@Duncanballs Thank you truly for the heads up about Labyrinth 40th Anniversary screenings! I’ve watched that gem on DVD with the kiddos a few times, but never on the big screen. I’ll see if I can motivate them to go to the theater with me tonight!
It’s a rainy weekend here which I’d just love to spend meandering on the couch with different games. The usual chores await, though, and I’m obligated to take down the Xmas tree and decorations or the neighbors will think I’m weird. Er, know I’m weird.
I’ve trailed off of Metroid Prime 4 a bit. It was the holiday sale’s fault. On the final sale day, I caved and bought 4 long-watchlisted eShop games at great prices: Barony, Black Skylands, Kingdom Eighties, and Wall World.
I didn’t need the games right now, but Holiday Tradition! I must get my cheap & good game purchases. And they’ll never make physicals of those, so the time was right.
So most likely Samus will have to keep doing laps on her vi-o-la this weekend while I dabble in my new indie purchases, ACA NEOGEO Selection games, and a Sega Picross puzzle or two.
Wishing everyone a peaceful and pleasing post-holiday pursuit, per your prerogative! 🕹️❤️👾
I’m gambling and decided to preorder Tennis Fever because of the big roster and single-player mode.
I swear, though - for $70, this game had best feel content-complete at launch, or it will be the last Mario sports game I buy at full price. If I pop in the cartridge and it seems like a hollow online trial in need of a year’s worth of patches and DLC,, like so many of the Switch-generation sports games, I’m out.
I'm torn between the Ghouls 'n Ghosts cover and the Arcade Stadium one. Although if we had a Forgotten Worlds cover, that would have been my number 1, easily.
I've enjoyed dallying in Arcade Stadium vols. 1 and 2 digitally for a few years now, and always wanted these physically for the shelf. Between this and Zen Studios' Williams Pinball physical collections which LRG offered a couple weeks ago, I'd say the publisher is doing good work! I'd prefer regular retail releases, of course, but if this is the only way to get these physical games, I'll take it.
My personal experience with LRG has been fine - they've always followed through on my numerous orders over the years, even if it has been as much as a year's wait at times. But I'm located in the US, so their international service/rates are not an issue for me.
My post-holidays weekend will be full of chores — I have to make my front lawn a little less gaudy (farewell till next Xmas, inflatable light-up Snoopy, Grinch, and Rudolph!) - but I’ll continue grinding puzzles in Sega Picross and hopefully start and complete the volcano zone in Metroid Prime 4.
Is there really no way to fast travel back to your home base in Prime 4, or do you just have to ride and hoof it out??
Outside of Switch, I updated my Egret II Mini so I can try out the latest expansion pack of Technos and Data East Arcade games - I’ll see how they measure up to my Taito faves.
If I’m super ambitious, I may try to make a spot near the TV for my new Evercade VS console, too - that and a few arcade collection carts were a late Xmas prezzie to myself that I haven’t played yet.
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! 🕹️🎉👾
Although, given the news this morning, I fear we are in for a very turbulent year. 😑
@masterLEON
It sounds like there is a lot of effort put into those MAME and MISTer things, which I can appreciate, even if I've barely used those ROMs over the years (my plate is full as it is with normal commercial releases from NA, Japan, and the EU). I definitely salute those folks out there preserving games that have been left behind and just aren't available anymore, except for paying hundreds of dollars for a used arcade board or rare cartridge.
The only downside to that is making these rare games available for free can result in some people taking things for granted or feeling entitled. Then, when a legitimate, hard-working company like Hamster comes along and wants to charge a fair standard price for each game they port for the gaming public, the boo birds come out.
I understand to an extent, especially for those people with no emotional attachment for older games. But for every Hamster release like Space Invaders which feels a little expensive because I own it elsewhere already, there's titles like Assault or Frogger which I've gotten $30.00 value from, easily. Everyone has those certain old games that they love dearly. Hopefully Hamster brings out more and more of those special games for everyone as time goes by.
P.S. I've noticed on a lot of the AkeAka titles I've purchased that you can view scans of the vintage Japanese arcade instruction cards in the options menu. It's great to hear that they've started to integrate them into the wallpapers!
This week’s “Arcade Archiver” livestream fell right on Japan’s biggest holiday of the year (New Year’s Day) but as always, the show went on. Hamster President Hamada noted that normally, the first title they release each year is a game from Nichibutsu or Video Systems or some other Hamster-owned IP (last year was Castle of Dragon by Athena Co.) in order to avoid troubling any publishing partners during the new year holiday week. I’d say it shows just how closely Hamster works with Taito now - Space Invaders Part 2 is the 63rd Taito release on AkeAka, behind only SNK(105 games) and Namco (87). They had 2 guests from Taito and 2 more from Game Center Mikado join the stream today, filmed off-site as they shared a holiday meal together and carried on like old friends. 😁
Also, we will be getting 53 AkeAka releases this year, because there are 53 Thursdays in 2026! Both New Year’s Day and Dec 31st fall on Thursdays. I’ll be looking forward to what they bring us.
@masterLEON So well put - thank you, my friend! I hope I didn't sound too dismissive of fans dumping ROMs onto the internet - I have almost zero experience with MAME or playing unlicensed emulations, and I'm not sure how much effort is involved. I certainly respect the truly dedicated fans who love these old games probably even more than I do, and take time to optimize things to get as close to arcade-perfect as possible.
I definitely agree with you that Hamster's offerings will appeal most to a certain demographic, namely old folks who've actually encountered these quarter-munching games in arcades in the past, now mostly all gone. Pleading for coins as a kid, only to deposit them in the flashy arcade cabinet and often lose your 3 lives in mere moments, and then be teased by the game's attract mode — well, that left me with a lot of unresolved emotions that resulted in many happy $8 purchases of Arcade Archive titles so far as an adult. It also made me appreciate games and pushed me to excel at them, too, because I wanted to stretch those quarters out as long as possible!
