Japan is known as the birthplace of many iconic video games and consoles, such as Super Mario, Pac-Man, and Nintendo. However, as technology advances, many of these classic games and consoles have become obsolete or hard to find. That’s why some Japanese companies have decided to create new consoles that can play old cartridges and bring back the nostalgia of retro gaming.
One of these companies is Columbus Circle, a secondhand goods retailer that specializes in retro games and media. The company has launched a series of consoles called Retro Freak, which can play games from 11 different systems, including the Famicom, Super Famicom, Mega Drive, and PC Engine. The consoles have HDMI output, SD card slot, and USB ports, allowing users to enjoy high-quality graphics, save data, and use various controllers. The consoles also have a built-in emulator that can run downloaded ROM files.
Another company that has entered the retro console market is Retro-Bit, a subsidiary of Innex, a US-based distributor of video game accessories. Retro-Bit has partnered with Sega to produce official replicas of the Mega Drive and Saturn consoles, which can play original cartridges as well as new games developed for them. The consoles also have wireless controllers, HDMI output, and online features. Retro-Bit plans to release the consoles in Japan, North America, and Europe in 2023.
Retro Gaming Demand Surges Worldwide
The retro gaming craze is not limited to Japan, as many gamers around the world are eager to relive their childhood memories or discover the classics they missed. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global retro gaming market size was valued at $1.8 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.5% from 2021 to 2028. The report cites the factors such as nostalgia, affordability, accessibility, and collectability as the drivers of the market growth.
Some of the popular platforms for retro gaming include online stores, subscription services, mini consoles, and handheld devices. For example, Nintendo has launched the Nintendo Classic Mini and the Super Nintendo Classic Mini, which are miniature versions of the original consoles that come with pre-installed games and HDMI output. Sony has also released the PlayStation Classic, which is a similar concept for the PlayStation 1. These mini consoles have been sold out quickly and have become collector’s items.
Another option for retro gaming is handheld devices, such as the Analogue Pocket and the Evercade. The Analogue Pocket is a portable device that can play games from various handheld systems, such as the Game Boy, Game Gear, and Neo Geo Pocket. The device has a high-resolution screen, a rechargeable battery, and a digital audio workstation. The Evercade is a cartridge-based handheld device that can play games from Atari, Namco, Interplay, and other publishers. The device has a 4.3-inch screen, a six-hour battery life, and an HDMI output.
Retro Gaming Benefits Gamers and Developers
Retro gaming is not only a hobby, but also a way to appreciate the history and culture of video games. By playing retro games, gamers can learn about the origins, influences, and innovations of the medium, as well as the challenges and limitations faced by the developers. Retro gaming can also inspire creativity, as gamers can modify, remix, or create their own games using old hardware and software.
Retro gaming can also benefit the developers and publishers of the original games, as they can generate revenue from re-releasing, remastering, or licensing their titles. Retro gaming can also increase the brand awareness and fan loyalty of the franchises, as well as attract new audiences and customers. Retro gaming can also foster collaboration and communication among the developers, as they can share their knowledge, skills, and experiences with each other and with the gamers.
Retro gaming is a phenomenon that shows the enduring appeal and value of video games, regardless of their age, genre, or platform. As technology evolves, retro gaming will continue to adapt and innovate, offering new ways to enjoy the classics and discover new gems.
