Tag: EZRetroPlays

Top 20 Sega Genesis Beat ’Em Ups You Can Play on the Miyoo Mini
I made this list originally for my Miyoo Mini, that pocket-sized retro handheld that’s perfect for quick gaming breaks. These Genesis titles are ideal for short bursts — just enough time to clear a few stages, save, and come back later. Of course, you can play them on PC or mobile too, but the Miyoo Mini makes them shine in bite-sized sessions.

This is my countdown of the Top 20 Sega Genesis-exclusive (and Japan-only) beat ’em ups, ranked from 20 to 1. One game per franchise, all of them packed with that 16-bit energy Sega was known for.

20. Shadow Blasters (1990)

If you’ve never heard of Shadow Blasters, don’t worry you’re not alone. This Genesis-exclusive action brawler lets you switch between four warriors, each harnessing elemental powers to clean up a post-apocalyptic Earth. It’s rough around the edges, but the variety and frantic pace make it a hidden gem for Miyoo Mini short sessions.

Fun fact: The game was published by Sage’s Creation, one of the first companies to localize smaller Japanese titles for the Genesis — giving us oddball cult classics like this one.

19. Battle Mania: Daiginjou (1993, Japan)

Technically a shooter, but its crazy boss fights and melee energy fit right in here. Bursting with attitude and chaotic energy — pure early ’90s Sega spirit.

Fun fact: It was developed by a small all-female team at Vic Tokai, which was unusual for the time.

18. Golden Axe III (1993, Japan)

The last Genesis Golden Axe game, never officially released in the West. It adds new moves and smoother animation, even if it lacks the polish of II.

Fun fact: It was originally meant for international release, but Sega of America rejected it for being “too similar” to its predecessors.

17. Yu Yu Hakusho: Makyo Toitsusen (1994, Treasure)

Four-player brawling madness with fluid animation and surprising depth. You don’t need to know the anime to have fun — just start swinging.

Fun fact: This was one of the first console games to allow four players to fight at once, predating Smash Bros. by years.

16. Ranger X (1993, Sega)

A mecha brawler that mixes shooting and close combat. Its visuals are still impressive today, and the controls are shockingly fluid for a Genesis title.

Fun fact: The developer, GAU Entertainment, created a custom tool to simulate lighting and shadows — years before the Genesis supported such effects.

15. Alien Soldier (1995, Treasure)

A boss rush masterpiece with lightning-fast combat and high difficulty. It’s short but intense, and perfect for quick bursts on the Miyoo Mini.

Fun fact: Treasure intentionally limited physical production in Japan, making original copies one of the rarest Genesis releases.

14. Sword of Vermilion (1990, Sega)

A strange mix of RPG and beat ’em up where battles shift into side-view brawls. It’s rough, but charming — a reminder of when Sega loved to experiment.

Fun fact: Yu Suzuki, the creator of Shenmue and OutRun, produced this game early in his career.

13. Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi (1990, Sega)

A slick ninja action game where your dog companion attacks enemies on command. It’s fast, satisfying, and plays beautifully in short sessions.

Fun fact: The Genesis version is completely different from the arcade release — a rare case where the home port is its own game.

12. Two Crude Dudes (1992, Sega)

A loud, over-the-top brawler where musclebound heroes clean up a ruined city. You can lift cars and toss enemies around like ragdolls.

Fun fact: The game’s U.S. title was changed from Crude Buster to Two Crude Dudes to make it sound more like an action comedy.

11. ESWAT: City Under Siege (1990, Sega)

Half shooter, half brawler — you’re a cyber cop taking down gangs with heavy armor and a jetpack. It feels like Robocop with a Sega twist.

Fun fact: ESWAT began life as an arcade beat ’em up before Sega rebuilt it from scratch for Genesis as a more action-platformer hybrid.

10. Splatterhouse 2 (1992, Namco/Sega)

A gory, horror-themed brawler with simple mechanics and an unforgettable mood. It’s creepy, violent, and strangely satisfying.

Fun fact: Sega toned down the gore slightly for the Western version, but fans later restored it through fan translations.

9. Last Battle (1989, Sega)

A launch title that wears its Fist of the North Star inspiration proudly — punch enemies and watch them literally explode. Primitive but iconic.

Fun fact: The Western release censored the blood and removed Kenshiro references, turning it into a completely new story.

8. The Hybrid Front (1994, Sega Japan)

Part strategy, part brawler, and totally unique. It’s a strange mix that works best for players who like experimentation in their Genesis games.

Fun fact: Sega’s internal dev team reused parts of its code years later for Shining Force II’s tactical systems.

7. Mazin Saga: Mutant Fighter (1993, Sega)

A hybrid of side-scrolling combat and giant robot duels. You fight as a human first, then transform into a mech for boss battles.

Fun fact: The game is based on Go Nagai’s manga Mazin Saga, which was still running in Japan when this came out.

6. Cyborg Justice (1993, Sega)

You build your own robot fighter, rip off enemy parts, and graft them onto yourself. It’s chaotic but addictive.

Fun fact: The devs wanted destructible environments, but Sega cut the feature to keep the frame rate stable.

5. Golden Axe II (1991, Sega)

Classic fantasy co-op done right. Ride beasts, cast magic, and swing axes through medieval mayhem — still one of Sega’s best.

Fun fact: The team reused the same engine as the first Golden Axe but doubled the animation frames to make attacks smoother.

4. Bare Knuckle III (1994, Sega Japan)

The original, uncensored version of Streets of Rage 3. Faster and grittier than the Western release, with deeper combat and new mechanics.

Fun fact: The English version removed one entire level and toned down character designs to avoid controversy overseas.

3. Alien Storm (1991, Sega)

A fast-paced alien-busting brawler with co-op and shooting stages that break up the action. It’s quirky, colorful, and pure Sega fun.

Fun fact: Alien Storm was built on a modified Golden Axe engine — you can feel it in the combat flow.

2. Comix Zone (1995, Sega)

You’re a comic artist trapped in your own creation, literally punching your way through panels. Stylish, short, and endlessly creative.

Fun fact: Sega’s dev team studied Marvel and DC comics to nail the page transitions — all drawn by hand before being digitized.

1. Streets of Rage II (1992, Sega)

The ultimate Genesis brawler and one of the best beat ’em ups ever made. Tight controls, iconic visuals, and Yuzo Koshiro’s unforgettable soundtrack.

Fun fact: The composer reportedly used actual nightclub tracks as references, mixing early techno and house influences to get that signature sound.

Why Battletoads Isn’t Here

You might be wondering where Battletoads is. The Genesis version looks and plays great, but it’s not an original Sega title since it started on the NES. So while it’s not part of this countdown, it’s still worth playing on your Miyoo Mini if you’re ready for the infamous speeder bike level.

