The Anbernic RG40XX H is the latest evolution of the RG35XX H, upgrading from a 3.5-inch screen to a 4-inch display with a true 4:3 aspect ratio. It’s designed for retro gamers who love that CRT-era feel with a bit more screen real estate.
As always, the packaging is classic Anbernic — clean and familiar.
Hmm… this time, there’s no protective film included in the box.
The 4-inch 4:3 screen looks fantastic — bright, crisp, and easy on the eyes.
At first, you might think, “Half an inch bigger? That’s nothing!” But once you play, the difference is surprisingly noticeable.
When compared side-by-side with the RG35XX H, they may look similar in photos, but in real life the visual comfort is night and day.
Your eyes will thank you! 👀
At just 201 grams, it’s lightweight and comfortable even for long play sessions.
For RPG lovers, this handheld is perfect — the 4:3 screen feels natural, and your wrists won’t get tired after hours of gameplay.
The small green indicator light at the top isn’t distracting when playing in the dark.
When I first pressed the power button, I couldn’t even tell if it registered — it’s that subtle.
Once you get used to it, it’s fine, but people with larger hands might find it slightly awkward to press.
The analog stick is placed very close to the D-pad, so occasionally you’ll feel some interference when using the D-pad — especially during platformers like Super Mario.
It’s a minor annoyance, but noticeable.
The user interface is identical to the RG35XX H. If you’ve used any of the previous models, you’ll feel right at home.
GBA games automatically adjust to a 3:2 aspect ratio, and the system adds bezel borders for you, so there’s no need for manual tweaking.
In terms of performance, I recommend playing PS1 and below.
Some Dreamcast titles are playable, but you’ll experience lag in demanding games like Dead or Alive 2.
For Super Famicom (SNES) titles like Yoshi’s Island: if you stretch the image to full screen, you’ll notice frame drops. However, if you play with a 1:1 aspect ratio and bezel on, it runs smoothly.
For NDS games: turn off High Resolution Mode and set Frame Skip to 0 for the best results.
For example, New Super Mario Bros. runs fine — even with High Res enabled, only the map screen slows slightly, while in-game performance remains smooth.
PSP games are mixed: 3D titles like Ridge Racer will stutter, but 2D games such as Super Robot Wars A Portable run well even at 2× resolution.
For charging, use a 5V 1.5A or 5V 2A charger with proper safety certification (KS or UL).
⚠️ Important Safety Notes:
Do NOT use 9V or hybrid 5V/9V fast chargers — it can fry the board.
Avoid 5V 1A chargers — they can overheat.
Always turn off the device before charging.
Don’t fall asleep with the charger plugged in. You never know what might happen — safety first!
If you want a lightweight, 4-inch 4:3 handheld that’s perfect for PS1 and older retro games, the RG40XX H is an excellent choice.
Clear visuals, comfortable ergonomics, and great nostalgia value — it’s a solid upgrade from the RG35XX H.
Enjoy your retro gaming life! 🎮 — Super Asurada 77
The G350 is a 3.5-inch vertical retro handheld console — essentially a strong contender against the popular R36S.
It costs about 10,000 KRW (≈ $7 USD) more than the R36S, but it’s absolutely worth it.
The D-pad and ABXY buttons are miles better than those on the R36S — they’re quiet, firm, and satisfyingly tactile.
You can easily play shooting games on the subway without making any noticeable button noise.
However, note that the L1, L2, R1, and R2 shoulder buttons still make a distinct “click” sound.
I tested it with Street Fighter II, and both the Hadouken and Shoryuken commands came out perfectly.
It’s extremely light — just 189 grams (under 200g).
If you plan to play for long sessions, I recommend getting a dedicated grip attachment for comfort.
With the grip attached, it weighs about 233 grams.
Even without the grip, short gaming sessions are perfectly fine.
In terms of performance, I recommend limiting gameplay to PS1 and below.
Some Dreamcast titles run decently (like Sonic Adventure, Virtua Striker, Virtua Fighter 3), but others show noticeable lag.
Berserk (Dreamcast) runs smoothly, but heavier 3D games like Dead or Alive will struggle.
PSP emulation is hit or miss — 3D titles like Ridge Racer stutter, but 2D games like Super Robot Wars run fairly well at 2× resolution.
Performance-wise, it’s identical to the R36S, but the buttons and D-pad feel so much better that I find myself picking this one up more often.
One downside: the stock OS isn’t great. You can’t assign emulator cores per game, which limits customization.
I personally replaced it with ArkOS (for RG351MP) and used a custom DTB file for G350 compatibility.
However, there’s one critical bug: if you plug in wired earphones right after booting, sound plays from both the speaker and the headphones simultaneously.
The built-in speaker is located at the bottom. Sound quality is average — not great, but acceptable for casual gaming.
Neo Geo games run beautifully.
Super Famicom (SNES) games like Yoshi’s Island run smoothly without any lag.
MAME arcade games also run fine — Run and Gun 1 plays great, but Run and Gun 2 simply won’t run — the device just can’t handle it!
Both 3-pole and 4-pole earphones work perfectly.
Use only 5V 1.5A or 5V 2A chargers with proper KS safety certification (or UL equivalent).
⚠️ Do not use:
9V or mixed 5V/9V fast chargers → can fry the board.
5V 1A chargers → may overheat or fail.
Charging while powered on or overnight → unsafe.
Always turn off the device before charging, and avoid leaving it plugged in while you sleep — you never know what might happen.
Final Verdict
If you’re a beginner looking for a retro handheld under $50 (≈ ₩60,000) and mostly plan to play PS1 or older titles, the G350 is an excellent choice.
If you dislike the button feel on the R36S, just spend a little more — this model’s controls are worth it.
Lightweight, compact, and built for quiet retro fun.
Enjoy your retro gaming life! 🎮 — Super Asurada 77
Meet the RG34XXSP, a retro handheld console in a clamshell (foldable) design with a 3.4-inch screen — absolutely perfect for portable gaming on the go.
You can toss it casually into your bag without worry and still enjoy your favorite classics anywhere.
The build quality is excellent — and it even lets you have fun with stickers and color customization. Yes, I tried decorating mine with some stickers too!
It weighs only 180 grams, which makes it incredibly lightweight and easy to carry around.
