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Analogue Pocket – Best Thing Since Sliced Bread

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Analogue Pocket – is the best thing since sliced bread!

It may have taken 11 months from ordering to receiving the Analogue Pocket, and let us tell you all, it has totally been worth the wait!

With multiple handhelds on the market that emulate classic systems from yesteryear, we honestly didn’t know what we were missing out on till the Analogue Pocket arrived! The FPGA (OpenFPGA) based system is like playing on the original hardware, and this is where the Pocket shines – rising well above the myriad of handhelds on the market which use software emulation to play our beloved old video games. Comparing FPGA to software emulation is like comparing a Formula 1 race car to a Totoya Camry racing at Monaco – both will get you to the finish line, but one will get you there far far quicker (and in style).

By now you would have worked out that we are fans of our new gadget from Analogue. Yeah, the wait was excruciating at times, but we are glad we hung in there, as this has now become our choice for handheld gaming. We were very impressed with the quality and premium feel of the Pocket (and it’s packaging), being on par with Apple Inc. – yep, it’s that good!

The Analogue Pocket looks and feels like a premium piece of electronics – which it is, but it’s components are what makes it impressive. The Pocket is designed around a 3.5”, 615 ppi, LCD, which is a first-in-class. With a 1600 x 1440 resolution, the Pocket has 10x the resolution of an original Game Boy. The display is even made from Gorilla® Glass, with pro level colour accuracy, dynamic range, and brightness. We’d argue that the Analogue Pocket is the best piece of handheld hardware to play video games, bar none.

But wait, there is more to this amazing piece of kit! Not only does this Analogue product play games,  it’s for making music too! The Pocket has a digital audio workstation built in called Nanoloop. It’s a synthesizer and a sequencer. Designed for music creation and live performance. Shape, stretch and morph sounds. Capture music or play and sculpt live – you too can be a chiptune maestro! You can also connect the Pocket to your Mac, PC or other hardware with MIDI & Sync cables.

Remember how we said to wait as there is more? Well, there is more to this device, that’s what makes it impressive. If you like to tinker in game development, then you’d be pleased to know that you can bring your gaming ideas to reality with zero programming knowledge with GB Studio! GB Studio is an easy-to-use drag and drop retro game creator, allowing you to generate proprietary .pocket files and then run them off your SD card.

The Dock is a must-get accessory for the Analogue Pocket!

The pièce de résistance of the Pocket is that it’s designed for FPGA development. Analogue added a second dedicated FPGA just for developers to develop and port their own cores. With access to Analogue’s proprietary hardware and scalers, it opens up the platform for developers to create amazing feats on the system.

At the time of writing, there have been quite a few cores created specifically for the Pocket, from classic gaming consoles like the Atari 2600/7800 and the Odyssey 2, to the Master System, NES, SNES, Mega Drive and everything in between. Getting these cores and setting them up has never been easier – we used RetroDriven’s Pocket Updater to do all the fiddly stuff like finding the right cores, downloading and configuring them. If you are a masochist, you can go and find the individual cores and set them up, or you could make things easier for yourself by bookmarking the OpenFPGA Cores Inventory site.

Welcome to the family

Setting up the cores on the Pocket is a cinch with RetroDriven’s Pocket Updater tool

The flexibility, power and premium componentry is what sets the Analogue Pocket apart from other handheld systems. The fact that it is FPGA based is a total game changer – pun fully intended. With a thriving development community, we are starting to see what this machine is capable of. The future does look quite bright for the Pocket, and that’s us saying that while we await our PC-Engine, Neo Geo Pocket and Atari Lynx adapters to arrive! Coupled with the Dock, the Analogue Pocket is truly the best thing since sliced bread in the video gaming world.

Tech Specs – Pocket:

  • Compatible with Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance game cartridges (and Game Gear, PC-Engine, Atari Lynx and Neo Geo Pocket via separate adapters)
  • 3.5″ LCD. 1600×1440 resolution. 615ppi
  • 360° display rotation (tate mode)
  • Variable refresh display
  • Rechargeable lithium ion 4300mAh battery (6-10 hour gameplay time & 10+ hour sleep time)
  • All buttons mappable/reconfigurable
  • Stereo speakers
  • micro SD card slot
  • USB-C charging
  • Original-style link port (woohoo, link action!)
  • 3.5mm headphone output

Tech Specs – Dock:

  • 1080p HDMI output
  • Bluetooth and 2.4g support for wireless controllers
  • 2 USB inputs for wired controllers
  • Up to 4 player support (4p Bluetooth, 2p 2.4g, 2p wired USB)
  • DAC compatibility (coming soon)
  • Power Dock on from controller



The Disappearing Legacy: The Endangered Status of Classic Video Games

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New study shows 87% of classic video games are critically endangered

The above headline should send shivers down our collective spine!!