Other Great Brawlers That Didn’t Make the Cut

These didn’t make the list but are still fun to revisit:
- Mighty Morphin Power Rangers – flashy and straightforward.
- Captain America and the Avengers – chaotic superhero fun.
- Batman Returns – dark, moody, and solid.
- TMNT: The Hyperstone Heist – not exclusive, but essential.
- Battletoads & Double Dragon – crossover madness, but again, not Genesis-exclusive.
Final Thoughts

The Sega Genesis library was full of attitude, and its beat ’em ups were the loudest of them all. Whether you’re revisiting these on a Miyoo Mini or firing them up on an emulator, they still deliver that same 16-bit punch that made Sega’s glory days unforgettable.

Thanks for reading my vlogs and posts. Got a Genesis brawler I missed? Drop it in the comments — I’m always looking for the next hidden gem.
11th Oct 2025
Top 5 Dragon Ball Games That Still Hold Up Today (Retro Edition)

Even decades later, some Dragon Ball games just refuse to fade away. Whether you grew up button-mashing on a Sega Genesis or charging up Kamehamehas on your PSP, these classics remind us why Dragon Ball has been a staple in anime gaming.

This list is by no means the definitive “best of all time” — how great a game feels will always be subjective. But for me, someone who still plays these titles on retro handhelds, these are the five that stand out the most. They’re what I personally consider my top five Dragon Ball games to revisit and enjoy even today.

1. Dragon Ball Z: Buyuu Retsuden (Sega Genesis, 1994)

Before 3D arena fighters and flashy transformations, Buyuu Retsuden gave Genesis owners a taste of pure 2D fighting action. It was fast, fun, and brought iconic battles to life in glorious 16-bit form — long before most of us even dreamed of full 3D Dragon Ball games.

Why it holds up: Tight controls, nostalgic visuals, and that signature Genesis energy make this a must-play for retro fighting fans.

Fun Fact: The game had secret moves and even “Super vs. Super” clashes where two characters could unleash ultimate attacks at the same time, creating a mini-game of energy waves. You could also block supers with precise timing — rare for its era and incredibly satisfying when pulled off.

2. Dragon Ball Z: Buu’s Fury (Game Boy Advance, 2004)

An action RPG that lets you relive the Buu Saga while leveling up, exploring areas, and smashing enemies in real time. For handheld players, Buu’s Fury was the ultimate way to feel like a Super Saiyan on the go.

Why it holds up: Classic pixel art, rewarding combat, and a surprisingly emotional story for a GBA title.

Fun Fact: Buu’s Fury is actually the third in the Legacy of Goku trilogy. It took everything that worked in Legacy of Goku I and II — tighter combat, smoother transformations, better story pacing — and perfected it. Out of all three, Buu’s Fury is easily the best and most polished GBA Dragon Ball adventure.

3. Dragon Ball Z: Tenkaichi Tag Team (PSP, 2010)

Portable, explosive, and still one of the most fun Dragon Ball games to this day. Tenkaichi Tag Team let you fight solo or team up for wild 2v2 battles, bringing console-level gameplay to a handheld screen.

Why it holds up: Fast-paced combat, deep combos, and an iconic roster that’s still unmatched on PSP.

Fun Fact: Think of this as a lighter, portable version of Budokai Tenkaichi on PS2 — but with tons of content, customizations, and a full story mode. There’s also another hidden gem on PSP called Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai, a 2.5D fighter — but between the two, Tenkaichi Tag Team stands taller thanks to its bigger roster, polish, and those chaotic 2v2 battles.

4. Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure (Game Boy Advance, 2004)

This one’s a gem. Covering Goku’s original adventures — from meeting Bulma to the final battle with King Piccolo — Advanced Adventure mixes platforming, exploration, and fighting into one charming package.

Why it holds up: It’s one of the few games that perfectly captures the humor, adventure, and heart of classic Dragon Ball. Plus, that 2D art style still looks fantastic today.

Fun Fact: This game is pure nostalgia — an action-platformer that tells Goku’s early story as a kid. It blends adventure, one-on-one battles, and side-scrolling action so well that even after all these years, it still plays great and captures the true spirit of early Dragon Ball.

5. Dragon Ball Fusions (Nintendo 3DS, 2016)

While it’s newer than the others, Fusions carries that old-school Dragon Ball spirit — letting you fuse just about anyone with anyone. The result? A chaotic, creative RPG that celebrates everything fun about the franchise.

Why it holds up: Unique mechanics, colorful visuals, and endless replay value make this one a modern classic with retro DNA.

Fun Fact: What makes Fusions stand out is its deep customization system — you can fuse different characters to create completely new fighters, customize your looks, fighting type, special moves, and skills. It’s a dream come true for fans who ever wished to create their own warrior in the Dragon Ball universe.

Final Thoughts

From Buyuu Retsuden’s 16-bit punches to Advanced Adventure’s playful nostalgia, these games prove that Dragon Ball’s legacy in gaming is just as strong as its anime roots.

Thanks for reading — it really means a lot. Which Dragon Ball game defined your childhood? Drop it in the comments — let’s talk classics.

8th Oct 2025
The Galerians Series – Disturbing, Unique, and Forgotten
Some games scare you with monsters. Others disturb you with atmosphere. But then there are games like the Galerians series — games that make you uncomfortable because of the ideas underneath.

Spanning the original Galerians on PS1 (1999) and its direct sequel Galerians: Ash on PS2 (2002/2003), the series is a one-two punch of sci-fi horror, drug-fueled survival mechanics, and tragic storytelling. For me, these games remain some of the most unique — and frankly disturbing — experiences I’ve ever had in gaming.

1999: Horror Boom on the PS1

Galerians Ps1 cover art

By the time Galerians released in 1999 (Japan) and 2000 (US/EU), the PlayStation was already knee-deep in a survival horror golden age.
- Capcom had just dropped Resident Evil 2 (1998) and Nemesis (1999).
- Konami unleashed Silent Hill (1999) — redefining psychological horror.
- Square dabbled with cinematic horror-RPG hybrids like Parasite Eve II (1999).
- Capcom even turned dinosaurs into horror with Dino Crisis (1999).
Everyone wanted a slice of the horror pie.

So where did Galerians fit? Developed by Polygon Magic and published in the West by Crave Entertainment, the game wasn’t coming from the heavyweights. Crave was mostly known for mid-tier and niche projects — sports titles, racing games, even quirky experiments. But in the late ’90s, even they leaned into the horror trend, picking up Galerians because it stood out: no guns, no zombies, just psychic powers fueled by dangerous drug use.

While the big publishers were polishing cinematic experiences, Crave doubled down on something raw and unsettling. It wasn’t the mainstream choice, but it gave Galerians its cult edge.

My First Steps Into Galerians

Booting up Galerians for the first time was like waking up inside someone else’s nightmare. The screen fades in, and you’re just… there. A sterile hospital room, cold and empty, and you have no idea who you are or why you’re strapped into this world of machines.

Then it happens: a girl’s voice inside your head.

“Rion… help me… find me…”

It’s faint, desperate, and unsettlingly personal. You don’t know her. You don’t even know yourself. But that voice becomes your compass, sparking your journey into the unknown. (Later, the game reveals this telepathic voice belongs to Lilia Pascalle, Rion’s childhood friend — but at the start, you only feel the mystery.)

