Football, fighter jets, and Fray.
You’re probably curious, so let me clarify: yes, Waluigi’s infamous crotch chop is indeed included.
ARCADE ARCHIVES / ARCADE ARCHIVES 2
- Platform: Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X (worldwide, ACA2) / Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 (worldwide, ACA)
- Price: $17.99 / €14.99 / £11.99 (ACA2), $14.99 / €14.99 / £11.99 (ACA), $2.99 / €2.99 / £2.49 (ACA-to-ACA2 upgrade)
- Publisher: Hamster / Bandai-Namco
What’s this? A military aerial combat game from Namco, originally released in arcades in 1995, serving as a remake of their 1993 title Air Combat. Players pilot one of three real-world military jets and engage in combat using machine guns, missiles, and radar across various stages with differing difficulties.
Why should I care? Fans of the original PlayStation may recognize Air Combat as the predecessor to Ace Combat. This arcade version is visually striking, sharper, and more focused on quick gameplay sessions, making it an ideal experience compared to earlier pre-Ace Combat 3 titles.
Helpful tip: These Arcade Archives also support multiple controller options, including gyro controls and the USB Cyber Stick controller available with the Mega Drive Mini 2, but be advised that it’s only compatible with the standard version, not ACA2.
EGG CONSOLE
How Many Robot? Fray (MSX2)
- Platform: Nintendo Switch (worldwide)
- Price: ¥980 / $7.16
- Publisher: D4 Enterprise / Micro Cabin
What’s this? A charming spinoff of the MSX2 action-RPG series Xak, first launched in 1990 and later revamped for other platforms. The game follows the protagonist Fray on an adventure, influenced more by overhead run-and-gun styles rather than traditional RPG mechanics.
Why should I care? If you prefer action-RPGs with a more action-oriented gameplay rather than complex stats, this might appeal to you, though it has its own pacing that distinguishes it from arcade titles.
Language barrier? Most menus are in Japanese, along with significant amounts of dialogue. While it may be challenging, players may find it easier to navigate than other EGG Console games released weekly.
G-MODE ARCHIVES
- Platform: Nintendo Switch (Japan)
- Price: ¥600
- Publisher: G-MODE
What’s this? A highly challenging platformer created by Game Studio under Masanobu Endou, initially released for Japanese feature phones in 2001. This re-release combines various volumes and challenges players to navigate through tight stages quickly.
Why should I care? If you appreciate masocore platformers from a recognized designer but don’t shy away from vibes of annoyance similar to games like Flappy Bird, this might be for you!
Useless fact: G-MODE expedited this reissue following a feature on NHK daytime TV, which reignited nostalgic interest after a comedian shared their experience playing it on a long-forgotten feature phone.
NINTENDO SWITCH ONLINE EXPANSION PASS
July ’25 update (Switch 2): Super Mario Strikers (GameCube)
What’s this? Mario’s inaugural soccer adventure, fashioned by Canadian studio Next Level Games and released on GameCube in 2005. It paved the way for a Wii sequel and a Switch revival in 2022, featuring 5v5 matches with lighthearted rules and power-ups akin to Mario Kart.
Why should I care? Of the series, this iteration stays closest to traditional soccer, making it accessible for quick multiplayer fun while showcasing a brief moment when Nintendo allowed their characters a bit of extra personality.
Useless fact: Nintendo sought Next Level Games due to their work on Sega Soccer Slam, known for its non-tacky take on early 2000s arcade soccer games.
OTHER
- Platform: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox (worldwide)
- Price: $24.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: ININ / Tozai Games
What’s this? The third installment in a series compiling Irem’s arcade library. This volume features arcade and PC Engine versions of the 1987 shooter Mr. Heli, the arcade versions of Mystic Riders, and Dragon Breed. It includes save states, rewind features, online leaderboards, various screen filters, controller options, and art/music galleries.
Why should I care? Mr. Heli offers strategic challenges that might have gained more recognition under a different aesthetic, while Dragon Breed stands out for its engaging conception, and Mystic Riders offers strong mechanics that prioritize gameplay over rigid structure.
Helpful(?) tip: There’s currently no estimate for the remaining volumes of this collection, but it’s inferred that one may focus on Undercover Cops and the other on more whimsical action games like Hammerin’ Harry, with unlikely prospects for anything like R-TYPE.
Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World
- Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X (worldwide)
- Price: $19.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: Bliss Brain
What’s this? A polygonal remake of the final entry in the Wonder Boy/Monster World series, originally released on the Sega Mega Drive in 1994. This remake enhances graphics, music, and gameplay while retaining the essence of the original.
Why should I care? This remake will resonate with those seeking nostalgia, while providing modern visuals and a voice acting upgrade. Though it may not diverge significantly from the original, it offers a fresh perspective on a classic.
Helpful tip: Previous versions of this remake included the original game, but this current version does not. If you want to try the original, consider the Wonder Boy Anniversary Collection on PS, though it’s not available on Xbox following its delisting.
Original article by retronauts.com