In the ever-evolving world of technology and entertainment, video games hold a significant place. They have become a multi-billion dollar industry, captivating millions of players around the globe. However, a recent study conducted by the Video Game History Foundation in collaboration with the Software Preservation Network has shed light on a distressing reality: 87% of classic video games released are critically endangered. This revelation poses a serious threat to preserving the rich history and cultural significance of these digital artifacts.

Some spine-chilling classic video games facts:

  • 87% of classic games are not in release, and are considered critically endangered
  • Availability is low across every platform and time period tracked in the study
  • Libraries and archives can digitally preserve, but not digitally share video games, and can provide on-premises access only
  • Libraries and archives are allowed to digitally share other media types, such as books, film, and audio, and are not restricted to on-premises access
  • The Entertainment Software Association, the video game industry’s lobbying group, has consistently fought against expanding video game preservation within libraries and archives

The Vanishing Act:

Imagine a world where to watch a beloved film, you had to scour secondhand shops for a worn VHS tape and maintain outdated equipment solely for the purpose of viewing it. To exacerbate matters, the only other option would be to journey to a specific location, such as ACMI in Melbourne, where you could access a digitised version of the film but only by physically being there. Unbelievable as it may sound, this is the reality video game enthusiasts face today. Despite the industry’s colossal worth of $180 billion, the games themselves, along with their storied past, are disappearing.

The Dire Lack of Access:

When it comes to accessing classic video games, the options are dishearteningly limited. One could embark on the arduous task of hunting down collectible games and maintaining obsolete hardware. Alternatively, individuals might find themselves traversing great distances to reach specialized libraries or archives, all in the hopes of playing these beloved relics. However, these options are far from ideal. And regrettably, for most people, classic video games remain beyond reach, reserved only for the most dedicated and passionate fans. It’s a rather grim state of affairs.

The PAXAus Classic Gaming area is great to play classic video games, but not everyone has a 486SX PC setup at home to play classic games like Doom II

The Role of Libraries and Archives:

One might argue that libraries and archives should play a crucial role in preserving and providing access to classic video games. Just as one can peruse classic novels, listen to timeless albums, and watch iconic movies, the same privilege should extend to gaming enthusiasts. However, archaic copyright laws act as a significant obstacle, impeding institutions from fulfilling their mandate.

The Battle for Preservation:

Preserving classic video games is not a trivial matter. These digital artifacts not only represent milestones in the gaming industry but also reflect the evolving nature of technology and the artistry of game design. As with any form of cultural preservation, it is essential to protect these historical treasures for future generations.

Ah, if only we all had an old-school Apple IIc computer at home

Potential Solutions:

Addressing this crisis requires a collaborative effort from various stakeholders. A crucial step would be to reassess copyright laws, allowing libraries and archives the flexibility to digitise and provide access to classic video games without fear of legal repercussions. Additionally, industry players, game developers, and publishers should actively support preservation initiatives by providing resources, funding, and legal permissions to ensure the survival of their own creations.

Conclusion:

The perilous state of classic video games is a matter of concern for gaming enthusiasts and cultural preservationists alike. With the majority of these games facing the risk of extinction, urgent action is required to safeguard their legacy. By advocating for copyright reforms and promoting collaboration between industry and preservation organizations, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to explore, research, and appreciate the rich history of video games, just as we do with other forms of artistic expression.

Only through collective efforts can we prevent the disappearance of our digital heritage and ensure that classic video games remain accessible to all.

PS: For what its worth, we (in Australia) would love to see/support video games to be fully preserved by institutions/museums like ACMI (formerly Australian Centre for the Moving Image)

image source: if.com.au



story source: Video Game History Foundation

A Very Cool Custom LEGO Nintendo Game Boy

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Get ready for a blast from the past with this incredible creation by LEGO Masters finalist and avid gamer Nick Lever! Combining his love for LEGO and Nintendo, Nick has brought the iconic Game Boy to life in a whole new way. Prepare to be amazed as he unveils his 1:1 scale LEGO version of the beloved portable gaming system!