Games really do stir emotions, too. Isn't it funny how we imprint on games we shared during childhood with our friends or relatives? To this day, I still clearly remember sharing a game of SNK's Vanguard and Konami's Tutankham at different pizza parlors with my dad (he hated video games, so those were rare occasions).
Now that you mention it, I have some Jpn eshop credit left over, too, so I might still consider getting Invaders or Invaders 2 yet. It would be nice to have one or the other with easy access on my Switch 2.
First Zion and now Felix? What a bummer! Though I thought I detected a melancholic glint in Felix’s eyes lately. I’ll have to watch the farewell video tonight.
Whatever the circumstances, Felix, it’s been a joy watching your videos and banter with the NL crew, and I’ll miss you. Wishing you much happiness and success as you continue down life’s road!
@RoboCube
As people here more informed than I (thank you @masterLEON ) have said, Hamster is NOT just running a cash grab. They do put in the work to earn their money.
As for the cost, well, it’s a value proposition that varies person-to-person, right? For some, $8 for a meticulously emulated Space Invaders (or $10 for the AkeAka2 version with modest extra features) is absolutely worth it. And that is not for you nor I to criticize.
Personally, I already have the Invincible Collection (the Strictly Limited Games version with the extra games included) and I enjoy Space Invaders on my Taito Egret II Mini, so I’m not buying this AkeAka port. But I sure as hell won’t begrudge people who do!
I didn't notice this game back in May, and after seeing some screenshots later I still wasn't quite sure what to make of it — thanks for letting me know that Pippit isn't a rabbit! But I've heard lots of positive buzz about the game subsequently, and upon seeing the ricocheting yo-yo mechanic and then the trailer recently, I was sold. I'm just waiting for my physical copy to come in.
I think the last yo-yo wielding game I played was Rygar on the NES. (ok, technically that was a "disc-armor" weapon...)
@RoboCube I’m afraid you lost me at “not hard work” and “drip feed.” Ripping code from the original boards, emulating the peculiarities and dip switches, often including 2 versions (Jpn and Western) of the game, including mappable controls and save states, rapid fire, yoko/taté screen options, online leaderboards, and other features while optimizing/playtesting for several platforms AND all the while working on several titles simultaneously so that they can maintain a game a week release schedule — that does not sound easy to me. They’re not hobbyists dumping stuff onto MAME at their leisure. Nor do I feel a game EVERY WEEK should be construed as a “drip feed.” I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re the most prolific publisher on the major platforms!
You’re right in that Capcom’s Arcade Stadium and probably some other collections are cheaper per game, but those are 1st party affairs with no middleman, easily discounted at the IP holder’s discretion. Hamster has brought together hundreds of games selected from pretty much every Japanese arcade developer that’s not Sega or Capcom.
You and I may not have the same sense of value when it comes to these ports, but let’s try to give Hamster some due credit at least.
I can understand why some people are critical of the $8 per game pricing — I’ve purchased 39 Ake-Aka titles to date, but the majority of them were on sale. My count would be much higher if the base price was a little less!
But it’s truly miraculous what Hamster Corp is producing - publishing a meticulously emulated arcade game (sourced directly from original PCBs) on multiple platforms (including NSW, S2, PS4, PS5, XB) every Thursday without fail since March 3, 2017. And live-streaming for 2+ hours every Thursday night (JST) about their game of the week. It’s a mind-blowing accomplishment, and I can’t begrudge their asking price. I love supporting this company!
Like @MontyCircus recommended, it’s good to take advantage of Hamster’s sales that they offer on select titles a few times each year. Also, the physical collections of Ake-Aka games (Taito Milestones Vols 1-4, ACA NEOGEO Selection vols 1-10) usually are more economical if you can find them.
I was guessing a licensed arcade game like Macross II or a late 90s Namco or Taito title, but selecting Space Invaders to commemorate #500 made perfect sense, given it was such a momentous title. I never realized that Hamster hadn’t ported it yet!
I’ve watched the Arcade Archives livestream at least a little bit every Thursday for years now, and this week’s episode was exceptional since they brought Space Invaders director Nishikado-san on as honored guest to talk about the game’s development and success. Did you know he originally wanted to title the game “Space Monsters” and that’s why the cabinets had that black fuzzy humanoid creature on the side panel art? But he went with the “Invaders” title and aliens that look like octopus and crabs instead, as that better fit the times back then.
@Ooyah @Freek I was only 5 when SI debuted. I think I first played it in 1980 or 1981 - my uncle managed a country club and put an Invaders cabinet in the clubhouse for the members back in the early arcade boom. The bartenders would give me and my cousins a few quarters from the cash register so we could play it when we visited. That machine, or else a random Pac-Man cabinet at a relative’s wedding reception, was the first arcade game I ever played. Atari, Coleco, and Arcade were my holy trinity until the NES came along. Folks our age truly have grown up alongside the games industry!
Sorry, Hino-san, I firmly hold the belief that “AI is evil” and I’ll promote that belief to anybody who’ll listen. It may hamper the type of game creation advancement you’re seeking, but it could save countless jobs and preserve the soul and creativity of the games industry.
@Tempestryke I just ordered a copy of Pipistrello online from VGP, and it was on sale! I’ve had multiple orders with them that have gone well, and no tariffs for me in the USA as of yet. Might be a good option if you can’t find a copy locally. 😁
@Rainz Thankfully, my snowblower started up for me, too! I shoveled a bit and then got the beast out of the garage to do my driveway and help out the neighbors. It was actually a Christmas gift from my dad like 10 years ago - a gift that keeps on giving! Hope you’re enjoying some relaxing and Prime 4 and other good games this evening.
Christmas came and went in a flash of last-minute preparations, friendly visits, and shredded gift wrap. Xmas night and Boxing Day finally I basked in some relaxation time, and though I intended to play something meaty like Metroid Prime 4 or Absolum, all I managed was some Sega Picross and a bit of Namco’s clever platform battler The Outfoxies on Arcade Archives.
