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Fifteen days after a fierce battle in the mazes of Tinkle Pit, the second game of the One Credit Challenge is already here! No more racing through mazes—One Credit Challenge now takes you to war across forests, mountains, and enemy bases on Anders with Demon Front!

Released in 2002 on the PGM (Poly Game Master) arcade system by Taiwanese company IGS, Demon Front is a run & gun often rightly compared to Metal Slug. Ported late to console with the IGS Arcade Collection on Switch, it remained rather confidential despite its addictive gameplay and fantastic universe that stands out from the usual military tone of the genre.

Four heroes are playable, each accompanied by a companion (pet) that grants unique powers. The game features 5 themed chapters, each ending with a boss. A secret sixth stage even appears depending on the chosen pet, encouraging replayability to discover all variations.

While the feel is reminiscent of Metal Slug, Demon Front stands out with its pet system—both weapon and shield—capable of leveling up and evolving. The game offers four-direction shooting, extended jump phases similar to gliding, and a strategic layer reinforced by pet management, as some companions are more useful depending on the situation.

Challenge rules

Your goal is to achieve the highest score with a single credit. The challenge runs from September 16th to 30th at 11:59 PM. You have as many attempts as you like.

How to participate?

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

Rules to follow

To ensure fairness:

• The score must be achieved with a single credit
• No save states, rewinds, cheats, or auto-fire (unless built into the game)
• Gentlemen’s agreement: using glitches to artificially inflate the score is prohibited

Rewards and fair play

The challenge is all about discovering games, sharing tips, and of course having fun, with a friendly dose of competition!

The winner will receive a game key (GOG, Steam, etc.) chosen from a list of around 100 titles.
If you’ve already won a challenge in the last three months, the prize will go to the next player.

Your result will be added to the One Credit Challenge scoreboard.
The champion of the first season will walk away with their choice of:

• a RGB Dual 2
• or a 1-year Patreon Recalbox subscription

Good luck everyone, and may the best score win!

If you are even slightly interested in video games and retrogaming, you probably already know that a museum is being created to honor our shared passion: video games, their history, and pop culture as a whole. Its name: the Odyssée Museum!

We’re talking about it today because the museum has launched its YouTube channel, with a first video of about half an hour presenting the project, how it works, its team, and the steps already underway.

You’ll discover how the team gets arcade cabinets — thanks in part to our friends at Tenzen Arcade, who donated one to the museum — how they restore them, how the project is financed, and the current status of the museum itself (building permit pending). A documentary that follows the team for 72 very busy hours.

Hands in the grease

If you love beautiful machines, from old arcade cabinets to the latest ones, consoles from your childhood to fragile controllers preserved in bulk (hello Nintendo 64), we can only encourage you to watch this documentary (even more if you love food!).

The museum

Just a few minutes from Disneyland Paris, the Odyssée Museum will be much more than just a museum. This project aims to become a true temple of video games and geek culture in Europe, blending heritage, entertainment, and immersive experiences.

At the heart of the project, a 3,150 m² space dedicated to the history of video games, with the promise of exhibiting the largest console collection in the world — more than 2,200 machines, brought together by Ludovic Charles, cofounder and great collector, alongside Benoît de Ruyter and Benoît Theveny, aka Tev.

Even seasoned eyes sparkle at Tenzen Arcade

If you follow us on Twitch, and especially if you watched this year’s ZEvent, you probably saw Ludovic and Benoît presenting the project and offering gifts to the community to encourage donations.

The site will also feature a 1,500 m² Gaming Arena, capable of hosting both eSport tournaments and concerts or screenings. A 1,000 m² food court will be dedicated to Japanese cuisine under the direction of Éric Ticana, and a commercial agora will allow brands, publishers, and creators to offer exclusives and activities for visitors.

In total, no less than 11,000 m² will be dedicated to video games and their culture. Odyssée aims to attract more than one million visitors per year and become a must-visit destination for all enthusiasts. The roadmap includes:

• Late 2025: first events under the Odyssée name.
• 2026-2028: construction and site development.
• Opening planned for 2028, with a large-scale inauguration.

Presentation of the plans

A collective adventure

Odyssée is also being built with its community. Driven by a passionate team and supported by an association, the project relies on public participation through crowdfunding and exclusive events. A way to remind everyone that video games are, above all, a story of sharing and passion.

If you’d like to join the adventure and support the project, you can join the association for €24 per year, or soon get goodies bearing the museum’s image — including the excellent Consoles Museum book, a true bible for any enthusiast.

We’ll continue to closely follow this project, and we wish the whole team the best of luck in this exciting adventure!

Nintendo loves to surprise, and this time, an unexpected return is on the horizon. Thirty years after its commercial failure, the Virtual Boy is making a comeback on the Switch and Switch 2. A bold move that mixes nostalgia and curiosity.