And what a brutal start it is. Within minutes, I was already dying — overdosing on my own psychic powers, burning myself out with attacks I didn’t fully understand. Galerians didn’t want you to feel strong. It wanted you to feel fragile, broken, like a failed experiment stumbling forward.

Each scrap of the world you uncover — medical files, cryptic documents, and eerie computer logs — becomes your only guide. There are no quest arrows, no tutorials, just survival and that haunting voice urging you onward.

Stages and Bosses

What makes Galerians so distinct is how each stage feels like a test, both in difficulty and in theme:
- Michelangelo Memorial Hospital – sterile halls filled with former caretakers turned threats, a twisted introduction to your fragile powers.
- Rion’s House – once a place of safety, now twisted by confrontation with Birdman, one of Dorothy’s “children.”
- Babylon Hotel – chaotic, stylish, and home to brutal encounters with Rainheart and Rita, psychic foes as unstable as you are.
- Mushroom Tower – the final climb toward Dorothy, the cold, godlike AI that orchestrates your suffering.
Each boss isn’t just an obstacle; they’re living embodiments of Dorothy’s experiments, mirrors of what Rion could become. The game’s final stage, drenched in sterile dread, leaves you exhausted both mechanically and emotionally — and that’s before the ending revelations about Rion’s true nature.

Galerians: Rion (2002 CGI Movie)

A couple years later, fans got something unexpected: Galerians: Rion, a full CGI movie.

Think Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within style visuals — glossy, cinematic, and way ahead of its time for such a niche horror property. The movie retold the first game’s story but streamlined it, cutting much of the exploration and emphasizing flashy psychic battles instead.

The most controversial change was the ending. Where the PS1 game gave us one of the bleakest conclusions in survival horror, the film rewrote it to keep Rion alive — clearly paving the way for Galerians: Ash. For newcomers, it was a more digestible, “cleaned-up” retelling, but for players like me, it lost some of the raw edge that made the original unforgettable.

2002–2003: Horror Evolves on PS2

By the time Galerians: Ash launched on PS2 (2002 in Japan, 2003 in the West), the genre had shifted. Survival horror wasn’t just popular — it was splitting into blockbusters vs. experiments.
- Silent Hill 2 (2001) rewrote the rulebook for psychological horror.
- Fatal Frame (2001) introduced ghost photography as combat.
- Resident Evil Code: Veronica X (2001) and Resident Evil Zero (2002) kept Capcom’s dominance strong.
- Clock Tower 3 (2002) and Siren (2003) tried bold, experimental AI-driven scares.
Enter Sammy Studios, who published Ash outside Japan. Sammy, better known for arcade hits, was making a push into console publishing. Backing a cult sequel like Ash was a gamble — but one that kept Polygon Magic’s vision alive.

In Ash, Rion returns to face Ash, Dorothy’s terrifying final “child.” The environments are bigger, the visuals cleaner, and combat more polished — but the mechanics of psychic dependency remain. If anything, the sequel leans harder into the disturbing edge of the original, at a time when most horror games were chasing cinematic prestige.

Why the Galerians Series Faded

Both Galerians and Ash were outsiders in their eras.
- On PS1, Galerians got lost among juggernauts like Resident Evil and Silent Hill.
- On PS2, Ash was overshadowed by games that redefined the genre’s future.
But more importantly:
- Drug dependency as gameplay – Brilliant but controversial.
- Edgy, bleak storytelling – No power fantasy, just tragedy.
- Cult status only – Without mainstream traction, the series couldn’t sustain sequels.
That’s why, in my opinion, Galerians won’t ever get a revival. It’s too raw, too edgy, and too tied to mechanics modern publishers wouldn’t dare touch.

Playing Galerians Today

Even if the series is gone, I still revisit it. My Miyoo Mini makes replaying Galerians on the go super nostalgic, though to be honest, I prefer my RG28XX most of the time — the horizontal form factor just feels better for those tricky trigger-based psychic powers.

As for Ash, it’s comfortably sitting on my tablet and phone, where I chip away at it in short bursts. With Halloween around the corner, it’s the perfect time to step back into that bleak, oppressive world.

Final Thoughts

Galerians may never return, but maybe that’s for the best. It burned bright in its moment, dared to go where few games would, and left behind something unforgettable. For me, replaying it now isn’t just nostalgia — it’s a reminder of when horror games weren’t afraid to disturb you, not just scare you.

And honestly? In a genre packed with monsters and gore, I’ll take one tragic psychic teen overdosing his way through the apocalypse any day.
4th Oct 2025
🎄 Octopath Traveler 0: The JRPG Gift We’re Getting This Holiday 🎁
Here’s some good holiday news for JRPG fans — Octopath Traveler 0 is officially releasing worldwide on December 4, 2025 for Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam & Microsoft Store).

I first got into Orsterra through Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent on mobile. Even if the series already had a big reputation thanks to the first Octopath Traveler back in 2018 on Switch (and later on PC, Xbox, and Stadia), CotC was my entry point. Honestly, it blew me away — not just because it was free-to-play, but because of how much heart it had.

What really stuck with me wasn’t even the main story, but the character-driven side quests. With so many characters to meet and unlock, I found myself spending hours just following their stories instead of pushing the main plot. The gacha system? It didn’t bother me at all — the sheer number of characters made it feel like I always had something fresh to explore, and I never felt pressured to spend. Add in full voiceovers and an amazing soundtrack, and CotC became one of my favorite mobile RPG experiences.

I played through three chapters before stepping away after the Solistia update dropped in May 2025. But now, with Octopath Traveler 0 on the horizon, I’m ready to dive back in.

This isn’t just CotC with the gacha stripped out — Square Enix is reimagining it as a premium, standalone JRPG. You’ll still build a party of eight, but now with more focus on creating your own custom protagonist, rebuilding the burned-down town of Wishvale, and pushing deeper into the series’ signature mix of tactical combat and branching stories.

For me, Octopath Traveler 0 feels like a dream come true. Imagine a game that carries the spirit of Suikoden with its wide cast of recruitable characters, mixes in the Break & Boost combat system from CotC, and tops it off with pixel-style graphics that bring back memories of my old Final Fantasy favorites. It’s basically the perfect mix for the holidays — the kind of RPG I’d love to sink into with a cup of warm cocoa on a cold December night.

And the timing? Perfect. Launching in December, it feels like Square Enix is setting Octopath Traveler 0 up to be the holiday JRPG event of the year. Hopefully, there won’t be any last-minute hiccups like what happened with Konami’s Suikoden I & II HD Remaster, which was supposed to drop in December but got pushed all the way to March.

If you’ve been waiting for a story-driven JRPG without the gacha strings attached, Octopath Traveler 0 should definitely be in your holiday carts. This just might be the JRPG gift we all needed for 2025.

