RetroGaming

Netflix has released an official trailer for Castlevania: Nocturne Season 2, which will be streaming on January 15th. The new trailer offers glimpses into the vampire hunter Richter Belmont and Co. recovering from their battle with Erzsebet Báthory at the end of Season One.

• Plot: Alucard returns to team up with Richter and his friends, ready for a fight against darkness. A preview hints at intense action and deep lore involving Sekhmet’s power.
• Release Date: January 15th on Netflix.

The trailer features Richter and Alucard engaging in back-and-forth interactions. This new season promises to bring more blood, gore, and adventure to the series.

Check out the original article for a link to the trailer.

What did you think of Season 1?

N64 enthusiasts and modders have long faced the challenge of finding a replacement for the notoriously difficult to replicate controller analogue stick. RockerGaming has been working on a project called 'Project Renaissance' which aims to recreate the N64 stick with modern materials and quality-of-life improvements.

According to RockerGaming’s latest update, they have managed to design and create injection molds for most of the necessary parts. The process involves tuning these molds down to an incredibly precise degree, making them capable of producing extremely high-quality parts.

RockerGaming plans to release these parts one by one, starting with the analogue sticks and gates early next year. This approach will allow for thorough testing and refinement before moving on to full N64 module replacements.

Do you think these N64 controller parts will be widely embraced?

I recently replayed MGS1 for psx and then MGS2 for PS2. I just started up MGS3 and I cannot get into it.

I think I often read that people love MGS3, but I think MGS1 has the most interesting story and levels. I also think the bosses in MGS1 were much more fun than they were in MGS2.

Am I in the minority here? What other games would you recommend that capture the MGS1 vibe?

I'm seeing family over the holidays and they really enjoy comic book stuff and video games. I don't know much about comics and am looking for suggestions on classic comic book based games I can load on my RPi and bring over to play. All I'm aware of are some of the Marvel vs Capcom fighting games but maybe there are others. Any ideas?

Don't expect official Android or iOS versions, though.

The team behind RPCS3 have released an updated version of their emulator that works on ARM64 devices. This update brings support for running PS3 games on ARM-based Windows, Linux, and Mac systems, as well as the Raspberry Pi 5 – albeit with some limitations due to GPU constraints.

For the Raspberry Pi 5, despite overclocking, the Broadcom VideoCore VII GPU was too weak to run PS3 games at its default resolution of 720p. As a result, games are now running at a lower resolution of 273p, which results in less clarity but most titles still manage to reach a playable frame rate of around 30fps.

What does this mean for the long-term preservation of PS3 gaming? According to the team: "Adding arm64 architectural support is a key step to ensure long term preservation of the PlayStation 3 console, as arm64 CPUs make their way into the conventional desktop and laptop market."

The news also highlights that RPCS3 has no intention of bringing its emulator to mobile platforms like Android or iOS due to "toxic users" who have harassed previous emulator developers and various scams related to mobile PS3 emulators.

Do you plan to try out RPCS3 on an ARM64 device?

Accessory maker Genki has pushed the boundaries of what a power strip can become with their latest creation, the Moonbase. This product is not just a charging station; it aspires to be your 'futuristic command center,' combining both visual appeal and functionality.

This device boasts:

• 3 spacious AC "nodes" for multiple laptops, gaming handhelds, tablets, phones, and more.
• A 240W GaN USB-C charger with 4 dedicated USB-C ports capable of ultra-fast charging.
• A sleek, futuristic design inspired by a lunar base concept.

Moonbase includes early bird pricing starting at $88 (£69), and users can also opt for colour-changing capabilities. Additionally, the company has introduced new special USB-C cables with LED screens built-in, a feature they're particularly excited about.

Genki commented on the significance of these cables: "We don’t typically redesign our USB-C cables for new projects, but Moonbase is a special case... Most USB-C cables max out at 60W charging (including our past cables, except those paired with the TurboCharger)."

What do you think? Is it worth the investment for your setup?

Jonathan Thomas, known for his work on ports like Pole Position for the Atari STE, has just released a new racing. The title, called Faster, offers smooth 50 fps racing and takes full advantage of the Atari STE's enhanced features.