The D-pad and ABXY buttons are fairly quiet — not silent, but quiet enough. In a library, you might hear a faint click, but in a noisy environment like the subway, it’s barely noticeable.
Note: The RG35XXSP doesn’t have an analog stick, but the RG34XXSPdoes. So keep that in mind!
If you’ve used any of the Anbernic OS devices before, the interface here will feel instantly familiar.
You can decorate your game list with cover images, but unfortunately, video previews aren’t supported.
You can adjust the screen angle like this — but honestly, it’s a bit awkward while gaming.
The TF1 slot holds the microSD card that contains the operating system.
You can store your games on the same card, or insert a separate game card into TF2, but I recommend using TF1 for both OS and games.
If you load from TF2, the system will always ask “TF1 or TF2?” every time you browse games — it gets annoying fast.
You can adjust the volume using the dedicated side buttons.
Here are the shoulder buttons (L1, L2, R1, R2) — they’re not loud, which is nice.
Charging is simple: just plug a USB Type-C cable into the USB/OTG port.
You’ll find the power and reset buttons here. If you press and hold the power button while the clamshell is closed, it’ll turn on automatically.
If you ever find it powered on inside your bag, it probably got triggered by pressure on that power button.
The TF2/EXT slot is where you can insert another SD card for extra games.
The LED indicators show charge status:
Bottom LED lights up during charging
Red = low battery
Orange = mid charge
Off = fully charged
Top LED shows battery level while in use
Green = good
Red = low battery warning
The headphone jack is located on the bottom. It doesn’t get in the way while gaming.
Performance-wise, it handles PS1 and below flawlessly.
PSP games also work — especially 2D titles like Super Robot Wars, which run quite smoothly.
Performance is on par with other Anbernic RG35XX series devices.
After about an hour of play, the console gets slightly warm — nothing to worry about.
The stock Anbernic OS includes a music player app. You can load MP3s and listen even with the clamshell closed.
However, be careful — if the shoulder buttons get pressed while it’s in your pocket, it might skip, pause, or restart your track.
Also, there’s no resume function — once you exit the app, it won’t remember where you left off.
You can also play old encoded video files — the OS includes a built-in video player. Even with the lid closed, playback continues.
Both 3-pole and 4-pole headphones work perfectly — sound output is clean and strong.
When charging, always use a 5V 1.5A or 5V 2A charger with a KS certification mark (or equivalent safety approval).
⚠️ Important Safety Tips:
Do NOT use 9V fast chargers or mixed 5V/9V adapters — they may damage the board.
Avoid 5V 1A chargers as well; they can overheat.
Always turn off the device before charging.
Never leave it charging unattended while you sleep.
You never know what might happen — safety first!
Final Thoughts
If you’re a beginner looking for a clamshell-style retro handheld mainly for PS1-era or older games, the RG34XXSP is a great starting point.
It’s compact, durable, and easy to carry — a perfect travel companion for quick retro gaming sessions.
I personally use it all the time for on-the-go gaming.
Enjoy your retro gaming life! 🎮 — Super Asurada 77
Retroid has released both the Retroid Pocket 5 and its smaller sibling, the Pocket 5 Mini. However, many users complained about the smaller screen size.
Then, quite suddenly, Retroid dropped the V2 version — and it’s now officially available on their website. I managed to get my hands on one and gave it a proper test.
One of the biggest strengths of the Pocket 5 Mini is its light weight.
The regular Pocket 5 weighs about 282 g, but the Mini tips the scale at only 233 g — incredibly light. Among all handhelds in the 200-gram class, this one easily leads in performance.
It uses the same Snapdragon 865 chipset as the Pocket 5 — the very same chip found in the Galaxy S20 Plus.
Unlike smartphones that can throttle performance due to heat (since they lack a fan), the Pocket 5 Mini includes active cooling, keeping frame drops under control even during demanding games.
Performance: Even at 3× internal resolution, PS2 games run smoothly without lag.
Kunoichi — a game that usually stutters on many handhelds — runs beautifully on this device.
Onimusha 2 also plays effortlessly.
Tekken 5 runs perfectly fine too.
Even Super Robot Wars Impact performs like a charm.
However…
When you open the map view, things get tough for us 40- or 50-something gamers with aging eyes.
It’s really hard to tell the units apart! On the 2D tactical map, you can only distinguish red and blue units — but identifying the individual mechs is nearly impossible, even with the upgraded 3.9-inch display.
On PSP, the screen appears slightly cropped at the top and bottom — so everything looks smaller.
If you adjust the display scaling in the PSP emulator, it becomes much more comfortable to watch.
At 1:1 aspect ratio, it feels crisp and clear —
But returning to the original ratio makes it tiny again. Oh, my eyes… if only I could get my youth back!
Nintendo DS requires some tweaking too — the left and right edges may get cut off depending on the layout.
Still, NDS games run extremely well.
If the Pocket 5 Mini V2 handles Tekken 5 smoothly, then Tekken 3 (PS1) is absolute perfection. Even when you crank up all the graphical enhancements in the core settings, it doesn’t break a sweat.
Famicom (NES) originally had an 8:7 pixel aspect ratio, but on CRT TVs it was stretched to 4:3. With the emulator set to 8:7, you get a much more natural and satisfying view.
Super Famicom (SNES) uses a similar ratio — set it to 8:7 and it looks fantastic on the V2 screen. This is one of the biggest visual advantages of the new version.
Game Boy titles, with their nearly 1:1 aspect ratio, look perfect on the V2 display.
Neo Geo Pocket games also match beautifully with this screen.
And Game Boy Color runs wonderfully as well. You can enjoy most portable console titles in their original aspect ratios, almost identical to the feel of real hardware.
Surprisingly, even Game Boy Advance titles look good — though you’ll notice thin letterbox bars on top and bottom, the image fits the V2 display naturally.
I also compared PS2 gameplay between the Pocket 5 and Pocket 5 Mini V2. The difference? Practically none in performance. However, those tiny map screens will definitely test your eyesight!
When it comes to Super Famicom games, the V2’s native 8:7 ratio really shines. Despite the smaller screen, it doesn’t feel cramped compared to the Pocket 5.
Same goes for Famicom titles.
NDS games are surprisingly enjoyable too.
Interestingly, GBA graphics even appear sharper on the Mini V2 — whereas on the Pocket 5 you can clearly see the pixel grid.
