📰 New article from RetroRGB

Fightbox R10 Pro Special Artwork Edition

https://retrorgb.com/fightbox-r10-pro-special-artwork-edition.html

Arcade sticks are finally getting the artistic treatment they deserve. Fightbox just dropped the R10 Pro Special Artwork Edition, featuring stunning designs by Cary T. Self, and let’s just say it’s a visual stunner. But don’t let the pretty face fool you; this is a serious piece of hardware that’s already earned top recommendation status for its near-instantaneous, sub-one-millisecond latency.

The big news here is the 8-button configuration. I recently tested the 6-button version and was impressed, but this new model adds two extra buttons without ballooning the footprint. Honestly? It feels nearly identical in hand. If you’re a purist who never uses the extras, stick to the 6-button. If you want that flexibility without sacrificing desk space, the 8-button is a no-brainer. It’s a solid trade-off compared to massive, heavy alternatives like the Viewlix.

Fightbox is also rolling out a $15 non-slip bottom pad, which is perfect for players who balance their sticks on their laps and hate the wobble. I’m currently testing the light-up button version, and while I’m a longtime Sanwa fan, I’m curious if the glow will win me over or just annoy me. Either way, whether you’re chasing high scores or just want a controller that looks as good as it plays, this is worth a look. Check out the full review for the lowdown on button feels and setup.

📰 New article from TorrentFreak

Canada’s ‘Expanded Scope’ Blocking Order Targets Existing and Future Pirate Sites

https://torrentfreak.com/canadas-expanded-scope-blocking-order-targets-existing-and-future-pirate-sites/

Canada’s anti-piracy playbook just got a major upgrade, and it’s designed to stop the “whack-a-mole” game once and for all. The Federal Court recently issued an “expanded scope” blocking order, a move that fundamentally shifts how rightsholders can combat illegal streaming services.

Previously, studios had to return to court for every new domain or copycat site that popped up. That tedious process is now a thing of the past. Under this new ruling, companies like Netflix, Disney, and Rogers can add new pirate sites to the blocklist without seeking fresh judicial approval for each addition.

Here’s how the new system works:

• Broad Coverage: The initial order targets 13 specific brands, including popular names like 123Movies and several IPTV services.
• Simplified Procedure: Rightsholders can add new platforms by filing an affidavit. If ISPs don’t object within five business days, the block goes into effect automatically.
• No More Court Sign-offs: Unlike previous orders, the judge no longer needs to manually approve every update. ISP silence is now considered consent.

While this streamlines enforcement, it’s raising eyebrows. Critics like ISP TekSavvy argue this is a slippery slope toward violating network neutrality, effectively letting private companies dictate internet traffic with minimal oversight. The order runs for two years, so the real test will be how quickly this automated blocklist grows.

📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

XBOX Brings Backwards Compatibility to PC

https://retrohandhelds.gg/xbox-brings-backwards-compatibility-to-pc/

Remember when playing old Xbox games meant wrestling with clunky emulators or hoping your PC didn’t melt? Well, those days are officially numbered. Microsoft just announced a major win for retro gamers: the original Xbox library is finally coming to PC with full, native backwards compatibility.

Yes, you read that right. No more tweaking config files or praying to the tech gods. You can dive into classics like Conker Live and Reloaded, Crimson Skies, and Fuzion Frenzy either via Game Pass or for a mere $10 each. It’s clean, it’s easy, and it removes the biggest friction point for anyone wanting to relive the 2000s.

But here’s the real kicker: the hardware requirements are surprisingly chill. You don’t need a supercomputer to run these. A basic GTX 950, an RX 550, or even some modern integrated graphics will handle the load just fine. And for the handheld crowd? These titles are confirmed to work seamlessly on the Xbox Ally line.

This move feels like a strategic pivot after a rocky year of layoffs and console cuts. It’s a low-cost, high-reward way to remind PC players why they love the ecosystem. Plus, it’s a massive convenience upgrade. Finally, we can play those classics without the technical headache. What’s first on your list?

📰 New article from RetroRGB

Metroid II – SGB + AM2r/3DS MSU-1 Soundtrack

https://retrorgb.com/metroid-ii-sgb-am2r-3ds-msu-1-soundtrack.html

Remember that bittersweet feeling of playing Metroid II: Return of Samus on Game Boy, only to realize the music was just a few repetitive chiptune loops? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But thanks to developer Relikk, that nostalgic limitation is officially a thing of the past.

Relikk has just dropped an incredible MSU-1 audio patch that brings high-fidelity soundtracks to the original Metroid II, as well as the 3DS and AM2r versions. Think of it as giving Samus’s early adventures a complete audio overhaul without changing a single pixel of the visuals. It’s the upgrade we didn’t know we needed until now.

The setup is surprisingly straightforward for retro hardware enthusiasts. You’ll need the patch, your preferred soundtrack file, and a tool like FloatingIPS to apply the changes to your ROM. Once patched, you can enjoy the enhanced audio on original SNES hardware via an FXPak Pro, or dive in through emulators like MiSTer, Mesen, and BSNES Plus.

