Pipes Feed Preview: Retro Dodo

  1. The First Fully Boxed Systema 2000 Console Is Up For Sale

    Fri, 03 Jul 2026 16:19:27 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><p>Back in 1990, Hartung released the Game Master to compete with the Nintendo Game Boy and the Sega Game Gear. It&apos;s safe to say that</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/systema-2000.jpg" alt="The First Fully Boxed Systema 2000 Console Is Up For Sale"><p>Back in 1990, Hartung released the Game Master to compete with the Nintendo Game Boy and the Sega Game Gear. It&apos;s safe to say that it didn&apos;t take off in quite the same way - it only ever had 18 games in its back catalogue, and in terms of the best-selling handhelds of all time, it doesn&apos;t actually register on the scale. But that only adds to its rarity, as does the fact that it was called different things in different territories. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/s-l1600-2-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="The First Fully Boxed Systema 2000 Console Is Up For Sale" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="824" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/s-l1600-2-1.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/s-l1600-2-1.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/s-l1600-2-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: lady_indalo1122</span></figcaption></figure><p>Hartnung released it in Germany as the Game Master. It was called the Game Master in Hong Kong and many other territories, sometimes with a different brand as the maker, like Videojet or Impel. The United Kingdom is the only place where it was called the Systema 2000 under the Systema branding, making it the holy grail of an already rare console. And now, it&apos;s up for sale in its original box, a never-before-seen sale on second-hand sites. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/s-l1600-4-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="The First Fully Boxed Systema 2000 Console Is Up For Sale" loading="lazy" width="1195" height="975" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/s-l1600-4-1.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/s-l1600-4-1.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/s-l1600-4-1.jpg 1195w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: lady_indalo1122</span></figcaption></figure><p>We were contacted by one of our readers, Kaleb, about his <a href="https://ebay.us/T86yka?ref=retrododo.com">Systema 2000 auction</a>, and the fact that this is the first time that a boxed Systema 2000 has been up for sale on second-hand sites. It&apos;s currently the only known box to have survived, and while it has a small tear on it and some other tiny imperfections, that&apos;s to be expected for cardboard that is approaching four decades old. The colours are all super bright, though, and it still makes for a great display piece. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/s-l1600-3-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="The First Fully Boxed Systema 2000 Console Is Up For Sale" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="728" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/s-l1600-3-1.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/s-l1600-3-1.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/s-l1600-3-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: lady_indalo1122</span></figcaption></figure><p>The console itself is in great working order, like a slice of the 90s that has just landed in 2026. The screen looks amazing, and the handheld itself is still in its original packaging. Kaleb has shown that there isn&apos;t any corrosion in the battery compartment, though sadly the original earphones have perished a little slightly over the years. </p><p>The console comes with the original booklet and one of the eighteen games available, Falling Block, meaning that if you did want to start playing this amazing handheld and not just leave it as a display piece, then you could get going straight away!</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/s-l1600-1.webp" class="kg-image" alt="The First Fully Boxed Systema 2000 Console Is Up For Sale" loading="lazy" width="1199" height="1216" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/s-l1600-1.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/s-l1600-1.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/s-l1600-1.webp 1199w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: lady_indalo1122</span></figcaption></figure><p>This is a great example of retro gaming history. It&apos;s the kind of thing that we&apos;ve grown used to seeing coming out of InsertBid of late, but it&apos;s nice to just see one out in the wild on eBay for all to see, just like when we spotted <a href="https://retrododo.com/one-of-the-rarest-boxed-game-boy-games-has-been-found-is-up-for-sale-on-ebay/">Spud&apos;s Adventure</a> on eBay complete with box - when they appear, you&apos;ve gotta act quick!</p><p>Head to <a href="https://ebay.us/T86yka?ref=retrododo.com">eBay</a> to check out the listing! </p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  2. Flycast-X Is Bringing Dreamcast Emulation To Xbox

    Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:45:14 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-purple"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing</div></div>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/flycast-x.jpg" alt="Flycast-X Is Bringing Dreamcast Emulation To Xbox"><p>I&apos;ve seen some cool projects in my time as a game journalist, but this is one of the most ambitious. I&apos;ve covered Flycast before here on the site and even cited it as one of my favourite Dreamcast emulators when testing out handhelds like the <a href="https://retrododo.com/anbernic-rg-vita-review-nostalgic-design-with-performance-that-fails-to-excite/" rel="noreferrer">Anbernic RG Vita</a>, but I never thought I would see it entering the Xbox space and booting on an original Xbox. </p><p>This is a much harder task than just running an emulator off a PC or Mac. The Xbox itself is a console, not an emulation machine, and while it was pretty powerful back in the day, it&apos;s nowhere near as powerful as the modern emulation machines that we review today. Essentially, Flycast needs to be amended and moulded to fit within the confined framework of the Xbox.</p><p>But both consoles were out in the same generation, right? Surely this should be a piece of cake? According to <a href="https://www.generationamiga.com/2026/07/02/dreamcast-emulation-on-original-xbox-takes-shape-with-flycast-x/?ref=retrododo.com">GenerationAmiga</a>, it&apos;s a tricky job where the emulator port of Flycast has to essentially translate CPU behaviour, handling everything from the timing of audio, graphic calls, memory, inputs for controllers, and disc images. </p><p>For reference, Sega&apos;s Dreamcast ran on a 200 MHz chip, and the Xbox used a 733 MHz chip. You would think that the Xbox could smash this job out of the park, but there&apos;s currently a lack of speed, speed that is going to be needed to get the more demanding Dreamcast titles up and running. The fact that the emulator can actually boot up is good progress, but the proof is going to be in the pudding, as they say, and there&apos;s a long way to go. </p><p>This is a really interesting project that I&apos;m going to be following closely. It feels a little like projects like the <a href="https://retrododo.com/discover-a-nintendo-wii-the-size-of-a-keychain-chat-with-the-co-creator-wesk/" rel="noreferrer">Kawaii</a> or getting <a href="https://retrododo.com/the-nintendo-gamecube-can-now-run-windows-nt/" rel="noreferrer">Windows NT</a> running on a GameCube - you didn&apos;t know you needed them, and you probably still don&apos;t, but they&apos;re interesting exercises to see what&apos;s possible with a bit of tinkering. The Xbox is never going to become the best Dreamcast emulator, just like the Kawaii isn&apos;t ever going to be the best way of playing Wii games. It&apos;s 2026, and we can pick up a <a href="https://retrododo.com/best-retro-handhelds/" rel="noreferrer">retro handheld</a> for playing Dreamcast games without having to do any of this messing around, but it&apos;s great to get a better understanding of what&apos;s possible with retro consoles, and seeing Typing of the Dead on Xbox will be pretty novel. </p><p>Check out the <a href="https://github.com/Team-Resurgent/Flycast-X/?ref=retrododo.com">Flycast-X GitHub</a> for more info!</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  3. MagicX Wants To Build A Nintendo 2DS-Like Handheld Emulator

    Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:12:59 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><p>MagicX are known for its quirky handhelds. They previously made the <a href="https://retrododo.com/magicx-zero-40-review-a-single-screen-nintendo-ds/" rel="noreferrer">Zero 40 handheld</a> that used a vertical screen in order to create a device that emulates Nintendo</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/magic-x-2ds.webp" alt="MagicX Wants To Build A Nintendo 2DS-Like Handheld Emulator"><p>MagicX are known for its quirky handhelds. They previously made the <a href="https://retrododo.com/magicx-zero-40-review-a-single-screen-nintendo-ds/" rel="noreferrer">Zero 40 handheld</a> that used a vertical screen in order to create a device that emulates Nintendo DS games, and it went down a treat with the retro gaming community.</p><p>They&apos;re very open with their community, so much so that they seek advice frequently via their Discord, asking members what they want, if their ideas are of interest to anyone, and behind the scenes at what they&apos;re working on. Today, they revealed what they want to work on next.</p><p>&quot;We&apos;re thinking about building a <strong>retro gaming handheld</strong> &#x2014; but before we commit, we want to hear from you first. Honestly, the retro handheld space is pretty saturated right now, so we don&apos;t want to jump in blindly. Your feedback here will directly decide whether we move forward&quot; states MagicX in their Discord server.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/a0f5f19731105b0d00c5fae707cb428e.webp" class="kg-image" alt="MagicX Wants To Build A Nintendo 2DS-Like Handheld Emulator" loading="lazy" width="960" height="960" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/a0f5f19731105b0d00c5fae707cb428e.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/a0f5f19731105b0d00c5fae707cb428e.webp 960w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>With that, a render of their potentially upcoming device, one that has obviously taken design inspiration from the Nintendo 2DS, featuring a 4:3 display placed vertically, much like the Zero 40. <a href="https://shop.magicx.team/?srsltid=AfmBOorECUFNmGzdSwIHiKL4YWqmYz8LgAKwLzTSiq_HD-FiroNhQLUU&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">MagicX </a>has also teased some specifications and pricing, too, to give their audience a better perspective.</p><p>There will be &quot;two configurations&quot;, the first being a 5&quot; display (768 x 1024) and an active cooling fan with an mTK G99 CPU and 3GB of RAM for approximately $125. The second features the same display and fan, but this time with an MTK Dimensity 7300 CPU and 4 GB of RAM for $165.</p><p>I guess many will want enough power to emulate Nintendo DS and 3DS games, which means it will likely have to be the more expensive unit to make that, hopefully, possible. Magic X also asked the following questions regarding this device:</p><ul><li>Does this pricing work for you?</li><li>Are the two tiers positioned clearly?</li><li>Which one would you pick?</li><li>In such a saturated market, what would make this device stand out?</li></ul><p>So what are your thoughts? Do you think you&apos;d be interested in something like this for that price point? Or have you already scratched the DS itch?</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  4. Pokémon Plastic Pyrite Brings 150 Fakemon & Nightmare Forms To New Region

    Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:29:09 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><p>I&apos;ve said it before, and I&apos;ll say it again - I love getting to write about Pok&#xE9;mon fangames. I&apos;ve moaned</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Pokemon-plastic-pyrite.jpg" alt="Pok&#xE9;mon Plastic Pyrite Brings 150 Fakemon &amp; Nightmare Forms To New Region"><p>I&apos;ve said it before, and I&apos;ll say it again - I love getting to write about Pok&#xE9;mon fangames. I&apos;ve moaned so much about where the series has gone of late, especially with regards to the Legends games, so the fact that more and more games are releasing in the classic Pok&#xE9;mon format is fantastic. And it&apos;s even better when we get new regions with new forms and a brand new story. </p><p>Welcome to the Captoad region, a place where Captodian Artifacts once kept the peace throughout the region. Now, evil fiends are working to use them for their own evil gains. Today, as you reach the age of picking your own Pok&#xE9;mon, you must take up the challenge of finding the Captodian Artifacts, the treasures your grandfather has searched for his entire life, and save the region.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-embed-card"><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XwiIJhpwWk8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen title="Pok&#xE9;mon Plastic Pyrite - Fan Game Trailer FULL GAME OUT NOW"></iframe></figure><p>There are over 150 Fakemon to discover in this new game, all created by developer NucelarOmega. They all have custom abilities, and some have new Nightmare Forms, making it a truly unique game. There&apos;s a focus on Double Battles, and instead of following the traditional Pok&#xE9;mon type varieties used by Gym Leaders, there&apos;s more of a focus on different battle styles, all accompanied by mechanics used up to Gen 9. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/pokemon-plastic-pyrite-2-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Pok&#xE9;mon Plastic Pyrite Brings 150 Fakemon &amp; Nightmare Forms To New Region" loading="lazy" width="1106" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/pokemon-plastic-pyrite-2-1.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/pokemon-plastic-pyrite-2-1.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/pokemon-plastic-pyrite-2-1.jpg 1106w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: NuclearOmega</span></figcaption></figure><p>After you complete the 8 Gyms, you&apos;ll take on the Elite Four, but you&apos;ll need to hone your skills a lot before you get there! There&apos;s also a new Pok&#xE9;mon variant that is even cooler than Shiny Pok&#xE9;mon (although it does rhyme). You now have a chance of catching Tiny and Tiny Shiny Pok&#xE9;mon. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/plastic-pyrite-gameplay.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Pok&#xE9;mon Plastic Pyrite Brings 150 Fakemon &amp; Nightmare Forms To New Region" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/plastic-pyrite-gameplay.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/plastic-pyrite-gameplay.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/plastic-pyrite-gameplay.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: NuclearOmega</span></figcaption></figure><p>The critters that NucelarOmega has created are amazing. I mean, I&apos;m even intrigued to check out what the tooth can do (that&apos;s got to be Malkomolar, surely?). The amount of imagination that has been poured into this game is unreal; it&apos;s colourful, it has depth, and it&apos;s set to provide a challenge for gamers who know the original formula like the back of their hand. </p><p>Head to <a href="https://eeveeexpo.com/threads/9579/?ref=retrododo.com">Eevee Expo</a> for more information!</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  5. Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance

    Fri, 03 Jul 2026 09:56:26 -0000

    <p>I love my retro gaming-themed keyboards. As you guys know, we use 8BitDo keyboards here at Retro Dodo Towers, with Brandon rocking their NES-themed unit and me writing my articles using their <a href="https://retrododo.com/8bitdo-s-edition-mechanical-keyboard-review/" rel="noreferrer">Sega Saturn-inspired keyboard</a>. But it&apos;s not often I see keyboards based on our</p>
    <img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-purple-keyboard.jpg" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance"><p>I love my retro gaming-themed keyboards. As you guys know, we use 8BitDo keyboards here at Retro Dodo Towers, with Brandon rocking their NES-themed unit and me writing my articles using their <a href="https://retrododo.com/8bitdo-s-edition-mechanical-keyboard-review/" rel="noreferrer">Sega Saturn-inspired keyboard</a>. But it&apos;s not often I see keyboards based on our favourite handhelds. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-grey.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/keyboy-advance-grey.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/keyboy-advance-grey.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-grey.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Prototypist Keyboard/PromoType (Galo)</span></figcaption></figure><p>I&apos;ve covered DIY kits like the Key Boy from YouTuber <a href="https://retrododo.com/the-key-boy-keyboard-uses-game-boy-dmg-style-face-buttons-for-button-mashing-angry-emails/">The Lesser The Besser</a>, but that was a shell for a standard Lenovo Keyboard. The KeyBoy Advance, however, is a unit that has all the design nuances and subtle features of Ninty&apos;s heroic horizontal handheld, and it&apos;s taken me right back to playing Mario Kart: Super Circuit and Kao the Kangaroo as an eleven-year-old gamer. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-orange.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/keyboy-advance-orange.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/keyboy-advance-orange.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-orange.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Prototypist Keyboard/PromoType (Galo)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The GBA was a bold move for Nintendo; turning things horizontal and moving away from the Game Boy DMG and the GBC could have been risky, but it paid off. It&apos;s one of their most iconic designs to date in my humble opinion, and this 50% layout keyboard designed by PromoType (Galo) channels all of that nostalgia from the early 00&apos;s. Sleek, compact, and with a built-in number row, it&apos;s a small gadget that packs a punch, just like the GBA. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-keyboard-battery-compartment.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/keyboy-advance-keyboard-battery-compartment.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/keyboy-advance-keyboard-battery-compartment.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-keyboard-battery-compartment.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Prototypist Keyboard/PromoType (Galo)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Game Boy Advance was one of Nintendo&apos;s best-selling handhelds &#x2014; and its wide, landscape-format silhouette with number row made it the very essence of mobile gaming. Exactly this&#xA0;compact, portable spirit&#xA0;is the starting point for the KeyBoy Advance:&#xA0;50% layout, compact, landscape-format, with a built-in number row that makes small keyboards much more approachable for enthusiasts. The result is a 50% build that feels familiar. It even comes in translucent shell varieties too! </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/translucent-shell-keyboy-advance.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/translucent-shell-keyboy-advance.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/translucent-shell-keyboy-advance.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/translucent-shell-keyboy-advance.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Prototypist Keyboard/PromoType (Galo)</span></figcaption></figure><p>PromoType (Galo) has done a great job in capturing the essence of the GBA while still creating a keyboard that is functional and ergonomic. They have included the speaker grill on the front, the illusion of a batter compartment cover, and an LED power light just like the original handheld. The curving sides make it look like you&apos;re holding a giant GBA too. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/shoulder-buttons-keyboard-advance.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/shoulder-buttons-keyboard-advance.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/shoulder-buttons-keyboard-advance.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/shoulder-buttons-keyboard-advance.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Prototypist Keyboard/PromoType (Galo)</span></figcaption></figure><p>We need to talk about those shoulder buttons too, because they can actually be programmed through Vial and used in your everyday work, kind of like the Super Buttons that come with the 8BitDo keyboards. They have micro switches inside, and I&apos;m hoping they&apos;ll make a satisfying clicking noise when pressed!</p><p>In terms of specs, this is a 50% HHKB (Happy Hacking Keyboard) with a 7&#xB0; typing angle and a front height of 19mm. Its effective key height is 22.9mm, and it uses a top mount with an O-ring mounting method. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-on-a-desk.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/keyboy-advance-on-a-desk.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/keyboy-advance-on-a-desk.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/keyboy-advance-on-a-desk.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Prototypist Keyboard/PromoType (Galo)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The KeyBoy Advance is what you call a bare-bones kit, which means that you&apos;ll need to buy your switches and keycaps and fit them yourself. The kit that you purchase comes with the following:</p><ul><li>1&#xD7; KeyBoy Advance top &amp; bottom case (in chosen colour and material variant)</li><li>1&#xD7; PCB of your choice (MX wired soldered, wired hot-swap, dual-mode or tri-mode)</li><li>1&#xD7; Plate</li><li>1&#xD7; Set of top-mount O-rings</li><li>1&#xD7; Poron pillar element (for stepped spacebar)</li><li>2&#xD7; Shoulder button micro-switches (integrated)</li><li>1&#xD7; Set of screws &amp; hardware</li><li>1&#xD7; Set of rubber feet</li><li>1&#xD7; USB cable</li><li>1&#xD7; 2.4 GHz wireless receiver (tri-mode variant only)</li></ul><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/shoulder-button-2-keyboy-advance.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/shoulder-button-2-keyboy-advance.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/shoulder-button-2-keyboy-advance.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/shoulder-button-2-keyboy-advance.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Prototypist Keyboard/PromoType (Galo)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The keyboard is available as a Group Buy, which works like Kickstarter. If you purchase now, you&apos;ll get it at the lowest price, and it&apos;ll ship at a later date. The group buy ends on Jul 22, 2026, at 10:30 pm, with shipping expected to commence in Q4. It costs $345.60&#xA0;inc VAT, which works out at around &#xA3;258. </p><p>Head to <a href="https://prototypist.net/products/group-buy-keyboy-advance-50-keyboard-kit?srsltid=AfmBOorDgWzsvPzQ_IwuyVKdVCAWs5KzuuyjyajFrKbi5AkfuQi1ZNbp&amp;ref=retrododo.com">ProtoTypist Keyboards </a>to find out more!</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/PC_06556b5f-94db-4dfd-a4d2-5304502dce06.webp" width="1400" height="843" loading="lazy" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/PC_06556b5f-94db-4dfd-a4d2-5304502dce06.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/PC_06556b5f-94db-4dfd-a4d2-5304502dce06.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/PC_06556b5f-94db-4dfd-a4d2-5304502dce06.webp 1400w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/PC_purple.webp" width="1400" height="843" loading="lazy" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/PC_purple.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/PC_purple.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/PC_purple.webp 1400w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Ano_pale_gold.webp" width="1400" height="843" loading="lazy" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/Ano_pale_gold.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/Ano_pale_gold.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Ano_pale_gold.webp 1400w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Ano_light_teal.webp" width="1400" height="843" loading="lazy" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/Ano_light_teal.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/Ano_light_teal.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Ano_light_teal.webp 1400w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/AnoSilver_db878c71-f5ae-4131-b80e-9d33576bb3dc.webp" width="1400" height="843" loading="lazy" alt="Head Back To 2001 With The KeyBoy Advance" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/AnoSilver_db878c71-f5ae-4131-b80e-9d33576bb3dc.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/AnoSilver_db878c71-f5ae-4131-b80e-9d33576bb3dc.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/AnoSilver_db878c71-f5ae-4131-b80e-9d33576bb3dc.webp 1400w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></div></div></div><figcaption><p dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Prototypist Keyboard/PromoType (Galo)</span></p></figcaption></figure><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  6. Pokémon Victory Set To Bring A Grecian Touch To The Classic Formula

    Thu, 02 Jul 2026 16:26:53 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><p>I love Ancient Greece. I&apos;ve spent so much time reading about the Greek Gods as a kid and listening to the likes of the Mythos</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Pokemon-victory.jpg" alt="Pok&#xE9;mon Victory Set To Bring A Grecian Touch To The Classic Formula"><p>I love Ancient Greece. I&apos;ve spent so much time reading about the Greek Gods as a kid and listening to the likes of the Mythos audiobooks read by the one and only Stephen Fry as an adult, all while playing games like God of War - the best kind of history lessons. I find the mythology of Ancient Greece fascinating, so to have a Pok&#xE9;mon Fangame with a Grecian setting is something I&apos;m very excited about.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/pokemon-victory-2.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Pok&#xE9;mon Victory Set To Bring A Grecian Touch To The Classic Formula" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/pokemon-victory-2.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/pokemon-victory-2.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/pokemon-victory-2.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Pinnari</span></figcaption></figure><p>Pok&#xE9;mon Victory comes from the mind of developer Pinnari, and instead of the regular Pok&#xE9;mon Gym format, it&apos;s based around a region-wide Pok&#xE9; Olympics competition with different events to take on. The plan is to have an open-world structure, meaning that gamers can take on the challenges in any order. </p><p>Pinnari has created 140 new Fakemon for the project, some of which you can see in their gameplay shots. Polyphemur is very much based on the mythical Cyclops and looks like he could smack the likes of Nidoking into the ground. Speaking of which, all of the old Pok&#xE9;mon that will feature in the game will also have new sprites too!</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/pokemon-victory-3.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Pok&#xE9;mon Victory Set To Bring A Grecian Touch To The Classic Formula" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/pokemon-victory-3.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/pokemon-victory-3.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/pokemon-victory-3.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Pinnari</span></figcaption></figure><p>This is a solo dev project, and as such, it&apos;s going to take a while to finish. Pinnari hasn&apos;t given any indication as to when a demo will be ready, simply stating that &apos;there won&apos;t be one for the foreseeable future.&apos; There&apos;s a lot of work to be done here, but the pictures Pinnari has shared look great so far. </p><p>The notion of creating a brand new region with a whole new system is fantastic, making Pok&#xE9;mon Victory one to watch. It takes a lot of effort to create a new narrative like this and to go against the grain of the usual Pok&#xE9;mon format, so I applaud Pinnari&apos;s efforts here. Take your time with it, and make it the best it possibly can be. We&apos;ll all be waiting!</p><p>Head to <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/PokemonRMXP/comments/1ugbk6v/making_my_own_region_as_a_25_gen_gameboy_game/?share_id=0ikDQTrgdtv-lR1O1DCBK&amp;utm_content=1&amp;utm_medium=android_app&amp;utm_name=androidcss&amp;utm_source=share&amp;utm_term=1">Reddit</a> to find out more!</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  7. Turn Your Android Smartphone Into A GameCube With This App