Santa left me Octopath Traveler Zero under the tree, but I’m saving that epic for later.
I hope everyone is enjoying the Holidays so far! I’m wishing all NL staff and friends much health, prosperity, and fun gaming in the New Year.
I must be brief as we got 5 inches of snow last night, and the driveway doesn’t shovel itself!
🕹️⛄️❄️
Merry Christmas everybody! Wishing you all a holly jolly time with friends & family.today.
The gift opening frenzy has subsided here now and I’m ready for a nap! 😴 Santa brought my younger daughter Pokémon ZA and a couple other expensive Switch games, yet right now she’s playing MagiCat, a 99¢ eShop purchase from years ago. 😊🎄
I keep waiting for Blade Chimera to get a physical release! We had Drainus and Lodoss War: Deedlit on cartridge far sooner. What’s the hold up?
Coincidentally, this list overlaps a lot with this week’s episode of Brian Shea/Game Informer’s “All Things Nintendo” podcast — they covered a list of the top eShop indie gems of 2025. If I already didn’t have too much to play right now, I’d be looking closely at some of the titles corroborated here. 😁
That’s a red flag right there, then. Nintendo marketed the S2 as a more premium product for grown ups. Don’t we deserve our grown up games?
There is a difference between “mature” and “hentai” games. I would hope that Nintendo can discern, and if they must censor, to do so accordingly. Neutering Dispatch while leaving “HOT HENTAI DDD NURSES OF AMBIGUOUS AGE” intact front and center on the eShop is going to enrage people.
Hopefully this is nothing more than ESRB hand-wringing over key art, but I’ll be waiting to hear if they neutered the content of this port before deciding to buy.
I’m one of the killjoys - AI is a plague that will inflict far more harm than good, but tragically, humanity lacks the collective prescience and will needed to pull ourselves out of this death spiral. Makes me want to burn my smartphone, just thinking about it. Keep genAI out of games, by all means. I think it should be completely abolished from every aspect of life, were I given the choice.
I got Ice Climber as a Xmas gift from my aunt in like ‘86 or so, and when I unwrapped it I was so disappointed that it was a “boring” black-box game and not a flashy-looking shoot ‘em up or Rush n’Attack or something “cool.”
And then I played it 2-player, and my siblings and I all had a very good cut-throat time with it! It went on to be one of my most memorable NES games.
One of many games from my adolescence that I dearly wish I retained. So thank you, Aunt B!
‘‘Twas the weekend before Christmas, And my energy’s about spent, Still wrapping, still shopping, But at least the Christmas cards are sent!
Meanwhile Sega Picross is in a panic, Samus Aran’s in a huff, Wondering why friend Teksette deserted, Fretting over stockings unstuffed.
But dreary years need festive times, The fuss worth it in the end, And so I wish everyone the Happiest of Holidays, Filled with loved ones, and good games, and good friends! 🕹️🎄👾
@FrenchVaniIIuxe Oh come now, you mustn’t think that Hollywood box office results are the sole determinant for good/bad superhero year. The FF and Superman movies were entertaining enough, there’s good games that released, and there’s still plenty of comics in circulation.
As a matter of fact, Dynamite Comics announced they are starting a Thundarr the Barbarian series next year — that alone makes this a good superhero year for me! 😁
I feel you! I loved the Superman and Fantastic Four movies this year, and I cannot wait to play Cosmic Invasion. I’m stubbornly holding off until I can pick up my physical edition of the game in March, but from what I’ve heard, and especially after hearing what you’ve shared in this editorial, I’m know I’m going to play the heck out of it!
The excitement even got me to seek out the Annihilation comics for some reading to whet my appetite. 🤓
I got as far as the colosseum boss before I drifted off to attend other new games that came in late this year. I was really loving it, though, and looking forward to going back to it this winter! The tweaks and little bit of extra content can only help.
There are so many factors at work here - tariffs, inflation, STAGflation, government shutdown and overall chaos, AI resource-gobbling, a middle class being strangled, and American consumers' lack of confidence all come to mind - but also Sony has been offering pretty aggressive discounts on the different PS5 models. They've been $100-$150 off at different retailers since before Black Friday. I saw PS5 Slim systems with a disc drive and extra controller priced at $450, equivalent to a discounted S2 + MKW bundle.
I've been basically Nintendo-only since the PS3 days, but even I was tempted to buy one of those enormous white Sony monoliths at those prices.
Hopefully the rumors are true - despite this new AI demand for our memory storage media (and electricity, and water, and arable land, just sayin...), having more S2 cart sizes available could help mitigate this GKC plague, even if only a little.
I don't often play titles that skew towards visual novels, but this looks like a fun superhero homage! I'll watchlist this for sure and hope we eventually get a physical version.
It really is a short list! But some decent games for sure.
I’m really looking forward to Cosmic Invasion, when the physical edition arrives in March. Just the fact that we’ve got Silver Surfer and Beta Ray Bill in a beat em up is enough to excite me!
I put a lot of time into Ultimate Alliance 3 and would snap up a sequel to that.
@Zeeba Yes you nailed it! Games have always been a good escape for me. I tend to enjoy creative fantasy and sci-fi titles, and steer away from more realistic, cinematic fare. Although I do appreciate a decent simulation, too - I played Silent Service on the NES as much as I played Blaster Master or SMB 2. Lego Voyagers piqued my interest a little, but I don’t think I’d want to solo it and my kiddos probably wouldn’t be interested.
I’ve settled into playing Prime 4 and Sega Picross, but every moment spent gaming is tinged with guilt as there is so much Christmas prep or other year-end matters to attend to. It’s hard being an incurable procrastinator! C’est la vie.
Wishing all NL friends plenty of leisure time and an enjoyable weekend with your fave games! 🕹️👾
@SpecialT @Chlocean This Pragmata trailer was pretty much my first exposure to “sad dad” games, too. I guess Nintendo players will be introduced to the genre finally in the S2 generation. So yay for some people?