When it comes to Game Boy, the Pocket 5 Mini V2 wins hands down.
If you enjoy long sessions — say, a full hour of Super Robot Wars — you’ll appreciate the comfort and lightness.
For comparison: playing the same game on the Odin 2 while lying down can make your wrist ache after an hour. The Mini V2, however, feels feather-light.
Verdict
If you value portability and want to enjoy classic consoles like the Famicom and Super Famicom in their authentic screen ratios, the Retroid Pocket 5 Mini V2 is highly recommended.
It’s also a great choice for those who want smooth PS2 performance in a compact form.
However, if your eyesight isn’t what it used to be, you might be happier sticking with the Pocket 5 instead — the larger display makes a real difference.
A Few Notes
Bluetooth audio can disconnect occasionally in the subway — more often than on the Pocket 5 — but it only happens in weak-signal areas.
Charging: Supports fast charging. Don’t use a 5 V 1 A charger — it may overload and overheat. Always use 5 V 2 A or 9 V chargers for safety.
Enjoy your retro gaming life! 🎮 — Super Asurada 77
The RG477M is a retro handheld console with a 4.7-inch display, 1280×960 resolution, and an impressive 120Hz refresh rate. Its metal body gives it a premium look and feel — one you can proudly take out and play on the subway without hesitation.
Although it’s portable, it weighs about 365g, which might feel a bit hefty at first. The metal body gives it that luxury feel, but it also adds to the overall weight.
Still, even during a one-hour subway commute, I didn’t really find it tiring to hold — probably because I rested it on my backpack while playing. 😄
The 4:3 ratio 4.7-inch screen is absolutely perfect for retro gaming. Especially for those of us in our 40s and 50s, this screen feels like a cure for aging eyes! It’s easy on the eyes — truly comfortable.
The ABXY buttons are quiet enough to enjoy shooting games even in public. However, the L1/L2 and R1/R2 buttons make a noticeable clicking sound, so I tend to avoid pressing them too much.
See that vent? Even when playing PS2 games, the device barely gets warm. I was hoping it could double as a hand-warmer in winter… but nope, it stays cool! 😆
The fan noise is audible, but once you plug in your earphones, it fades into the background.
Because the R2 and L2 buttons aren’t analog triggers, games that require pressing both can feel a bit awkward to hold. But hey, just play games that don’t need them! 😂
It supports 3.5mm headphones, and even 4-pole headsets work perfectly. However, when using Bluetooth earphones, I sometimes experienced disconnections in specific subway sections — but the signal returns right after passing those areas. T.T
You can enjoy PS2 games in 4:3 ratio on this 4.7-inch screen without letterboxing. For middle-aged eyes, it’s a true blessing. 👀✨
In Super Robot Wars Impact, the map and robot icons look crystal clear. On the Retroid Pocket 5 Mini, it was hard to tell whether I was looking at Mazinger or Great Mazinger, but on the RG477M, the difference is obvious — which makes me really happy.
Recently, SEGA Ages Virtua Fighter 2 for PS2 runs perfectly after emulator updates. There’s minor glitching on the character selection screen, but gameplay is smooth.
The Retroid Pocket 5 also runs it fine, but at 3x resolution the performance drops noticeably. On the RG477M, however, you can knock down your opponent, jump up, and slam them at full speed — even at 3x scaling. (2x scaling also runs well on the Pocket 5.)
When you play PSP games (16:9) on the 4:3 screen, you’ll get letterboxing at the top and bottom. It makes the image appear smaller, but still perfectly playable.
If you stretch it to full screen, it fills the display — though characters look a bit elongated. 😅
Here’s the original ratio screen of PSP Super Robot Wars A Portable.
And this is the stretched full-screen version — taller and thinner, but still playable.
PSP Tekken 5 in its original aspect ratio.
And here’s the full-screen stretched version — the fighters look long and lean. 😂
Now here’s Bubble Bobble running on the 4.7-inch 4:3 display. Looks spacious, right? Super comfortable on the eyes!
Super Famicom (SNES) games also look amazing on this wide 4:3 screen.
Here’s Game Boy Super Robot Wars G — you can see a slight letterbox on the sides, but it’s still a great experience on the larger display.
Famicom (NES) Super Mario 3 also looks great on the big screen, though pressing A and B together can be tricky due to the narrow button spacing. But hey, just skip the running and focus on jumping! 😆
Even MAME Run and Gun 2 runs beautifully — smooth and vibrant!
Here’s a size comparison between the Retroid Pocket 5 (top) and the RG477M (bottom), both in 4:3 mode. The RG477M’s display is clearly larger, though the Pocket 5 still holds up nicely.
Here’s another comparison — PS2 Super Robot Wars Impact: the Pocket 5 (top) vs RG477M (bottom). Notice how much larger the text appears on the RG477M.
And this one compares PSP gameplay — Pocket 5 (top) and RG477M (bottom) stretched to full screen. The RG477M still handles PSP games decently well!
Here’s the original aspect ratio comparison — Pocket 5 (top) vs RG477M (bottom). Smaller but much sharper and cleaner visuals on the RG477M.
Here’s Yoshi’s Island on SFC (SNES) — Pocket 5 (top) vs RG477M (bottom). The 4.7-inch 4:3 screen truly shines for retro titles like this.
Game Boy games look pretty similar between the two devices.
Finally, GBA (Game Boy Advance) comparison — Pocket 5 (top) vs RG477M (bottom). The RG477M’s screen is slightly smaller but still crisp and clear — perfectly enjoyable. 😄
Make sure to use a 5V 2A charger or higher! Using a 5V 1A charger can overheat or even damage it — mine got really hot during charging.
With my daily 3-hour commute, the battery easily lasted until Wednesday, which is pretty impressive!
Final Thoughts
Despite a few downsides — a bit of weight, Bluetooth dropouts in certain subway areas, and slightly awkward R2/L2 buttons — the 4.7-inch 4:3 screen is a huge strength, especially for middle-aged gamers fighting presbyopia. 👓
It’s a wonderful retro gaming device that brings back old-school joy without eye strain.
Enjoy your retro adventures, everyone! – Super Asurada77, Retro Joy Lab
👻 Ghouls ’n Ghosts – The Ultimate Test of Patience and Courage!
By SuperAsurada77
Have you ever seen a bearded guy in his underwear fighting zombies in an arcade? If so, you probably remember Ghosts ’n Goblins — the legendary game infamous for its brutal difficulty.