🎅 Holiday Hype: Quick Facts on Octopath Traveler 0 🎄
- Release Date: December 4, 2025 (worldwide)
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam & Microsoft Store)
- Developer / Publisher: Acquire & Square Enix
- Genre: Turn-based JRPG (premium, no gacha)
- Story Setup: Starts in Wishvale, a burned town you’ll rebuild as part of your journey
- Protagonist: Custom-created hero instead of 8 separate storylines
- Combat: Break & Boost system returns, now with 8-character party battles
- Town-Building: Place structures, recruit townsfolk, and expand your base
- Presentation: Full voice acting, expanded soundtrack, and HD-2D pixel art visuals
- Monetization: 100% premium, no gacha or RNG pulls
🔥 I can already see this one being the perfect holiday binge — what about you? Planning to pick it up day one, or waiting to see first reviews?
26th Sep 2025
First Impressions: Fire Emblem Shadows

If you guys follow my blogs, you’ll know that Fire Emblem is one franchise I’m absolutely crazy about. And today, out of nowhere, Nintendo just dropped another entry on mobile called Fire Emblem Shadows.

I’ve got to be honest—when I first saw the news, I was surprised there wasn’t any build-up or hype leading to this release, nothing like the huge campaign that came with Fire Emblem Heroes a few years back. But now that I’ve actually played it, I get it. This wasn’t just a launch—it was a shadow drop in every sense of the word.

Nintendo unveiled Fire Emblem Shadows with a short trailer that went live right alongside the game’s release. The presentation leaned heavily into the idea of secrecy and betrayal, teasing its unique hook: real-time tactical battles where one of your supposed allies might secretly be working against you. The press release itself echoed the same theme—“real-time tactics and treachery”—and it fits the vibe perfectly.

Idle Gameplay Meets Social Deduction

So essentially, at least from my first few hours, Shadows plays out more like an idle game than a traditional strategy RPG. The combat mostly runs on autopilot, with the only real interaction being when you tap to trigger skills as their cooldowns reset. Then, starting from the second battle, the game flips into an Among Us-style twist—you and your group actually get to vote on who the disciple of shadow is. That vote affects how the next battle unfolds, which is a pretty wild departure from the Fire Emblem formula we’re used to.

My Honest Take

And like I said, I’ve got to be honest here—I’m not loving this game, although I’m trying hard to give it a chance. It honestly feels like the devs suddenly got someone on the creative team who said:

“Hey, you know what would make Fire Emblem on mobile more epic? Take all the things that make a mobile game work—idle gameplay, cutesy characters, microtransactions for gacha pulls on skins, costumes, and playable units—then mash it together with Among Us mechanics so we can justify it being multiplayer.”

And boom—Fire Emblem Shadows happened.

Multiplayer Fun… But a Bit Shallow

It is fun in a way, because now Fire Emblem is a multiplayer game. Although, to be honest, I actually enjoyed Fire Emblem Heroes more because it was a single-player experience where I could play at my own pace. With Shadows, everything seems to revolve around the online battles. You and two other players team up to fight monsters—but here’s the twist: one of you is secretly trying to be sneaky and backstab the rest without being too obvious.

Then comes the second battle phase, where you and your team vote on who you think the disciple of shadow is. If your guess is right, your team gets a big advantage, like being able to revive twice instead of just once.

Now, I’ve only been playing for about an hour to get a feel for it, but for some reason I keep getting accused of being the disciple—even when I’m not! Maybe it’s my handle, or maybe it’s because I’m always using the main protagonist in battle? Either way, it’s a weirdly frustrating but kind of funny part of the experience.

Game Mechanics & Depth

As far as game mechanics go, I don’t see a ton of depth here. Each game only has three players, so there’s a 50% chance you’ll guess the disciple correctly. That makes the social-deduction element pretty shallow right now, but this is just the early stage, so maybe the devs will refine it over time.

And that, my friends, is why mobile games become hits—through beta testing and tweaking before going live. Honestly, I don’t know who beta-tested this game or why they thought it was a great launch, but the game is out now and you can try it for yourself on the Play Store and App Store.

For me, though? I’m putting this one down for now. I’ll wait a few months until the game figures out what it wants to become. Playing it now and griping over it could probably sour my mood for the Fire Emblem franchise on mobile, and I don’t want that.

Good thing Fire Emblem Heroes is still there to pick up the ball—it’s honestly the best mobile game Nintendo has made so far, and that includes Mario Kart Mobile as well.

25th Sep 2025
These Ultraman Games Are So Bad They’re Legendary
If you grew up watching Ultraman, you probably dreamed of controlling those giant laser-beaming, monster-smacking battles. And on the PS2 and PSP, you got that dream… kind of. What we actually got were games so rough, so clunky, so awkwardly hilarious that they loop right back around into being must-plays.

Let’s break it down.

Ultraman Fighting Evolution (PS2)

The promise? Kaiju wrestling in glorious 3D. The reality? Imagine two cosplayers in rubber suits trying to fight in slow motion while the cameraman spins in circles.
- Controls: Feels like Ultraman is fighting underwater while wearing concrete boots.
- Hit detection: Sometimes your punch connects across the arena. Sometimes it passes through like you’re a ghost. Flip a coin.
- Animations: Every throw and fall looks like a bad stunt double missed the crash mat.
But here’s why I love it: it’s authentic. Ultraman fights were never about fluid martial arts — they were about stiff moves, awkward grapples, and laser beams that may or may not hit. Fighting Evolution accidentally nailed that “rubber suit charm,” and I can’t stop grinning every time someone topples over like a cardboard prop.

Ultraman Fighting Evolution 3 (PS2)

This one? The “polished” sequel. Big story mode, more kaiju, better graphics. And yet, the soul of jank remains.

The cutscenes try so hard to be epic, but half the time I’m just laughing at Ultraman giving serious speeches while looking like a plastic action figure. The story mode is wild — one second you’re reliving iconic battles, the next you’re thrown into a monster mash with zero explanation.

Why I love it: this game is basically Ultraman fanfiction in video game form. It throws everything at you — drama, explosions, endless monster cameos — and I eat it up every single time. It’s the “Fast & Furious” of Ultraman games.

Ultraman Fighting Evolution Rebirth (PS2)

Now this one is the big one. Ultraman Fighting Evolution Rebirth (ウルトラマン Fighting Evolution Rebirth) takes everything the earlier games tried to do and pushes it further.
- Story mode: Packed with dramatic cutscenes that almost convince you you’re watching a real Ultraman episode… until the stiff animations snap you back.
- Gameplay: Still janky, still clumsy, still hilarious. But with more kaiju, more moves, and more finishers that look straight out of the TV show.
- Fan service: This is the game where the developers clearly wanted to give fans as much Ultraman content as possible, and it shows.
The only drawback? The colors are more subdued compared to earlier titles. It’s like the devs wanted to take things more seriously — darker tones, moodier palettes, less camp. But the moment you start a fight and deal with the bipolar AI or swing and miss at point-blank range, you’re reminded that at the end of the day, it’s still the same campy Ultraman game at heart, just with the brightness turned down.

Why I love it: out of all the PS2 Ultraman titles, Rebirth captures that “so bad it’s good” balance the best. It’s bigger, more ambitious, and somehow even funnier when it stumbles. Plus, the finished animations are much more cinematic — well, as cinematic as an Ultraman game could be. If you only play one PS2 Ultraman game, make it this one.