The trailer didn’t appeal to me, though - the little (robot?) girl’s design is weird and would probably creep out my daughters irl. And why is daddy wearing the grotesque power armor and fighting fascist metal gear mechs? It doesn’t seem like the kind of uplifting experience I’d want after living through 2025 America. 😓
Thanks Tom, for another insightful review! A "7" is no problemo in my book and I'll look forward to going on a few old-fashioned runs in the game when my calendar clears up a bit (there's too many games right now!).
Looks cute! It reminds me of 80s space anime like Dirty Pair. Like everyone else, though, I’ve got no-one to co-op with! My daughters are probably not going to want to spend time with it.
Maybe it’s just my nostalgia for the late eighties, but Jaws, to this day, remains one of my favorite NES games. Right up there with Friday the 13th. An LJN licensed game had no right being as fun as it was back then!
I’m happy they left the original version of the game intact and I most definitely will be preordering this. This is the type of physical release I’m willing to wait for!
@Fake-news I have to give credit where it’s due, though. Just a few hours after posting my SLG grumble above, I get home to find a SLG-branded package on my front step! It was Dezatopia & Mecha Ritz, another preorder I’ve waited 3+ years for, immaculately packaged in an oversized box and bubble wrap. Even better, they included a coupon apologizing for the long wait and giving me a 10 euro coupon code to use on a future order. (And no tariffs charged to me, either.)
So that was a nice gesture! It seems like they’re sincerely trying to dig out of the hole they’re in.
Now just send my Ray’z Chronology, Steel Empire Chronicles, and Eschatos, and all will be forgiven!
I’ll be preordering this, R-Type Tactics 1&2 Cosmos, and Taito Milestones 4 from Japan. They all release around the same time in March 2026.
Strictly Limited Games is also offering preorders for this R-Type III renewal, but my patience has about run out with them. I’ve been waiting for my copy of Ray’z Arcade Chronology from them since July 2022. ☹️
Isn't the world of corporate mergers and acquisitions wonderful?? Now businesses and IP built on the blood, sweat, and tears of hundreds, if not thousands, of people (thinking specifically of the works of Midway / Atari Games) is dumped again, into the portfolio of media conglomerate corpos who don't give a damn, except for the dividends they'll pocket from the deal.
I’ve had a Switch 1 Skyrim cart sitting on the shelf for years, unplayed. I can’t handle any more huge games at the moment, but when I finally give Skyrim a shot, I will have to go with this upgrade.
I’ve never played this game, but I’m going with Japan on this one, as it shows the playfield in more color and detail. As a pinball fan, that’s what I want to see! Plus it has a couple of metroids floating about, and I dig what looks like the ballsave electric field.
The NA/Europe cover isn’t bad, but the table is washed out, and Samus is placed on the opposite side of those chunky flippers from us, making her look like a target to bash!
Either way, I should seek this game out sometime. My DS still works. I just always thought MPP was a GBA title, and I’ve never owned that handheld. And I didn’t know rumble packs for the DS were a thing!
@Nambit That rots that Wally’s screwed you over like that! FWIW, my local GameStop had at least 20 extra copies of the S2 physical Prime 4 on Thursday night.
I’m glad at least you can take solace in Pinball FX. I totally agree that STTNG is one of the best pins ever, and fun to play on Switch or the deuce.
Comments 3,009
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (10th January)
@Duncanballs
Thank you truly for the heads up about Labyrinth 40th Anniversary screenings! I’ve watched that gem on DVD with the kiddos a few times, but never on the big screen. I’ll see if I can motivate them to go to the theater with me tonight!
“You remind me of the babe!” 😁
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (10th January)
It’s a rainy weekend here which I’d just love to spend meandering on the couch with different games. The usual chores await, though, and I’m obligated to take down the Xmas tree and decorations or the neighbors will think I’m weird. Er, know I’m weird.
I’ve trailed off of Metroid Prime 4 a bit. It was the holiday sale’s fault. On the final sale day, I caved and bought 4 long-watchlisted eShop games at great prices: Barony, Black Skylands, Kingdom Eighties, and Wall World.
I didn’t need the games right now, but Holiday Tradition! I must get my cheap & good game purchases. And they’ll never make physicals of those, so the time was right.
So most likely Samus will have to keep doing laps on her vi-o-la this weekend while I dabble in my new indie purchases, ACA NEOGEO Selection games, and a Sega Picross puzzle or two.
Wishing everyone a peaceful and pleasing post-holiday pursuit, per your prerogative! 🕹️❤️👾
Re: Mario Tennis On Switch 2 Has 38 Playable Characters – "The Most In Series History"
I’m gambling and decided to preorder Tennis Fever because of the big roster and single-player mode.
I swear, though - for $70, this game had best feel content-complete at launch, or it will be the last Mario sports game I buy at full price. If I pop in the cartridge and it seems like a hollow online trial in need of a year’s worth of patches and DLC,, like so many of the Switch-generation sports games, I’m out.
Yes, I’m grumpy this morning! 😤
Re: Capcom Arcade Stadium Physical Features Five Cover Options, But Which Is Your Favourite?
@CammyUnofficial
This physical collection is only the 32 games bundled into the original "Capcom Arcade Stadium."
I hope and would expect to see a second physical volume that will contain the 30 games that are part of the "Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium."
Re: Capcom Arcade Stadium Physical Features Five Cover Options, But Which Is Your Favourite?
I'm torn between the Ghouls 'n Ghosts cover and the Arcade Stadium one. Although if we had a Forgotten Worlds cover, that would have been my number 1, easily.
I've enjoyed dallying in Arcade Stadium vols. 1 and 2 digitally for a few years now, and always wanted these physically for the shelf. Between this and Zen Studios' Williams Pinball physical collections which LRG offered a couple weeks ago, I'd say the publisher is doing good work! I'd prefer regular retail releases, of course, but if this is the only way to get these physical games, I'll take it.