Later, it came home as Ghouls ’n Ghosts on the 16-bit Sega Mega Drive, with upgraded graphics and the same soul-crushing challenge. Just being able to play it at home was pure joy — until that first clear stage hit you with despair.
Now, we live in an era where we can play it on handheld consoles — and yes, the save & load trick finally lets us reach the ending. Still, you’ll need persistence and a lot of patience.
Basic Controls
A Button: Throw weapon B Button: Jump
If you’re wearing the golden armor, hold A to charge your magic and release for a special attack unique to each weapon.
Now, let’s begin the adventure!
The opening scene’s graphics and haunting soundtrack hit you right in the nostalgia.
You start armored, but one hit strips you down to your underwear. Get hit again, and you’re nothing but bones. Yeah, it’s brutally hard.
Between grim reapers and dive-bombing eagles, chaos reigns.
Sometimes your brain presses back on the D-pad… but your fingers just refuse to cooperate.
That golden armor is key — it unlocks special attacks!
Hold down the attack button to charge up. When the gauge is full, release to unleash a powerful magic attack.
For example, the lance triggers lightning magic, and during that lightning flash, you’re momentarily invincible.
The pixel art vibes? Absolutely top-tier. But… still insanely hard.
The storm scene — with the rain and swirling tornado monsters — is simply breathtaking for its time.
Then comes that charging pig monster. Mash those buttons like your life depends on it — because it does.
And when that pig starts puking… yeah, chef’s kiss — perfection and disgust in one.
Whoever designed these bosses deserves a medal. The imagination is off the charts! (Headshots are the key, by the way. Three good hits will do it.)
Time limit’s ticking!
Even if you beat the boss, if the timer hits zero before you grab the key, it’s back to square one. Brutal!
Stage 2 begins. Forget everything you know about turtles being slow.
Fall off that bridge, and you’re sucked into the sandpit — straight to monster dinner. Turn back and RUN.
Fiery birds and bean-sprout-looking monsters make life miserable.
Those flaming phoenixes just won’t stop coming.
Stage 2 boss time — a flaming demon dog (or lion?). Dodge the flames, spam attacks, and pray.
Victory! Of course, only thanks to the almighty Save & Load technique.
Stage 3 — welcome to hell. The hardest stage of them all.
You have to sprint nonstop or you’ll never make it.
This is where most players die. Over and over.
Precision jumps are your only salvation.
Almost there! Right before the stone mouth, you must jump off. Watch out — there’s always a monster right where you land. Press down + attack mid-fall to survive. Easier said than done.
Please… don’t throw your handheld. Your handheld loves you. ❤️
Attack the eyeball hiding inside the cloud.
Even monsters look exhausted — that bloodshot eye needs sleep!
Stage 3 clear! Take a deep breath, stare at the horizon, and meditate before continuing.
Stage 4 — another nightmare. “Oh dear lord, haven’t I suffered enough?!”
Slippery platforms, rage-inducing falls… But remember — the princess is counting on you!
The boss here is fast, tricky, and the timer is cruel.
Only 27 seconds left! Aim for the heart!
Made it! Somehow…
The final? stage begins. The enemies are desperate, throwing everything they’ve got.
Still with the projectile vomit… the mental damage is real.
All the previous bosses return for revenge.
“Hey, where’d your bodies go?”
“Wait… twins?!” The blue flame weapon is a must here — charge it up for a devastating magic blast.
The final boss? Ordinary weapons barely scratch him.
But the blue flame’s special attack melts him instantly. Without it, you’ll need perfect dodges to survive.
At last, the door to the princess!
Wait… who’s this guy?
Brave Knight Arthur, you have done well to come this far. However, in your current state, you cannot defeat the Demon King Lucifer beyond this gate. Return once more to the Demon Realm, and within the battles ahead, receive the power of true magic.
Where’s the princess??
Arthur, wear the magical armor, and if you keep opening the treasure chests, the goddess will surely appear. Be strong, Arthur — I believe that you, of all people, can defeat Lucifer.
What?! It’s restarting?!
Yes, you have to beat the entire game twice to see the true ending. Cruel developers indeed! 😭
Somewhere in the second loop, you’ll find the ultimate weapon.
That goddess turns into the final weapon — grab it fast!
This is the most powerful weapon in the game.
It even cancels enemy projectiles!
Bosses crumble in seconds — poetic justice. “Thanks, devs… I guess?”
Keep collecting keys and clearing stages.
Enemies get faster and meaner this time.
But with the ultimate weapon, nothing can stop you!
Easy win — pure satisfaction.
And yet, more hell awaits…
“Wait, I have to do this again?!” Feels like serving a second term in the army.
“Oh hey, the eyeball boss! Still bloodshot, huh?”
Time to put you to rest.
Enemies come in endless waves now.
Still, every boss will finally find peace.
The charging pig?
He’s done.
Headless ghosts? Done.
Triplets of doom?
Sent them all to heaven.
The so-called “not-final” boss? Yeah, you’re next.
At last, the true final boss awaits!
“Oh no… you look like a final boss all right.” Jump onto its feet and strike the head relentlessly!
Defeat it, and the trapped souls are freed.
A kind bird carries the princess’s body back.
Now her soul descends to reunite with it.
Spirit and body
finally one. (Ghost meets Ghost?)
Our hero and the princess run toward each other.
Finally, a moment of peace and happiness.
Lucifer, who revived the Demon Realm that should have perished three years ago, once again tried to rule over it — but Arthur rose to defeat him once more.
Sensing the ominous signs of the Demon Realm’s revival, Arthur never let his guard down, even after defeating the Great Demon King three years earlier.
When the power of the Demon Realm began to seep into the fiends once again, the heavenly gods bestowed upon the couple — Arthur and the princess —
Without these magical powers, even Arthur himself would have perished before facing Lucifer. But after receiving the Psycho Cannon from the archangel Cael to defeat Lucifer, Arthur finally overcame him after a long and grueling battle.
The souls of the people who had been trapped within Lucifer’s body were finally set free, and even the princess, who had once lost her life, was revived. Thanks to the valiant Knight Arthur, peace returned once more to the human world. …But someday, by the hand of someone or something, the Demon Realm may rise again…
The souls of those trapped within Lucifer’s body were finally freed, and even the princess, who had once perished, was brought back to life. Through the valor of Knight Arthur, peace returned once more to the human world. …Yet someday, by the hand of someone or something, the Demon Realm may rise again. Has Arthur’s battle truly come to an end…?
