April 24, 2025 Roundup: Retro Re-releases Galore
River City Residuals.
After almost 30 years since the original release of Armored Core, the series has finally made its way onto Nintendo platforms, fulfilling the hopes of many fans.
ARCADE ARCHIVES
Pinball Action
- Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 (worldwide)
- Price: $7.99 / €6.99 / £6.29
- Publisher: Hamster / Tekhan
What’s this? A digital pinball game with four tables, originally developed and distributed in arcades by Tekhan in 1985 and reissued on the Tecmo Arcade Classics/Tecmo Hit Parade compilation for Xbox/PlayStation 2; despite its simplicity, this adaptation stays true to the essence of pinball.
Why should I care? This ACA release is one of the few digital pinball titles available, making it a solid choice for fans of the genre. You may also recognize it from various arcade collections and feel the urge to experience it in a legal manner.
Useless fact: The development debut of Hideo Yoshizawa, who later worked on popular games like Mighty Bomb Jack, the Ninja Gaiden trilogy, Klonoa, and Mr. Driller.
JALECOLLE FAMICOM VER.
- Platform: Nintendo Switch, (worldwide)
- Price: $7.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: City Connection
What’s this? An emulated two-pack containing the 1990 Jaleco-published Famicom action game Magic John and its NES version, Totally RAD!; featuring various enhancements and extras compared to the original releases.
Why should I care? This JALECOlle release offers a polished experience and a unique localization touch, making it an interesting addition to your collection. Language enthusiasts will appreciate the differences in translation between versions.
Useless fact: This game’s theme was inspired by a popular TV magician from the late ’80s.
G-MODE ARCHIVES+
- Platform: Nintendo Switch (Japan)
- Price: ¥1900
- Publisher: G-MODE / Atlus
What’s this? An entry in Atlus’ Shin Megami Tensei series originally released for feature phones in 2004, now making its debut on the Nintendo Switch with improvements and enhancements.
Why should I care? Atlus’ track record with feature phone games is commendable, and this release showcases the classic SMT formula in a new light, making it a must-play for fans of the series.
Helpful tip: This game will be available on Steam next week.
NINTENDO SWITCH ONLINE EXPANSION PASS
April ’25 update: Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones (Game Boy Advance)
What’s this? The third Game Boy Advance entry in the Fire Emblem series, offering a unique gameplay experience with new features and enhancements compared to previous titles.
Why should I care? This entry in the series is designed to be more accessible to newcomers while still providing the strategic depth the franchise is known for.
Friday drop watch: Recent additions to NSO include classic Sega Genesis/Mega Drive games like E-SWAT, Streets of Rage, and Super Thunder Blade.
OTHER
Jaleco Sports: Bases Loaded & Super Bases Loaded
- Platform: PC via Steam (worldwide)
- Price: $12.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: Sickhead Games / Rock-It Games
What’s this? An emulated collection of Jaleco’s classic baseball games for NES and SNES, offering nostalgia and retro gaming experiences.
Why should I care? If you’re a fan of baseball games from the past, this two-pack is a great addition to your library.
Useless fact: This package utilizes emulation technology to bring the classic games to modern platforms.
No, Xain’d Sleena isn’t a typo.
Super Technos World: River City & Technos Arcade Classics
- Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, PC via Steam (worldwide)
- Price: $14.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: Arc System Works
What’s this? A collection of classic Technos games, including Kunio-kun titles and other retro gems, now available for modern platforms with various enhancements.
Which games are included? This package features localizations of Kunio-kun and other Technos titles, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of classic arcade games.
Why should I care? With a mix of beloved classics and lesser-known gems, this collection is a great way to experience the rich history of Technos games.
Useless fact: This collection is not available in New Zealand for undisclosed reasons.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
- Platform: Xbox, PlayStation 5, PC via Steam (worldwide)
- Price: $49.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: Bethesda / Virtuos
What’s this? A remastered version of Bethesda’s iconic RPG Oblivion, featuring upgraded visuals, new voice acting, and various quality-of-life improvements for a modern gaming experience.
Why should I care? This remaster offers a fresh take on a classic RPG, providing a new way to experience the immersive world of Oblivion.
Helpful tip: Consider waiting to purchase this remaster for personal reasons.
Original article by retronauts.com