According to Thomas, Faster is "pure, unfettered and uncomplicated 1980s-style arcade action." This means no complex modes, lengthy tutorials, or cutscenes; just raw, fast-paced fun. The game runs at a impressive smoothness of 50 fps, making the driving experience enjoyable.

Faster features large full-color sprites courtesy of the STE's blitter chip and takes advantage of its enhanced palette with over 30 colors. Additionally, it includes elements like a day-and-night cycle, a YM soundtrack, digital engine noises, and other effects that add to the authenticity of the gaming experience.

Check the original article for a download link.

What do you think about this new game for an aging but classic piece of technology?

X8 Contra: Super Wall Storm, a new VR adaptation of the Contra franchise, is set to launch on December 12, 2024. Developed by Thirdverse and Konami, this game transforms the classic side-scrolling action into an immersive first-person experience.

Innovative Gameplay Mechanics: Reimagining Contra for VR

• Players must physically duck behind cover and dodge attacks using motion-based controls to jump or double-jump.
• Enemies attack from all angles, introducing a 360-degree combat environment.
• The Overload feature is borrowed from Contra: Operation Galuga, allowing explosive special attacks.
• Physical interactivity with the environment and finishing moves on weakened enemies.

Nostalgic References The game includes classic elements like Red Falcon enemies, paying tribute to the series that defined a generation of players.

Availability: X8 Contra: Super Wall Storm will be available on Meta Quest 2, 3, Pro, Steam VR, and Pico VR for $19.99 USD.

Do you think this will be the best way to experience Contra?

The music from the classic Wave Race 64 has been added to the Nintendo Music app. As of December 10, 2024, fans of this 1996 Nintendo 64 title can stream all 32 tracks.

The soundtrack includes memorable pieces such as:

• Title Theme
• Sunny Beach
• Twilight City
• Southern Island

and many more from both the original and updated versions. The music captures the game's exciting, fast-paced, and atmospheric feel.

To access the Wave Race 64 OST, you'll need an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription and can play it via the app on mobile devices.

What was your favourite music from an N64 game?

• New Collector’s Editions: The Collector's Editions for the Croc remaster now include a digital code for PS4, Xbox One, and PC versions.

• Contents of the Collector’s Edition: An eight-inch Croc statue with an authenticity certificate, a four-disc original soundtrack, a keychain, and a double-sided poster.

• Release Delay: The remaster’s release has been delayed to ensure that the final product meets high standards.

Developer Statement:

Argonaut Games stated:

...the decision was not made lightly... a little more time is needed to add the final touches to ensure the game meets the high standards that [they] aspire to, and which you deserve.

Are there examples of remasters that you think should have been delayed in order to add more polish?

Key Points:

• CDRomance has announced it will no longer be updated in the usual manner.
• The website’s future is uncertain as Webmaster Spike asks for donations to keep it running ad-free.
• Current updates are being hosted in the forum’s repository and require user login.
• Romhacking.net, another notable ROM hack site, is set to close.

Why This Matters:

• CDRomance has been a crucial resource for ROM enthusiasts and gamers seeking translations and hacks.
• The recent lawsuits have driven significant changes in community sites.

Considering the uncertainty surrounding these sites, what do you think should be done to support this vital gaming community?

Long-running Japanese video game publication Famitsu recently ran a poll for its readers to select their favourite PlayStation games in celebration of the brand's 30th anniversary. Over 4000 votes were submitted, allowing the magazine to compile an impressive list of 30 best PlayStation games across all systems.

The list includes a mix of classics and modern hits, but surprisingly, not even a single PS5 game made the top 30.

Key Points:

• Top Game: Final Fantasy VII
• No PS5 Games Among Top 30
• PS1 Dominance: Multiple titles from the PS1 era topped key positions in the ranking

What do you say is the best PlayStation (PS1-5) game?

After being cancelled in 2010, the Tetris: The Grandmaster 4 – Absolute Eye is set to be released on PC via Steam in March 2025.

• Released initially as an arcade game for the Sega RingWide hardware.
• The title 'TETRIS THE GRANDMASTER4 – ABSOLUTE EYE' has been officially announced.

The game is expected to maintain the high difficulty level characteristic of the Grand Master series, with features like instant gravity pieces and a fast paced drop rate that will challenge even seasoned players.

What do you think about this comeback from one of the most challenging Tetris games?

