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Zines, carts, and a documentary
Greetings, readers! Happy Pride! While most of these featured projects may not explicitly represent queer themes—except perhaps one—it’s essential to recognize that queer individuals have always been integral to video gaming history. As always, we don’t have insider knowledge or financial stakes in these projects, and no one at Retronauts has received payment for featuring these items. To the best of my ability, I will not endorse any campaigns based on AI assets. In light of the ongoing pandemic, please consider your financial situation before supporting any crowdfunding initiatives.
Magic Knight 40th Anniversary Collection (ends June 7; estimated rewards by September 2025)
Despite my lack of familiarity with the ZX Spectrum, this collection of four games by David Jones appears extensive. Releasing software on cassette tapes in 2025 displays a commendable dedication to the craft.
Beat ‘Em Up Volume 1 (ends June 9; estimated rewards by September 2025)
Darren Hupke, a frequent crowdfunder, returns with what aims to be the first installment of a series exploring the history of beat-em-ups. He also mentioned an upcoming campaign for his Retro Game Zine later this month. June is going to be busy!
LED-Interactive Famicom Cartridge Board (ends June 16; estimated rewards by February 2026)
Due to the Famicom’s unique design, some Japanese games featured lights that activated when the console powered on. This project proposes a Famicom game that utilizes these lights to enhance in-game actions. As the project is still in its prototype phase, the campaign will offer different games as incentives for funding the illuminated Famicom’s continued development.
Echoes of the Unread (ends June 18; estimated rewards by February 2026)
If you’re on the hunt for new NES games from the 21st century, you have many options, but few focus on singing—well, sort of! This game features a character who produces magical notes to “solve puzzles, battle foes, and uncover secrets.” A downloadable demo is available here.
Mawthorne 2 (ends June 19; estimated rewards by October 2025)
This sequel to a previously crowdfunded game I wrote about three years ago shows how long this column has been running! If you’re curious, there’s a demo available for you to try. I look forward to Mawthorne 3: Tokyo Drift in 2029!
THE HEART OF NEON (ends June 21; estimated rewards by August 2025)
I must admit I haven’t played any of Jeff Minter’s games, although friends like Stuart Gipp and Chris Kohler insist I should. Perhaps this feature-length documentary about his journey in game development will finally change my mind. Only time will tell.
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Original article by retronauts.com