Ultraman 0 Portable (PSP)

The jump to handheld should’ve made things snappier, right? Nope. It’s the same awkward goodness, just shrunk down.
- The graphics try their best, but Ultraman looks like he’s made of shiny Play-Doh.
- The AI is unpredictable — sometimes it lets you win by standing still, other times it wipes the floor with you in seconds.
- The camera fights you harder than the kaiju.
Why I love it: because nothing beats blasting a kaiju with a Specium Ray while sitting on a bus. It’s Ultraman in your pocket, and even when it’s broken, it’s still Ultraman. Plus, the ridiculous difficulty spikes make every victory feel like I actually saved the world.

Lost in Translation: The Language Barrier Boss

Here’s another curveball: none of these Ultraman games ever got an English release. Yup — goodbye instructions, goodbye tutorials, goodbye menus. The game just throws you in, full Japanese text, and says “Good luck, hero!”

Your best bet to figure out what the heck is going on?
- Stumble through the tutorial until Ultraman randomly decides he’s finished teaching you.
- Use Google Lens like it’s your trusty sidekick.
- Or go old-school and dig through GameFAQs guides. (There’s a full guide for Ultraman Fighting Evolution Rebirth out there — lifesaver!)
That’s literally how I survived the tutorial stage — trial, error, and a lot of squinting. And honestly? It made the whole thing even funnier.

Why They’re So Bad They’re Great

They make me laugh harder than half the comedy games I own.

They’re basically playable blooper reels of the TV show.

They remind me why I love Ultraman in the first place: not because it’s flawless, but because it’s earnest, campy, and fun even when it stumbles.

EZRetro’s Totally Biased Ranking

Fighting Evolution Rebirth (PS2) – The ultimate janky masterpiece.

Fighting Evolution 3 (PS2) – Peak drama, peak Ultraman energy.

Fighting Evolution (PS2) – The OG mess, broken but charming.

Ultraman Portable (PSP) – Bless its heart. It tried.

Why i come back to it

When I’m killing time at work, Ultraman Portable on my trusty RG28XX is my go-to. It’s discreet, perfect for blasting kaiju without anyone noticing, and it keeps me awake while waiting for my shift to end. For the bigger screen though, I skip the weaker PS2 entries and dive straight into Fighting Evolution Rebirth. It’s the one that makes me laugh, rage, and cheer all in the same sitting.

Ultraman has starred in dozens of games across consoles — from platformers on SNES and Game Boy to RPGs, tactical sims, and even Pokémon-style kaiju battles. But in my opinion, nothing beats the fighting games. They’re clunky, campy, and packed with that rubber-suit wrestling energy that makes Ultraman so lovable. If you’re curious about the series, start with the fighters — they’re messy, hilarious, and the most fun you’ll have with Ultraman in game form.
25th Sep 2025
A Beginner’s Guide to The Last Remnant’s Union System – Explained the Way I Understand It
Through the years, whenever my buddies ask me what game I’m grinding on my phone that feels long and epic, one of my top answers has been The Last Remnant Remastered on mobile.

Now, don’t get it twisted—I’m no pro at this game. In fact, I’d still call myself a beginner even after all the hours I’ve sunk into it. But maybe that’s exactly why I want to talk about it. Because when I first picked it up, I was just as lost as anyone else, especially with the game’s biggest curveball: the Union System.

This is my take on it—not as an expert, but as someone who slowly figured things out and wants to make it a little less confusing for the next beginner diving in.

So What’s the Deal With the Union System?

Before The Last Remnant, JRPGs mostly stuck to familiar formulas:
- Classic Turn-Based (like Dragon Quest or Final Fantasy I–X) → You control each character one by one, pick from “attack, magic, item, defend,” and watch the turns play out. Simple and reliable.
- ATB – Active Time Battle (popularized by Final Fantasy IV–IX) → Each character has a gauge that fills in real time. When it’s full, you act. It added pressure and speed to the turn-based formula.
- FFXII’s Gambit System (2006) → This one let you pre-program AI behavior, like “if ally HP < 50%, then cast Cure.” It was revolutionary for letting battles play out more automatically but still under your rules.
And then along comes The Last Remnant. It said: “Forget controlling individuals—what if you controlled squads instead?”

That’s the Union System. Instead of giving commands to each party member, you organize them into unions (basically mini-teams). You don’t pick every spell or attack. You issue orders to the entire squad, and they act as one.

This flipped combat into something totally different. Suddenly, you’re less like a hero leading a party and more like a commander directing armies. Positioning, morale, and squad synergy mattered just as much as raw stats.

For some players, that shift felt groundbreaking. For others—me included when I first tried it—it felt confusing as hell.

The Flow of Battle – What You Do Before You Even Swing

The real fight doesn’t start when you press “attack”—it starts in how you set up your unions. As a beginner, this part felt overwhelming to me because you have to think about:
- Who leads each union (leaders bring skills and arts)
- Who fills the squad (soldiers add stats and stability)
- What formation you’re using (offensive, defensive, or balanced setups)
And then, once you’re in a dungeon or field, you also have to pay attention to enemy groups. Do you charge them head-on? Try to flank? Or split your unions to keep them from surrounding you?

This whole “prep before action” makes fights feel more like mini war puzzles. If you mess up the setup, the battle feels 10x harder no matter how strong your characters are.

Commands – The Clear and the Confusing Ones

Once the fighting actually starts, the game gives you commands for your unions. Some are straightforward and easy to understand:
- Attack with combat arts! → your melee moves
- Attack with mystic arts! → your spells
- Heal with remedies! → your items and recovery
But then you get the vague stuff like:
- Play it by ear
- Go all out!
- Wait and see
And here’s where the frustration kicks in. As a beginner, I remember just staring at those and going, “What am I actually telling my squad to do?”

How I Learned to Read the Vague Commands

After a lot of trial and error (and a few rage quits), here’s how I’ve come to understand those vague orders:
- Play it by ear → Think of it as “do what makes sense.” The union might attack, heal, or buff depending on the situation. Good for balanced teams.
- Go all out! → Pure offense. They’ll blow AP, use their strongest moves, and ignore healing. Best for when the enemy’s on the ropes.
- Wait and see → Defensive or conserving mode. They’ll defend, poke with weak moves, or just save AP. Use it when you’re setting up or trying to survive.
- Save them no matter what! → Your emergency revive/heal button. Everyone drops offense to bring allies back.
- Keep your HP up! → Focuses on healing and survival above all else.
Once I started thinking of them like battle moods instead of strict commands, they made a lot more sense.

Strategy – When to Use What

Here’s my beginner advice on using these commands without losing your mind:
- Use “Play it by ear” for balanced unions that can attack and heal. It gives the AI room to adapt.
- Use “Go all out” when you know you’re safe or you just need raw damage to push through.
- Use “Wait and see” to stall or when you’re trying to build AP for big moves later.
- Use “Save them no matter what” sparingly, because sometimes it wastes turns if no one is actually down.
- Use “Keep your HP up” when facing tough bosses or multiple enemy unions that can shred you in a turn.
It’s not perfect—you’ll still sometimes scream at your squad for making dumb choices—but it’s part of the chaos that makes this system fun.