“Lived happily ever after?” The question mark says otherwise.
The End.
Even with save-load abuse, this game is a mountain of pain. You’ll need patience, persistence, and maybe therapy. But beating it? It’s pure bliss — a retro triumph!
🎮 Until next time, may your retro gaming spirit stay strong! — SuperAsurada77
In the early 1990s, few games defined the golden era of the Sega Mega Drive quite like this one — a legendary belt-scrolling action classic.
Relive the epic battles of Golden Axe on the Sega Genesis — from magic-wielding heroes to Death Adder’s final showdown
It’s Golden Axe, developed by Sega. Known to many as “The Golden Axe”, this game’s title might be a bit misleading — since the main hero wields a sword, not an axe. So… is the dwarf the real protagonist here?
Basic Controls
A Button: Magic Attack B Button: Standard Attack C Button: Jump D-Pad (double-tap forward): Run Run + B: Running Attack Jump + B: Jump Attack B + C: Heavy Attack
If you’re a fellow middle-aged retro gamer like me, always maximize your LIFE bar to 5. Enemies can gang up on you and melt your HP in seconds — so always go in fully loaded.
And of course, seasoned veterans like us never pick Beginner Mode. Our pride won’t allow it. Choose ARCADE.
Selecting THE DUEL puts you into a one-on-one battle against a series of enemies — a fun challenge if you’re confident in your skills.
Each character’s magic has its own elemental theme:
The male warrior wields explosive-type magic. His ultimate attack is a volcanic eruption.
The female warrior commands fire magic. Her final spell is a devastating dragon flame.
The axe-wielding dwarf channels lightning. His top-tier magic unleashes multi-strike thunderbolts.
Death Adder — no, not Darth Vader — invades the royal castle and captures the king and princess.
And of course, the ever-popular trope continues: off we go to rescue the princess!
Oops… accidentally triggered a magic attack instead of a normal strike. Using your precious magic on two small minions? Painful mistake.
Ah yes — the thieving gnomes. Attack them to collect magic potion jars, essential for powering up your spells.
Wait a minute… isn’t that the same creature from Altered Beast? Yep. It’s the exact same sprite.
The boss of Stage 1 is the Bad Brothers duo. Seeing such a massive boss character moving around was truly mind-blowing at the time.
Coming from 8-bit systems with tiny sprites, this was 16-bit power on full display.
A well-timed volcanic blast takes care of them nicely.
Ah, here come the generous gnomes again with more items. Don’t forget to stock up!
OUR SWORN ENEMY DEATH ADDER IS IN HIS CASTLE. WE’LL TAKE A SHORTCUT THROUGH THE TURTLE VILLAGE.
Stage 2: Turtle Village Use your dash attacks to knock enemies off the cliffs — it’s the fastest way to clear them.
The villagers scream and flee as chaos unfolds.
Purple-clad warriors swoop in riding dragons. Knock them off their mounts and claim the beasts for yourself — mounted attacks are powerful, so take advantage!
The bosses here are the Green Sisters.
Don’t be fooled by their looks — they’re deadly!
After defeating them, thieving dwarves return — but this time green ones appear, dropping meat to restore your health. Delicious!
THE VILLAGE WAS ON THE BACK OF A GIANT TURTLE.
THE TURTLE TAKES US SOUTH, ACROSS THE SEA.
The background suddenly resembles a turtle shell…
Oh — there’s its face!
One shoulder tackle from this brute will send you flying.
Stage 3 Boss: A towering knight wielding a gigantic sword. Getting hit hurts.
Unleash your volcanic magic once again to finish the stage.
After the battle, the thieving gnomes arrive once more with health and magic refills. Much appreciated.
WE HAVE GONE IN CLOSE VICINITY OF THE CASTLE. BUT THE WAY IS PACKED BY ENEMY LINES. WE MUST DARE THE “FIEND’S PATH” TO REACH THE CASTLE.
Hmm… why do all the enemies look like palette-swapped versions of previous ones?
Ah — skeletal enemies appear! At least there’s some variety now.
The black knights and skeletons can overwhelm you quickly. They’re the bosses of Stage 4. Use shoulder tackles and stay mobile to survive.
After a hard-fought day, the gnomes return once more with much-needed recovery items. Hang in there!
THE “FIEND’S PATH” WAS A GREAT GREAT EAGLE. WE ARE TAKEN ACROSS THE SKIES TO THE CASTLE. NOW THE FINAL BATTLE BEGINS.
A giant eagle face looms in the background. Knock skeletons off the cliffs for an easier fight.
For its time, the 16-bit pixel art looked absolutely stunning — and even today, it’s a true masterpiece of spritework.
“Stop attacking me, lady in red! I’m dying here!”
Wait… aren’t you the boss from Stage 3? Oh… you’re just red now. Enough with the color swaps already!
The gnomes, sensing the final battle, shower you with resources like never before.
“So you’re the boss, huh? Well, first things first — take this!”
Wait, is that the same giant from before… now with a helmet and axe? Didn’t I say no more costume changes?
Fine then — volcanic eruption to the face! …Wait, he’s still alive?
The boss uses lightning magic. Jump to dodge it and use shoulder tackles for a quick takedown.
At last, the king and princess are freed.
The king — or maybe your future father-in-law — winces in pain. 😅
“TAKE MY UTMOST GRATITUDE FOR OUT RESCUE.” says the princess.
“I THANK YOU AND YOUR COURAGE. FOR IT HAD RID OF DEATH ADDER AND HIDEOUT PLOT” she continues.
But… but why ‘however’ now?
“BUT I HAVE A FEELING THAT HE MIGHT HAVE BEEN TAKING ORDERS.”
“COME TO THINK OF IT, NOT A FEW TIMES DID HE DISAPPEAR INTO THAT DOOR!”
Why are you telling me this now?! That’s scope creep, princess! The project brief said “defeat Death Adder.” Anything beyond that requires a change order!
“WILL YOU NOT GO INTO BATTLE FOR ME, ONCE AGAIN?”
Fine. This one’s on the house. 💸
“Yes, my lady!”
