classic gaming Archives

BetaBeacon

September 29, 2026

This might be the most affordable Game Boy-style handheld running Android

AYANEO has launched the KONKR Pocket BLOCK handheld, featuring a Game Boy-style design and modest specifications. The device is priced at for the 2GB/32GB model and 9 for the 3GB/64GB variant, with promotional prices of and 9, respectively. The handheld is designed for emulation of retro games and includes a 3.33-inch 4:3 LCD screen, MediaTek Helio G85 chipset, 3,500mAh battery, Android 12, Bluetooth 5, microSD card slot, and Wi-Fi 5. It will start shipping at the end of October in Atoms White, Cube Purple, and Original Grey color options.

AppWizard

September 29, 2026

The best frog in all of gaming, Touch Me, is now appreciable in all its glory thanks to a FF7 model viewer

Pardall Games has released a collection of 3D models from the 1997 game Final Fantasy 7, including a frog model referred to as "my sweet, sweet boy." Users can interact with nearly every model, including characters and summon animations, in a 3D viewer. The viewer allows for rotation of models and comparison with map screens. A notable model is that of Touch Me, which has been renamed Amphidex in the recent Rebirth remake, and can be transformed into a GIF to showcase its animations.

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

27-year-old GTA 2 gets full path tracing and 60 FPS frame generation via RTX Remix — custom Direct3D 9 wrapper modernizes classic with custom Direct3D 9 bridge, unlocks dynamic lighting

Modder gebdag has released GTA2 RTX Remix, a mod for Grand Theft Auto 2 that utilizes Nvidia’s RTX Remix technology to enhance the game, originally launched 27 years ago. The mod introduces full path tracing, dynamic time-of-day cycles, and modernizes the aspect ratio from 4:3 to 16:9. It improves gameplay fluidity with frame rates up to 60 FPS and addresses issues like the sudden appearance of cars and pedestrians. Players need a copy of Grand Theft Auto 2 version 9.6, available for free since 2004, and a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or 11, along with the RTX Remix runtime files, to use the mod. The RTX Remix platform has also enabled similar enhancements for other classic games.

AppWizard

September 9, 2026

GOG revives golden age of big box PC games

GOG has announced a strategic partnership with Reddit to enhance user engagement and expand their reach. The collaboration will integrate GOG's library of classic and indie games with Reddit's user base, allowing users to share gaming experiences on Reddit. GOG will introduce the Big Box Collection, featuring nostalgic games, and Reddit will serve as a platform for discussions about this collection. The integration aims to provide seamless access to game recommendations, exclusive content, and community-driven initiatives, enhancing the overall experience for gamers.

AppWizard

September 3, 2026

RPCS3 Team Won’t Touch Leaked DLSS 5, Calls the Output “Slop”

The RPCS3 development team has stated they will not incorporate the recently leaked DLSS 5 technology into their PS3 emulator, despite some users testing it. They expressed a preference to distance themselves from DLSS 5, criticizing the use of upscalers and frame generation that they believe obscure optimization issues. The team previously integrated AMD's FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), leading to discussions about their stance on different upscaling technologies. The leaked DLL from an early build of NBA 2K27 has been used in various PC titles with mixed results, but RPCS3 remains committed to game preservation, asserting that DLSS 5 does not align with their mission.

AppWizard

August 29, 2026

New Retro Collection Brings Three SNES Classics To Modern Consoles and PC

Red Art Games will release the Joe & Mac Retro Collection on October 29th, 2026, for Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam. Pre-orders are available on the Red Art Games website, including a special Rock Edition Collector’s Edition with additional items like a reverse cover, booklet, double-sided poster, prehistoric badges, an acrylic stand, and a sticker sheet. The collection includes three games: Joe & Mac Caveman Ninja, Congo’s Caper, and Joe & Mac Lost in the Tropics, along with features like a "Boss Rush" mode and local two-player co-op. The collection will also include modern enhancements for a better gaming experience.

AppWizard

August 17, 2026

Mortal Shell 2 review: A monumental heavy metal sequel with the spirit of a ’90s PC game

Mortal Shell 2 features a tavern called The One Legged Wolf, where patrons gather amidst a chaotic environment, enjoying music from a lute-player. The game blends modern dark fantasy with humor and classic PC gaming elements, enhancing its predecessor's gameplay and lore. Players control the Harbinger, who can inhabit eight different Shells, each with unique abilities and skill trees. Combat mechanics have evolved to allow for a more aggressive playstyle without a stamina bar, offering various damage mitigation methods. The game includes an easy mode, the Slayer Seal, and a secret hard mode for different player preferences. Level design pays homage to classic gaming, with intricate dungeons and hidden passages. Despite some bugs and a focus on specific Shells, the game is praised for its creativity and engaging experience.

AppWizard

August 13, 2026

H2 Interactive launches IGS Classic Arcade Collection worldwide on PC via Steam

H2 Interactive launched the IGS Classic Arcade Collection for PC via Steam on August 13, 2026, featuring eight iconic arcade titles, including the Knights of Valour series, Demon Front, and Martial Masters. The collection is available at a 10% discount for the first two weeks and supports multiple languages: English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. It includes online multiplayer support for up to four players, modern quality-of-life features like adjustable difficulty and customizable key mapping, and various display modes. The included titles are: - Knights of Valour: Super Heroes - Knights of Valour Plus - Knights of Valour 2 - Nine Dragons - Oriental Legend - Oriental Legend Spooky - Martial Masters - Demon Front - The Gladiator The collection was developed by International Games System Co., Ltd. (IGS) and published by H2 Interactive.

BetaBeacon

August 6, 2026

This Game Boy Advance clone is a cheap Android handheld from AYANEO

The AYANEO KONKR Pocket Advance is a handheld game console that resembles the Nintendo Game Boy Advance but with modern features. It has a 3.5 inch display, MediaTek Helio G90T processor, and runs on an Android-based operating system. The device is available for pre-order with different configurations and prices, with limited production runs expected. The KONKR Pocket Advance features a unique design ideal for classic GBA titles, along with additional buttons for enhanced gameplay. It also includes various modern features such as a 4,000 mAh battery, WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C port, microSD card reader, and gyroscope. The device aims to provide a blend of nostalgia and modern functionality for gamers looking for a portable gaming experience.

AppWizard

July 30, 2026

The next game on GOG’s preservation list would be your favourite ARPG if it hadn’t released the same year as Diablo 2, and it’s on sale now

NOX, an action role-playing game released by Westwood in 2000, is being revived as it has secured a spot in GOG's Preservation Program following a recent patron poll. GOG will provide ongoing support and enhancements for the game, which is currently available on GOG for a limited-time price of .39. Owners of the game will receive updates free of charge.