Constructed using a whopping 354 pieces and 115 unique parts, this life-sized masterpiece is a sight to behold. But that’s not all! Nick’s attention to detail is truly remarkable, as he has included a fully functional D-pad that you can actually press, as well as slots for inserting game cartridges. It’s like stepping back in time and holding a piece of gaming history in your hands!

Although you won’t be able to play any games on this LEGO Game Boy, Nick has thoughtfully crafted four custom game cartridges to accompany his creation. Get ready to dive into classic titles such as Tetris, The Legend of Zelda: Links Awakening, and the timeless Pokemon Red and Blue. While some may miss the absence of Donkey Kong Land, it’s hard to complain when these games are considered among the greatest of all time. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking in a quick gaming session instead of being productive this afternoon!

Now, here’s the exciting part. If you’re feeling inspired and eager to build your very own LEGO Game Boy, you’re in luck! Nick is offering the required piece list and instructions for sale. Simply reach out to him on Instagram to get your hands on this valuable resource. Get ready to unleash your inner builder and embark on a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of gaming!

So, grab your LEGO bricks, channel your creativity, and prepare to experience the joy of constructing your own life-sized Game Boy. This project is sure to bring hours of fun and a sense of accomplishment. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to merge two beloved passions and create something truly extraordinary. Get ready to level up your building skills and embrace the world of LEGO gaming!



story source: technabob

The Nintendo Snack Pack DOES What Sega Don’t!

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The Nintendo Snack Pack Dedicated Oldschool Entertainment System (DOES)

We have always been in awe of Starforce Pi’s creations, like the amazing PC-Engine SD and Sega OMega Drive.

This time around we are in awe of The Nintendo Snack Pack, a portable gaming/streaming system fitted into a 1972 Sony TV-740 case, including a large 20,000mAh battery and 12v charger that makes it an easy proposition to carry around and play!

The Ninty Snack Pack specifications are quite impressive (see below), but at the heart of it are two boards, the SNES mini and NES mini, stacked on top of one another. Switching between ‘channels’ is done via the large retro-style rotary dial on the front of the all-in-one unit.

The rotary dial not only allows you to switch between SNES and NES gaming fun, but it also allows you to switch to a SEGA channel which comes complete with 8/16-bit Sega fun and a host of other gaming systems to play. The third channel, VIDEODROME, is used to stream classic cartoons, movies and other shows via Chromecast, and last but not least, the fourth channel allows any console with an AV/composite connection to be plugged in and played – wowser, this is one super impressive DIY creation!

It would be a huge understatement for us to say how much we’d love The Nintendo Snack Pack to be sitting in our games room right now!

The Nintendo Snack Pack DOES What Sega Don’t!

Nintendo Snack Pack SPECS:

  • Authentic Nintendo NES Mini Board (Channel 1)
  • Authentic Nintendo SNES Mini Board (Channel 2)
  • 4x Controller Ports (1-2 Player for Channel 1 & 2, respectively)
  • Google Chromecast 2nd Generation (Channel 3)
  • RCA Audio/Video Input (Channel 4)
  • Aluminium Rotary Dial to switch channels
  • 8″ IPS LCD screen in 4:3 aspect ratio, 1024×768 (HDMI/RCA/VGA)
  • Logitech 1.2watt Stereo Speakers (Z120)
  • 20.000mAh 12V DC Battery
  • Vintage 1972 Sony TV-740 Converted Case
  • Dimensions: 25 x 20 x 24 cm, Weight: 2.5kg (5.5lbs)

story & image source: Starforce Pi



An Amazing Retro Gaming Donation

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When we first started ausretrogamer over a decade ago we never imagined that our little corner of nostalgia would capture the attention of people around Australia and around the world.

Over the years we have had readers contacting us to donate their wares, usually due to our genuine love of retro gaming and the preservation of classic games and consoles, plus no one wants to send stuff to landfill – it’s a win win!

A few weeks ago we were contacted by Mike, an avid reader of our site, who asked if we would be interested in his donation of classic consoles, computers and games. Mike sent us a photo of some of his goodies, and we must say, our eyes lit up at the vastness of the collection he was going to donate.

We finally met up with Mike late last week and the big surprise was that he had way more amazing stuff to donate than what was in the initial photos. We were pleasantly surprised and found it totally humbling that someone would generously give away their items to be preserved and enjoyed – which we will! The best part of this donation was meeting Mike and having a great conversation about games, systems and life in general – which is totally priceless.

