📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

Star Fox Returns to the Switch 2

https://retrohandhelds.gg/star-fox-returns-to-the-switch-2/

Star Fox Returns to the Switch 2

Dust off your flight goggles and prepare for some serious barrel rolls, because Fox McCloud is officially back from his decade-long hiatus. After skipping an entire console generation, a new Star Fox title is slated to land on the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 25, 2026.

If you’re feeling a sense of déjà vu, you aren’t alone. This looks to be the fourth time we’ve seen this specific gameplay loop resurrected, but there is something special about this iteration. It appears to be a love letter to the SNES and N64 eras, featuring an art style that leans heavily into the classic, animal-like designs of the 90s rather than the more “humanoid” looks of recent years.

Expect the classic on-rails dogfighting action we know and love, with plenty of branching paths to keep you replaying. While it won’t reinvent the wheel—it even supports native N64 controller input—it does bring some new bells and whistles like fresh cutscenes and a “mouse mode.”

Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia or just want to see Slippy looking particularly… vibrant… this is one flight you might want to book.

📰 New article from RetroRGB

Open Source Sega Nomad Battery Pack

https://retrorgb.com/open-source-sega-nomad-battery-pack.html

If you still cling to your Sega Nomad like a security blanket, you know the biggest heartbreak is being tethered to a wall outlet. But good news: the era of the “wall-hugger” might finally be coming to an end.

Dennis van den Broek (aka Pointer Function) just dropped an open-source battery pack design that’s a total game-changer for DIY enthusiasts. Using rechargeable 18650 batteries and modern USB-C charging, this setup lets you take your handheld into the wild without hunting for an AC adapter. The project is super flexible, too—there are different versions depending on whether you want a power switch or specific connection types.

If you’re looking to build this yourself, just a word of caution: watch out for those sketchy 18650 batteries on Amazon. If a listing claims a capacity over 3500mAh, it’s almost certainly a fake. Stick to reputable sources unless you want your retro project turning into a literal fire hazard.

Of course, if you lack the patience for soldering and 3D printing, there are still polished plug-and-play options like Greg’s Nomad Pak available. But for the makers out there? The freedom is officially here.

📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

ROCKNIX On the MiniLoong Pocket 1: Transformative!

https://retrohandhelds.gg/rocknix-on-the-miniloong-pocket-1-transformative/

### The MiniLoong Pocket 1 Just Got a Major Software Glow-Up

If you’ve been eyeing the MiniLoong Pocket 1 for its sleek design and high-res screen, you might have also been repelled by its original software. Let’s be honest: the stock “MiniloongOS” was a bit of a disaster. Between laggy menus, audio delays that made platformers unplayable, and a volume button that lets out a deafening CLICK to alert your entire household to your gaming session, it was hard to love.

But there is light at the end of the tunnel—and it’s called ROCKNIX (specifically the “Aurknix” branch).

By swapping out the clunky stock OS for this much more polished Linux-based alternative, the experience transforms from frustrating to fantastic. Here is why the switch matters:

Smooth Performance: Gone are the days of heavy audio lag and frame drops. Games like Kirby Super Star* run buttery smooth.

• Hidden Potential: You can actually unlock a 90Hz refresh rate in the settings, making menu navigation and gameplay incredibly fluid.
• User-Friendly: It brings much-needed features like online scraping, RetroAchievements, and better power management.

It requires a little bit of “SD card surgery” to get it running, but for anyone owning this handheld, it is arguably the single most important upgrade you can make.

📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

Epomaker Split70: I’m 50/50

https://retrohandhelds.gg/epomaker-split70-review/

### The Great Divide: Is the Epomaker Split70 Worth the Split?

If you’ve ever felt like your shoulders are permanently hunched toward your screen, a split keyboard might just be your ergonomic savior. But as the recent review of the Epomaker Split70 suggests, moving to a divided setup is a bit of a “50/50” experience.

On the plus side, the hardware is surprisingly solid for $116. The Wisteria V2 linear switches feel premium and smooth, thanks to some great pre-lubrication that keeps the “clack” soft rather than rattly. Plus, if you use VIA software (the gold standard for customization), remapping your keys is a breeze.

