A new book staff telling the history of video games through the eyes of one of gaming’s greatest magazines, Electronic Gaming Monthly, has raised over $250,000 from crowdfunding.

Worms 30th Anniversary Update

Many 90s gamers will have fond memories of hearing “revenge” and “incoming” from squeaky-mouthed worms. The Amiga classic is celebrating its 30th Anniversary with the release of Worms Armageddon: Anniversary Edition by Eclipse Games, as well as an update for Worms Directors Cut, created by Worms' original creator Andy Davidson.

Highlights

• New Version: The updated Worms Directors Cut 1.5 includes brand new fan-designed levels, which anyone can contribute to. These designs are set to be showcased at GERP 2025, a demoscene event in Sweden.
• Fan Involvement: Andy Davidson is working with Amiga demoscene groups and seeking level designs that can be sent to the organizer Datastorm Party.

Context

The updated version aims to preserve the legacy of the original game while engaging new fans through crowd-sourced content. The original game data has been backed up, ensuring it’s safe for future generations.

What is your favorite level or feature from the original Worms Directors Cut, and would you consider designing a new level for this update?

Triple Impact: A Promising New SNES Beat 'Em Up

A trio of indie developers, @gangeek_style, @MisterDigifox, and @landsat77, are working on an exciting new side-scrolling fighter for the SNES called Triple Impact. The game clearly takes inspiration from classic SNES fighters like Final Fight and Rushing Beat.

The game is still in early development, but the footage from May shows solid progress with a promising move set.

While inspired by retro aesthetics, Triple Impact represents a fresh take on SNES beat 'em up games in an indie context. Homebrew and new releases for classic systems are always exciting to see as they breathe new life into beloved hardware.

How do you think Triple Impact will evolve from its current state? Will it meet the expectations of retro gamers who can't wait for new content on SNES classics?

Modder Creates Xbox Handheld Using The Console's Original Motherboard

Redherring32, a modder and carpenter, has created the world's first portable Xbox device using an original Xbox motherboard. This DIY project showcases incredible technical skill and dedication.

• Key Features:

• Original motherboard from a real Xbox console
• 9-inch 480p display
• Pure digital video/audio support
• 100W USB C charging for both charge and play
• WiFi 6 supports wireless Xbox Live functionality

This project is not just emulation; it's a functional device. It's an impressive feat of engineering that could inspire future modders to explore similar projects.

Redherring32 has shared the plans on GitHub and BitBuilt, making this accessible for others who want to create their own!

What's the first game you would play on an XBox handheld?

The fan-made NES ROM hack titled “Mega Man 1 – Law of Justice” by the group Timaeus. completely revamps the original Mega Man game.

I just got a wild hair up my ass to start playing this series again. Started with the second one as I remember the early to mid game of the first to be rough. I'm playing on a Retroid Pocket 2, I found my PS Vita to be uncomfortable on longer plays (+20mins).

I'd say if you have the chance to emulate this, do yourself a favor and play with joy stick capabilities.

cross-posted from: https://sh.itjust.works/post/26947785

Patch

Starting next month, the Xeno Crisis Game Boy Advance (GBA) version will begin shipping! Originally released on Sega Mega Drive/Genesis and PC in 2019, it has since made its way to numerous other platforms including Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Dreamcast, PS Vita, Neo Geo, N64, GameCube, SNES, and many more.

The physical version of the game comes with regional options for Japanese, North American, and European packaging. The price is £49.99 (or equivalent in your region), encompassing a cartridge, instruction manual, and downloadable ROM. It's worth noting that the Japanese version includes writing in Japanese only.

Originally designed for the Mega Drive/Genesis, Xeno Crisis is an arena shooter where players take on the role of a battle-hardened marine, rescuing survivors amidst enemy encounters and powerful bosses.

• Shipping Date: November 8th

Are you surprised by the number of platforms supported by this game?

Developed by Something Nerdy Studios, the indie NES scene just got more interesting with the announcement of Former Dawn, an action RPG that hopes to be one of the most advanced games ever on the retro console.

• Main Features: Combines action, turn-based battles, and isometric exploration.
• Aesthetic & Innovation: Features stunning pixel art, pushing what would seem possible from a 25+ year-old console. The game is aiming to surpass previous NES capabilities with its ambitious design.
• Crowdfunding Goal: Reached over £50,000 already through Kickstarter, needing more funds for full development with top artists and musicians onboard.

Important Notes:

• A digital package includes a Steam key for the PC version, a digital NES ROM, and some digital goodies.
• All physical cart versions have sold out but may see availability later.
• The game is expected to drop on both platforms in late 2026.

How do you feel about bringing newer gaming styles to classic handheld hardware? Is this something that piques your interest?

**Microids, the well-known publisher and distributor of classic games, is set to release a physical edition of Double Dragon Revive worldwide. This game will be available across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, and Africa starting in 2025.

• Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC via Steam
• Publisher: Arc System Works
• Developer: Yuke’s

This news marks a revitalization of the classic Double Dragon series, which gained popularity in the 90s.

