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Announcements

Alice Goes to Wonderland Pinball: A Kickstarter We (Reluctantly) Can’t Ignore

19/02/2025 By ausretrogamer

At ausretrogamer, we’ve maintained a firm stance against featuring Kickstarter projects, aiming to shield our readers from the uncertainties that often accompany crowdfunded ventures. However, the upcoming “Alice Goes to Wonderland” pinball machine by Wonderland Amusements has managed to capture our attention, challenging our usual reservations.

A Bold Promise: Affordable, Mechanical Pinball for the Home

Wonderland Amusements pledges to deliver a fully mechanical pinball machine at 80% the size of a standard unit, all for under US$1,000. This proposition is undeniably enticing, especially for enthusiasts eager to bring the tactile joy of pinball into their homes without breaking the bank. The machine draws inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale, aiming to blend classic pinball mechanics with whimsical “Alice in Wonderland” themes. The company has showcased vibrant artwork and animations that promise an immersive experience.

The prototype AGtW is looking good!

The Team Behind the Vision

The leadership at Wonderland Amusements comprises industry veterans with impressive resumes. CEO and Creative Director Jerry Cummings brings over 35 years of product development experience, having collaborated with giants like Disney and Mattel. Product Development lead Andres Quiros boasts a background in entertainment and gaming, including pivotal roles at Arcade1Up and as the founder of New Wave Toys. Their combined expertise suggests a team capable of navigating the complexities of bringing such a product to market.


source: Wonderland Amusements on YouTube

A Cautious Enthusiasm

While the project is ambitious and the team experienced, it’s essential to approach this with measured optimism. The challenges of manufacturing a mechanical pinball machine at this price point are significant. Potential backers should weigh the excitement of the concept against the inherent risks of crowdfunding. As always, we advise thorough research and consideration before supporting such projects.

For those intrigued, Wonderland Amusements’ Kickstarter campaign is slated to launch in March 2025. You can sign up for notifications on their Kickstarter pre-launch page.

Note: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute an endorsement of the project.

Filed Under: Announcements, Pinball Tagged With: Alice Goes to Wonderland pinball, Alice In Wonderland, Arcade1Up, gamer, Geek, Lewis Carroll, New Wave Toys, pinball, pinball geek, pinball machine, Retrogamer, Wonderland Amusements

PSA: A Star Wars LEGO Exhibition is coming to Melbourne in 2025

21/11/2024 By ausretrogamer

Another PSA for those of you that are into the dark (and/or light) side of the FORCE!

A huge Star Wars LEGO exhibition is coming to Melbourne next year!

Launching on May the Fourth, the galaxy-first exhibition at Melbourne Museum will feature more than 8 million LEGO bricks.

✨ WHAT: LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition
💕 TICKETS: Tickets on sale early 2025
📍 WHERE: Melbourne Museum, Carlton Gardens (11 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053)

Keep an eye out on the What’s On – City of Melbourne site for further details.

image source: What’s On Melbourne Facebook page

 

Filed Under: Announcements Tagged With: darth vader, Geek, Han Solo, Lego, Lego Star Wars, Luke Skywalker, Star Wars, Star Wars Lego, Star Wars Lego Exhibition, Stormtroopers

PSA: The PixelCrib Pop-Up Store Opens This Week!

18/11/2024 By ausretrogamer

Level Up Your Collection at PixelCrib’s Epic Pop-Up Adventure! 🎮✨

Hey pop culture geeks and gaming aficionados! Ready to hit IRL level 99 in awesomeness? PixelCrib is bringing the ultimate treasure trove of gaming culture straight to South Melbourne!

🗓 When: November 20 – December 5 (It’s a speedrun, so don’t lag!)
📍 Where: 155 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne, VIC
⏰ Hours: Tue-Fri 10am-5pm | Sat 11am-4pm

From exclusive collectibles to retro gems and modern gaming artistry, this pop-up is a boss battle of coolness you don’t want to miss. Gather your party, grab your coins, and get here before it’s Game Over!

Need a quick respawn? Hit up the team at PixelCrib via [email protected] or call them on (03) 9041 5243.

