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Game Over? How Trump's Tariffs Are Powering Up Retro Gaming Gear Prices
PLUS: Bobby Ivar’s Epic 3D Super Mario World Re-Creation: A Year in the Making
Fun Fact: Did you know that the legendary Konami Code—Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A—was originally created as a testing tool? One of the developers at Konami used it in the game Gradius (1985) to give themselves extra lives while testing. Over the years, it evolved into a cultural phenomenon that’s been referenced in hundreds of video games, websites, and even TV shows!
In today’s email:
Bobby Ivar’s Epic 3D Super Mario World Re-Creation: A Year in the Making
Bobby Ivar took on a bold challenge—remaking the classic Super Mario World in full 3D using Unreal Engine 5. His year-long project transforms a beloved 2D classic into an immersive, modern experience. Let’s dive into his creative journey and see what makes this project so thrilling.
The Spark of Inspiration
Ivar’s journey started with a simple idea.
He loved the original game’s magic.
But he wanted more—3D depth, dynamic movement, and a fresh perspective.
Maybe it’s the nostalgia. Maybe it’s the thrill of reimagining a classic. Either way, he went all in.
Turning 2D Classics into 3D Masterpieces

A Year of Hard Work
I spent a year watching Bobby turn every element of Super Mario World into 3D art.
He began by converting those classic 2D tiles into 3D versions, creating an intuitive level-building tool.
Key Innovations
Mario’s 3D Transformation: Every detail matters. Bobby reimagined Mario’s movements with precision.
Dynamic Yoshi: He even coded Yoshi’s tongue to interact with random objects—plus added multi-colored variants because, as he said, “they’re so cute.”
Re-Engineered Environments: From mysterious caves to iconic clouds, each environment is reinterpreted with a modern twist.
This approach not only honors the original design but pushes the boundaries of what fans can expect from a remake.
The Creative Process in Action
Bobby’s videos are proof of his dedication.
He breaks down each step, explaining the process in clear, engaging detail:
Level-by-Level Breakdown:
Starting with Level 1 and 2, he meticulously 3D-ifies every asset.
Yoshi’s Island gets a full overhaul, creating new, dynamic gameplay moments.
Technical Tweaks:
Fine-tuning character movements.
Adjusting environment interactions, like the Monty Mole’s patterns and Piranha Plant encounters.
Community Love:
Fans are raving. “This is incredible! You did an outstanding job reimagining the original look,” one comment reads.
The excitement is real—many are asking him to expand the project even further.
Why This Remake Matters
Bobby Ivar’s project isn’t just a fan tribute—it’s a lesson in creativity and technical skill.
Here’s why it stands out:
Innovation Meets Nostalgia: He combines modern 3D technology with the charm of a 1990 classic.
Actionable Inspiration: Aspiring game developers can learn from his clear, step-by-step approach.
Community Impact: The positive feedback and growing interest signal a real hunger for reimagined classics.
If you’re into game design or simply love Mario, this project is a must-watch.
Bobby Ivar’s 3D remake of Super Mario World shows that even the classics can be reinvented.
His work is a powerful reminder: Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and bring new life to old favorites.
Whether you’re a developer, a gamer, or a creative soul, take a page from his playbook.
Experiment, innovate, and most importantly—enjoy the journey.
Feeling inspired? Dive into his videos and see the magic for yourself.
Don’t wait—start creating something extraordinary today!
Beating the Unbeatable: How Speedrunner Kosmic Revealed Donkey Kong’s Kill Screen Isn’t the End
When I first heard that Kosmic, the renowned speedrunner, had cracked the infamous Donkey Kong kill screen, I couldn’t believe my ears. For decades, gamers thought that reaching level 22 meant the game was over. Well, not so fast.
What’s the Kill Screen All About?
Donkey Kong, the classic 1981 arcade game, is known for its deadly final hurdle. On level 22—displayed in-game as the 117th board—a bug causes the bonus timer to drop to nearly nothing. In simple terms, Mario (a.k.a. Jumpman) is doomed before he can rescue Pauline.
Quick Fact: The timer bug gives you only seconds to complete the level, making it nearly impossible to succeed without a miracle.
Kosmic’s Breakthrough
I’ve been a longtime fan of retro gaming, and nothing excites me more than a new twist on an old classic. Kosmic’s latest discovery involves a broken ladder glitch—yes, you read that right. By exploiting this glitch, he showed that the kill screen can actually be bypassed.
How did he do it?
It’s all about precision and a little bit of luck. Kosmic discovered that if you:
Hold down for exactly four frames,
Tap up on the very next frame,
Repeat this maneuver a staggering 90 times, you can defy what was once believed to be the absolute end of the game.
The trick sounds wild. In fact, it’s almost as if the game’s old-school programming decided to give you a tiny loophole after 44 years of no hope. It might be too perfect to execute on a real arcade cabinet, but in an emulator with tool assistance, Kosmic proved it works.
The Odds Are Astronomical
Ever feel like you’re trying to win a lottery? That’s exactly what it takes here. To pull off this trick, you need:
Donkey Kong to delay his barrel toss (about a one-in-three chance),
Then an even slimmer one-in-32 chance for an extra delay,
And, of course, flawless execution on the ladder glitch.
The math is brutal. These conditions combined mean that without a tool-assisted speedrun, even the most seasoned players would struggle to beat the kill screen.