The fan-made Doom 64 port for the Sega Dreamcast, developed by homebrew creator jnmartin84, has now been hailed as the “definitive” version of the game.

more Dreamcast goodies.

SNES Batman Returns to the Sega Mega Drive / Genesis for Free!

Back in the early 1990s, the movie Batman Returns saw its video game rights split across multiple formats. The SNES version, developed by Konami, was particularly praised for its side-scrolling fighters and remained a standout adaptation of the film.

Now, an unofficial port is in the works that will bring this classic to the Sega Mega Drive / Genesis with several improvements:

• A two-player mode has been added!
• The game now boasts a 60fps speed, matching its original SNES release perfectly.
• More enemies can be on-screen at once, enhancing the challenge and gameplay experience.

The development team includes Pyron and TiagoSC for graphics, Inglebard and vectororbitex7866 for music, working together to ensure an authentic experience that gamers will love. And the best part is—this unofficial port will be available as a free download from Christmas Day.

What other classic games would you love to see receive similar treatment through unofficial ports or fan efforts?

Eternal Darkness Now Playable Again On Dolphin

Dolphin, the popular Gamecube and Wii emulator, has just introduced an update (release 2412) that addresses a longstanding issue with Silicon Knights' Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem.

Key Points:

• Issue Details: The game would hang on boot instead of loading normally, an issue first introduced in release 2409.
• Root Cause: A problematic race condition that resulted from improving cycle delay in Dolphin for other games like Metroid Prime, Resident Evil Zero, and The Force Unleashed II.
• Fix Approach: The emulator team opted for a game-specific patch to change a troublesome function, enabling the issue's resolution without affecting performance further.

This fix has been automatically implemented in all regional variants of the game.

Are there any games that you have found to be unplayable with Dolphin?

Text: https://www.eurogamer.net/digitalfoundry-2024-playstation-30th-anniversary-what-if-digital-foundry-existed-in-1994

Evercade, the retro gaming cartridge-based system, has announced a collaborative venture with SNK, one of Japan's most iconic game makers. This partnership aims to celebrate 'The Artistry And Legacy Of Neo Geo' through new products coming in 2025 and 2026.

KEY FACTS

• Collaboration: Evercade is teaming up with SNK, the company behind titles like Metal Slug and King of Fighters.
• Timeline: New products will be released throughout 2025 and 2026, with details expected in late Q1 2025.
• Products: Possible cartridge collections featuring Neo Geo titles, as well as hardware pre-loaded with SNK games.

QUOTE

...This partnership isn't just about adding great games; it's about celebrating the artistry and legacy of NEOGEO in a way that's accessible to fans old and new. We’re thrilled to give these classics a new platform in 2025.

• Andrew Byatt, CEO of Blaze Entertainment Ltd (Evercade).

EVERCADE

• Evercade Range: A series of cartridge-based gaming hardware including the EXP handheld, VS home console, and Alpha bartop arcade machine.
• HyperMegaTech: A subsidiary that offers the Super Pocket handheld, also compatible with Evercade carts.

Given the high price of NEOGEO games, originally, do you expect Evercade to charge a premium for their SNK carts?

Anbernic is releasing a new emulation handheld called RG34XX. Here are the details:

• Supported Platforms: Over 30, including PSP, N64, DS, DOS, Dreamcast, PS1, etc.
• Screen: 3.4-inch IPS with a resolution of 720x480
• OS: 64-bit Linux
• Features: 5G Wi-Fi, HDMI-out, and Bluetooth 4.2

The RG34XX will be available in four colours: indigo, green transparent, red transparent, and black.

What do you think about the fact that they've mimicked the design of the GBA so closely?

This demo, developed by BasicProgrammer (B.P.S), showcases a new recreation of Sega's classic arcade game After Burner, running on an MSXturboR computer. The version leverages features of an extended version of MSX BASIC.

• Developed for the MSXturboR using DM-System2 development kit.
• Features a more colourful and detailed sprite for the player's jet, compared to Activision's original port.
• Boasts impressive scrolling effects.

B.P.S has been creating similar demos of other classic games on MSX computers, including Hang-On, Space Harrier, and The Tower of Druaga. It's unknown whether this demo will be developed further.

What classic games would you like to see recreated for MSX computers?