    Thu, 02 Jul 2026 15:19:19 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><p>Have you ever thought that your Android phone would be better if it looked and acted more like your GameCube? I have so many fond memories of</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/WhatsApp-Image-2026-07-02-at-15.29.00.jpeg" alt="Turn Your Android Smartphone Into A GameCube With This App"><p>Have you ever thought that your Android phone would be better if it looked and acted more like your GameCube? I have so many fond memories of that little indigo powerhouse from when I was a kid, and now, thanks to MrRubrik, you can go everywhere with the UI design of the GameCube in your pocket. </p><p>We&apos;ve recently come across Mr Rubik and his apps that change the theme of your phone into those used by our favourite retro consoles. So far, we&apos;ve checked out his <a href="https://retrododo.com/this-app-turns-your-android-smartphone-into-a-wii-u/" rel="noreferrer">Wii U Launcher</a>, his <a href="https://retrododo.com/your-android-phone-could-soon-look-exactly-like-a-nintendo-ds/" rel="noreferrer">Nintendo DS app</a>, and his <a href="https://retrododo.com/your-android-phone-can-soon-look-like-a-playstation-2/" rel="noreferrer">PlayStation 2 Launcher</a>. His GameCube Launcher brings the nostalgia of the Cube to your phone with a modern twist, allowing you to upload your GameCube games manually so you can admire their cover art and utilise the GameCube&apos;s 3D settings cube to access different options. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-embed-card"><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j9walPM5S4k?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen title="GameCube Launcher - Retro Style for your Android"></iframe></figure><p>&apos;Play like it&apos;s 2001&apos; is Mr Rubik&apos;s motto here, giving us the same legendary effects in the menu and the ability to auto-detect any game covers on your phone. It features:</p><ul><li>GameCube-esque UI with the legendary cube animation</li><li>The ability to launch your GameCube games in Dolphin instantly</li><li>Game covers for games and real box art, all auto-detected</li><li>A local game library that&apos;s easy to manage</li><li>Retro sound effects and animations to make it feel like you&apos;re back in 2001</li><li>An interface that&apos;s super slick</li></ul><p>I love this intuitive way of looking at smartphone interfaces, and Mr Rubik&apos;s launchers definitely add a much-needed retro flair to modern tech that I&apos;m loving. I need this next to my Switch 2 Battle Dock for all of those early &apos;00s feels! <br><br>The GameCube launcher is free to download on <a href="https://mrrubik.com/?ref=retrododo.com">Mr Rubik&apos;s website</a> and also on the <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ludev.gcube&amp;ref=retrododo.com">Google Play Store</a>. </p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  8. Why Retro Wins After Sony's Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games

    Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:53:32 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><p>The news that <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2026/07/01/physical-disc-production-ending-in-january-2028-for-new-games-releasing-on-playstation-consoles/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Sony will stop producing physical games in 2028</a> sucks. Those who read Retro Dodo are the very gamers who vividly remember opening video games for</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/sony-physical.webp" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games"><p>The news that <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2026/07/01/physical-disc-production-ending-in-january-2028-for-new-games-releasing-on-playstation-consoles/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Sony will stop producing physical games in 2028</a> sucks. Those who read Retro Dodo are the very gamers who vividly remember opening video games for Christmas with their siblings, or remember reading the back of the box on the car ride home from their local games shop after their parents treated them for bossing their school homework.</p><p>It&apos;s what fixated many of us on video games; it lured us in and enabled us to collect, trade, and sell our games in a way that made experiencing games not only affordable but more accessible. I still own many of the games my parents bought me as a child, box and all, and I still play them all the damn time. And now that I have two young children, I get to experience it with them, over 30 years on, on my own terms.</p><p>Physical games are freaking awesome, and it&apos;s in the consumer&apos;s best interest for them to continue being a reality. If not, the market will shift in a way that I think is highly unexpected, but undoubtedly great for retro gaming, and that&apos;s what I want to discuss today - my thoughts on how the death of physical games will actually reignite the rise in retro game collecting for the &quot;modern gamer&quot;.</p><h2 id="do-better-sony">Do Better, Sony.</h2><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/9245b6dd45a143b26a7877ec5a29bb5c3fc00eda.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1088" height="612" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/9245b6dd45a143b26a7877ec5a29bb5c3fc00eda.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/9245b6dd45a143b26a7877ec5a29bb5c3fc00eda.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/9245b6dd45a143b26a7877ec5a29bb5c3fc00eda.webp 1088w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>I believe GTA VI was the nail in the coffin, so perhaps Rockstar is a little to blame, but I totally understand that the majority of game purchases around the globe are digital nowadays. I am a 33-year-old man, born in the 90&apos;s; most of my generation and the folks I follow are up in arms about it. But when I talk to my younger nieces and nephews who play video games, they all buy digital because, &quot;I can play it in minutes, and I don&apos;t have to go to the shop.&quot; They are naive to actually <em>owning </em>games; it&apos;s somewhat instant gratification. Yet they&apos;re oddly obsessed with collecting toys and trading cards because it&apos;s physical. That oddity I will not dive into.</p><p>So, I am very aware I am speaking as a likely minority here. The younger generation is buying digital at a rate that feels more like a dopamine hit. I am one of the few fossils still collecting physically. As I write this, my copy of Rayman 30th Anniversary for Nintendo Switch 2 literally just arrived through the door. It took almost 5 months to arrive, the process is cumbersome AF..., but I&apos;ll take that over renting a game any day.</p><p>Sony&apos;s choice to do this is simply to enhance profits. Producing physical games requires a lot of investment due to producing Blu-ray discs, designing, manufacturing cases, retailer margins, shipping and so on. Erasing that erases a lot of outgoing cash. But more importantly, it allows PlayStation to control demand for upcoming games and to push customers through their ecosystem, continuously buying games, then forgetting about them, and repeating. It&apos;s a process that happens over and over until eventually, they close servers and remove those games from your library. If you have a physical game, they cannot control what you do with that game or how/when you experience it.</p><h2 id="what-does-this-mean-for-retro-gaming">What Does This Mean For Retro Gaming?</h2><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/playstation-wall-sore-thumb-york.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/playstation-wall-sore-thumb-york.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/playstation-wall-sore-thumb-york.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/playstation-wall-sore-thumb-york.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>We&apos;ve been shouting about this since founding Retro Dodo in 2019. &quot;Retro gaming&quot; is a beautiful moment in time within the gaming industry, especially the 90s and 2000s, when everything was physical. You&apos;d have manuals, boxes, guidebooks, collectables, and actual, decent limited editions. You can trade, sell, modify, and give your game as you please. And because these games and consoles were made in the millions, that means millions are still around, up for grabs for those wanting to explore a more analogue, slower yet more organic approach to gaming.</p><p>And I do believe many modern gamers will now look at retro gaming as a way to explore IPs in a way that offers full ownership, that isn&apos;t riddled with updates or microtransactions, and offers that in a semi-affordable way.</p><p>Though it means more demand for retro gaming, which means increased prices. That aside, as of right now, I truly believe retro gaming is still affordable. I&apos;ve visited many retro game shops around the world, and I even made a <a href="https://youtu.be/g8r3amvSHlg?si=Etfeu1nRxMxCfd0F&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">YouTube series</a> about them. You can grab GAME BOYs for &#xA3;50, and games for as little as &#xA3;3 for it. The same goes for a PlayStation 1; you can get a bundle with controllers and games for around &#xA3;100. Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, and Nintendo 64 are all reasonable for now if you stay away from the heavy-hitting games such as Pok&#xE9;mon, Zelda, and Sonic. But even then, they&apos;re less than a modern &#xA3;70/$80 game code that has an end date.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/rare-games.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/rare-games.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/rare-games.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/rare-games.webp 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>I believe we will start seeing younger gamers move into retro gaming, which will be a beautiful thing to experience, especially games that offer true couch co-op gaming. Not only because of the physical ownership, but because they&apos;re genuinely great games at an affordable price, offering box art, manuals, and shareability. And also, I know if I give my kid Crash Bandicoot 1 on PS1, he&apos;s not going to come knocking on my office door demanding &quot;V-Bucks&quot; or &quot;mystery boxes&quot;, so if anything, not only is the game cheaper, it will save parents in the long run. Once they complete it, they can trade it with friends or trade it in a store to get something else.</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><h2 id="retro-gaming-can-still-be-modern-gaming">Retro Gaming Can Still Be &quot;Modern&quot; Gaming.</h2><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/M64.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/M64.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/M64.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/M64.webp 1600w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>If buying retro tech isn&apos;t for modern games, there are still many &quot;modern&quot; ways to experience physical retro games. The boom in new companies creating high-end FPGA-based consoles is on the rise. Look at <a href="https://store.analogue.co/products/analogue-pocket-black?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Analogue&apos;s Pocket handheld</a>; it&apos;s a remarkable device that can play GAME BOY, GAME BOY Color, GAME BOY Advance, SEGA Game Gear, Neo Geo Pocket and even ATARI Lynx games all on one modern, beautiful console that uses real cartridges that can be purchased cheaply. I&apos;ll admit, the console itself is over $200, so this method isn&apos;t for those who want something affordable.</p><p>But that said, these modern &quot;retro&quot; consoles come with many benefits, such as working with modern TVs, being updated over WiFi, and more. The big one right now is the <a href="https://modretro.com/pages/m64?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">ModRetro M64</a>; being able to play N64 cartridges at upscaled resolutions with HDMI compatibility and the choice of using wireless N64 controllers alongside it.</p><p>These kinds of companies are modernising retro game collecting in a way that scratches that modern itch, but also allows consumers to use their physical collection with the up-to-date features that make gaming easier.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/epilogue-sn-operator-1.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/epilogue-sn-operator-1.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/epilogue-sn-operator-1.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/epilogue-sn-operator-1.webp 1600w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>There&apos;s also the likes of <a href="https://evercade.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Evercade</a>, who have created their own, new cartridges that work with their handhelds and consoles; in fact, they&apos;ve been so successful that they&apos;ve created over 80 unique cartridges featuring over 700 fully licensed games since founding and even gone as far as building tabletop arcade cabinets that also work with their cartridges. It&apos;s an entire ecosystem with easy compatibility and fully licensed IP.</p><p>Physical gaming isn&apos;t dead; it&apos;s actually growing in areas that are less popular. Physical games are in huge demand and will be even more so after 2028 on consoles that don&apos;t require internet access, accounts, or proof of payment. For example, the developers of Cuphead recently announced a new game coming to the SEGA Master System with a physical release. There&apos;s demand for it, and more products and releases will come because of that. A company called <a href="https://www.epilogue.co/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Epilogue</a> creates premium cartridge readers that allow gamers to play their cartridges on Mac and PC. There&apos;s an endless ammount of choice!</p><h2 id="indie-development">Indie Development</h2><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/indie-retro-games.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/indie-retro-games.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/indie-retro-games.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1600/2026/07/indie-retro-games.webp 1600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/indie-retro-games.webp 1920w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>It&apos;s also not worth forgetting about all of the independent development going on in the retro gaming space. There are many remarkable &quot;new&quot; games that have been released over the last few years that give retro consoles a new life and a new way of exploring games in a physical form.</p><p>To name a few great companies making games, there&apos;s <a href="https://incube8games.com/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Incube8Games</a> based in Canada, who release incredible titles, one being an upcoming GAME BOY game called Infinity. It originally began development in the 90s but has only just started coming to fruition because of the rise of retro handheld gaming.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/modretro-self-simulated-cartridge-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/modretro-self-simulated-cartridge-1.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/modretro-self-simulated-cartridge-1.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/modretro-self-simulated-cartridge-1.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>There&apos;s also <a href="https://modretro.com/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">ModRetro</a>, who created the Chromatic and are soon to release the M64, who have given out over $1,000,000 in royalties after working with small developers to release new games for not only their consoles but retro consoles such as the GAME BOY Color and N64 too.</p><p>There&apos;s also <a href="https://limitedrungames.com/?srsltid=AfmBOop5nB0AjmyuREtjJxDnrtveLGUpQMRPL9-5A1Fx_-643LmOZ6Z5&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Limited Run Games</a>, though I am personally not a fan of them as a business, as it takes them almost two years to ship their products. Still, they <em>are </em>rereleasing some great physical retro games to the public.</p><h2 id="emulation-will-boom-again">Emulation Will Boom, Again</h2><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/ayn-thor-3ds--2-.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/ayn-thor-3ds--2-.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/ayn-thor-3ds--2-.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/ayn-thor-3ds--2-.webp 1600w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>With the news of Sony stopping physical releases comes an onslaught of comments along the lines of &quot;If buying isn&apos;t owning, piracy isn&apos;t stealing&quot;. Although I am not advocating for piracy, it&apos;s very clear that many gamers are happy to pirate or download ROMs of their games in order to play them the way they want.</p><p>That usually comes in the form of emulation, something we have covered for many years here at Retro Dodo, and I can confidently say that emulation has never been so popular. And for good reason; it&apos;s allowing gamers to play their retro games in whatever way they please on the hardware of their choice.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/afterplay-emulator.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/afterplay-emulator.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/afterplay-emulator.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/afterplay-emulator.webp 1600w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>And as I&apos;ve already mentioned, as more demand moves into the retro gaming category, it is likely that prices for retro physical games will increase, moving even more folks to emulation. It can be done affordably and easily, too, with the likes of Delta on iOS, many Android emulators, and the popular browser-based emulation front end known as <a href="https://refer.afterplay.io/retrododo?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Afterplay</a>. Many of the &quot;new&quot; retro games coming to fruition will also sell their ROMs to you, allowing you to experience new games for a few bucks.</p><p>Though a lot of retro-emulation-based handhelds are growing in price since the memory shortages recently, a couple of hundred bucks now gets you an incredibly powerful Android-based emulation device that can play many of your consoles, including PlayStation 2. Why wouldn&apos;t you invest in that if it opens up a new and inexpensive way to explore video games?</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/best-retro-handhelds-2023.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/best-retro-handhelds-2023.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/best-retro-handhelds-2023.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/best-retro-handhelds-2023.webp 1200w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>It&apos;s a grey area for sure if you don&apos;t own the ROM files and are obtaining them somewhere else, but it&apos;s clear there&apos;s a large growing group of gamers that are happy to take the risk. And with that will come a boom of emulator enthusiasts wanting something fresh with frontends and high levels of customisations to make their devices feel like their own.</p><h3 id="rom-hacking-provides-longevity-too">ROM Hacking Provides Longevity, Too</h3><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/pokemon-lazarus.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/pokemon-lazarus.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/pokemon-lazarus.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/pokemon-lazarus.webp 1600w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>Even ROM hacking has exploded this year; it&apos;s a legal way of extracting the ROM file from your cartridge, and then patching it using free websites such as <a href="https://www.hackdex.app/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">HackDex</a> into a version of the game that is fan-made, altering the game, story and graphics entirely. They allow you to play games from your favourite series such as Pok&#xE9;mon, Zelda, and Mario in new and unique ways without having to spend any extra money.</p><p>It&apos;s stuff like this that will boom on top of the trends I mentioned above, quite simply because it prolongs the longevity of retro games and enhances the enjoyment through unique playthroughs, and it&apos;s all legal.</p><h2 id="final-thoughts">Final Thoughts</h2><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/brandon-akihabara-1.webp" class="kg-image" alt="Why Retro Wins After Sony&apos;s Announcement To Stop Producing Physical Games" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/brandon-akihabara-1.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/brandon-akihabara-1.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/brandon-akihabara-1.webp 1200w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>To me, this is not the death of physical video games. If you really care about preservation and want something new to explore, there are many unique forms of physical media that will undoubtedly tickle your fancy.</p><p>This news has ignited an insight into phyiscal media demand, and now that modern gamers have been stung, many of us will now move to a more analogue gaming experience that offers full ownership, accessability and affordability, which I believe is in the form of retro games, for now.</p><p>I&apos;m excited to see what happens in the retro gaming space over the coming years; I already see adults with young children exploring old games, acquiring CRTs and trading their copies with friends. It&apos;s happening on a large scale, but this news will only increase that movement, and I&apos;m all for it.</p><p>Where there&apos;s money, there&apos;s innovation, and if the market moves towards physical and retro collection, many developers and companies will follow with new, unique products for us to enjoy and own. It&apos;s already happening; ATARI is making a comeback, Evercade has a new handheld coming out, ModRetro&apos;s M64 is a few weeks away, and emulator front ends are coming from every angle.</p><p><strong>Retro is back, and Sony is going to miss out.</strong></p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  9. A Project To Port Twilight Princess To The Nintendo 3DS Is Underway