Why do you think it's important for classic games like Double Dragon to be brought back as physical editions in the current gaming market?

THE FIRST J. B HAROLD GAME BEING REISSUED FOR SWITCH

Overview

• The original PC-88 version of J.B Harold Murder Club is set to be reissued on the Nintendo Switch as part of D4 Enterprise's EGGCONSOLE series.
• The game was first released in 1986, penned by Rika Suzuki and later spawning several sequels like Manhattan Requiem and Blue Chicago Blues.

Reissue Details

• Expected to hit Japan on October 24th and some Western digital storefronts shortly thereafter.
• Notably, this reissued version may not include English text similar to previous releases by D4 Enterprise.

Key Points

• Japanese only: Unlike the previous ports to MS-DOS and other systems, the original PC-88 version did not have English options.
• EGGCONSOLE series: D4 Enterprise's reissues typically include a brief how-to-play section and main menu in English with gallery text.

Additional Info

• This is the second time this title has been published on Switch, with an earlier port by Althi but also not supporting English.

Have you played one of the previous releases of J. B Harold Murder Club?

Blazing Strike is a new pixel-art 2D fighting game that brings back the nostalgia of classic fighting games from the '90s. Published by Aksys Games, this solo-developed game features a roster of 14 playable fighters with two hidden characters planned as DLC.

• Developer: RareBreed Makes Games
• Platforms: Switch, PlayStation, Steam (Digital), Physical editions available for consoles
• Artefacts in Limited Edition Pack:

• Full-colour 112-page art book
• CD soundtrack
• Collectable character cards of the fighters

The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where players fight to bring down autocrats and save mankind. The gameplay takes heavy inspiration from classic titles like Street Fighter III and Garou: Mark of the Wolves, featuring rollback netcode for online multiplayer, combo rush systems, and a single-player story mode with cutscenes.

Creator Mark Chung states that the goal is to make fighting games enjoyable regardless of experience levels:

"Let's bring back the nostalgia from the 90s and make it fun to play today!"

In your opinion, will Blazing Strike meet the expectations of modern gamers or stick more closely to the classics?

What are they?

• Square Enix has released a series of collectible items called the "Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster Cubic Memory" which feature 3D reproductions of game screens from popular Final Fantasy titles, enclosed in acrylic cubes.

Key Features:

• Six Types Available: The set includes six types featuring iconic scenes from FF1 to FF6.
• These collectibles offer a tangible way for fans to experience classic game visuals and bring back nostalgia. Collectors will love this new medium of collecting retro gaming art!

Is there a space on your shelf for one of these cubes?

I got all these things at garage sales today!

• N64 with 3 controllers, all the games including Zelda TP and Super Smash Bros.
• GC controller in box
• Wii guitar
• Wii dance pad

All this came to about $100 Me and my 6 year old kid are loving retro gaming!!!

I'm really excited about this. Particularly the mainboard that can be populated with Genesis and 32X circuitry.

Sonic & Knuckles marks its 30th anniversary and to celebrate we take a look at Sega’s unique platform title and show off a wonderful collection. Released on 18th October 1994, Sega were on a high after the huge success of Sonic 3 for the Mega Drive released earlier in 1994.

Micro Mages, an indie NES title originally released by Morphcat Games in 2019, has gained popularity after raising over $150,000 through a crowdfunding campaign. Now, it's set to make its way onto the PlayStation console on October 23rd, 2024.

Key Points

• Crowdfunding Success: Micro Mages exceeded expectations when it launched a Kickstarter campaign, raising over $150,000.
• Classic NES Feel: The game offers classic NES-style pixel art and chiptunes with modern mechanics such as wall jumps and ghost mode upon death.
• Game Details: Featuring eight worlds with 26 levels each, Micro Mages supports up to four simultaneous players using the NES FourScore controller. Checkpoints and passwords ensure you don't lose your progress easily.

Do you prefer playing older titles on traditional consoles or newer platforms?

Jason Bradbury's 'Ctrl AI Delete'

Jason Bradbury, a celebrated figure in the tech world, is set to release his upcoming film, 'Ctrl AI Delete'. This movie combines retro gaming with humor and nostalgia, making it an exciting project for many fans.

Key Facts:

• Funding Status: The Kickstarter campaign has reached 50% funding, but there are still 17 days remaining.
• Cast and Crew: Jason Bradbury mentions they have most of the cast in place and a professional cinematic crew.
• Plot Summary:
• Premise: A global AI program goes awry, leading to chaos. A group of retro gamers attends an expo and must use their vintage tech to save humanity from technological meltdown.
• Elements: The film features real 80s and 90s arcade machines, highlighting the charm of classic gaming consoles.

What would your dream retro-tech setup be if you were fighting against an AI as in 'Ctrl AI Delete'?

Rescued old CRT I put a lot of work in. Was totally dead when I got it, rescued it to be almost perfect again.

It still has an intermittent horizontal size issue and the power button has some cosmetic wear. But at least the power button works, it used to only work when you would hold it down.

Be sure to enable the audio for some good retro tunes coming from the monitor.