As the response to the NES Classic’s announcement has shown, interest in retro gaming is still alive and well. Console manufacturer Retro-Bit knows this, and has been producing new consoles that play classic games for years. The company’s latest product, the Retro-Bit Generations, is the first product that is not cartridge-based, instead coming packed with more than 100 games inside.
iDigitalTimes had the opportunity to speak with Richard Igros, the Marketing Manager at Retro-Bit, about the new console. “ It is exciting to see retro gaming being introduced and re-introduced to gamers of various generations,” Igros told iDigi.
Because the Retro-Bit Generations comes packed with games already installed, Retro-Bit had to work with big-name publishers like Capcom, Data East and more to secure the rights.
“It was extremely inspiring to work with these publishers and see the passion they have about these titles.” Igros said. “It showed the dedication they have to each title, past and present, to ensure each game was innovative and entertaining.”
The console comes with two 6-button USB controllers included, similar to the classic SEGA Genesis layout. If you aren’t a fan of the included controllers, Igros mentions you can use most other USB controller options. “Any USB that is 2.0 will work,” he said. “However, Xbox or current generation PlayStation controllers will not be compatible. We are currently testing older generations up to PS3.”
Like the NES Classic, the Retro-Bit Generations is capable of allowing players to save game progress, even on old games that didn’t include the feature. This feature is made possible by an SD card that can be inserted into the console. The console also has AV and HDMI outputs to display your games on the TV, but doesn’t include filters to give games that classic CRT look.
The list of confirmed games at this point includes Ghosts'N Goblins, Gun.Smoke, Kid Niki Radical Ninja, Kung-Fu, Captain Commando and more. When asked about what game Igros would want to see most, he responded with the Super Mario series of games.
“[Those games are] a staple in retro-gaming and for gamers today,” he said, talking about the Mario games. “But, never-say- never; we hope one day to work with this beloved franchise!”
Of all games included, the one with the biggest reaction so far has been Ghosts ‘N Goblins. “One game that got a lot of buzz at E3 was Ghosts’ N Goblins, it is a game that brings avid gamers back with nostalgia,” Igros said.
The Retro-Bit Generations doesn’t have a firm release date yet, but is planning on coming out this Fall. The console will retail for $59.99, and will be available both in stores and online.
So what do you think? Are you interested in getting a Retro-Bit Generations? Are you interested in retro gaming, or do you prefer new gaming experiences? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