    Thu, 02 Jul 2026 12:29:42 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><p>Can you remember back when I covered Game of Tobi getting the original source code of <a href="https://retrododo.com/the-original-super-mario-64-is-now-playable-on-gba/" rel="noreferrer">Super Mario 64</a> running on the GBA? How about when he</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/twilight-princess-3ds-gameplay.jpg" alt="A Project To Port Twilight Princess To The Nintendo 3DS Is Underway"><p>Can you remember back when I covered Game of Tobi getting the original source code of <a href="https://retrododo.com/the-original-super-mario-64-is-now-playable-on-gba/" rel="noreferrer">Super Mario 64</a> running on the GBA? How about when he got Super Mario 64 running inside a <a href="https://retrododo.com/this-gamer-has-got-super-mario-64-running-inside-a-pdf-file/" rel="noreferrer">PDF</a>? Well, Tobi is back with a project to get one of my favourite Zelda games, Twilight Princess, running on the 3DS!</p><p>I&apos;m a big fan of Tobi&apos;s work and how he pushes the boundaries of old tech, and also how much he loves his work. Once more, he&apos;s working with the original source code of the game, and while there are obviously a lot of bugs that need to be worked out and the gameplay is running slow and crashing, it&apos;s very much identifiable as Twilight Princess despite currently being what I would fairly class as being pretty unplayable. But hey, it&apos;s a start!</p><figure class="kg-card kg-embed-card"><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bue-lSUJr-g?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen title="For Real this Time!"></iframe></figure><p>Still, Tobi has confirmed his suspicions that the 3DS can handle games like Twilight Princess, and if he can get it to actually show 3D graphics that look like they&apos;re popping out of the screen at some point in the same vein as Ocarina of Time and Majora&apos;s Mask, then I&apos;ll be very impressed. </p><p>As with a lot of Tobi&apos;s projects, this is one I&apos;m going to be watching closely. He seems to be someone who is constantly tinkering with new ideas and working on multiple projects at once, which I respect - it helps to keep things fresh and come back to other ideas, or at least that&apos;s how my brain works at any rate. </p><p>Head to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@GameofTobi?ref=retrododo.com">Tobi&apos;s YouTube</a> to keep up to date with his progress and to check out the other ports that he&apos;s been working on!</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  10. Retro Shelf 64 Is A New Box Art Launcher For SummerCart 64

    Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:29:59 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><p>Since the arrival of the Analogue 3D, more and more people have turned to the Summer Cart 64 for their N64 emulation needs. I have one, and</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/zelda-retro-shelf-64-feature.jpg" alt="Retro Shelf 64 Is A New Box Art Launcher For SummerCart 64"><p>Since the arrival of the Analogue 3D, more and more people have turned to the Summer Cart 64 for their N64 emulation needs. I have one, and it&apos;s fantastic, allowing me to play my favourite ROM hacks like Jiggies of Time on original hardware as well as on the 3D and the M64. The menu is pretty basic, however. It feels like you&apos;re logging on to an old Microsoft computer and lacks the sleek style of these new machines. </p><p>There seems to be a big wave of people creating nostalgic frontend launchers and GUIs at the minute. I covered <a href="https://retrododo.com/koji-is-a-new-emulator-frontend-aimed-at-3ds-enthusiasts/" rel="noreferrer">Koji</a> recently, a way of creating a better user experience on the likes of the AYN Thor, and now Retro Shelf 64 is here to save the SC64 and give it that nostalgic touch that makes us feel like we&apos;re looking through our olf gaming collection. It adds cover art and colour to the menu, giving you that same feeling of seeing all your N64 boxes neatly stored in a cube unit or on your shelf.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/SC-64-MENU-2.jpg" width="1280" height="720" loading="lazy" alt="Retro Shelf 64 Is A New Box Art Launcher For SummerCart 64" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/SC-64-MENU-2.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/SC-64-MENU-2.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/SC-64-MENU-2.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/retroshelf-64-2.jpg" width="2000" height="993" loading="lazy" alt="Retro Shelf 64 Is A New Box Art Launcher For SummerCart 64" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/retroshelf-64-2.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/retroshelf-64-2.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1600/2026/07/retroshelf-64-2.jpg 1600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w2400/2026/07/retroshelf-64-2.jpg 2400w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></div></div></div><figcaption><p><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Retro Shelf 64</span></p></figcaption></figure><p>Check out the difference above. The first image is my SC64 menu as is, and the second is what Retro Shelf 64 can turn it into. You&apos;ll be able to see the front and back of the box, look at the cartridge itself, and have that nostalgic experience from the 90s/early 00s, something that a lot more people will be craving now that Sony have announced the end of physical PlayStation media. And as the SummerCart 64 has 64DD support, you can even load up 64DD games in the same way. You&apos;ll also get custom tracks for each of the available games too - how cool is that!</p><p>Retro Shelf 64 was built with the Analogue 3D and the SummerCart 64 in mind. I&apos;ll need to check it on the M64. According to the official website for the release, there are 58 games that are currently compatible, many of which can be seen in the YouTube video below. It&apos;s all the usual suspects and favourites - Banjo Kazooie, Star Fox 64, Shadows of the Empire. Essentially, if it&apos;s in our list of the best games for the console, then it&apos;ll work here. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-embed-card"><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tiNfIzVrVhU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen title="This Turns Your N64 ROMs Into a Living Game Shelf"></iframe></figure><p>Obviously, you&apos;ll need your own legally acquired ROMs to make this work, but the good thing is that Retro Shelf 64 doesn&apos;t modify your ROMs or the SC64 itself. It boots up when loading the cartridge, but the firmware of your SC64 remains intact. To be honest, it looks much better anyway!</p><p>Now, there&apos;s a slight catch here. You&apos;ll need to be a member of the Retro Shelf 64 Patreon to be able to use the launcher. There are three tiers:</p><ul><li>Agent - $3/&#xA3;3.50 giving access to the launcher itself and the Discord.</li><li>Special Agent - $7/&#xA3;5.50 - Everything in Agent plus access to day-one builds and being able to vote on which games get launcher support next. </li><li>00 Agent - Everything in the first two tiers, as well as access to a private Discord and more voting privileges. </li></ul><p>I have lots of subscriptions, so I guess &#xA3;3.50 isn&apos;t much more. The main bonus of being subscribed is for getting regular updates; otherwise, you could cancel once and then not have access to future updates, and with only 58 games available and more on the way, you&apos;ll be missing out. There&apos;s a lot of work that&apos;s gone into this, so &#xA3;3.50 for continued support doesn&apos;t seem bad at all. </p><p>I think the fact that this is tailored towards the SC64 and that it excludes some other Flash Cart users who own Everdrives is a little bittersweet, but then again, that&apos;s just the way it goes. I waited years for emulators to arrive on Apple products after watching my mates with Android phones playing GoldenEye on the bus, so these things happen!</p><p>Head to the <a href="https://www.patreon.com/retroshelf/posts/retro-shelf-64-162591943?ref=retrododo.com">Retro Shelf 64 Patreon</a> for more info!</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  11. "Only 500 Made" BitmoLab Officially Releases Limited Edition GAMEBABY Case