However, there are some layout growing pains to consider:

• The “Squashed” Shift: The right shift key is shortened to make room for arrow keys, which can lead to some frustrating typos.
• Missing F-Row: If your workflow relies on function keys, you’ll miss them here.
• Awkward Placement: Some keys, like the tilde, are tucked into unexpected corners.

The Verdict: If you’re looking for an ergonomic experiment and don’t mind a learning curve, this is a fantastic entry point. But if you’re a heavy hitter on the F-keys or a right-shift loyalist, you might want to wait for a 75% split instead.

📰 New article from TorrentFreak

NVIDIA’s Shadow Library Scripts ‘Have No Other Purpose’ Than Infringement, Judge Rules

https://torrentfreak.com/nvidias-shadow-library-scripts-have-no-other-purpose-than-infringement-judge-rules/

### NVIDIA’s AI “Shortcuts” Hit a Legal Speed Bump

NVIDIA is currently the undisputed heavyweight champion of the AI boom, but it turns out even tech giants can trip over their own code. A federal judge just handed a significant blow to the chipmaker’s attempt to dodge a massive copyright lawsuit brought by a group of authors.

The drama centers on how NVIDIA trains its AI models. The plaintiffs allege that NVIDIA used datasets packed with pirated books—specifically from “shadow libraries” like Bibliotik—to fuel its learning processes.

While NVIDIA tried to argue that their software tools are just neutral technology, Judge Jon Tigar wasn’t buying it. He focused on specific scripts NVIDIA distributed to clients to help them automatically download and process these datasets. His verdict? Those scripts have “no other purpose” than to speed up copyright infringement.

A few quick takeaways from the courtroom:

• The “Inducement” Problem: The judge ruled that the claim regarding contributory infringement can move forward, specifically targeting tools tailored for piracy.
• BitTorrent is just a tool: NVIDIA tried to scrub BitTorrent references from the case, but the judge famously compared dismissing BitTorrent allegations to “asking to dismiss allegations concerning paintbrushes in a case about a dolphin painting.”

NVIDIA did manage to get one claim dismissed, but the core battle over how AI models are fed continues. This is a massive signal for the industry: if your software makes it easier to steal, you might just be liable for the theft.

📰 New article from TorrentFreak

Reddit Reports Resurgence in User Bans over Copyright Infringement

https://torrentfreak.com/reddit-reports-resurgence-in-user-bans-over-copyright-infringement/

Reddit’s Copyright Crackdown: It’s Personal Now

If you thought Reddit was getting more relaxed about copyright, think again. While the platform’s latest transparency report shows that total DMCA takedown notices are holding steady, there is a massive shift happening in how they handle the “offenders.”

It looks like Reddit is moving away from nuking entire subreddits and is instead going straight for the jugular—the individual users. In the second half of 2025, user bans for repeat copyright violations surged by a whopping 90% compared to the first half of the year. Meanwhile, subreddit bans actually dropped by about 25%. It’s a “targeted strike” approach rather than a scorched-earth policy.

That said, Reddit isn’t just acting as a mindless deletion bot. The report highlights some wins for free speech and “fair use.” For instance:

• Reddit refused to remove an AI video of an Indian religious leader because they deemed it fair use.
• They blocked a developer’s attempt to scrub a post exposing their app’s shady data-sharing practices.

So, while the platform is getting much tougher on repeat pirates, they’re still willing to fight for the right to call out bad actors. Just don’t let your favorite indie band’s music end up in your recruitment memes—the admins are watching.

📰 New article from RetroRGB

Public Release: BigInstinct – Killer Instinct Emulator

https://retrorgb.com/public-release-biginstinct-killer-instinct-emulator.html

### Get Ready to Combo: BigInstinct Emulator is Here

If you’ve ever felt that the original Killer Instinct arcade experience was missing something—specifically, modern-day crispness—then clear your schedule. Developer Rich Whitehouse has officially released BigInstinct, a powerhouse emulator for Windows and Linux designed to bring the arcade classic into the 21st century.

This isn’t just a simple port; it’s an upgrade. Drawing inspiration from his acclaimed Atari Jaguar emulator, Whitehouse has packed this release with high-resolution support, savestates, and even VR 3D capabilities. It’s been getting rave reviews from pro fighting game players, so the frame data is looking solid.