We haven’t gone through all of the items Mike donated to ausretrogamer, but we thought we would share some photos of this amazing collection – scroll slowly to take in all the nostalgia!

Many thanks to Mike for his generosity, these will be cherished.

all images owned by & copyright of ausretrogamer



Tetris Waffle Maker

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Now this is our kind of thing! Firebox is selling an officially licensed Tetris Waffle Maker (£29.99), which can produce seven different cute Tetrimino-shaped waffles in just a few minutes. This would be a great Xmas gift for that special someone that loves Tetris, which is about 40+ million peeps around the world (including us!) 😉

image source: Firebox



Retrogaming Magz, Comics and Books!

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Planes, trains and automobiles? No, magazines, comics and books, the retro gaming kind!

Last weekend we tweeted a couple of teaser photos of a number of magazines in our collection and promised that we would share more. Well, here they are! Relocating this stuff is always a chore, but the amount of nostalgia we get is priceless, so it is always well worth it.

For those keen observers, you will note that there are no photos of our most favourite 80s mag, Zzap64!, but rest assured, those issues are well preserved and didn’t require relocating. We hope these images bring back great memories for you too!

All images copyright of ausretrogamer.com



Comparing Driving to Tetris

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By: D.C. Cutler, U.S.A.

Driving in America can be insane at times. People ride your back bumper for no reason, and they cut you off in traffic without any hesitation. Sometimes I compare daily driving to a competitive game of Tetris. Everyone is always trying to pass you and fill an open gap. Could moving ahead in a way be seen as points by some?

When I was a kid, I was obsessed with Tetris. The first time I ever played the Alexey Pajitnov designed game was at my local bowling alley. The strategic game blew my mind. The quick thinking and hand-eye coordination skills that Tetris required made me an instant fan. I got really good at the arcade version of the game. But when I got the NES game for my birthday, I became a Tetris prodigy. Well, maybe not that exceptional, but I ran the score up higher than any of my friends. When the various shapes of pieces started falling faster, that’s when I went into a video game playing, frenzied zone. My playing skills would elevate to another level.

It’s not hard comparing traffic to Tetris. I don’t understand why another driver has to ride my bumper, and then, when there’s a lane that suddenly opens next to me, they rapidly whisk around me. I’m not a slow driver, I just follow the speed limit laws. The car lanes are like the empty space for the various shaped blocks to fall through.

Why is everyone in such a mad hurry? Like playing Tetris, is driving for some motorist a fun game? I’m more aggressive when I play Tetris than when I’m on the highway. That doesn’t seem to be the case for others where I live and work.



Celebrating The 35th Anniversary of The Legend of Zelda

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Game and Watch: The Legend of ZeldaAfter this week’s Nintendo Direct, we are obviously most excited about the Game & Watch: The Legend of Zelda announcement, with the green G&W beauty slated for release later this year (Friday, November 12 2021 to be exact)!

As part of its 35th anniversary celebration, this Game & Watch will let you play The Legend of Zelda, Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (Game Boy version), and a special Game & Watch edition of Vermin (featuring Link)! Just like the Game & Watch Super Mario, this will have a playable clock and timer too!

At a cost of AU$79.00 (via Amazon), who is pre-ordering one? Hit us up on Twitter or Facebook to let us know.


source: Nintendo



Game Boy Modding and Repairs: A Step-by-Step Guide For Beginners

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Ever wanted to repair or modify your own OG Nintendo Game Boy? If you answered yes, then Björn Fogelberg’s Game Boy Modding and Repairs: A Step-by-Step Guide For Beginners (Kindle book) is for you!

This book has illustrated detailed guides for the most common mods for improved video and sound. You can read all about installing a backlight kit and bivert chip without breaking anything (that is good to know! – Ed), and all the how to guides, like the how to do the pro sound mod, how to get rid of background noise and how to build a kit for retrobrighting shells, among many more. There is a whole section dedicated to repairs, with easy solutions to the OG Game Boy’s most common problems. The best bit is that this book is for everyone, even those that have no prior knowledge or skill (That’s us! – Ed) in installing, soldering, modding or repairing the Game Boy.

Grab Game Boy Modding and Repairs: A Step-by-Step Guide For Beginners now!

image source: Björn Fogelberg