Jean Galea

Health, Wealth, Relationships, Wisdom

Retro Gaming on the NES – Exploring the Classics That Started It All

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nes

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is where retro gaming truly begins for most people. It’s a system packed with iconic titles, foundational gameplay mechanics, and legendary characters that continue to influence gaming to this day.

Even if you didn’t grow up with it, the NES offers a library that’s still incredibly fun — and often surprisingly challenging. In this article, I’ll walk you through a short history of the NES, the best ways to emulate it, and some standout games to try, especially if you’re into co-op or playing with your kids.

A Short History of the NES

The NES was released in Japan as the Famicom in 1983, then in North America in 1985 as the Nintendo Entertainment System. It essentially saved the video game industry after the crash of 1983 and laid the groundwork for Nintendo’s future dominance.

  • Mario, Zelda, Mega Man, Metroid all got their start here
  • Introduced 2D platformers as a standard
  • Popularized the D-pad and controller layout
  • Made home gaming a shared family activity

Why It’s Still Worth Playing

The NES has aged better than you might think. Especially if you appreciate straightforward game design. Here’s why I keep going back to it:

  • Quick to pick up — minimal menus, fast sessions
  • Perfect for kids — especially turn-based or puzzle games
  • A ton of great co-op and 2-player games
  • Huge nostalgia value, even if you didn’t own one

Emulating NES Games

There are many ways to emulate NES games today. I’ve tested a number of them on handhelds, laptops, and TV setups.

Best Emulators

  • Mesen – Best accuracy, great filters, rewind, save states
  • Nestopia – Solid performance, low resource use
  • FCEUX – Good for debugging or advanced features
  • RetroArch (Mesen core) – Great for handhelds or consolidated libraries

Recommended Hardware

  • Handhelds: Retroid Pocket, Miyoo Mini, Anbernic
  • Desktop: Raspberry Pi, EmuDeck
  • Overkill but great: Steam Deck with RetroArch

Tips

  • Use save states and rewind features
  • Enable turbo A/B on handhelds for button mashers
  • Use CRT or pixel-perfect filters depending on taste

My Favorite NES Games

Game Type Why It’s Great
Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers Simultaneous co-op Fun platforming, easy for kids, charming visuals
Contra Simultaneous co-op Fast-paced action, perfect for kids with a second player
Bubble Bobble Simultaneous co-op Colorful puzzle platformer, great for all ages
DuckTales Single-player Excellent level design and soundtrack
Super Mario Bros. 3 Turn-based multiplayer One of the best platformers ever made
Dr. Mario Competitive 2-player Classic puzzle gameplay, ideal for quick sessions
River City Ransom Simultaneous co-op Beat-’em-up with RPG elements and humor

Where to Get Games

You’ll need NES ROMs, which are widely available online — look for clean No-Intro sets. These are exact digital dumps of the original cartridges.

If you prefer a legal alternative, Nintendo Switch Online offers a curated NES library, though it’s tied to an active subscription and online access.

Final Thoughts

The NES still holds up — not just as a piece of gaming history — but as a genuinely fun platform to explore. Its simplicity makes it one of the best entry points into retro gaming, and emulation makes it incredibly accessible today.

Whether you’re introducing a child to Mario for the first time, or revisiting your favorite childhood titles, the NES has more than earned its place in the retro spotlight.

 

RevenueCat vs Stripe, Gumroad, Lemon Squeezy & More: Choosing the Right Tool for Monetizing Your App or Digital Product

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If you’re building an app, digital product, or tool — and want to offer premium features, subscriptions, or supporter perks — you’re faced with a critical decision:

👉 How do you manage payments, entitlements, and gated access without reinventing the wheel?

There are more options than ever before. And while tools like Stripe and Gumroad are well-known, platforms like RevenueCat, Lemon Squeezy, and Buy Me a Coffee offer different trade-offs for developers, creators, and indie hackers.

In this post I break down the leading options, when to use each, and how to choose based on your goals, technical comfort level, and future plans.

👑 What is RevenueCat?

RevenueCat is a platform designed to manage in-app purchases, subscriptions, and feature gating across iOS, Android, and web. It acts as a single source of truth for customer entitlements — meaning you don’t have to build your own subscription logic or integrate directly with Apple and Google SDKs.