TL;DR: A gamer’s paradise is popping up, but it’s gone faster than Mario on a star. Don’t wait—your ultimate loot awaits! 🎮🕹️

image source: PixelCrib

Filed Under: Announcements, Retro Gaming Culture Tagged With: Bitmap Books, board games, Books, Collectibles, Cosplay, Evercade, gamers, gaming, Geek, nerd, PixelCrib, PixelCrib Pop-Up Store, Pop Culture store, Super Pocket, videogames, viny

Tetris Forever on the Nintendo Switch – Launch Trailer

18/11/2024 By ausretrogamer

Nothing lasts forever…except Tetris!

Yep, it’s another Tetris game! We have probably bought Tetris over a dozen times across many gaming formats, but who cares, it’s just an amazingly addictive and fun game! This time however, it’s to celebrate four decades of Tetris® magic, with Tetris Forever, now on the Nintendo Switch! This special edition is a nostalgic journey through the history of one of the most iconic puzzle games ever created.

A Tribute to 40 Years of Tetris®

Tetris Forever is a heartfelt tribute to the game that transcended borders and generations. From its humble beginnings behind the Iron Curtain to becoming a global phenomenon, Tetris has captivated players for 40 years. Now, you can experience this timeless classic in a whole new way.

Over 15 Classic Tetris Games

Dive into a treasure trove of Tetris history with more than 15 playable classic games. For the first time ever, many of these games are available outside Japan! Challenge your friends in the multiplayer favorite Tetris Battle Gaiden, unleash explosive fun in Super Bombliss, and travel back to 1984 with a faithful recreation of the original Tetris on the Electronika 60 computer.


source: Nintendo of America

New Game: Tetris Time Warp

As if that wasn’t enough, Tetris Forever introduces an all-new game: Tetris Time Warp. Up to four players can “warp” through different eras of Tetris in real time, experiencing a variety of classic graphic styles and gameplay mechanics. It’s a thrilling new way to enjoy the game you love!

Exclusive Documentary Featurettes

Tetris Forever is part of Digital Eclipse’s acclaimed Gold Master Series, and it includes over an hour of brand-new documentary featurettes. These videos explore the incredible friendship and creative partnership between Tetris creator Alexey Pajitnov and The Tetris Company founder Henk Rogers. Discover the untold story of Tetris and how it became a cultural icon.

Tetris is Forever

In a world where games come and go, Tetris remains a beloved constant. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the game, Tetris Forever on Nintendo Switch is the ultimate celebration of this enduring classic. Get ready to relive the magic and create new memories with Tetris Forever!

So, are you excited to dive into the world of Tetris again?

Filed Under: Announcements, Modern Gaming Tagged With: Alexey Pajitnov, gamer, Geek, Henk Rogers, nintendo, Nintendo Switch, tetris, Tetris Forever, Tetris on the Switch, TetrisForever, The Tetris Company

Saying Goodbye to SEGA Classics: Delisting Marks the End of an Era for Retro Gamers

08/11/2024 By ausretrogamer

Ending the day with some news we did not want to hear from SEGA

SEGA’s decision to delist a selection of its classic games from online stores (from December 6, 2024) has saddened fans (us included!) who treasure these beloved titles as part of gaming history.

For many, these retro games were more than just entertainment—they were formative experiences that brought joy, challenge, and nostalgia. With their removal, future generations may lose access to these cultural touchstones. While some versions may still exist in compilations or through remakes, the original versions’ disappearance marks the end of an era for devoted SEGA fans and retro game lovers alike.

 

Filed Under: Announcements, Retro Gaming Culture Tagged With: Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio, Retro Games, retrogaming, sega, Sega Classics, SEGA delisting classic games, Sega Genesis, Sega Mega Drive, SEGA news

Level Up Your Playlist: Nintendo Game Music Now Streaming on Your Smart Device!

01/11/2024 By ausretrogamer

Nintendo fans, rejoice! The iconic music from your favorite Nintendo games is now just a tap away with Nintendo Music, a brand-new app exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online members. This app lets you dive into a treasure trove of legendary soundtracks—from the nostalgia of the Mushroom Kingdom to the epic battles of Hyrule—bringing the thrill of Nintendo’s best musical moments straight to your phone/smart device (as long as it’s iOS and/or Android based).