The hero walks through the door — like a salaryman heading back to the office for unexpected overtime after dinner.
Tip: Knock enemies off the cliff on the left side for an easier fight.
Ah, so you’re the real boss!
Wait — you use magic too?
What’s this? Lightning magic?!
And now dragon fire?! Yep — one hit from that and you lose a life instantly.
Ignore the skeletons — they don’t die. Focus on the final boss. Attack relentlessly before he can cast his spells. Dodge and shoulder tackle repeatedly. Yes, save-state abuse may be required. 😅
“THANK YOU GALLANT ONE! NOW THE PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO LIVE,”
“TO BUILD,TO PROSPER IN PEACE. MAY YOU BE TITLED, THE GRAND MASTER”
Just a title? Really?
“GUARDIANS OF THE KINGDOM! NOW PREPARE FOR A FEAST! GRAND FEAST!”
“TO PRAISE YOUR ACT OF BRAVERY AND DEEDS OF COURAGE.”
Praise is nice… but how about something more tangible?
“FINALLY, YOU HAVE DEFEATED ALL OF THE EVIL CLAN. THE LAND SHALL REVIVE IN PEACE AND THE PEOPLE WILL TALK OF YOUR DEEDS AS A LEGEND IN THE YEARS TO COME.”
All I’m saying is… a reward would be nice.
The game ends by showing information about all the characters you met.
Letters fly across the screen…
Soldiers toss them skyward…
##################################
…forming the staff credits.
GAME OVER!
Thanks for reading this long journey. Enjoy your retro gaming adventures!
Today we’re diving into one of the most unique and unforgettable games of the early 1990s — Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker for the Sega Mega Drive (known as the Genesis in the U.S.). Developed by SEGA in 1990, this game was based on the Moonwalker movie — and yes, the King of Pop himself was directly involved in its development and supervision.
You control Michael Jackson as the star of the show, combining signature dance moves, iconic music, and stylish action — all wrapped up in one wild 16-bit experience.
And instead of rescuing a kidnapped princess (a tired old trope), this time you’re saving kidnapped children. Oh… wait, I guess the “kidnapping” part hasn’t changed after all. 😅
🎮 Basic Controls
A Button – Magic: Turn, break walls, open manhole covers.
With a blue energy gauge: Hold to perform the dance attack.
With a yellow gauge: Hold to throw MJ’s hat as a weapon.
B Button – Attack:
With blue/yellow gauge: Magic attack (area damage).
With red gauge: Basic melee attack.
C Button – Jump
B + C – Jump Attack
Up on D-pad: Open doors, trunks, windows, enter caves, use warp pads, ride elevators.
Diagonal Up/Down: Climb ladders.
Your energy gauge changes from blue → yellow → red as you take damage, and your attack power decreases with it.
MJ starts with two lives, so use them wisely!
🕹️ Game Flow
Each stage shows the number of children you need to rescue. They’re hidden everywhere — behind doors, in trunks, windows, trash cans, even manholes. Once all are saved, a chimpanzee appears, climbs onto MJ’s shoulder, and points the way to the boss. Defeat the boss’s henchmen to clear the stage.
Alright then — let’s go save those kids!
The opening scene shows off what a 16-bit console can really do. Back in grade school, my jaw dropped the first time I saw this.
Throw a coin into the jukebox and the stage lights up — an awesome cinematic intro! “Smooth Criminal” starts playing, and suddenly you’re reliving a scene straight from the movie.
You’ll spot a crying child tucked away in a corner. Just walk up to them and they’re automatically rescued. They immediately run off-screen, completely ignoring the enemies. “Alright kid, take care of yourself then!”
Look for club doors — stand in front of them and press Up to make Michael open them with his trademark flourish. There could be a child… or a group of enemies waiting inside.
Once you’ve rescued all the children, a monkey appears and climbs onto Michael’s shoulder, pointing toward the boss’s location. Head there, and the boss will appear briefly, taunt you, then send his goons to attack.
When your energy gauge is blue, hold the magic button and Michael will spin continuously — then break into a dazzling dance number. The enemies stop fighting and join him on stage!
This is pure cinematic magic. The first time I saw it, I thought, “I’m so glad I was born to witness this.”
Michael and the enemies perform the iconic anti-gravity lean. When the dance ends, the enemies collapse from exhaustion, and the stage is cleared.
We’re still on Stage 1, specifically 1-2.
Notice how the rescued children always run off on their own? Must be tough being a one-man rescue team.
This woman will briefly block your path as you walk by — but you can’t attack her.
The monkey once again guides you toward your next destination.
The boss taunts you again: “Ha ha! You’ll never catch me!”
Funny how these guys always end up on their knees saying, “I’m sorry…”
And of course, Michael unleashes the anti-gravity dance again.
Still on Stage 1-3 — this club is massive.
There was one child here I could not find for ages — I almost threw the controller. Climb onto the pool table and press Up to open a hidden window. At last — the missing kid appears. Thanks for hiding so well!
See that folded ladder? Jump and press Up + Attack to release it.
Perfect. Now press diagonal up to climb. Easy, right? For us old-school gamers, ladders are no problem… even if diagonal input is a pain.
And yes… the boss shows up just to talk, then disappears again.
This time, finish the fight with a few quick hits and a well-aimed hat throw.
Welcome to Round 2 — the stages are getting longer. My eyes and wrists are already begging for mercy.
Michael pops open car trunks to save kidnapped children from street thugs.
Jump over bright cars and walls to access hidden areas.
Open trash cans — kids might be hiding inside.
And there’s the boss again… just talking. Again.
After another dance party, the thugs sheepishly walk away.
This time, car trunks are the main mechanic.
Michael methodically checks every trunk in the area.
The boss returns again — with the same dialogue.
When you start a dance party, enemies get shy and run off. Just pick them off one by one and finish with a hat throw.
In this stage, manhole covers are key.
Where are those last two kids? Nowhere in sight…
Stand on the manhole cover and use the magic spin — the lid flies off and you can enter the sewer. Jump to climb back out later.
Another boss appears out of nowhere. Maybe he’s just a puppet?
Now Michael hosts a dance party with dogs. After the show, deliver the punches of justice to finish the stage.
Time for a zombie stage — with “Billie Jean” playing in the background!
Zombies jump back to their original positions after being hit. Attack once, wait for the jump, and hit them again in a repeating pattern.
