source: Time Extension