My personal experience with LRG has been fine - they've always followed through on my numerous orders over the years, even if it has been as much as a year's wait at times. But I'm located in the US, so their international service/rates are not an issue for me.
Re: Arcade Archives Celebrates 500 Retro Releases With Special Commemorative Game
@masterLEON
Can I like your post twice??
Seriously well said, my friend. 👍🏼
Though it will probably fall on deaf ears, I’m afraid.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (3rd January)
My post-holidays weekend will be full of chores — I have to make my front lawn a little less gaudy (farewell till next Xmas, inflatable light-up Snoopy, Grinch, and Rudolph!) - but I’ll continue grinding puzzles in Sega Picross and hopefully start and complete the volcano zone in Metroid Prime 4.
Is there really no way to fast travel back to your home base in Prime 4, or do you just have to ride and hoof it out??
Outside of Switch, I updated my Egret II Mini so I can try out the latest expansion pack of Technos and Data East Arcade games - I’ll see how they measure up to my Taito faves.
If I’m super ambitious, I may try to make a spot near the TV for my new Evercade VS console, too - that and a few arcade collection carts were a late Xmas prezzie to myself that I haven’t played yet.
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! 🕹️🎉👾
Although, given the news this morning, I fear we are in for a very turbulent year. 😑
Re: Last Chance To Grab These 100+ Switch 1 & 2 Games In Nintendo's 'Hits For The Holidays' eShop Sale (North America)
I need no games to play.
Even so I am extremely tempted by Ball X Pit and Silksong.
Even though surely I will be buying those physically one day. 😅
Re: Arcade Archives Celebrates 500 Retro Releases With Special Commemorative Game
@masterLEON
It sounds like there is a lot of effort put into those MAME and MISTer things, which I can appreciate, even if I've barely used those ROMs over the years (my plate is full as it is with normal commercial releases from NA, Japan, and the EU). I definitely salute those folks out there preserving games that have been left behind and just aren't available anymore, except for paying hundreds of dollars for a used arcade board or rare cartridge.
The only downside to that is making these rare games available for free can result in some people taking things for granted or feeling entitled. Then, when a legitimate, hard-working company like Hamster comes along and wants to charge a fair standard price for each game they port for the gaming public, the boo birds come out.
I understand to an extent, especially for those people with no emotional attachment for older games. But for every Hamster release like Space Invaders which feels a little expensive because I own it elsewhere already, there's titles like Assault or Frogger which I've gotten $30.00 value from, easily. Everyone has those certain old games that they love dearly. Hopefully Hamster brings out more and more of those special games for everyone as time goes by.
P.S. I've noticed on a lot of the AkeAka titles I've purchased that you can view scans of the vintage Japanese arcade instruction cards in the options menu. It's great to hear that they've started to integrate them into the wallpapers!
Re: Arcade Archives Celebrates 500 Retro Releases With Special Commemorative Game
This week’s “Arcade Archiver” livestream fell right on Japan’s biggest holiday of the year (New Year’s Day) but as always, the show went on. Hamster President Hamada noted that normally, the first title they release each year is a game from Nichibutsu or Video Systems or some other Hamster-owned IP (last year was Castle of Dragon by Athena Co.) in order to avoid troubling any publishing partners during the new year holiday week. I’d say it shows just how closely Hamster works with Taito now - Space Invaders Part 2 is the 63rd Taito release on AkeAka, behind only SNK(105 games) and Namco (87). They had 2 guests from Taito and 2 more from Game Center Mikado join the stream today, filmed off-site as they shared a holiday meal together and carried on like old friends. 😁
Also, we will be getting 53 AkeAka releases this year, because there are 53 Thursdays in 2026! Both New Year’s Day and Dec 31st fall on Thursdays. I’ll be looking forward to what they bring us.
Re: Editorial: Happy New Year From Nintendo Life
Happy New Year NL friends! 🥳
Re: Arcade Archives Celebrates 500 Retro Releases With Special Commemorative Game
@masterLEON
So well put - thank you, my friend! I hope I didn't sound too dismissive of fans dumping ROMs onto the internet - I have almost zero experience with MAME or playing unlicensed emulations, and I'm not sure how much effort is involved. I certainly respect the truly dedicated fans who love these old games probably even more than I do, and take time to optimize things to get as close to arcade-perfect as possible.
I definitely agree with you that Hamster's offerings will appeal most to a certain demographic, namely old folks who've actually encountered these quarter-munching games in arcades in the past, now mostly all gone. Pleading for coins as a kid, only to deposit them in the flashy arcade cabinet and often lose your 3 lives in mere moments, and then be teased by the game's attract mode — well, that left me with a lot of unresolved emotions that resulted in many happy $8 purchases of Arcade Archive titles so far as an adult. It also made me appreciate games and pushed me to excel at them, too, because I wanted to stretch those quarters out as long as possible!
Games really do stir emotions, too. Isn't it funny how we imprint on games we shared during childhood with our friends or relatives? To this day, I still clearly remember sharing a game of SNK's Vanguard and Konami's Tutankham at different pizza parlors with my dad (he hated video games, so those were rare occasions).
Now that you mention it, I have some Jpn eshop credit left over, too, so I might still consider getting Invaders or Invaders 2 yet. It would be nice to have one or the other with easy access on my Switch 2.
Re: Video: It's Time To Say Goodbye To The Lovely Felix-From-Nintendo-Life
First Zion and now Felix? What a bummer! Though I thought I detected a melancholic glint in Felix’s eyes lately. I’ll have to watch the farewell video tonight.
Whatever the circumstances, Felix, it’s been a joy watching your videos and banter with the NL crew, and I’ll miss you. Wishing you much happiness and success as you continue down life’s road!
Re: Arcade Archives Celebrates 500 Retro Releases With Special Commemorative Game
@RoboCube
As people here more informed than I (thank you @masterLEON ) have said, Hamster is NOT just running a cash grab. They do put in the work to earn their money.
