Fun Fact: Sega initially considered a rabbit before settling on Sonic the Hedgehog. The rabbit character’s idea was later reused in the game Ristar.

In today’s email:

• Square Enix Might Be Teasing a Final Fantasy 9 Remake (Finally!)

• Donkey Kong is Back: Donkey Kong Bananaza Set to Launch on Nintendo Switch 2

• Custom Portable SEGA Dreamcast Hits Aliexpress for Nearly $500—Is It Worth It?

Square Enix Might Be Teasing a Final Fantasy 9 Remake (Finally!)

If you're a fan of classic RPGs, brace yourself—Square Enix may have just dropped the first serious hint that a Final Fantasy 9 Remake is on its way.

Here’s what we know so far.

Square Enix Drops a Cryptic Clue

It all started with a seemingly innocent social media post: Square Enix shared new artwork of Vivi, one of Final Fantasy 9's most iconic characters, captioned simply with, "Relive the adventure soon..."

Fans immediately jumped to conclusions. Could this mean a full remake is finally in the works?

It might just be speculation, but let's break it down.

Why Final Fantasy 9?

Square Enix has already hit huge success with remakes. Just look at:

• Final Fantasy VII Remake: Sold millions, praised for stunning visuals.

• Final Fantasy VIII Remastered: Revived nostalgia, attracted new players.

But fans have been waiting years—decades even—for FF9 to get similar treatment. Why?

1. Fan favorite: FF9 is often cited as one of the best games in the series.

2. Timeless charm: The original’s art style is perfect for modern graphics updates.

3. Strategic business move: It fits Square Enix’s successful strategy of reviving classics to tap into nostalgia and attract new fans.

What's Next?

Nothing official is confirmed yet—but here's what could come next:

• Official reveal: Possibly at an upcoming gaming event, like a PlayStation State of Play or Square Enix Presents.

• Enhanced visuals and gameplay: Expect FF9 to get a similar treatment as FF7 Remake, with updated graphics, refined gameplay mechanics, and expanded storylines.

But Should We Get Our Hopes Up?

Maybe.

Square Enix has teased fans before, only to reveal smaller projects or remasters instead of full-blown remakes.

But this feels different.

This feels big.

This feels like the remake fans have been begging for.

Final Thoughts

Square Enix knows exactly what it’s doing. Whether it's just clever marketing or a genuine teaser, they've grabbed our attention—and now, we wait.

Don't stress too much. Even if it takes a while, the FF9 remake seems inevitable. After all, the fans are ready, the market’s ripe, and Square Enix loves nostalgia-driven projects.

Donkey Kong is Back: Donkey Kong Bananaza Set to Launch on Nintendo Switch 2

The wait is finally over—Donkey Kong fans, rejoice! Nintendo just announced Donkey Kong Bananaza, a brand-new adventure heading straight to the Nintendo Switch 2.

It's been ages since our favorite ape took center stage in his own platformer. And let's be real—this one already feels special.

Here’s everything we know so far:

What's the Hype About?

Donkey Kong Bananaza isn't just another side-scrolling game. Nintendo promises to bring the classic DK charm with fresh twists that'll feel right at home on the Switch 2. Think stunning visuals, buttery-smooth gameplay, and innovative mechanics designed specifically for the upgraded hardware.

We're talking vibrant worlds, tons of bananas (obviously), and yes—plenty of barrel-blasting action.

What Can We Expect Gameplay-wise?

Here's what Nintendo is teasing:

• New Abilities: Expect DK to swing, climb, and smash his way through stages like never before, thanks to revamped controls.

• Multiplayer Madness: Co-op modes are confirmed, meaning you'll be causing chaos alongside friends.

• Fresh Characters: Rumors hint at new Kong family members and villains entering the scene.

• Classic Nostalgia: Plenty of throwbacks, like minecart levels and hidden bonus rooms, blending nostalgia with next-gen innovation.

Why Switch 2 Changes the Game

The Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to pack serious upgrades under the hood. Think higher resolution graphics, faster load times, and smoother performance—perfectly tailored for Donkey Kong’s chaotic antics.