What’s more, you can make it personal. Create custom playlists, share them with friends, and explore curated collections to rediscover classic tunes or uncover new favorites. Nintendo Music offers streaming and downloading options so you can enjoy the beat wherever you are, whether you’re at home, on a jog, or just looking to infuse some magic into your day.

Not a Nintendo Switch Online member? No problem! You can take Nintendo Music for a spin with a 7-day free trial. Signing up unlocks access not only to the app but also to a library of classic games, exclusive offers, and more.

Grab the Nintendo Music app for iOS and/or Android now!

Filed Under: Announcements, Modern Gaming, Retro Gaming Culture Tagged With: chiptunes, Enjoy Nintendo game music, gamers, gaming, Music, Nintendo chiptunes, Nintendo Music, Nintendo Music app, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Online, Retro Gamer, Streaming Music

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Set to Open at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe in May 2025

22/10/2024 By ausretrogamer

From the fun of Mario Kart to careening through Donkey Kong Country, experience all the interactive excitement of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, opening 2025 at Universal Epic Universe.

Exciting news for theme park lovers: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is set to open in May 2025 at Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe park! This immersive land will bring iconic Nintendo franchises to life, offering rides, interactive experiences, and themed dining inspired by beloved characters like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach.

Fans can look forward to racing through Mushroom Kingdom and exploring Bowser’s Castle in vibrant, high-tech environments. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is expected to be a major highlight of the Epic Universe expansion, creating new levels of fun and adventure for all ages.

For more details, visit Universal Orlando’s official site.

image source: Universal Orlando

Filed Under: Announcements, Retro Gaming Culture Tagged With: Bowser's Castle, Donkey Kong, Epic Universe, Florida, Mario Kart, nintendo, super mario, Super Nintendo World, Theme Park, Universal Epic Universe, Universal Orlando

Obey Your Pinball Master with Stern Pinball’s Metallica Remastered!🤘⚡

17/10/2024 By ausretrogamer

Stern Pinball Unveils the Thrilling Metallica Remastered: A New Era of Pinball Gaming

Stern Pinball, Inc. has just announced the launch of Metallica Remastered, an exciting upgrade to one of its most iconic pinball machines, originally released in 2013. This new version not only retains the spirit of the beloved classic but also enhances it with cutting-edge technology, making it a must-have for pinball enthusiasts and Metallica fans alike.

What’s New in Metallica Remastered?

The Metallica Remastered machine boasts significant upgrades, including a vibrant full-color LCD display featuring all-new animations and stunning live concert footage. Powered by Stern’s modern Spike 2 electronics, this game elevates gameplay and presentation, allowing players to enjoy an expanded tracklist with 22 songs—eight more than the original.

The game also includes exciting new features like an Expression Lighting system, improved artwork by renowned Metallica artist Rhys Cooper, and enhanced mechanical devices that add to the overall gaming experience. The original playfield layout has been preserved, but players will benefit from new geometry, improved gameplay toys, and dramatic UV lighting effects.


source: Stern Pinball – YouTube

Metallica: A Legacy of Influence

Since its inception in 1981, Metallica has redefined rock music, captivating audiences with their electrifying performances and groundbreaking sound. Their cultural impact extends far beyond music, creating a massive global fanbase. This new pinball machine pays homage to their legacy while offering a fresh take for both old fans and newcomers.

Design and Features

Stern Pinball’s design team, led by John Borg and software engineer Raymond Davidson, has meticulously reimagined the original game. They’ve introduced three stunning new sculptures: Sparky, the Hammer, and illuminated Skulls, along with a new Metallica logo on the back panel. Enhancements to the iconic Lyman Sheats rule set add two new game modes inspired by Metallica’s latest albums—72 Seasons and Hardwired…to Self-Destruct—alongside a new “Blackened” Wizard Mode.

Players can expect an immersive experience with over 1,000 new speech calls from the band, new sound effects, and seamless integration of additional Metallica tracks, complete with HD-quality concert footage.

L to R: Premium & Limited Edition

Limited Edition Highlights

For collectors, the Limited Edition (LE) model is a treasure. Limited to just 500 units worldwide, this version features exclusive elements such as the Expression Lighting System™ and custom-designed artwork. Other perks include upgraded audio, anti-reflection playfield glass, and a numbered plaque with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Get Yours Today!