    Wed, 01 Jul 2026 15:38:10 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><p><a href="https://bitmolab.com/?sca_ref=7831237.oFZOlMM5ls&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">BitmoLab</a> hit our radar back a couple of years ago when they released the <a href="https://www.bitmolab.com/products/gamebaby?sca_ref=7831237.oFZOlMM5ls&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">GAMEBABY case</a> for iPhone that allows users to take with them phyiscal buttons that</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/gamebaby-transparent.webp" alt="&quot;Only 500 Made&quot; BitmoLab Officially Releases Limited Edition GAMEBABY Case"><p><a href="https://bitmolab.com/?sca_ref=7831237.oFZOlMM5ls&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">BitmoLab</a> hit our radar back a couple of years ago when they released the <a href="https://www.bitmolab.com/products/gamebaby?sca_ref=7831237.oFZOlMM5ls&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">GAMEBABY case</a> for iPhone that allows users to take with them phyiscal buttons that take inspiration from the original GAME BOY, pairing perfectly with the Delta emulator on iOS.</p><p>The case itself comes in two parts, with the controller part being able to slide on and off to then be spun around to sit the buttons on top of your display in order to use the buttons inside your games and emulators.</p><p>Originally, there were two colours to choose from, such as Yellow and Grey, both iconic in their own way, but as of today, <a href="https://www.bitmolab.com/products/gamebaby?variant=50508624330975&amp;sca_ref=7831237.oFZOlMM5ls&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><strong>BitmoLab has released a highly limited edition transparent version</strong></a> with a frosted case, orange metallic action buttons and silver menu and DPAD buttons.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/gamebaby-transparent-case.webp" class="kg-image" alt="&quot;Only 500 Made&quot; BitmoLab Officially Releases Limited Edition GAMEBABY Case" loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/gamebaby-transparent-case.webp 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/gamebaby-transparent-case.webp 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1600/2026/07/gamebaby-transparent-case.webp 1600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/gamebaby-transparent-case.webp 1920w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>It creates this retro futuristic look that pairs perfectly with the orange iPhone when in transport mode and offers slight visibility to your Delta skin when in gaming mode.</p><p>We spoke with the Co-Founder of the GAMEBABY case, known as Jack, who has confirmed with us that only 500 of these cases exist. <em>&quot;There&#x2019;s something timeless about transparent hardware that feels perfectly at home alongside the devices that inspired GameBaby in the first place&quot;</em>, states Jack.</p><p>We were lucky enough to get an early unit and I can confirm it&apos;s absolutely beautiful. Nothing has changed in comparison to the original iPhone 17 cases they have made in the past; this is simply exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with a unique coloured shell and new coloured buttons.</p><p>The <a href="https://www.bitmolab.com/products/gamebaby?variant=50508624330975&amp;sca_ref=7831237.oFZOlMM5ls&amp;ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><strong>limited edition GAMEBABY case is available to buy from BitmoLab today, costing $39.99</strong></a> and will likely begin shipping in a few days. Nothing on their website suggests there will be a delayed shipment or a wait time to get these manufactured. From what I can tell, these are ready to ship.</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  12. Koji Is A New Emulator Frontend Aimed At 3DS Enthusiasts

    Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:56:02 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><p>When a small team gets together to create something beautiful for the Retro Gaming community, we can&apos;t help but soak up their passion for their</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text"><b><strong style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like our website?</strong></b> Support us as an independent publisher by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping</strong></b></u></a>, <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">joining our paid community</strong></b></u></a> or checking out our accessories brand <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a>!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/koji-launcher.webp" alt="Koji Is A New Emulator Frontend Aimed At 3DS Enthusiasts"><p>When a small team gets together to create something beautiful for the Retro Gaming community, we can&apos;t help but soak up their passion for their craft. The team over at Koji, led by BrocoDev, have been creating a new emulator frontend for Android handhelds that looks and feels like you&apos;re playing on a 3DS. It adds a more modern, polished OS that feels nostalgic to those Nintendoheads out there.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/koji-launcher-1-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Koji Is A New Emulator Frontend Aimed At 3DS Enthusiasts" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="712" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/koji-launcher-1-1.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/koji-launcher-1-1.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/koji-launcher-1-1.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Koji</span></figcaption></figure><p>We recently covered <a href="https://retrododo.com/socket-is-a-upcoming-emulator-front-end-that-priortises-cartridge-art/" rel="noreferrer">Socket</a>, a front-end emulator that concentrates on cartridge art and, in turn, reminds us of Beacon. It turns out that even though we get new consoles, all we really crave is that old-style UX that gives us nostalgic feelings. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-video-card kg-width-regular" data-kg-thumbnail="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/media/2026/07/navigation-settings_thumb.jpg" data-kg-custom-thumbnail> <div class="kg-video-container"> <video src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/media/2026/07/navigation-settings.mp4" poster="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/media/2026/07/navigation-settings_thumb.jpg" width="1920" height="1080" playsinline preload="metadata" controls></video> </div> </figure><p>BrocoDev has aimed to recreate the &apos;familiarity of the 3DS home menu,&apos; with &apos;the modern layout of the Nintendo Switch, fused into one launcher.&apos; Koji will work on the likes of the <a href="https://retrododo.com/ayn-thor-review/" rel="noreferrer">AYN Thor</a>, creating a more polished UX that feels familiar even though this is the first time I&apos;ve come across it. It does look quite a lot like <a href="https://retrododo.com/iisu-007-is-here-with-some-welcomed-upgrades/">iisu</a></p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/koji-applications.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Koji Is A New Emulator Frontend Aimed At 3DS Enthusiasts" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/koji-applications.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/koji-applications.jpg 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/koji-applications.jpg 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Koji</span></figcaption></figure><p>There are currently only two people working on Koji, with the team looking to expand to include a Video Editor / Motion Graphics&#xA0;artist. The frontend launched has comprehensive theming for WiiU, 3DS, OLED, and more. It comes with a built-in store, Discord integration for chatting while planning, and lots more features, including integration from <a href="https://retroachievements.org/?ref=retrododo.com">RetroAchievements</a>.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/koji-features-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="Koji Is A New Emulator Frontend Aimed At 3DS Enthusiasts" loading="lazy" width="654" height="716" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/koji-features-1.jpg 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/koji-features-1.jpg 654w"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: Koji</span></figcaption></figure><p>Koji is in active development with no release date as of yet. We&apos;ve been speaking to BrocoDev via email, who has explained to us when talking about the topic of AI that &apos; it isn&apos;t an active factor in the development of Koji&quot;. You know our stance on AI and vibe coding when it comes to creators in the retro gaming space, so it&apos;s nice to hear that BrocoDev and his team of two have been doing this the old-school way and putting their heart and soul into the project. <br><br>Koji is very much in the early stages of development, but we&apos;re loving what we&apos;ve seen so far! Head to the <a href="https://kojifrontend.github.io/?ref=retrododo.com">Koji Website</a> for more information!</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div><h3 id></h3>
  13. This App Turns Your Android Smartphone Into A Wii U

    Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:09:11 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><p>We&apos;ve recently discovered developer and YouTuber <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@rubikdev?ref=retrododo.com">MrRubik</a>, a talented individual who creates Android applications that transform your smartphone&apos;s UI into something similar to what</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/wii-u-launcha.webp" alt="This App Turns Your Android Smartphone Into A Wii U"><p>We&apos;ve recently discovered developer and YouTuber <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@rubikdev?ref=retrododo.com">MrRubik</a>, a talented individual who creates Android applications that transform your smartphone&apos;s UI into something similar to what you&apos;d see on your favourite retro consoles. <a href="https://retrododo.com/your-android-phone-could-soon-look-exactly-like-a-nintendo-ds/" rel="noreferrer">He made one for the Nintendo DS</a> and another <a href="https://retrododo.com/your-android-phone-can-soon-look-like-a-playstation-2/" rel="noreferrer">launcher for the PlayStation 2</a>, all very popular.</p><p>But one he made a while back that went under the radar is an application that transforms your Android smartphone into a Nintendo Wii U, called the &quot;Wii U Launcher&quot;, and it&apos;s <a href="https://mrrubik.com/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">free to download on his website</a>, with a Google Play Store application &quot;coming soon&quot;.</p><p><em>&quot;This trailer showcases a modern interface inspired by the original Wii U menu, now reimagined with smooth animations, fast navigation, and direct game launching. Whether you&apos;re a retro gaming fan, Wii U enthusiast, or just love clean UI design, this launcher is built to give your console a fresh and exciting look&quot;</em> states MrRubik</p><figure class="kg-card kg-embed-card"><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/80tQcdxBfj8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen title="New Wii U Custom Launcher &#x2013; Modern UI, Smooth Animations &amp; Full Game Access!"></iframe></figure><p>To simplify what this does is it changes the look and feel of your applications and UI by putting it all inside of a new application that you can launch when you turn on your Android smartphone, it redesigns the apps, menus, typography and more to look like that of a Nintendo Wii U, with added features such as:</p><ul><li>Sleek and intuitive Wii U-style interface</li><li>High-quality animations inspired by the official Nintendo OS</li><li>Smooth performance for an authentic yet modern feel</li><li>Customizable icons and layouts</li><li>Support for external game controllers</li></ul><p>It even features the nostalgic soundtracks, it shows your emulators, features retro animations and even allows you to connect external game controllers to play Android games and emulators on the go. It&apos;s a neat way to freshen up your Android smartphone for those who love the Wii U, and the best bit? It&apos;s free. Check it out on <a href="https://mrrubik.com/?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer">Mr Rubik official website here</a>.</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>
  14. The Retro Fighters Battle Dock Is Now Available On Amazon

    Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:31:40 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><p>As you know, we absolutely fell in love with Retro Fighter&apos;s Battle Dock, rating it a 9/10 in our <a href="https://retrododo.com/retro-fighters-battle-dock-review/" rel="noreferrer">written review</a> a couple of weeks</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/battle-docik-amzon.webp" alt="The Retro Fighters Battle Dock Is Now Available On Amazon"><p>As you know, we absolutely fell in love with Retro Fighter&apos;s Battle Dock, rating it a 9/10 in our <a href="https://retrododo.com/retro-fighters-battle-dock-review/" rel="noreferrer">written review</a> a couple of weeks ago. It&apos;s a fun accessory that houses your Nintendo Switch 2 Dock in a GameCube-like case that features 4 controller slots on the front, allowing you to insert GameCube controllers that then sync with your console.</p><p>This not only makes your console look nostalgic, and you can choose from multiple coloured faceplates that come with it, but it also allows for the ability to play NSO GameCube games and Switch games with one of the fugliest controllers ever made. What else could you want?</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><a href="https://geni.us/ovwrAe?ref=retrododo.com"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-11.29.08.png" class="kg-image" alt="The Retro Fighters Battle Dock Is Now Available On Amazon" loading="lazy" width="2000" height="771" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-11.29.08.png 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-11.29.08.png 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1600/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-11.29.08.png 1600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w2400/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-11.29.08.png 2400w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></a></figure><p>This affordable, fun accessory is <a href="https://geni.us/ovwrAe?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><strong>now available on Amazon US starting at $44.9</strong></a>5, which is surprising as it&apos;s live before Retro Fighter&apos;s own official website, which prices it at $39.99 and launches &quot;Q2 2026&quot;, which... has now passed. So you could just grab this for yourself on Amazon and receive it in a few days, according to their product page.</p><p>As Seb mentioned in his full review: <em>&quot;The Battle Dock is a cool accessory for people like me who grew up playing the GameCube. I don&apos;t necessarily think it&apos;s aimed at newer gamers or those who are discovering the GameCube for the first time. For me, this is aimed at gamers like me who have a GameCube game collection and their original controllers stored in their game room and want to relive some of the magic from the 2000&apos;s on their Switch 2.&quot; </em>It&apos;s a great product, and one for the GameCube nerds out there.</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p>
  15. GameSir Launches Atomic Purple Pocket Taco Smartphone Controller

    Wed, 01 Jul 2026 08:30:14 -0000

    <div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-green"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><p>The battle of retrofied portable smartphone controllers is in full swing, with GameSir&apos;s Pocket Taco adding physical, wireless buttons to your smartphone, there&apos;s also</p>
    <div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x1F91D;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Don&apos;t want to see ads? <a href="https://retrododo.com/membership/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Become a premium member for $3 a month</strong></b></u></a> and support an independent publication today!</div></div><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/purple-pocket-taco.webp" alt="GameSir Launches Atomic Purple Pocket Taco Smartphone Controller"><p>The battle of retrofied portable smartphone controllers is in full swing, with GameSir&apos;s Pocket Taco adding physical, wireless buttons to your smartphone, there&apos;s also the <a href="https://retrododo.com/gamebaby-tease-limited-edition-clear-iphone-case-for-emulator-nerds-with-taste/" rel="noreferrer">transparent GAME BABY case by BitmoLab</a> that was revealed a week or so ago, and 8BITDO is a couple of weeks away from releasing their <a href="https://retrododo.com/8bitdo-teases-flippad-retro-controller-for-iphone-android/" rel="noreferrer">FlipPad</a> controller.</p><p>GameSir&apos;s Pocket Taco simply slips onto the bottom of your smartphone, with a hole at the bottom allowing you to continue charging your smartphone when needed. It&apos;s technically a Bluetooth controller, so the buttons don&apos;t actually touch the screen in any way, yet it makes it feel like a portable device due to the &quot;Taco Clamp&quot; as I like to call it, alongside the features:</p><ul><li>Transforms your phone into a classic vertical console</li><li>Ultra-lightweight Portability. Just 62.5g</li><li>Crisp tactile triggers &amp; Reliable D-pad and ABXY</li><li>600mAh Battery</li></ul><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-09.26.43.png" class="kg-image" alt="GameSir Launches Atomic Purple Pocket Taco Smartphone Controller" loading="lazy" width="1262" height="870" srcset="https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w600/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-09.26.43.png 600w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/size/w1000/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-09.26.43.png 1000w, https://storage.ghost.io/c/58/fd/58fdc82a-ad84-44e2-ad58-166d1b419bc4/content/images/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-01-at-09.26.43.png 1262w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"><figcaption><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Credit: GameSir</span></figcaption></figure><p>Originally, the Pocket Taco came in a grey colour with Game Boy DMG-inspired purple buttons, but as of today, GameSir has revealed an all-new &quot;Voltage Purple&quot; edition that takes inspiration from transparent atomic purple tech from the 90s and 2000s.</p><p>This edition is <a href="https://geni.us/LzCnZJT?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><strong>available to buy today on Amazon</strong></a> and via <a href="https://gamesir.com/products/gamesir-pocket-taco-voltage-purple?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><strong>GameSir&apos;s official website</strong></a> for &#xA3;34.99/$34.99. It&apos;s very easy to set up, and it installs within seconds. I know that because I still use the &quot;normal&quot; edition one frequently! It&apos;s an affordable gift for yourself and friends, and although the grip can be a little slippery at times if playing fast-paced games, it&apos;s a great slimlined controller to take with you on the go for playing emulators.</p><div style="display:none"><div class="kg-callout-emoji">&#x2764;&#xFE0F;</div><div class="kg-callout-text">Like what you are reading? If you do and want to support us, you can do so by <a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">becoming a member</strong></b></u></a><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, </strong></b></u><a href="https://retrododo.com/#/portal/support" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">tipping us</strong></b></u></a> or taking a look at our gaming accessory company <a href="https://gamenook.co.uk/discount/RETRODODO?ref=retrododo.com" rel="noreferrer"><u><b><strong class="underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">GAMENOOK</strong></b></u></a> (10% off just for you). This allows us to continue what we do without succumbing to algorithms, clickbait and over-intrusive ads, while paying human writers instead of AI.</div></div>