Imagine swinging through lush jungles, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and blasting out of barrels at full 4K. Yeah, that’s a thing now.

Why It's Big News for Retro Fans

DK’s return is huge—not just because we love a new platformer, but because it's proof Nintendo hasn't forgotten about the classics. It's been years since the last standalone DK adventure (Tropical Freeze, anyone?), so anticipation is off the charts.

Maybe it’s nostalgia. Maybe it’s the pure joy of barrel-blasting through HD worlds. Either way, fans are pumped.

When Can You Play?

Nintendo hasn’t announced an exact release date yet, but insiders suggest it’ll arrive within the first year of the Switch 2's launch. Our guess? Sometime in late 2025 or early 2026.

Don't worry—we'll be grabbing those pre-orders the moment they're live.

Bottom Line

Donkey Kong is back in action, and it's about time. Nintendo’s fresh take, combined with the Switch 2’s impressive specs, means Donkey Kong Bananaza might just become the next must-play classic.

Until then, dust off your old cartridges and practice your barrel rolls. DK is ready for another round, and you should be too.

Let's go bananas! 🍌

Custom Portable SEGA Dreamcast Hits Aliexpress for Nearly $500—Is It Worth It?

Retro gaming fans, this one’s for you. Ever wished your beloved SEGA Dreamcast could fit in your pocket? Well, your dream just became reality—sort of.

A custom, handheld Dreamcast recently popped up on Aliexpress for around $500. But before you pull the trigger, let’s dive into what you're actually getting here.

What's the Deal with This Portable Dreamcast?

First things first: this isn't official hardware from SEGA. Instead, it’s a custom job by independent modders who are transforming original Dreamcast components into fully portable handheld systems.

The highlights include:

• A fully portable Dreamcast with a built-in screen

• Original Dreamcast hardware inside (yes, it’s authentic, not emulation)

• Ability to run genuine GD-ROM games

• Rechargeable battery for gaming on-the-go

Sounds like a dream come true, right?

But let’s be real—at roughly $500, it's not exactly pocket change.

Why This Could Be Worth the Splurge

If you’re a hardcore Dreamcast fan, this might be your holy grail. Here’s why:

• Authentic Hardware: No emulation hiccups or compatibility issues—this is the real deal.

• Portability: Play classics like Shenmue, Crazy Taxi, or Jet Set Radio anywhere.

• Collector’s Appeal: Unique custom handhelds like this can hold or even increase their value over time, especially as Dreamcast hardware becomes rarer.

Maybe nostalgia hits differently when it's handheld. But is nostalgia alone worth almost $500?

The Downsides (Because, Yes, There Are Some)

Here's where things get real:

• Price Tag: Anything close to $500 is steep, especially when you can snag a standard Dreamcast with games for under $150.

• Build Quality: Custom handhelds can be hit-or-miss. Expect some quirks—this isn’t Nintendo Switch-level polish.

• Battery Life: Dreamcast hardware wasn't exactly built for portability. Expect limited playtime.

Alternatives Worth Considering

Before you drop half a grand, here are some alternatives:

• Retro Emulation Handhelds: Devices like the Anbernic RG405M or Retroid Pocket 3+ run Dreamcast games pretty well (and cost under $200).

• Original Dreamcast Setup: Grab a refurbished console, games, and accessories, and still have money left over for pizza.

Final Verdict—Should You Buy It?

If you love the Dreamcast, collect unique retro gaming gear, and money isn’t tight—why not? This handheld is a conversation starter, a cool collectible, and lets you experience classics in a fresh way.

But if you’re casually nostalgic and just want to replay a few childhood favorites, you’re probably better off saving your cash and opting for more affordable alternatives.

Bottom line: Know your priorities, set your budget, and don’t let impulse nostalgia drain your wallet.

Because, let’s face it— at roughly $500 could buy a lot of pizza, too.

We hope you tune back in for our next issue, where we'll dive deep into more retro gaming news!