Metallica Remastered is now available in Premium and Limited Edition models, with a range of accessories set to launch soon. Pinball fans and music lovers alike won’t want to miss out on this exhilarating new chapter in pinball history.

Filed Under: Announcements, Pinball Tagged With: Expression Lighting System, Insider Connected, John Borg, Lyman Sheats, Metallica, Metallica Remastered, pinball machine, Rhys Cooper, Spike 2, Stern Pinball, Stern Pinball Metallica Remastered

Forgotten Worlds Magazine Issue 4: A Nostalgic Dive into the Classics of Gaming Journalism

08/10/2024 By ausretrogamer

Press Start To Play!

Get ready to be transported back to the golden age of gaming magazines with Forgotten Worlds Issue 4! This edition is a true love letter to the legendary publications that defined gaming journalism in the ‘90s and early 2000s, from Mean Machines to EGM, Super Play, GamePro, Hyper, and CVG. With over 100 full-color, perfect-bound pages, Issue 4 is packed with stories that will hit the nostalgia sweet spot for any retro gaming fan.

What’s Inside?
This issue takes you behind the scenes of the most iconic gaming magazines ever printed. Through exclusive interviews with the editors, writers, and artists who crafted these classics, you’ll get a rare look at what it was like to be on the frontlines of video game journalism. Daniel Wilks from Hyper magazine, for example, shares fascinating anecdotes about the highs and lows of capturing the magic of gaming culture for print. And that’s just the start—there’s something for every fan, from the console wars to the rise of imports and RPGs!

A Kickstarter for the Ages
To make Issue 4 happen, the Forgotten Worlds team has launched a Kickstarter campaign that is well worth checking out. Fans of retro gaming history can grab their copy through the campaign, as well as enjoy exclusive perks and rewards. Whether you’re a collector, a historian, or just someone who loves a good deep dive into the evolution of gaming, this Kickstarter is your ticket to securing this limited-edition treasure.

So why wait? Join the campaign, snag yourself a copy, and get ready to relive the glory days of gaming journalism with Forgotten Worlds Issue 4!

Filed Under: Announcements, Retro Gaming Culture Tagged With: 16bit, C&VG, Dan Wilks, EGM, Forgotten Worlds, Forgotten Worlds Magazine Issue 4, Hyper Magazine, Jaz Rignall, Kickstarter, Mean Machines, Retro Gamer, retrogaming, Super Play

Hold Onto Your Skorts – PAX Aus Has Just Dropped Their Exhibitor 2024 Line-Up

17/09/2024 By ausretrogamer

PAX Aus Announces 2024 Exhibitor Line-Up

Go AFK, mute Discord, and pay attention! PAX Aus has confirmed that this year’s event is even bigger with more developers, more publishers, more Indie Games, the biggest Tabletop area ever and a jam-packed schedule. And don’t forget, the Classic Gaming area for your retro gaming and pinball fix!

PAX Aus 2024 will welcome back some of your favourite publisher brands and new friends, including Bethesda Softworks ANZ, Blizzard Entertainment, Devolver, FINAL FANTASY XIV Online, PC Game Pass, Playside Studios, SEGA, Steam, The Sims and Ubisoft.

Some of the biggest and best hardware brands will satisfy the appetite of gaming gear connoisseurs, with AFTERSHOCK PC, ASUS – Republic of Gamers, Bluemouth Interactive, Cooler Master, Govee by Clever Gear, Intel, Keychron, LG Electronics Australia, MSI Gaming, Samsung and Secretlab joining the line-up.

Bringing the love to PAX Aus this year, Devolver and Massive Monster will host the first-ever PAX weddings. Two loved-up couples will walk down the aisle on Sunday October 13 at 11am and 3pm in a faithful, life-size replica of the Cult of the Lamb Temple featured in the popular game. For any pilgrims willing to take the plunge, check out the schedule for more sinful activations over the PAX weekend!

While on the topic of love, PAX Aus welcomes Steam for the first time ever. More on that when the show opens, you’re not going to want to miss it!

Red Bull Gameball Royale is the ultimate face-off at PAX Australia 2024. Four teams of Australian creators, led by captains Lachlan, Iamfallfromgrace, Muselk, and Loserfruit will go head-to-head in an interactive dodgeball tournament. This high-impact sport has been digitally levelled up with gamified mechanics delivered through an impressive LED court. Players will need to dip, dive, duck and dodge to advance towards being Australia’s first Red Bull Gameball Royale Champions.