Michael even dances with the zombies.
When will the boss actually fight?
Michael throws a second dance party anyway.
Stage 3-2 features a boss fight with a zombie that splits into body and legs, attacking separately.
If you rescue a certain hidden child first, a meteor will strike. When it hits Michael, he transforms into a giant robot. He can now fly and fire homing missiles with the magic button. Use diagonal down attacks to hit shorter enemies.
You can hang from a tree by jumping onto it.
From that hanging position, jump again to launch yourself forward.
Oh, it’s you again… just send your minions already!
A dance party doesn’t end the fight this time.
Two zombies appear and split apart. Even their legs cause damage on contact. Attack one side, then quickly spin-dash to the other. Alternate attacks back and forth.
This is the final stage of Round 3.
Once you rescue all the kids, the boss appears again — followed by a swarm of zombies.
Dodge with spin turns and take them out one by one. Eventually, you’ll clear the stage.
Welcome to Round 4 — the end is near! Stay strong!
At the cave entrance, press Up to enter. Children or enemies may be inside. Use save-load tactics to check, then reload if there’s nothing useful.
At this point, the game feels more like a maze than a rescue mission. If you’re directionally challenged like me, get ready to cry.
Still, push through and reach the boss. Come on, send your henchmen already!
Even in caves, Michael throws dance parties. Truly, the greatest artist ever.
Follow the same tactics as before.
See that cave? Save the game and then enter.
Oh… no kids, just spiders. Reload and try again.
And there’s the boss again — talking and summoning minions. Classic.
Another dance party! Michael never gets tired… But my hands and eyes sure do.
The final cave stage awaits — with a massive enemy rush at the end.
From screenshots alone, it might look the same — but the map layout is different.
The map may change, but the boss remains the same. Still says the same lines every time.
Time for a massive dance party featuring soldiers and zombies. Even after the show, defeat them one by one.
Finally, it’s time to invade the enemy’s main base. The keyword here is warp.
Stand by the small console next to the door and press Up. Climb onto the large machine and repeatedly attack while crouching — it will explode and disable electric or laser traps, allowing you to proceed.
Step onto the round platform and press Up.
Whoa — warp time! You can’t progress without it, but there’s no indicator, so I spent ages figuring this out.
Okay boss… you can stop showing up now.
Even inside the enemy base, Michael hosts a dance party. Party people, let’s go!
Stage 5-2 repeats the same patterns.
The boss is still the same. I’m getting tired of this.
But hey — the dance parties never get old!
Perhaps sensing our boredom, the game changes up the backgrounds a bit.
Ride the elevator to another building to rescue more children.
Even when challenged to fight “one-on-one,” the boss keeps running. How far will you run? Into space?
Hold the magic button — instead of a dance party, Michael transforms into a robot and wrecks enemies. Use jump (booster) to dodge laser attacks, and magic (homing missiles) to wipe them out.
Michael annihilates all remaining henchmen.
With all the kids rescued and the minions defeated, it’s time to escape the base’s traps.
At last — the final showdown!
The base explodes, and the boss escapes in a bizarre aircraft.
Has Michael boarded a similar craft… or transformed again?
It’s the final round — the ultimate battle.
So… you did run to space. 😂
Watch the radar on the right. The blue dot is the boss’s ship. Align it to the center and fire away. Hold the attack button for rapid fire.
The boss meets a fiery end. Run all you want — but now it’s over. Go atone for your crimes in the afterlife!
Congratulations! You’ve beaten a long and exhausting game. Someone please drop eye drops into my burning eyes…
Oh wow — Michael himself contributed to the concept and design of this game. Much respect to the King of Pop. Fun fact: He’s also rumored to have worked on the soundtrack for Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
The End! While some stages can feel repetitive, the sheer joy of seeing 2D dance animations is worth it. Just keep your cool — if you miss a gimmick or action cue, you might end up throwing the console out the window.
Thank you so much for reading this long retro journey. Enjoy your gaming time — and keep dancing!
Hello everyone — SuperAsurada77 here! Today I’m bringing you another classic Famicom game that even us middle-aged gamers (with the power of save states, of course) can conquer without breaking our thumbs.
The text might be short, but the screenshots are plenty — so buckle up, this might be a long one!
🚙 1988 – Konami’s Military Rescue Classic
Released in 1988 by Konami, Jackal is a top-down run-and-gun shooter where a single jeep and four elite soldiers are dropped deep behind enemy lines. That’s right — just one jeep to take down an entire enemy army. No backup, no tanks, no reinforcements. Just pure 8-bit insanity.
Stage 1 – Into Enemy Territory
Our tiny jeep parachutes into the battlefield — and the mission begins.
Along the way, you’ll find small buildings holding POWs. Blow them up with grenades or missiles to free your captured comrades. It’s a mystery how they survive the explosions unscathed… but hey, let’s not ask questions. Just rescue them!
Some POWs glow when you pick them up — rescuing these VIPs upgrades your grenades to missiles, and with each rescue, your missile blast radius grows even larger.
Halfway through the stage, you’ll spot a friendly helicopter waiting under heavy enemy fire. Drive close and your rescued soldiers will board the chopper. How they all fit into one jeep — and how the helicopter isn’t shredded by bullets — is another mystery. But again… just rescue them. 😄
Boss Fight: Multiple blue tanks will swarm you. Dodge their shots and take them down one by one. Your thumbs will start screaming here, but hey — it’s only Stage 1.
“YEAHHHH!” shout your rescued comrades. Your thumbs? “NOOOOO!”
Stage 2 – The Temple Fortress
The second mission takes place in what looks like an ancient temple. Rescue more POWs and get them to the extraction chopper before facing the boss.
Boss: A massive stone statue. Dodge the smaller tanks and focus your missiles on the statue. It fires homing missiles, but with precise D-pad control, you can avoid them. Come on — we’re 40-somethings, we drive cars. This is nothing!
Once again: “YEAHHHH!” from the soldiers, and “ARRRGHH!” from your thumbs.
Stage 3 – Harbor Assault
The action shifts to a busy port with laser defenses. This is where save states truly become your best friend. Don’t feel guilty — stress-free gaming is the goal!
Boss: …an aircraft carrier. Yes, somehow your lone jeep is going to blow up a carrier. It’s ridiculous — and that’s exactly why we love it.