Setting it up is a bit of a “techy” dance involving MAME ROMs and a handy tool called “BigHardMaker,” but once you’ve converted your files, the heavy lifting is over. You can even jump into netplay with friends—and while the easy-to-use server list is reserved for Patreon supporters, anyone can connect via IP if they don’t mind a little manual port forwarding.

The Quick Setup Guide:

• Grab your files: You’ll need MAME ROMs and CHD files.
• Convert: Use “BigHardMaker” to turn them into `.bighard` files.
• Optimize: Map your controller, crank up the resolution (4K works!), and enjoy those gorgeous CRT filters.

📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

How to Install Ubuntu on the R36 Ultra

https://retrohandhelds.gg/how-to-install-ubuntu-on-the-r36-ultra/

### Why use a handheld for retro gaming when you can turn it into a tiny Linux PC?

If you’ve ever looked at your collection of budget emulation handhelds and thought, “This would be much better if it were a pocket-sized terminal,” then you’re officially part of the club. A new guide has surfaced detailing how to transform the R36 Ultra from a gaming machine into a functioning Ubuntu desktop.

Now, let’s manage expectations: this isn’t going to replace your MacBook. The project is less “smooth multitasking” and more “mad scientist experiment.” Once installed, you’ll basically be staring at a terminal window, and since the device’s native controls won’t work for navigation, you’ll need to plug in an external mouse and keyboard via USB-C.

The gist of the process:

• Hunt for files: You’ll need to find specific archives on the R36 Ultra Telegram channel.
• Stitch it together: Use PowerShell or a Linux terminal to merge several fragmented files into a single `.img` file.
• Flash and boot: Burn the image to an SD card using tools like Balena Etcher.

While you won’t be browsing Reddit with ease, the possibilities for hobbyists are fun. You could turn this little guy into a portable Pi-hole for network security or a lightweight media server. It’s definitely more “chaos” than “practicality,” but in the world of retro tech, that’s half the fun.

📰 New article from RetroRGB

Black Fire: Sergio Elisondo’s KUROHI Pushes the Game Boy Color to Its Limit

https://retrorgb.com/kurohi-game-boy-color-sergio-elisondo.html

### The Game Boy Color Just Got a Major Upgrade

If you’ve ever wondered if a 25-year-old handheld could handle more than just Tetris, Sergio Elisondo is here to prove you wrong. Known for the mind-blowing “You Are Error” project—which brought full-motion video to the NES—Elisondo is back with something even more ambitious: KUROHI.

Think of it as a genre-bending fever dream for your GBC. Instead of sticking to one lane, KUROHI seamlessly weaves together three distinct gameplay styles: Metroidvania platforming, overhead Zelda-style exploration, and high-octane arcade space shooters. All of this is packed into eight sprawling worlds, complete with a central hub town, NPCs, and a custom soundtrack composed entirely by Elisondo himself.

The project is currently in its final stages, and the Kickstarter has already smashed through its funding goals. The funds are slated to go toward physical cartridge production and a much-anticipated Steam release. Whether you’re a retro hardware enthusiast or just a fan of incredibly dense, multi-genre adventures, KUROHI is definitely one to keep on your radar.

📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

This Keychain GameCube Uses an Omega Trim Wii Board and Fits in the Palm of Your Hand

https://retrohandhelds.gg/this-keychain-gamecube-uses-an-omega-trim-wii-board-and-fits-in-the-palm-of-your-hand/

Ever feel like your pockets are just too spacious? Well, a team of talented modders has found a way to fill that void with a literal GameCube you can hang on your keys.

Meet “Kawaii,” a tiny, blue anodized aluminum marvel that measures a mere 60mm square. While it looks like a high-end tech trinket, the magic is under the hood. Unlike those emulator handhelds that rely on generic chips, this little beast uses an ultra-trimmed Wii motherboard. That means you’re getting genuine Nintendo silicon running actual GameCube code.

It isn’t all smooth sailing, though. To keep the heat from turning your keychain into a pocket warmer, the builders had to use some serious technical wizardry—including undervolting the CPU. It can still overheat after about 20 minutes of intense gaming, so don’t expect a marathon session without a fan nearby.

A few things to keep in mind before you grab your tools:

• It’s not “standalone”: You’ll need a dock, a TV, and a controller to actually play.
• The microSD is hidden: Once the case is closed, swapping games requires some disassembly.

If you’re feeling brave, the design files are already live on GitHub. Happy modding!