Bethesda Softworks ANZ is excited to unveil an epic fan event at PAX Aus, offering attendees a deep dive into the captivating universes of The Elder Scrolls and Fallout. Step into the heart of Tamriel at the carefully crafted Elder Scrolls Online Tavern at the PAX Pub, and then escape the hustle at The Fallout 76 Skyline Valley C.A.M.P.site Handheld Lounge.

Ubisoft will be showcasing Assassin’s Creed Shadows on their booth with a playable demo and Assassin’s Creed Shadows Game Director, Charles Benoit, will also be making an appearance to present Bringing Assassin’s Creed Shadows to Life with Ubisoft Quebec (watch this space!). Esports fans will be able to enjoy Ubisoft’s Rainbow 6 Siege showcase at the PAX Arena from 6-10pm on Friday night in the queue hall. The Arena will feature top of the line equipment from Razer, ZOWIE and Centre Com.

The Sims is coming to PAX Aus to give Simmers a Plumbob photo zone and free tarot readings with the one and only Grim. With their newest expansion Life and Death coming soon, Grim will be ready for 3 full days of posing, reaping lost souls, and giveaways.

Blizzard Entertainment will be celebrating the launch of Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred at PAX Aus, offering an activation space featuring incredible bespoke artwork from @JazzaStudios and a life-sized glaive weapon for Diablo fans to get up close and personal with! Every day of PAX Aus, two lucky winners will take home a customised Vessel of Hatred kit that introduces them to the new Spiritborn class and its Spirit Guardians.

PlaySide Studios will be featuring multiple playable titles on their booth, including KILL KNIGHT, Thrive: Heavy Lies The Crown, Age of Darkness: Final Stand and a currently unannounced Dumb Ways to Die title, in addition to an interactive experience for the upcoming MOUSE: PI for Hire by Fumi Games. You can also catch the MOUSE: P.I. For Hire – First Look: Developer Playthrough panel, which will feature a global exclusive live playthrough of the game with Game Director, Mateusz Michalak, and Producer, Maciej Krzemien.

SEGA‘s stand at PAX Australia will feature three of its highly anticipated titles to play; Sonic X Shadow Generations, Metaphor: ReFantazio and Two Point Museum. There’ll be a dedicated streaming area where attendees may catch some of their favourite content creators streaming the latest SEGA games live, and the chance to meet movie Sonic in person, as he’ll make multiple appearances throughout the weekend.

FINAL FANTASY™ XIV Online are inviting seasoned adventurers to battle against the fearsome Valigarmanda, newcomers to challenge an early primal battle and encouraging everyone to snap a picture in their special photo spot and get their hands on some goodies! Additionally, don’t miss the panel with Senior Story Designer Natsuko Ishikawa and Quest Designer Saki Takayanagi.

Speaking of getting hands-on with some special stuff, the Bandai Namco team will be bringing Dragon Ball Z: Sparking! ZERO for visitors to play. Square Enix will also be bringing a Life is Strange: Double Exposure photo activation, with the opportunity to win some amazing prizes throughout the duration of the event.

Other exhibitors include BlackMilk Clothing, Crunchyroll, Aussie Broadband, and the New Zealand Centre of Digital Excellence, who will be bringing 18 of New Zealand’s newest indie games.

Also on the showfloor, PAX Aus’ biggest Tabletop area ever featuring Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game; hosting ‘learn to play’ sessions inviting you on your first adventure as an Illumineer, a photo op in the Great Illuminary, questing in the Starter Deck challenge zone, and Disney Lorcana artist Matt Chapman, available for signings.

And the recently announced schedule features the very best of local and international gaming talent with panels, firesides and entertainment, kicking off with Storytime with Massive Monster’s, Julian Wilton; the first ever PAX Aus Australian Keynote.

Filed Under: Announcements, Modern Gaming, Retro Gaming Culture Tagged With: Bethesda, Blizzard, Cosplay, Expo Hall, FINAL FANTASYTM XIV Online, gamers, PAX, PAX Aus, PAX Aus 2024, PAX Aus Exhibitor, PAXAus, PC gaming, pinball, retrogaming, sega, Steam, The Sims

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