As for the cost, well, it’s a value proposition that varies person-to-person, right? For some, $8 for a meticulously emulated Space Invaders (or $10 for the AkeAka2 version with modest extra features) is absolutely worth it. And that is not for you nor I to criticize.
Personally, I already have the Invincible Collection (the Strictly Limited Games version with the extra games included) and I enjoy Space Invaders on my Taito Egret II Mini, so I’m not buying this AkeAka port. But I sure as hell won’t begrudge people who do!
Re: Feature: "The Yoyo Was Special" - Finding The GBA Magic In 'Pipistrello And The Cursed Yoyo'
I didn't notice this game back in May, and after seeing some screenshots later I still wasn't quite sure what to make of it — thanks for letting me know that Pippit isn't a rabbit!
But I've heard lots of positive buzz about the game subsequently, and upon seeing the ricocheting yo-yo mechanic and then the trailer recently, I was sold. I'm just waiting for my physical copy to come in.
I think the last yo-yo wielding game I played was Rygar on the NES. (ok, technically that was a "disc-armor" weapon...)
Re: Arcade Archives Celebrates 500 Retro Releases With Special Commemorative Game
@RoboCube
I’m afraid you lost me at “not hard work” and “drip feed.” Ripping code from the original boards, emulating the peculiarities and dip switches, often including 2 versions (Jpn and Western) of the game, including mappable controls and save states, rapid fire, yoko/taté screen options, online leaderboards, and other features while optimizing/playtesting for several platforms AND all the while working on several titles simultaneously so that they can maintain a game a week release schedule — that does not sound easy to me. They’re not hobbyists dumping stuff onto MAME at their leisure. Nor do I feel a game EVERY WEEK should be construed as a “drip feed.” I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re the most prolific publisher on the major platforms!
You’re right in that Capcom’s Arcade Stadium and probably some other collections are cheaper per game, but those are 1st party affairs with no middleman, easily discounted at the IP holder’s discretion. Hamster has brought together hundreds of games selected from pretty much every Japanese arcade developer that’s not Sega or Capcom.
You and I may not have the same sense of value when it comes to these ports, but let’s try to give Hamster some due credit at least.
Re: Arcade Archives Celebrates 500 Retro Releases With Special Commemorative Game
I can understand why some people are critical of the $8 per game pricing — I’ve purchased 39 Ake-Aka titles to date, but the majority of them were on sale. My count would be much higher if the base price was a little less!
But it’s truly miraculous what Hamster Corp is producing - publishing a meticulously emulated arcade game (sourced directly from original PCBs) on multiple platforms (including NSW, S2, PS4, PS5, XB) every Thursday without fail since March 3, 2017. And live-streaming for 2+ hours every Thursday night (JST) about their game of the week. It’s a mind-blowing accomplishment, and I can’t begrudge their asking price. I love supporting this company!
Like @MontyCircus recommended, it’s good to take advantage of Hamster’s sales that they offer on select titles a few times each year.
Also, the physical collections of Ake-Aka games (Taito Milestones Vols 1-4, ACA NEOGEO Selection vols 1-10) usually are more economical if you can find them.
Re: Arcade Archives Celebrates 500 Retro Releases With Special Commemorative Game
I was guessing a licensed arcade game like Macross II or a late 90s Namco or Taito title, but selecting Space Invaders to commemorate #500 made perfect sense, given it was such a momentous title. I never realized that Hamster hadn’t ported it yet!
I’ve watched the Arcade Archives livestream at least a little bit every Thursday for years now, and this week’s episode was exceptional since they brought Space Invaders director Nishikado-san on as honored guest to talk about the game’s development and success. Did you know he originally wanted to title the game “Space Monsters” and that’s why the cabinets had that black fuzzy humanoid creature on the side panel art? But he went with the “Invaders” title and aliens that look like octopus and crabs instead, as that better fit the times back then.
@Ooyah @Freek
I was only 5 when SI debuted. I think I first played it in 1980 or 1981 - my uncle managed a country club and put an Invaders cabinet in the clubhouse for the members back in the early arcade boom. The bartenders would give me and my cousins a few quarters from the cash register so we could play it when we visited. That machine, or else a random Pac-Man cabinet at a relative’s wedding reception, was the first arcade game I ever played. Atari, Coleco, and Arcade were my holy trinity until the NES came along. Folks our age truly have grown up alongside the games industry!
Re: "A Knife Can Be Used For Cooking Or As A Weapon" - Level-5 Boss Defends GenAI In Game Development
Sorry, Hino-san, I firmly hold the belief that “AI is evil” and I’ll promote that belief to anybody who’ll listen. It may hamper the type of game creation advancement you’re seeking, but it could save countless jobs and preserve the soul and creativity of the games industry.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (27th December)
@Tempestryke
I just ordered a copy of Pipistrello online from VGP, and it was on sale!
I’ve had multiple orders with them that have gone well, and no tariffs for me in the USA as of yet.
Might be a good option if you can’t find a copy locally. 😁
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (27th December)
@Rainz
Thankfully, my snowblower started up for me, too! I shoveled a bit and then got the beast out of the garage to do my driveway and help out the neighbors.
It was actually a Christmas gift from my dad like 10 years ago - a gift that keeps on giving!
Hope you’re enjoying some relaxing and Prime 4 and other good games this evening.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (27th December)
Christmas came and went in a flash of last-minute preparations, friendly visits, and shredded gift wrap. Xmas night and Boxing Day finally I basked in some relaxation time, and though I intended to play something meaty like Metroid Prime 4 or Absolum, all I managed was some Sega Picross and a bit of Namco’s clever platform battler The Outfoxies on Arcade Archives.
Santa left me Octopath Traveler Zero under the tree, but I’m saving that epic for later.
I hope everyone is enjoying the Holidays so far! I’m wishing all NL staff and friends much health, prosperity, and fun gaming in the New Year.
I must be brief as we got 5 inches of snow last night, and the driveway doesn’t shovel itself!