Why This Matters
Kosmic’s achievement isn’t just a quirky trick—it challenges long-held beliefs about the limits of classic gaming. It proves that even a nearly perfected system like Donkey Kong’s can hold surprises. It reminds us that in gaming (and in life), what looks like the end might just be another beginning.
After 44 Years, it's finally possible to get past the Kill Screen in Donkey Kong. Video in reply explains how! 🙂
— Kosmic (@Kosmicd12)
2:33 AM • Feb 1, 2025
Key Takeaways
Innovation Over Tradition: Sometimes the very glitches you dread are gateways to new achievements.
Precision is King: Every frame counts when you’re trying to outsmart decades of game design.
Never Say Die: If you think it’s impossible, just remember Kosmic’s breakthrough and keep pushing the limits.
What’s Next?
I can’t wait to see how the gaming community builds on this discovery. Will new record attempts be made using this strategy? Or will it inspire even more creative glitches? One thing’s for sure: the conversation about Donkey Kong just got a whole lot more interesting.
If you’re as inspired as I am, take a moment to rewatch some classic speedruns and marvel at the creativity and dedication of gamers like Kosmic. It’s proof that with enough ingenuity and a little bit of luck, even the toughest obstacles can be overcome.
Game Over? How Trump's Tariffs Are Powering Up Retro Gaming Gear Prices
Pricing becomes very tricky. Say the tariffs go into effect tomorrow and we get a shipment the next day. Then for whatever negotiating reasons the tariffs get repealed a week later. Our costs are still higher, but customers will only see that the tariffs are repealed.
— hdretrovision (@HDRetrovision)
6:41 PM • Feb 3, 2025
Retro gaming has always been about nostalgia and keeping things affordable. But now, with Trump’s tariffs in play, your favorite retro gear might cost a lot more. This isn’t just theory—it’s happening right now.
What’s Going On?
Trump’s administration has rolled out new tariffs on imported goods.
These tariffs target products from China—and since most retro gaming components come from overseas, it hits home.
What does this mean for you?
Prices for retro consoles, mod kits, and even vintage cables are on the rise.
Direct Impact: Higher costs for components.
Indirect Impact: Manufacturers may raise retail prices.
Speed: The change is coming fast. One minute you’re stocking up on retro gear, and the next, your wallet feels lighter.
How Retro Gaming Gear Gets Hit
I remember when retro handhelds cost next to nothing. Now, many manufacturers are feeling the pinch.
This hurts.
Small companies like those making DIY mod kits and specialty cables for vintage systems are caught in the crossfire.
Seeing lots of questions about US tariffs on handhelds, especially because the de minimis exception (which previously allowed the 25% tariff to not apply to handhelds) is suspended. With the additional 10% increase, we are potentially looking at a 35% increase in handheld prices
— Retro Game Corps (@RetroGameCorps)
12:19 AM • Feb 3, 2025
Key Areas Affected
Handheld Consoles:
Prices for devices like portable emulators and mini consoles could jump by as much as 35%.
That means your next retro handheld might cost nearly 40% more than before.
Cables & Accessories:
Essential AV cables and adapters for vintage systems are seeing rising costs.
Every extra buck makes a difference when margins are slim.
Component Parts:
Rare chips, controllers, and even plastic shells—most are imported from abroad.
Increased tariffs mean these parts get pricier, and manufacturers pass those costs on.
“I’ve seen prices creeping up on my favorite retro gear, and it’s not just inflation—it’s tariffs.”
— A fellow retro enthusiast
What This Means for Collectors and Gamers
Maybe you’re thinking, “I love retro gaming, but I can’t afford to pay extra.”
The tariffs aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet—they hit real collectors and gamers every day.
Budget Constraints:
Small businesses and collectors might have to choose between quality and affordability.Market Shifts:
Manufacturers may shift production to domestic facilities. But that takes time—and costs more in the meantime.The Waiting Game:
If you’re waiting for a price drop, you might be in for a surprise. Prices could stay high for the foreseeable future.
Circana Mat Piscatella, 25% tariff on Mexico could cause sharp downtick in physical disc games released in the US
or could result in price increase for Physical & Digital games.
— HazzadorGamin, Dragon of Dojima (@HazzadorGamin)
4:02 PM • Jan 21, 2025
What You Can Do Now
If you’re serious about retro gaming, don’t wait. Here’s how you can get ahead:
Stock Up Today:
Buy that retro console or mod kit now before prices level up further.Look for Deals:
Check online marketplaces and specialty retro shops for clearance items.
Tip: A few extra dollars saved now could make all the difference later.Support Small Businesses:
Your dollar helps local makers who are battling these rising costs.
Remember: Buying from small companies keeps the retro scene alive.Join the Conversation:
Follow retro gaming forums and social media groups.
They’re a great resource for up-to-date news and tips on scoring the best deals.
The Final Level
This tariff game isn’t just about economics—it’s about preserving a piece of our digital history. Retro gaming gear isn’t disposable; it’s part of our culture.
So, if you want to keep enjoying those classic pixels and timeless controllers, now’s the time to act.
Don’t overthink it—get your gear before the prices power-up.
Retro gaming is a passion, a hobby, and sometimes a way of life. Let’s make sure that passion isn’t put on pause by a trade war. Gear up, grab those deals, and keep the retro spirit alive!
We hope you tune back in for our next issue, where we'll dive deep into more retro gaming news!
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