Wrapping It Up – Why I Still Recommend This Game

Here’s the truth: The Last Remnant is still hard to understand, even today. If you’re new, the Union System will feel overwhelming and the vague commands will confuse you. But once you get past that hump? The game transforms. Battles feel bigger, strategies feel deeper, and experimenting with different unions actually becomes addictive.

That’s why I keep it on my phone. I’ve spent hours tweaking squads, retrying fights, and just enjoying the controlled chaos of this system. And yeah, the mobile remaster costs around $19.99, which isn’t exactly cheap. But for me? If I dropped twenty bucks and didn’t play it, that would be the real waste.

So I keep coming back. And maybe that’s the magic of The Last Remnant: it doesn’t hold your hand, but once you start to get it, you’ll want to stick around and keep learning.
23rd Sep 2025
The EZRetro plays Handbook: 10 Games to Get You Hooked on the RG28XX

It’s been barely two weeks since I got my RG28XX, and I’ve been completely glued to it. Like a kid with a new toy, I’ve been switching between games non-stop, quickly learning what plays well and what doesn’t. As a JRPG/RPG fan, I naturally gravitate toward that genre. But let’s be real about the PSP emulation: it’s a bit of a hit-and-miss.

The Allwinner H700 chipset is powerful for a budget device, but most PSP games are a bit laggy, and some are downright unplayable due to the missing analog stick. Plus, the screen’s resolution isn’t a perfect 16:9 match for the original PSP, so you have to scale and fit it to fill the screen, which is a no-no for purists.

But for someone not too picky about screen size and is more focused on playing something on a small retro handheld, it’s perfect.

Even with the quirks, limiting recommendations to just RPGs doesn’t do this little handheld justice. It’s given me the chance to play other games, and after two weeks of non-stop play, here’s my top 10 games to try.

Prinny 2: Dawn of Operation Panties, Dood!

psp box art

I’ll be honest—I’ve never been great at platformers on PSP using my phone. The tiny screen, touch overlays, and lack of a proper controller made even basic levels frustrating. But on the RG28XX, everything changed. While the screen is a bit cramped and the buttons are small, I finally beat the first level and a saw Etna inside the castle. It felt like a real win.

Gameplay-wise, Prinny 2 is a classic side-scrolling platformer, but Nippon Ichi Software adds its signature style. The animations are smooth, and the game’s humor is just absurd enough to keep you laughing even while dying repeatedly. You’ll really end up caring about the side characters and NPCs, dood!

Fun Fact: Nippon Ichi’s dialogue is so ridiculous and over-the-top that even minor characters steal the spotlight. I’m not usually a fan of side-scrolling platformers, but Prinny 2 had me invested in the story and the laughs, and that’s what matters most.

Kisou Ryuhei Gunhound

Kisou Ryuhei Gunhound is a side-scrolling mecha shooter that had me glued from start to finish. You pilot your giant robot through futuristic stages filled with enemies and obstacles. The controls on the RG28XX are precise enough that even intense shooting sequences feel smooth.

The story follows a world under siege, and while it’s not particularly deep, the excitement comes from blasting through waves of enemies and upgrading your mecha. For someone who enjoys mecha and action, this is a perfect handheld experience.

Fun Fact: Despite its small screen, the RG28XX handles the visuals perfectly, making every boss fight feel as epic as it would on a console.

ZHP: Unlosing Ranger vs. Darkdeath Evilman

Unlosing Ranger psp box art

ZHP is one of the quirkiest tactical RPGs I’ve ever played. You lead a colorful, bizarre team through strategic missions filled with absurd story beats and hilarious dialogues. On the RG28XX, it feels surprisingly comfortable, even during long grind sessions.

The game’s humor is its standout feature, but don’t mistake it for a joke game—the strategy is real. Positioning your characters and timing your attacks can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

Fun Fact: Some levels are so absurdly funny that you’ll spend more time laughing than strategizing, which is part of the charm. It’s a tactical RPG that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Ys vs. Sora no Kiseki

This one is a little different from the others on my list. Ys vs. Sora no Kiseki is a fighting game that’s a total love letter to fans of both the Trails and Ys series. You get to play through each character’s unique story arc, and you can upgrade their equipment and customize them, which really makes you want to keep playing long after the main story is over. That ability to customize is what gives it some serious replay value.

Fun Fact: A worldwide release is scheduled for October 10, 2025, on PS4, PS5, Switch, and PC with enhanced features, according to the publisher refint/games.

TwinBee Portable

TwinBee Portable is a vertical shooter with an aesthetic that’s so colorful it’s almost hypnotic. Controlling the ship is straightforward, making it easy to pick up on the RG28XX. The power-ups add a layer of strategy to the simple shooting mechanics, turning it into a deeper experience than it first appears. Since it’s a Japanese-only release, I’m just assuming the story is light and charming, but seriously, who needs a story when what hooked me to this game is the retro vibe and pure nostalgia? It’s the kind of game that’s easy to jump into for a quick session or a longer run.

Fun Fact: TwinBee’s charm comes from its cheerful music and playful visuals—Konami really nailed that arcade vibe.

Mega Man Powered Up

megaman powered up psp cover

Mega Man Powered Up is classic Mega Man with upgraded graphics and remade levels. It’s challenging but fair, and controlling the blue bomber on the RG28XX felt surprisingly natural. The satisfaction of finally defeating a tough boss never gets old.

The story is minimal but fun, staying true to Mega Man’s roots as a robot hero battling evil. The level design is clever, and each stage has its own personality.

Fun Fact: You can create and share your own levels, making it a mini creative outlet on the go.

Yuusha 30 Seconds

Yuusha 30 Seconds is a fast-paced mini-RPG where battles and decisions happen in short, exciting bursts. Perfect for handheld play, it keeps you on edge while still being strategic. The story follows a hero who must make quick choices to save their world, making every second count.

The gameplay of Yuusha 30 Seconds is what truly makes it a standout. Back when it was released, the concept was totally unique, and it still feels incredibly fresh today. The core loop is simple: you have 30 seconds to save the world. This crazy-fast timer forces you to make quick, strategic decisions. Every second counts as you run to level up, buy equipment, and defeat the final boss. It’s a genius concept that turns the traditional RPG grind on its head and keeps every moment filled with high-stakes action.

Fun Fact: Another title, Half-Minute Hero, was also released for western audiences on PSP. Although that’s a great game, I would still recommend hunting down an English translation patch for Yuusha 30 Seconds because the Japanese release is more challenging and has more content.

Dissidia 012 Duodecim (RPG Mode)

This one is a bit different. I play Dissidia 012 Duodecim in RPG Mode. There’s an option in the settings to switch from the usual action style to a more tactical RPG-style battle where you input attacks as the battle takes place.

While I’ll be honest, I usually play this on PPSSPP on my phone since the touch controls and ability to set hotkeys make the game more fluid for me, the RG28XX still offers a great experience in RPG Mode. Even with the controls being a bit cramped and the absence of an analog stick, it’s a perfect fit for this little handheld.