One quick tip: keep your MSU-1 soundtrack files in a single directory and ensure only one track set is active at a time. It’s a small technical hurdle, but the payoff is huge. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the atmosphere of Metroid II with the cinematic sound design we’re used to today, this patch is a must-have. Now, if only someone could port AM2r to MiSTer… 😉

📰 New article from RetroRGB

Retro Fighters Hunter 360 Lag Tested

https://retrorgb.com/retro-fighters-hunter-360-lag-tested.html

Let’s be honest: if you’re playing a fighting game on a wired controller, every millisecond of input lag feels like a personal insult. That’s why Retro Fighters’ new Hunter 360 controller has caught my eye. It’s a versatile beast that works with basically any USB device, offering both wired and wireless (2.4GHz dongle) connectivity for $65. But does it hold up under the microscope?

I put the Hunter 360 through its paces, and the results are surprisingly solid. In default XInput mode, wired latency hovered between 3 to 7ms, averaging a snappy 5ms. Switching to “Modern Mode” shaved off another millisecond, making it a dream for competitive play. Wireless was also respectable, averaging around 13ms—perfectly fine for casual sessions, even if it’s not quite ultra-low latency.

Here’s the catch: avoid DInput mode unless your specific hardware demands it. Switching to that legacy standard spiked wired lag to an average of 16ms and pushed wireless up to 25ms. That’s a noticeable jump that could cost you rounds in tight matchups.

If you need a reliable, multi-platform controller that prioritizes wired performance, the Hunter 360 is a strong contender. Just stick to XInput, keep your polling speed high, and you’ll be fighting at peak efficiency.

📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

Machenike G3 V2 Review: An Easier Choice

https://retrohandhelds.gg/machenike-g3-v2-review/

Need a new controller that won’t break the bank or your patience? Meet the Machenike G3 V2. If you’ve seen the EasySMX D05, this looks like its cheaper, slightly improved cousin. We grabbed one for just $25 on AliExpress (or $38 on Amazon) to see if it’s worth your cash. Spoiler: it’s surprisingly solid for the price.

Ergonomically, it’s a safe bet. The “Xbox-style” grip feels natural, and the build quality is sturdy without any creaky plastic noises. The controls are a mixed bag, but mostly positive. You get smooth Hall Effect sticks that handle racing games like Forza with ease, and the triggers are responsive. The face buttons are membrane-style—light and quiet, though they do rattle a bit if you’re sensitive to sound.

The real selling point? The adjustable stick tension. You can physically tweak the stiffness with a tiny included screwdriver, letting you dial in anywhere from 40 to 80 grams of force. It’s a neat feature, even if adjusting it requires finding that elusive screwdriver.

While the software app is hit-or-miss, you can easily customize RGB and back buttons using the controller itself. At this price point, it’s an “easier choice” than many pricier options. If you want Hall Effect sticks and a dock without spending $50+, the G3 V2 delivers. Just maybe keep the rattle in mind if you’re a sound purist.

📰 New article from TorrentFreak

DNS Bypass Tweets Keep Uptobox Employee’s €197K Frozen in Disney Piracy Case

https://torrentfreak.com/dns-bypass-tweets-keep-uptobox-employees-e197k-frozen-in-disney-piracy-case/

Think your social media posts are just for clout? In France, they’re evidence.

A former Uptobox “CTO” is currently stuck in a legal purgatory, with €197,000 of his life savings frozen by Disney. The irony? The court ruled he wasn’t actually a director. His lawyer proved he was just a tech contractor handling servers

📰 New article from RetroRGB

Weekly Roundup #523

https://retrorgb.com/week523.html

Ready for another trip down memory lane? Bob at RetroRGB is back with Weekly Roundup #523, and this week is packed with hardware hacks and nostalgia-inducing updates. If you’re a retro gaming enthusiast, you’ve got some serious reading—and listening—material waiting for you.

First up, let’s talk hardware quirks and fixes. We’re seeing a deep dive into the infamous NES 72-pin connector, alongside a look at the new Hyperkin N64 controller featuring Hall Effect sensors. For those tweaking their video output, RetroTINK has added Auto-Phase for the CE model and Lumacode tweaks for both, ensuring your CRTs look sharper than ever. There’s also good news for disc-based MiSTer users: you can now boot games from any USB optical drive, and OmniDrive just got a compatibility bump for the ASUS BW-16D1X drive.

But it’s not just about tech specs. Bob reviews the Star FX3 Super FX mod for Star Fox and takes a first look at RetroTap, a multi-PSU solution that might just save your desk from cable chaos. Plus, there are some stylish, low-profile TV stand designs that prove retro gear can look modern.

Whether you’re tweaking FPGA setups or just love the aesthetic of vintage consoles, there’s something here for you. Catch the full breakdown on video or via any major podcast app, and consider supporting the channel if you enjoy the deep dives. It’s free, easy, and helps keep the retro flame alive.

📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

Nintendo Says “No!” To Consumer Tariff Refunds

https://retrohandhelds.gg/nintendo-says-no-to-consumer-tariff-refunds/

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📰 New article from Retro Handhelds

Ayaneo Restocks the Pocket Micro 2…Again

https://retrohandhelds.gg/ayaneo-restocks-the-pocket-micro-2-again/

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