7 cool retro ROM hacks that ‘improve’ classic games

Alrighty there, mate! I’ve been around the block a few times when it comes to old-school gaming, and let me tell ya, these ROM hacks are something else entirely! It’s like stepping into a secret club of passionate gamers who love tinkering with their favorite titles.

Today, I find myself advocating for a somewhat paradoxical stance. Typically, when discussions arise about enhancing or updating classic games or remasters within gaming discourse, I tend to raise a skeptical eyebrow. In my opinion, it’s essential to play an old game, often referred to as a “classic,” in its original form and judge it based on its own merits rather than imposing modern ideas or technologies onto it, as if these games were mere appliances like toasters instead of artistic creations produced during a specific period. This approach is crucial for understanding and preserving history. However, I make an exception when it comes to the ROM hacking community.

By modernizing classic platforms using technology such as hardware emulation, companies like Analogue are allowing audiences to re-experience history in a fresh way. More people are playing timeless classics through updated screens, controls, user interfaces, and other features. The blend of old and new technologies makes the process of experimentation and tinkering enjoyable and distinct from simply replicating original works. Moreover, this approach differs significantly from publishers removing original games and replacing them on official platforms.

Anyway, here are some ROM hacks that are pretty dope.

Phantasy Star 2 Improvement by FlamePurge

I made an effort to ensure this list wasn’t dominated by RPGs, yet it seems the top-notch work in this field is largely found within RPGs. It’s surprising, isn’t it? Sega’s Phantasy Star series offers a distinctive fusion of sci-fi and fantasy RPG elements, with a dash of anime for taste. Longtime RPG enthusiasts might remember some criticism about localizations, but there are other issues like glitches, inconsistent math, and hidden technical problems that likely would have been fixed if they were more recent. For instance, the intense flashing during combat in Phantasy Star 2 could cause discomfort or even a headache for those playing on modern screens. This modification rectifies all of these issues and more, delivering a comprehensive overhaul while maintaining the integrity of the original software.

SMB Special – 35th Anniversary Edition by frantik

This one is wild. A sort of remixed pseudo-sequel to Super Mario Bros. was released for PC in Japan, introducing all kinds of new content. Not only is actually playing Super Mario Bros. Special not easy, the game itself is compromised compared to the NES original because of technological limitations. The screen couldn’t scroll! This hack is effectively a port, injecting most of the new levels, backgrounds, enemies, and more into the NES engine that runs Super Mario Bros. as intended. This makes an odd part of Mario history accessible and playable instead of just a weird thing you read about on wikis.

Breath of Fire: War of the Goddess by FlamePurge

Hello once more, FlamePurge! Here’s an individual who’s consistently pushing boundaries with intriguing projects. The example you’re about to witness might not have existed without ROM hacking. Instead of the usual translations and uncensoring jobs, War of the Goddess is a revamp of the original script. This essentially means the story has been expanded significantly, incorporating elements from later Breath of Fire sequels that have since become essential parts of the mythology. Furthermore, there are additions inspired by a manga adaptation of the initial game, titled Breath of Fire: Warrior of the Dragon. Such a concept is truly fascinating and provides an engaging reason to re-explore Capcom’s RPG legacy.

Tetris: Rosy Retrospection by Ospin

Tetris has changed more over time than you might realize. At the same time, there’s a distinct charm the Game Boy version has that is impossible to replace. So, what if Game Boy Tetris played more like contemporary Tetris? That’s what this hack accomplishes, adding things like holding, shadows, hard drops, and more. It even makes name entry a little snappier! Does this stuff “fix” Game Boy Tetris? No, but it’s an interesting alternative that’s a lot of fun to play with.

Castlevania: The Adventure DX by ProstatePunch

A fascinating spin-off of ROM hacking is known as DX-ing, where enthusiasts enhance and reimagine classic Game Boy games. For instance, when the Game Boy Color was introduced, several titles were remastered, such as The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening. These DX-ed projects, including Kirby’s Pinball Land to Spanky’s Quest, are creative reimaginings of games that might have been developed but didn’t exist. Castlevania: The Adventure is an excellent example, as the hack includes improvements making it a superior version of one of the weaker games in its series.

Legend of the Mana Sword by xenophile

The hack titled “Final Fantasy Adventure” is actually part of the Mana series, a fact now widely recognized. This modification updates the title screen to reflect this, modifies certain script elements based on lore, and addresses bugs and glitches. Other minor adjustments are also made. What I find particularly fascinating about this hack is that it incorporates a custom Super Game Boy border – an unexpected feature given its niche nature. This detail highlights the dedication of those involved in creating these projects, as they clearly appreciate the game’s historical significance.

MOTHER Frankenstein bonus entry by Various Sickos

This one is just funny, but interesting at the same time. The MOTHER/EarthBound fanbase is one of the most active and mobilized online, and the well of fan work is deep. That includes ROM hacks, with fan communities running seasonal events. So it makes sense that there are competing ideas on what an “improvement” hack for the original MOTHER should be. There’s MOTHER Restored, MOTHER 25th Anniversary Edition, MOTHER Faithful Edition, and some sickos will combine hacks together with other patches to take things they like from one but still keep the parts they like in another. It’s confusing to look at from a distance, but fascinating to see different people talking about and recommending what they think is the best way to play one of the more divisive Nintendo games of its era.

For now, let’s call it a day from my end. I trust some of you found this topic as captivating as I do! There’s an abundance of unique and peculiar methods to interact with classic games and vintage hardware, far beyond merely playing emulated ROMs on mobile devices or delving into official re-releases and remakes.

2024-11-17 19:28