The Virtual Boy games will join the Switch Online + Expansion Pack catalog. To enjoy them, you will need a brand-new accessory: a plastic headset with lenses and a desktop stand that holds the screen of your Switch or Switch 2, priced at €79.99. Nintendo also offers a lighter cardboard version for €19.99. The plastic version perfectly replicates the curves and colors of the original Virtual Boy.

Fourteen titles are currently planned, including Mario Tennis, Galactic Pinball, Wario Land, and Red Alarm. This allows players to dive straight into the unique world of the Virtual Boy, characterized by its red monochrome graphics and distinctive atmosphere. Nintendo has already promised that most of the catalog will follow soon, giving a second life to a console remembered for the wrong reasons.

The 1995 Virtual Boy, despite its visionary and arguably avant-garde nature, was mainly criticized for its discomfort, the headaches it could cause, and the lack of truly memorable games. It remains to be seen whether this accessory will become a collector's item or if players will find genuine gameplay interest in it.

This project is part of a broader strategy: highlighting Nintendo's heritage and continuously expanding its online service content. After the NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, and Game Boy, it is now the turn of the most unusual machine in Big N's history to return to the spotlight. Retro-gaming enthusiasts and collectors will likely be the first to try it, but it will be interesting to see if the wider public follows this time.

The Virtual Boy and its games will be available on February 17, 2026.

Images: Nintendo

Two years after the worldwide success of the film Super Mario Bros. (2023), Universal Pictures and Illumination have officially announced its sequel during the Nintendo Direct on September 12, 2025. The title will surely excite fans: Super Mario Galaxy, the movie.

A release planned for April 2026

The film is set to be released in April 2026, the exact date has not yet been revealed, but one thing is certain: Mario, Luigi, and Peach will return to the big screen next spring.

Good news for viewers who enjoyed the voices in the first film (original version): Chris Pratt (Mario), Anya Taylor-Joy (Peach), Charlie Day (Luigi), and Jack Black (Bowser) are all reprising their roles. Seth Rogen, Keegan-Michael Key, and Kevin Michael Richardson will also return, providing the voices of Toad and Kamek.

The French cast has not yet been announced, but it is likely that the same voices from the first film will return: Mario was voiced by Pierre Tessier, Luigi by Benoît Du Pac, Peach by Audrey Sourdive, Bowser by Jérémie Covillault, Toad by Emmanuel Garijo, Donkey Kong by Xavier Fagnon, and Kamek by Donald Reignoux.

A first teaser

During the Nintendo Direct, a first teaser was released showing Mario napping in the shade of a tree in the Mushroom Kingdom, where life seems peaceful, in a sequence that takes us into the stars to reveal the film’s title with music that will trigger nostalgia for those who played the Wii game.

A success to come

The first film grossed over $1.3 billion at the worldwide box office, becoming one of the most successful video game adaptations. With a title referencing one of the most beloved episodes of the saga, Nintendo and Illumination hope to repeat the success.

In parallel, Nintendo is already preparing the future on the big screen, with an adaptation of The Legend of Zelda expected in 2027. This confirms that the world of video games has firmly established its place in cinema.

Now that Kickstarter shipments are ramping up, the new ultimate solution to enjoy your retro games on CRT televisions and VGA monitors is now available for pre-order on the official Recalbox shop!

After a lightning-fast crowdfunding campaign — funded at 200% of its goal in less than an hour — the RGB DUAL 2 is about to join your setups, bringing a second life to your CRTs while remaining fully compatible with modern HDMI displays.

A small technical revolution

Successor to the very first RGB DUAL, this new model goes even further in fidelity and versatility:

• Multiple video outputs: SCART, RCA (composite), VGA, AV jack, and of course HDMI for HD.
• High-fidelity audio: built-in I2S DAC (384 kHz / 32-bit).
• Full compatibility: 4:3 and 16:9 formats, progressive and interlaced modes (480i), and dynamic resolution switching (240p ↔ 480i).
• And as a bonus: experimental support for the Guncon 2, bringing your favorite light gun games back to life!

The RecalTower: elegance and modularity

Alongside the RGB DUAL 2 comes a brand-new case: the RecalTower.
Specially designed to house the Raspberry Pi 5 and the RGB DUAL 2, it allows you to easily stack your components for a setup that’s as practical as it is stylish.

Available now for pre-order

The RGB DUAL 2 + RecalTower is priced at €99 (VAT included) and available for pre-order on the Recalbox Shop.
Shipping will begin after the end of the Kickstarter expedition, approximately starting from December 2025.

Don’t miss this opportunity to modernize your setup and rediscover your retro classics in the best possible conditions!

👉 Head over to the official shop to place your order and join the RGB DUAL 2 adventure today. You can also check out the dedicated RGB DUAL 2 channel on our Discord to chat with early adopters.

To get the most out of your setup, we strongly recommend adding to your kit:

• The shielded SCART cable
• The official Raspberry Pi 5 fan

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!