Fun Fact: Each character has a fully voiced story, and the massive cast includes heroes and villains from almost every major title in the series.

Zenonia

Zenonia is a classic hack-and-slash RPG that’s perfect for handheld sessions. You explore dungeons, fight enemies, and uncover a story of revenge and justice. The controls feel great on the RG28XX, making combat smooth and satisfying.

The story is simple but effective, with multiple endings that encourage replayability. I love how easy it is to pick up and play without losing any of the RPG charm.

Fun Fact: Zenonia was so popular that it eventually found its way to mobile devices, becoming one of the early success stories for JRPGs on the app store.

Patapon 3

Patapon 3 perfectly blends rhythm and strategy. You command a tiny Patapon tribe in battles that are essentially musical performances. The gameplay is simple, but timing your beats correctly feels incredibly satisfying.

The story follows your tribe as they journey to conquer enemies and survive in a whimsical world. It’s easy to lose track of time because the rhythm-based gameplay is so addictive.

Fun Fact: The unique rhythm-strategy gameplay of Patapon 3 has a rich history. The first game introduced the unique concept of commanding a tribe with drumbeats. Patapon 2 built on that with the introduction of hero units, new classes, and a multiplayer mode. Patapon 3 then evolved the formula even further with a persistent online focus, a more detailed leveling system, and an even deeper focus on the central hero character.

Final Thoughts

This list proves that the RG28XX can handle far more than just RPGs. From humor and platforming to epic storytelling and rhythm, this little handheld really delivers, and I can’t wait to see what other hidden gems I discover next.

19th Sep 2025
Anbernic RG28XX Review – A Pocket-Sized PSP Machine?
Lately, I’ve been on the lookout for a small device to play JRPGs and RPGs on the go. Being a fan of the Miyoo Mini, I first decided to get the Miyoo A30 since the Miyoo Mini was the handheld that originally got me into retro handheld emulation. Sadly, I only had it for about a day. I was just getting used to the Spruce OS when I lost it on my way home from work.

After that, I made a second purchase—the Miyoo Mini V4—and it became my only handheld for quite some time. I absolutely love this little device. It’s powerful enough to play up to PS1 games, and I’ve been having a blast playing in short bursts throughout the day. The only drawback for me was the lack of PSP emulation.

Back in my young adult years, the Sony PSP defined a lot of my gaming moments. I loved it so much that I actually owned three of the four PSP models—the Phat, the PSP-2000, and the PSP-3000. Naturally, I wanted to relive those moments on a small retro handheld that fits perfectly in my pocket. These days, I don’t have much free time to play, so I needed something small, powerful enough to handle PSP, and affordable.

That’s when the Anbernic RG28XX was recommended to me. Since it was also the only device available near me, I finally went ahead and made the purchase.

Specs

The Anbernic RG28XX is designed as a compact retro handheld that balances portability with enough power to emulate systems up to PSP. It runs on the Allwinner H700 chip with 1GB of RAM, and comes with a 2.83-inch IPS screen at 640×480 resolution. Storage is handled through dual microSD slots — one for the system and one for your games — making it easy to expand or swap your library.

Battery life is rated around 5–6 hours, though this depends on what you’re playing.

Screen & Firmware

On paper, the RG28XX’s 2.83-inch IPS display is about the same size as the Miyoo Mini, and brightness is solid enough indoors while staying usable outdoors unless you’re in direct sunlight. Colors pop nicely, and RPG text is generally clear.

But since I mainly use this for PSP emulation, the aspect ratio difference really stands out. PSP games were designed for 16:9, while the RG28XX screen is a square 4:3. That means you’ll either play with black bars on the top and bottom or stretch the image, which doesn’t look quite right. On top of that, because of the device’s horizontal form factor, text in PSP games feels a little smaller than it should. It’s subtle enough not to ruin the experience, but it nags at me every time I play.

The stock firmware works fine but takes some getting used to. Coming from Onion OS on the Miyoo Mini, which was simple and intuitive, this felt a bit clunky at first. There are a lot of hotkeys to memorize, and I’m not the type who enjoys flipping through an instruction manual just to figure things out. After a week, I’m still adjusting, but once you learn the shortcuts it’s manageable.

Controls

When I first got the RG28XX in hand, I immediately noticed how small everything feels. The D-pad is a bit pointy for my taste, and the face buttons are tiny — I really wish they felt more like the Miyoo Mini’s, which are softer and more comfortable.

The trigger buttons (L1/L2 & R1/R2) and the select/start buttons are also on the clicky side. They work fine, but they don’t feel as smooth as I’d like. After a week, I’m still not fully adjusted. There’s also a slight rattle inside the unit — not enough to break the experience, but noticeable if you shake it.

Sound

For a device this small, the sound is decent but not amazing. The bottom-facing speaker is fine for quiet rooms, but your palm can cover it up depending on how you hold the handheld. Volume is enough indoors, but outdoors or in noisy areas, headphones are a must.

Thankfully, the headphone jack gives a much better experience. RPG soundtracks really come alive with headphones, pulling me back to the PSP days.

Battery Life

On paper, the RG28XX is rated for 5 to 6 hours of gameplay, especially with lighter systems like NES or PS1. PSP drains it faster.

But since I don’t play in marathon sessions, my real-world use is different. I usually play in short bursts — maybe 20–30 minutes here and there — and with that, I can run it for about two days without charging. Charging via USB-C is quick and convenient, and since most of my devices already use USB-C, it’s hassle-free.

Ergonomics

The RG28XX absolutely wins in portability. It slips into my pocket and I don’t even feel it’s there until I need it. For quick sessions, it’s perfect.

That said, because of the size, long play sessions can get uncomfortable. My hands cramp after a while, especially with the small buttons and stacked triggers. My unit came with a black silicone case, which adds grip and protection, but it makes the already small buttons feel even more cramped. I usually play without it for comfort.

Emulation & PSP Performance

The RG28XX can handle all the classics — NES, SNES, Game Boy, Mega Drive, PC Engine, and PS1 — with no issues at all.

But I got this for PSP emulation, so that’s where I focused. For 2D RPGs and JRPGs, the device does well enough to be enjoyable. Some stutters appear in effect-heavy scenes, but with a little tweaking in PPSSPP, you can get most titles to run at playable speeds.

I was able to play Final Fantasy Type-0 with some remapping. Since there’s no analog stick, you can toggle the D-pad to act as analog by quickly tapping the power button on the right. It takes some getting used to, but it works. Save states and the PSP menu work just like they do on mobile PPSSPP, which I love.

Not all games run smoothly though. My favorite, Tactics Ogre: One Vision, slows down during dialogue scenes, and I’m still experimenting with settings to smooth it out. Turn-based games are generally playable, but heavier 3D titles will definitely push the limits.