“YEAHHHH!” Your thumbs? Numb. Your wrist? Tingling. On to Stage 4!
Stage 4 – Swamp Warfare
The swamp slows your movement significantly — avoid it as much as possible. Rescue more comrades and prepare for another tough fight.
Boss: A giant helicopter. Normally, Rambo would take this thing out with a bow… but since he’s not here, you’ll have to do it with a jeep. 😅 Shoot down paratroopers, dodge the tanks, and keep firing until the chopper explodes.
Stage 5 – Enemy Headquarters
You’re near the enemy HQ now, and things get chaotic: flamethrowers, landmines, helicopters — everything they’ve got is coming your way. Even under this barrage, you’re still rescuing POWs and getting them out. What a hero.
Boss: The heavily guarded main gate. Destroy the turrets and the tank hangars. Once the power is cut, the gates will open and you’ll storm the base.
At this point, your hands are probably screaming louder than the enemy soldiers. 😂
Final Stage – The Fortress Showdown
Inside the enemy stronghold, things get brutal. Laser cannons blast the ground, leaving craters you can’t cross. Your D-pad skills will be pushed to the limit.
Destroy both laser turrets — but you’re not done yet. The main building must also be destroyed with heavy missile fire.
Just when you think it’s over… a massive tank rolls in. Dodge its main cannon and keep firing.
When it turns red, it’s close to defeat. Stick to the pattern: shoot, dodge, shoot, dodge.
Finally, the tank explodes — mission complete!
🎖️ Mission Complete
Four brave soldiers have rescued countless POWs and now gaze at the sunset from their jeep. “Press Start” appears on the screen…
Start again? Nah. My thumbs and wrists need a vacation after one playthrough. 😅
🕹️ Final Thoughts
Jackal is one of those games that perfectly captures the charm and madness of 8-bit gaming. It’s absurd, intense, hilarious, and deeply satisfying — especially for retro gamers over 40 looking to blow off some steam with save states.
You’re not just playing a game. You’re rescuing comrades, saving the day, and laughing at the ridiculousness of blowing up an aircraft carrier with a jeep.
Hello everyone — SuperAsurada77 here! Today, I’m bringing you another retro classic that even us middle-aged gamers (with a little help from save states) can actually beat.
This is not a one-credit challenge. Life is already stressful enough — with kids, wives, jobs, and society piling on pressure every day, why add more stress by trying to 1CC a 1980s action game? 😅
This post might look long because of the many screenshots, but trust me — it’s worth it.
🪖 1988: KONAMI’s Legendary Run-and-Gun
Back in 1988, Konami released Contra — one of the most iconic run-and-gun shooters ever made. In Korea, we used to call it “Hondra” for some reason. Fun fact: Konami’s leadership actually hated the game business despite being a game-making powerhouse. And yet, Contra became a timeless classic when it hit the Famicom/NES.
Stage 1 – Jungle Assault
We’ve all been stuck replaying the first stage over and over again as kids. But with the magic of save/load, you can finally break through.
Boss: Technically, it’s a building — but yes, it’s the boss. Crawl into position beneath each gun turret and unleash rapid fire. We Korean gamers have done real military training — standing fire, kneeling fire, prone fire — so this is nothing. 😂
Stage 2 – 3D Base Attack
After destroying the entrance, you infiltrate the enemy base. This stage blew our minds back in the day — a 3D-style base run in an 8-bit game!
Stay prone to dodge the relentless bullets. Destroy the blue glowing cores in the center to advance. When the bullets stop, stand and fire.
Boss: Looks like a giant 1940s supercomputer. The blue energy shots can be destroyed with bullets. Keep moving and use turbo fire to blast it down.
Stage 3 – Mountain Mayhem
Here come the rolling boulders! Use save/load liberally — this stage is tough.
Boss: Alien vibes incoming. Destroy the arms first, then unload on the head for the win.
Stage 4 – Another Base Battle
Back to the 3D base gameplay. The same tactics work — and you’ll need them. You’ll probably die a lot here, but don’t give up!
Boss: Another giant machine, plus enemy soldiers. Hold your ground and keep firing. Then suddenly… a spaceship appears out of nowhere. By now, your D-pad reflexes should be godlike — use them to survive.
Stage 5 – Winter Warfare
The pixel art here is peak 8-bit nostalgia — snowy and atmospheric.
Mini-Boss: Spray and pray. Just keep shooting until it goes down.
Boss: An alien UFO! The Contra universe just keeps expanding. Shoot both the ship and its projectiles. When it disappears and reappears, bombard it with bullets again.
Stage 6 – The Boss Gauntlet
This entire stage is basically a boss fight. You’ll lose a few lives — and that’s okay. Just like how we “pay” for a new console with house chores or gifts for our wives, you’ll need to sacrifice some lives to win here. 😂
Boss: Jump over its attacks, shoot the weak points, and don’t stop firing — even if it throws weird weapons at you. You’ll probably beat it after losing a couple of lives.
Stage 7 – Brutal Battles
This level is as hard as any boss fight. Blast through the walls with rapid fire.
Boss: Absolutely brutal. The two purple turrets at the bottom fire three shots upward — hard to dodge, hard to hit. If you run out of lives, it’s okay to continue. Remember: this is still easier than raising kids or listening to your wife’s lectures. 😆
Stage 8 – The Final Mission
And then… aliens. Of course. We all saw it coming — and yes, they probably paid for the license. 😂
Mid-Boss: Easy work.
Final Boss: The Alien Queen herself. If you’ve made it this far, victory is within reach. Sacrifice a few lives and finish the job!
🎉 The Ending – A Hero’s Reward
Our heroes complete the mission and escape the island by helicopter as the credits roll. No post-credit scenes here — just sore fingers, tired wrists, and strained eyes. Reward them with a couple of eye drops and a good stretch.
Congratulations! You’ve defeated the evil Red Falcon and saved the universe. Think of yourself as a hero… though, like any hero, you’re rewarded with nothing but “passion pay.” 😅
And yet, tomorrow we’ll still get on the train and head home after another long day. That’s life — and that’s Contra.
🕹️ Final Thoughts
Contra isn’t just a game — it’s a time machine back to our childhood, and a great stress reliever for anyone over 40. With save states on your side, you can conquer it. So grab your controller, load those save files, and unleash hell on Red Falcon.