🕹️⛄️❄️
Re: Editorial: Happy Holidays From Everyone At Nintendo Life
Merry Christmas everybody!
Wishing you all a holly jolly time with friends & family.today.
The gift opening frenzy has subsided here now and I’m ready for a nap! 😴
Santa brought my younger daughter Pokémon ZA and a couple other expensive Switch games, yet right now she’s playing MagiCat, a 99¢ eShop purchase from years ago. 😊🎄
Re: 137 Switch 1 & 2 Games You Should Check Out In The 'Hits For The Holidays' Nintendo eShop Sale (US)
@metaphysician
I’m similar! But for me, I count those that I’ve bought and haven’t played yet.
It’s my guilty conscience shining through. 😅
Re: Feature: The Best Hidden Gems And Underrated Switch 1 & 2 Games Of 2025
I keep waiting for Blade Chimera to get a physical release! We had Drainus and Lodoss War: Deedlit on cartridge far sooner. What’s the hold up?
Coincidentally, this list overlaps a lot with this week’s episode of Brian Shea/Game Informer’s “All Things Nintendo” podcast — they covered a list of the top eShop indie gems of 2025. If I already didn’t have too much to play right now, I’d be looking closely at some of the titles corroborated here. 😁
Re: Censored Dispatch Artwork Spotted On Nintendo's Digital Storefront
@angtre
Oh wow, no wonder that drawing looked familiar somehow! I used to read X-Men back then.
Imagine if Marvel censored Jim Lee’s art!! 😂
Re: Censored Dispatch Artwork Spotted On Nintendo's Digital Storefront
That’s a red flag right there, then. Nintendo marketed the S2 as a more premium product for grown ups. Don’t we deserve our grown up games?
There is a difference between “mature” and “hentai” games. I would hope that Nintendo can discern, and if they must censor, to do so accordingly. Neutering Dispatch while leaving “HOT HENTAI DDD NURSES OF AMBIGUOUS AGE” intact front and center on the eShop is going to enrage people.
Hopefully this is nothing more than ESRB hand-wringing over key art, but I’ll be waiting to hear if they neutered the content of this port before deciding to buy.
Re: Talking Point: Does It Bother You That Big Games Companies Are Using GenAI?
I’m one of the killjoys - AI is a plague that will inflict far more harm than good, but tragically, humanity lacks the collective prescience and will needed to pull ourselves out of this death spiral.
Makes me want to burn my smartphone, just thinking about it.
Keep genAI out of games, by all means. I think it should be completely abolished from every aspect of life, were I given the choice.
Re: Poll: Box Art Brawl - Ice Climber
I got Ice Climber as a Xmas gift from my aunt in like ‘86 or so, and when I unwrapped it I was so disappointed that it was a “boring” black-box game and not a flashy-looking shoot ‘em up or Rush n’Attack or something “cool.”
And then I played it 2-player, and my siblings and I all had a very good cut-throat time with it! It went on to be one of my most memorable NES games.
One of many games from my adolescence that I dearly wish I retained. So thank you, Aunt B!
Needless to say, NA box for me this week!
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (20th December)
‘‘Twas the weekend before Christmas,
And my energy’s about spent,
Still wrapping, still shopping,
But at least the Christmas cards are sent!
Meanwhile Sega Picross is in a panic,
Samus Aran’s in a huff,
Wondering why friend Teksette deserted,
Fretting over stockings unstuffed.
But dreary years need festive times,
The fuss worth it in the end,
And so I wish everyone the Happiest of Holidays,
Filled with loved ones, and good games, and good friends!
🕹️🎄👾
Re: Opinion: Marvel Cosmic Invasion Caps Off A Great Year To Be A Superhero Fan
@FrenchVaniIIuxe
Oh come now, you mustn’t think that Hollywood box office results are the sole determinant for good/bad superhero year. The FF and Superman movies were entertaining enough, there’s good games that released, and there’s still plenty of comics in circulation.
As a matter of fact, Dynamite Comics announced they are starting a Thundarr the Barbarian series next year — that alone makes this a good superhero year for me! 😁
Re: Opinion: Marvel Cosmic Invasion Caps Off A Great Year To Be A Superhero Fan
I feel you! I loved the Superman and Fantastic Four movies this year, and I cannot wait to play Cosmic Invasion. I’m stubbornly holding off until I can pick up my physical edition of the game in March, but from what I’ve heard, and especially after hearing what you’ve shared in this editorial, I’m know I’m going to play the heck out of it!
The excitement even got me to seek out the Annihilation comics for some reading to whet my appetite. 🤓
Re: Nintendo Has A Game-Key Card Alternative In The Works With Smaller Switch 2 Carts
@Nintoz
Better than getting GKC (Game Key Coal) for Xmas!
Thank you, Santa!!
Re: Absolum's First Major Update Arrives Early Next Year, Here's What's Included
I got as far as the colosseum boss before I drifted off to attend other new games that came in late this year. I was really loving it, though, and looking forward to going back to it this winter! The tweaks and little bit of extra content can only help.
Re: The US Suffered Its Worst November Since 1995 In Terms Of Hardware Sales
There are so many factors at work here - tariffs, inflation, STAGflation, government shutdown and overall chaos, AI resource-gobbling, a middle class being strangled, and American consumers' lack of confidence all come to mind - but also Sony has been offering pretty aggressive discounts on the different PS5 models. They've been $100-$150 off at different retailers since before Black Friday. I saw PS5 Slim systems with a disc drive and extra controller priced at $450, equivalent to a discounted S2 + MKW bundle.
I've been basically Nintendo-only since the PS3 days, but even I was tempted to buy one of those enormous white Sony monoliths at those prices.
Re: Rumour: A Game-Key Card Alternative? Nintendo May Have Smaller Switch 2 Carts In The Works
Hopefully the rumors are true - despite this new AI demand for our memory storage media (and electricity, and water, and arable land, just sayin...), having more S2 cart sizes available could help mitigate this GKC plague, even if only a little.