Pros & Cons

Pros
- Pocket-sized and ultra-lightweight
- Bright 2.83-inch IPS screen
- Handles retro systems up to PS1 smoothly
- PSP emulation is playable with tweaks
- Save states via PPSSPP
- Solid build quality for the price
- Comes with a silicone case for protection
Cons
- Cramped controls; small, pointy D-pad and tiny face buttons
- Triggers and select/start buttons are too clicky
- No analog stick — remapping required for many PSP games
- Occasional rattling inside
- PSP performance is hit or miss, with stutters in some titles
- Long sessions can cause hand cramps
Final Thoughts

After a week with the RG28XX, I can say this: it’s a fun little handheld. If what you want is something super portable, pocket-friendly, and affordable, it gets the job done. It lets me carry PSP and retro classics in my pocket, and that alone makes it worth it for me.

But it’s not perfect. The 4:3 screen doesn’t play nice with PSP’s native 16:9 aspect ratio, which means black bars or stretched visuals. The text also feels smaller than it should, especially compared to the Miyoo Mini, and I notice it every time. Controls are also cramped and take time to get used to.

If you’re serious about PSP emulation and want a more authentic experience with analog sticks, widescreen support, and stronger performance, then honestly something like the Retroid Pocket 4 is the better option. It’s bigger, sharper, and more comfortable for longer play sessions.

But if your priority is a tiny handheld that slips into your pocket and still lets you enjoy your favorite RPGs and PSP titles on the go, the RG28XX absolutely delivers on that promise. For me, that balance makes it a keeper.
18th Sep 2025
Rediscovering Mickey Mania – A Disney Classic Worth Playing Again

Mickey Mania SNES box art

Back in the 8, 16, and 32-bit days, licensed games were everywhere. Some were just cheap cash grabs, but every now and then you’d hit a gem — games like Darkwing Duck, Chip ’n Dale Rescue Rangers, DuckTales, Tiny Toon Adventures, even The Goonies. They captured that Saturday morning cartoon magic and put it in your hands.

One I almost forgot about until recently was Mickey Mania. I played it back in the day on the Sega Genesis, but over the weekend while scrolling through my Miyoo Mini’s PS1 library, I stumbled on Mickey’s Wild Adventure — the upgraded remake. And wow, firing it up again reminded me why this one deserves more love.

A Quick History

Fun Fact: The PS1 remake added new animations and audio polish.

The original Mickey Mania: The Timeless Adventures of Mickey Mouse dropped in 1994 across Genesis, SNES, and Sega CD. It was built to celebrate Mickey’s 65th anniversary, which meant Traveller’s Tales really pulled out all the stops to make it feel like a playable piece of Disney history. Sony Imagesoft published it, but Disney themselves had a big hand in keeping it authentic.

When the PS1 rolled around, Traveller’s Tales revisited the game in 1996 with Mickey’s Wild Adventure. This wasn’t just a straight port — they reworked the visuals, added extra animation frames, cleaned up the audio, and gave it more polish. Even today, it holds up shockingly well.

Gameplay

Fun Fact: Programmer Jon Burton later created the LEGO games.

This is where Mickey’s Wild Adventure really shines. The game feels alive, like you’re actually inside one of Mickey’s cartoons. Take something simple: when you move Mickey near a ledge, he doesn’t just stop — he wobbles, arms flailing, in perfect Disney slapstick fashion. It’s the kind of detail that makes you smile every single time.

Fun Fact: Steamboat Willie shifts from black-and-white to color.

Then there’s the Steamboat Willie stage. On PS1, it starts in pure black-and-white, mimicking the original 1928 short. As you progress, the world slowly fills with color until the screen bursts into full animation. That moment alone makes the game feel like a celebration of Mickey’s journey through time.

Gameplay

Fun Fact: The PS1 version tightened up movement and jumps.

This is where Mickey’s Wild Adventure really shines. The game feels alive, like you’re actually inside one of Mickey’s cartoons. Take something simple: when you move Mickey near a ledge, he doesn’t just stop — he wobbles, arms flailing, in perfect Disney slapstick fashion. It’s the kind of detail that makes you smile every single time.

Then there’s the Steamboat Willie stage. On PS1, it starts in pure black-and-white, mimicking the original 1928 short. As you progress, the world slowly fills with color until the screen bursts into full animation. That moment alone makes the game feel like a celebration of Mickey’s journey through time.

Controls

Controls are simple but snappy: you can jump, butt-bounce enemies, and throw marbles as your main attack. The PS1 version tightened everything up compared to the Genesis original, making movements feel smooth without losing that bit of challenge. Platforming is responsive, and when you take a hit, it’s usually on you, not the game.

Stages Inspired by Cartoons

What really makes this game special is how every level is built around a Mickey cartoon, each one with its own flavor. It’s like walking through his filmography with a controller.

Steamboat Willie (1928)

Fun Fact: The PS1 version brings Mickey’s first short to life in full color.

Starting black-and-white before shifting into color feels magical, like you’re watching Mickey’s evolution in real time. It’s both nostalgic and clever.

The Mad Doctor (1933)

Fun Fact: This cartoon was once considered too scary for kids.

A darker level, with skeletons that literally fall apart and rebuild themselves. Creepy, funny, and very “30s Disney.”

Moose Hunters (1937)

Fun Fact: This level used an early “fake 3D” chase effect.

Easily one of my favorite moments. Instead of just side-scrolling, the perspective flips. You’re running toward the screen while a massive moose charges right behind you. It’s tense, fast, and a great showcase of Traveller’s Tales experimenting with camera angles before “2.5D” was even a thing.

Lonesome Ghosts (1937)

Fun Fact: This short later inspired Ghostbusters.

A haunted house filled with playful, prank-loving ghosts. If the cartoon feels like a proto-Ghostbusters, the stage plays the same way — comical scares with Mickey getting knocked around.

Mickey and the Beanstalk (1947)

Fun Fact: Oversized fruit and props make Mickey feel tiny.

Oversized fruit and tall vines make Mickey look small against the world around him. It really nails the fairy tale vibe, with backgrounds that feel like a storybook come to life.

Prince and the Pauper (1990)

Fun Fact: This was Mickey’s “modern” short before the remake.

This later-era cartoon sets the stage for the grand finale. A full castle run with more hazards and tighter platforming, it ties the old shorts with Mickey’s then-modern identity.

Traveller’s Tales had actually considered a sequel (Mickey Mania 2), but with new opportunities like Toy Story, they moved on.

Final Thoughts

With thousands of retro games available across handhelds and emulators, it’s easy for a title like Mickey Mania to get lost in the shuffle. But don’t sleep on it. This isn’t just another Disney game — it’s literally Mickey’s history, animated and interactive.

In my opinion, the PS1 remake, Mickey’s Wild Adventure, is the definitive way to play. The enhanced animations, audio, and that magical Steamboat Willie transition make it the version to hunt down.

And if you’re going handheld, the Miyoo Mini Plus is the better pick. The animations are gorgeous and deserve a larger screen — the smaller Mini just doesn’t do it justice.

So if you’re looking for something that blends nostalgia with genuine quality, give Mickey’s Wild Adventure a spin. It’s proof that not all licensed games were throwaways — some, like this one, became timeless classics.

16th Sep 2025