Virtua Fighter's Triumphant Return

Fun Fact: Did you know that the first video game ever created was "Tennis for Two"? Developed in 1958 by physicist William Higinbotham, it was a simple tennis simulation displayed on an oscilloscope.

In today’s email:

• Why the Modular Mecha Comet Is a Retro Handheld Collector's Dream

• Virtua Fighter's Triumphant Return

• Why Retro Gamers Should Check Out Castle of Dragon on the Switch

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Why the Modular Mecha Comet Is a Retro Handheld Collector's Dream

As a dedicated collector of retro handhelds, I'm always on the lookout for the next standout device. The upcoming Mecha Comet has certainly caught my attention.

Modular Design: A Customization Dream

The Mecha Comet's modular design is particularly exciting. With swappable components like gamepads, keyboards, and GPIO extensions, it offers a level of personalization that's rare in handhelds. This means I can tailor the device to fit various gaming experiences or development projects.

Open-Source Flexibility

Running on Mechanix OS, a Linux-based system, the Comet promises compatibility with a vast array of software. This open-source approach not only ensures a broad application ecosystem but also invites community-driven enhancements, aligning perfectly with the ethos of retro gaming enthusiasts who value versatility and user control.

Accessible Pricing

Starting at $159 for early backers on Kickstarter, the Mecha Comet is competitively priced. Considering its modularity and open-source nature, it presents a cost-effective option for both gaming and development purposes.

Community Engagement

The anticipation surrounding the Mecha Comet is palpable within the retro gaming community. Discussions are already underway on forums and social media, with enthusiasts eager to explore its capabilities and potential applications. This collective excitement suggests a strong, supportive user base upon release.

Final Thoughts

The Mecha Comet appears to be a promising addition to the world of handheld devices, especially for collectors and developers who value customization and open-source flexibility. I'm looking forward to its release and the opportunity to integrate it into my collection.

For a visual glimpse of the Mecha Comet, check out the teaser below:

Virtua Fighter's Triumphant Return

A Glimpse into the Future

SEGA has officially announced the development of a new Virtua Fighter game for the PlayStation 5. This marks the first major installment in the series since Virtua Fighter 5's debut in 2006. As a long-time fan, this news is both thrilling and nostalgic.

Staying True to Its Roots

The recent "pre-development concept video" showcased at CES 2025 offers a glimpse into the game's potential. The footage features two iterations of Akira Yuki engaging in combat, highlighting impressive animation fluidity and intricate graphical details. It's important to note that SEGA has clarified this video was created before official development began, indicating that actual gameplay might differ.

A New Team at the Helm

Virtua Fighter has always been celebrated for its realistic martial arts simulation, focusing on authentic combat without the embellishments seen in other fighting games. The concept video suggests that this new installment aims to elevate that realism, presenting a level of detail and responsiveness that could set a new benchmark in the genre.

Anticipation Builds

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, renowned for the Yakuza series, is at the helm of this project. Their expertise in creating dynamic combat systems and rich narratives could bring a fresh perspective to Virtua Fighter, potentially introducing new gameplay elements while preserving the core mechanics that define the series.

A Personal Reflection

While the release date and specific features remain under wraps, the community is buzzing with anticipation. The prospect of experiencing Virtua Fighter on the PS5, with its advanced hardware capabilities, is exciting. The potential for enhanced graphics, faster load times, and more responsive controls could redefine our expectations of the series.

As someone who has spent countless hours mastering the intricacies of previous Virtua Fighter games, the announcement of this new installment is a dream come true. The blend of nostalgia and innovation promises an experience that honors the legacy of Virtua Fighter while embracing the possibilities of modern gaming technology.

Stay tuned for more updates as SEGA releases additional information about this highly anticipated title.

For a visual glimpse into the upcoming game, you can watch the concept video below:

Why Retro Gamers Should Check Out Castle of Dragon on the Switch

I’m a sucker for retro games. There’s something about booting up an old-school side-scroller that feels like a warm hug from childhood. So, when Hamster announced they were bringing Castle of Dragon—a 1989 side-scrolling action classic—to the Nintendo Switch eShop, I couldn’t resist. If you’re a fan of pixel-perfect nostalgia, here’s why you should check it out too.

The Return of Castle of Dragon

Released originally on the NES in 1989, Castle of Dragon takes you on a sword-swinging adventure to rescue Princess Amelia from the clutches of an evil dragon. It’s classic hero-vs-dragon fare, but with a challenging edge that kept players hooked back in the day.

Now, Hamster has brought it back as part of their Arcade Archives series. And let me tell you—it’s a faithful recreation, right down to the brutally unforgiving difficulty. (Seriously, this game doesn’t hold your hand. But that’s half the fun, right?)

What Makes It Worth Your Time?

So, why should Castle of Dragon earn a spot in your Switch library? Let’s break it down:

• Authentic Retro Experience: Hamster nails the original arcade aesthetic. The pixel art, chiptune soundtrack, and tight controls will transport you straight to the late ’80s.

• Arcade Archives Features: Like other titles in the series, Castle of Dragon includes modern quality-of-life updates, like customizable difficulty settings and online leaderboards. Want to show off your high score? Now you can.

• Pick-Up-and-Play Appeal: At just $7.99, it’s an easy purchase for a quick trip down memory lane—or a chance to introduce your kids to the games you grew up playing.

Is It For Everyone?

Not exactly. Let’s be real: Castle of Dragon isn’t a casual walk in the park. It’s old-school hard, the kind of game where you’ll lose a dozen times before making it past level two. But if you love a challenge—or you’re nostalgic for that “just one more try” feeling—it’s worth every penny.

New to retro games? Don’t stress. The Switch’s save-state feature lets you pause and pick up right where you left off. (A lifesaver for those of us who no longer have endless Saturday mornings to conquer a single level.)

Why Retro Gamers Are Excited

There’s something magical about seeing games like Castle of Dragon resurface. They remind us of a time when gaming was simpler. No sprawling open worlds. No microtransactions. Just you, a controller, and the determination to slay a pixelated dragon.

For fans of retro games, it’s about more than nostalgia. It’s about keeping these classics alive for future generations. And thanks to Hamster, a whole new audience can experience the joy—and frustration—of this hidden gem.

Final Thoughts: Should You Download It?

If you’re a retro gaming enthusiast, the answer is easy: absolutely. Castle of Dragon on the Switch is a perfect way to relive the arcade glory days without needing to dust off your old console. And even if you’re new to retro gaming, it’s a solid starting point.

Don’t overthink it. For the price of a cup of coffee (okay, maybe two), you can dive into a piece of gaming history. So go ahead—fire up your Switch, grab your virtual sword, and see if you’ve got what it takes to save Princess Amelia.

What are you waiting for? Castle of Dragon is out now on the eShop. Give it a try, and let me know how far you get before the dragon roasts you. (Spoiler: It’ll probably happen sooner than you think.)

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