Re: Beloved Superhero Comedy Dispatch Is Seemingly Flying Onto Switch 2 Next Year
I don't often play titles that skew towards visual novels, but this looks like a fun superhero homage! I'll watchlist this for sure and hope we eventually get a physical version.
Re: Best Nintendo Switch Marvel Games
It really is a short list! But some decent games for sure.
I’m really looking forward to Cosmic Invasion, when the physical edition arrives in March. Just the fact that we’ve got Silver Surfer and Beta Ray Bill in a beat em up is enough to excite me!
I put a lot of time into Ultimate Alliance 3 and would snap up a sequel to that.
Re: Surprise! Capcom Is Bringing Pragmata To Switch 2, amiibo And Demo Also Confirmed
@Zeeba
Yes you nailed it! Games have always been a good escape for me. I tend to enjoy creative fantasy and sci-fi titles, and steer away from more realistic, cinematic fare. Although I do appreciate a decent simulation, too - I played Silent Service on the NES as much as I played Blaster Master or SMB 2.
Lego Voyagers piqued my interest a little, but I don’t think I’d want to solo it and my kiddos probably wouldn’t be interested.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (13th December)
I’ve settled into playing Prime 4 and Sega Picross, but every moment spent gaming is tinged with guilt as there is so much Christmas prep or other year-end matters to attend to. It’s hard being an incurable procrastinator! C’est la vie.
Wishing all NL friends plenty of leisure time and an enjoyable weekend with your fave games! 🕹️👾
Re: Surprise! Capcom Is Bringing Pragmata To Switch 2, amiibo And Demo Also Confirmed
@SpecialT @Chlocean
This Pragmata trailer was pretty much my first exposure to “sad dad” games, too. I guess Nintendo players will be introduced to the genre finally in the S2 generation. So yay for some people?
The trailer didn’t appeal to me, though - the little (robot?) girl’s design is weird and would probably creep out my daughters irl. And why is daddy wearing the grotesque power armor and fighting fascist metal gear mechs? It doesn’t seem like the kind of uplifting experience I’d want after living through 2025 America. 😓
Re: Review: Terminator 2D: NO FATE (Switch) - A Simplistic Yet Fascinating 16-Bit Love Letter
Thanks Tom, for another insightful review! A "7" is no problemo in my book and I'll look forward to going on a few old-fashioned runs in the game when my calendar clears up a bit (there's too many games right now!).
Re: 'Orbitals' Brings Awesome-Looking Asymmetrical Co-Op Anime Antics To Switch 2 Next Year
Looks cute! It reminds me of 80s space anime like Dirty Pair.
Like everyone else, though, I’ve got no-one to co-op with! My daughters are probably not going to want to spend time with it.
Re: Limited Run Games Is Bringing NES 'Jaws' To Switch In "Massively Expanded" Form
Maybe it’s just my nostalgia for the late eighties, but Jaws, to this day, remains one of my favorite NES games. Right up there with Friday the 13th.
An LJN licensed game had no right being as fun as it was back then!
I’m happy they left the original version of the game intact and I most definitely will be preordering this. This is the type of physical release I’m willing to wait for!
Re: R-Type Dimensions III Blasts Its Way Onto Switch Consoles Next May
@Fake-news
I have to give credit where it’s due, though.
Just a few hours after posting my SLG grumble above, I get home to find a SLG-branded package on my front step!
It was Dezatopia & Mecha Ritz, another preorder I’ve waited 3+ years for, immaculately packaged in an oversized box and bubble wrap.
Even better, they included a coupon apologizing for the long wait and giving me a 10 euro coupon code to use on a future order. (And no tariffs charged to me, either.)
So that was a nice gesture! It seems like they’re sincerely trying to dig out of the hole they’re in.
Now just send my Ray’z Chronology, Steel Empire Chronicles, and Eschatos, and all will be forgiven!
Re: R-Type Dimensions III Blasts Its Way Onto Switch Consoles Next May
I’ll be preordering this, R-Type Tactics 1&2 Cosmos, and Taito Milestones 4 from Japan. They all release around the same time in March 2026.
Strictly Limited Games is also offering preorders for this R-Type III renewal, but my patience has about run out with them.
I’ve been waiting for my copy of Ray’z Arcade Chronology from them since July 2022. ☹️
Re: Netflix "Didn't Attribute Any Value" To Warner Bros. Games In Acquisition Deal
Isn't the world of corporate mergers and acquisitions wonderful?? Now businesses and IP built on the blood, sweat, and tears of hundreds, if not thousands, of people (thinking specifically of the works of Midway / Atari Games) is dumped again, into the portfolio of media conglomerate corpos who don't give a damn, except for the dividends they'll pocket from the deal.
Re: Surprise! 'Skyrim Anniversary Edition' Lands On Switch 2 Today
I’ve had a Switch 1 Skyrim cart sitting on the shelf for years, unplayed. I can’t handle any more huge games at the moment, but when I finally give Skyrim a shot, I will have to go with this upgrade.
Re: Poll: Box Art Brawl: Duel - Metroid Prime Pinball
I’ve never played this game, but I’m going with Japan on this one, as it shows the playfield in more color and detail. As a pinball fan, that’s what I want to see! Plus it has a couple of metroids floating about, and I dig what looks like the ballsave electric field.
The NA/Europe cover isn’t bad, but the table is washed out, and Samus is placed on the opposite side of those chunky flippers from us, making her look like a target to bash!
Either way, I should seek this game out sometime. My DS still works. I just always thought MPP was a GBA title, and I’ve never owned that handheld. And I didn’t know rumble packs for the DS were a thing!
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (6th December)
@Nambit
That rots that Wally’s screwed you over like that!
FWIW, my local GameStop had at least 20 extra copies of the S2 physical Prime 4 on Thursday night.
I’m glad at least you can take solace in Pinball FX. I totally agree that STTNG is one of the best pins ever, and fun to play on Switch or the deuce.