Hello readers, happy pride! While none of these highlighted projects are explicitly queer—save for one, maybe—never forget that queer people have always been a part of video game history. As always, we have no insider information or financial interest in any of these projects, and no one at Retronauts has been compensated for including anything on this page. To the best of my ability I have not (and never will) endorse any campaign built around AI assets. Also, in light of the ongoing pandemic, we recommend only backing crowdfunding campaigns if you feel comfortable with your own security and stability.

Magic Knight 40th Anniversary Collection (ends June 7 estimated reward date Sep 2025)
I've never even been to the UK so I know very little about the ZX Spectrum but this collection of four games by David Jones looks quite thorough. Releasing software on cassette tapes in 2025 shows a real commitment to the cause.

Beat 'Em Up Volume 1 (ends June 9 estimated reward date Sep 2025)
Frequent crowdfunder Darren Hupke returns with what promises to be the first book in a series highlighting the history of beat-em-ups. Also, Darren contacted me to mention he's got another campaign later this month for his Retro Game Zine. A busy June!

LED-Interactive Famicom Cartridge Board (ends June 16 estimated reward date Feb 2026)
You might know that, due to the Famicom's top-loading design and different cartridge configuration, some software in Japan featured lights that switched on when the console turned on. This project proposes a Famicom game that actually uses the lights to reflect in-game action. Since that work is still in the prototype phase, this campaign will offer different games as a reward for funding the ongoing development of the illuminated Famicom project.

Echoes of the Unread (ends June 18 estimated reward date Feb 2026)
If you're looking for new 21st century NES games you've got plenty of options, but how many of them revolve around singing? Not actual singing mind you, but a character who produces magical notes to "solve puzzles, battle foes, and uncover secrets." A demo is available for download.

Mawthorne 2 (ends June 19 estimated reward date Oct 2025)
In a clear sign that this column has gone on for a long, long time, here is a sequel to a crowdfunded game I wrote about three years ago. There's even a demo if you want to try it for yourself. Looking forward to Mawthorne 3: Tokyo Drift in 2029!

THE HEART OF NEON (ends June 21 estimated reward date Aug 2025)
I'm adult enough to confess that I haven't played any Jeff Minter games despite trusted pals Stuart Gipp and Chris Kohler telling me that I really ought to play Jeff Minter games. Perhaps this feature-length documentary about Jeff Minter making video games will finally convince me? Only time will tell.

• kickstarter
• uk
• documentary
• jeff minter
• D Feit