Random Encounter Cards

19/03/2026

Did you know...

When Viewtiful Joe launched in the UK in 2003 it was released with two cover variants - hot pink, and yellow. These were split between retailers, with GAME picking up the hot pink, and HMV (I may be misremembering!) getting the yellow.

Despite plenty of playground rumours there was no difference between the two - no magical patch, additional characters or special features.

If you've played it I won't need to explain how colourful and fun the series is - 2D action and combat with plenty of twists Viewtiful Joe (1 and 2) have been fan favourites from Hideki Kamiya - much like all the titles he has been involved in: Devil May Cry, Okami, Resident Evil, Bayonetta, Astral Chain, Wonderful 101 and more.

Did you get Viewtiful Joe back in the day?
What colour version did you pick up?

19/03/2026

We're branching out into 3D modelling!

What that means is an array of utility items geared up and aimed at your humble nerd - starting with a solution for those amazing Game Boy Jukebox Cartridges!

The Jukebox is immensely cool, but we didn't think "thin plastic shell" is a suitable storage option, check it out here!

Jukebox Accessory. 3D Printed Jukebox Case. Archival Jukebox Storage.

23/05/2024

Happy Paper Mario The Thousand Year Door Day! 🎉

16/12/2023

There are gaming grails, and then there are gaming grails. A personal grail of mine, Boktai: The Sun is in Your Hand, is a 2003 GBA release that had an integrated light sensor in the cartridge, that was the core mechanic in this action RPG. (Don't get me started on the inconsistency of a mechanic that uses Sunlight in the UK)

What's also interesting, is that this game was done by Hideo Kojima (of Metal Gear Solid, and Death Stranding game) - released in low numbers in the UK, pictured is a fantastic example of a complete boxed edition in remarkable condition.

The game's sequel, Lunar Knights on DS was an absolute underrated gem too!

13/10/2023

It's the spooky time of year! Do you have any creepy gaming traditions for October?

06/10/2023

Very few games can invoke such a feeling of wonder or nostalgia as this original trip - released at the end of 1999 (UK) Pokémon Red and Blue became a milestone in gaming history: that first Pokémon choice stuck with so many, that even now these games remain in the forefront of people's minds when you think back to childhood wonder and excitement in gaming!

Which starter did you choose originally?

22/06/2023

It's like an old joke, "what happens when you give a studio of ex-Dragon Quest developers access to the Pokemon IP?"... One of the best spin off duos to grace gaming.

Pokemon Colosseum and Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness were a spin on a tried and true formula that resonated vibes from great RPGs like Final Fantasy VII and Dragon Quest to create a memorable Pokemon Experience. Unique villains, new mechanics (catching your opponents Pokemon!), and new starters (starting with Umbreon and Espeon in Colosseum was amazing!) -- these games set themselves apart and cemented themselves in the memories of a generation of avid fans.

One would hope we will atleast see some ports in the future; I'm holding out for the third in the Trilogy!

12/05/2023

There's a number of iconic GameCube "grails" out there - this is one of ours - what are your retro gaming grails?

20/02/2023

"Hey You, Pikachu!" - one of the two games on the Nintendo 64 to utilize a Microphone, commanding Pikachu though it was a challenging task but the overall "cute appeal" of the game made up for it in spades!

Shout out if you played this one back in the day!

13/02/2023

And now for something *completely* different!

3D glasses that were sold at showings for the re-release of Star Wars Episode 1. Modeled after Anakin's goggles he wore during the amazing pod-racing scene these glasses are as cool as they are uncomfortable!

30/09/2022