🧭 What Are the Alternatives?

Let’s compare RevenueCat to other popular platforms, across key criteria:

1. Stripe Billing

Best for: SaaS products, web apps, content paywalls, digital tools

  • ✅ Highly customizable billing system
  • ✅ Clean API and global support
  • ❌ You must handle subscription logic and entitlements yourself

Use when: You’re building a web-only product and want full control over plans, usage, and access.

Example: We use this for selling WordPress plugins in combination with an e-commerce plugin for WordPress (WooCommerce or EDD).

2. Gumroad

Best for: Selling digital products like eBooks, templates, and files

  • ✅ Fast to start selling
  • ✅ Handles taxes automatically
  • ❌ Not built for feature gating or subscriptions

Use when: You’re a creator selling downloads or one-time content.

Example: Wrote an ebook you want to monetize? Or a one-time payment to join a digital community? Gumroad is perfect for that.

3. Lemon Squeezy

Best for: Indie SaaS + creators who want a “Stripe + Gumroad” experience

  • ✅ Handles taxes, licensing, and subscriptions
  • ✅ Clean checkout, no-code options
  • ❌ Smaller ecosystem than Stripe

Use when: You want SaaS-like functionality with less legal and tax hassle.

Example: You’re offering a membership, digital service, or software license — Lemon Squeezy makes subscriptions straightforward and also handles EU VAT.

4. Buy Me a Coffee / Ko-fi

Best for: Donations, supporter perks, and lightweight memberships

  • ✅ Easiest setup
  • ✅ Great for content creators
  • ❌ Not for app-based feature gating

Use when: You want a donation button or casual supporter system.

Example: You write a blog and want a way to let your fans support you.

5. DIY (Stripe + Firebase/Supabase)

Best for: Custom flows and full control

  • ✅ Build exactly what you want
  • ✅ Integrate with any backend or UI
  • ❌ You build and maintain everything

Use when: You have technical capacity and want full ownership of the billing and access logic.

6. RevenueCat

Best for: Mobile apps and cross-platform products with premium feature access

  • ✅ Works with iOS, Android, and Web
  • ✅ Unified API for subscriptions and entitlements
  • ✅ Built-in analytics, experiments, and testing tools
  • ❌ Doesn’t process payments — you still use Stripe or app stores

Use when: You want to offer paid features or subscriptions across platforms without building custom logic for each one.

🔍 Summary Table

Platform Best For Feature Gating Mobile Support Subscriptions Payment Processor
da Mobile & cross-platform apps ✅ ✅ ✅ App Store / Google Play / Stripe
Stripe Billing Web apps and SaaS ✅ (DIY) ❌ ✅ Stripe
Gumroad Digital products ❌ ❌ ⚠️ Basic Gumroad
Lemon Squeezy Creators / licensing / SaaS ✅ ❌ ✅ Lemon Squeezy
Buy Me a Coffee Donations / lightweight perks ❌ ❌ ⚠️ Minimal BMAC / Stripe
DIY (Stripe + Firebase) Custom apps and control ✅ ✅ (manual) ✅ Stripe + custom

💬 Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — but you don’t have to start from scratch either.

Here’s the simple rule of thumb:

  • ✅ Use Gumroad or Lemon Squeezy to sell content
  • ✅ Use Stripe or RevenueCat to sell access/features
  • ✅ Use RevenueCat if you plan to go mobile
  • ✅ Start simple — switch later if the project proves itself

If you’re planning monetization, this decision sets the foundation. Choose the tool that saves you time, handles what you don’t want to build, and grows with your product.

 

Retro Gaming on the Game Boy – Reliving the Legendary Handheld through Emulation

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gameboy emulationWhen Nintendo released the Game Boy in 1989, it didn’t just launch a product—it launched a cultural phenomenon. The Game Boy line would go on to sell over 200 million units worldwide and establish handheld gaming as a core part of the industry.

This article explores each version of the Game Boy, highlights the top 10 essential games, and provides guidance on which systems are best for retro gaming today.

🎮 Game Boy (1989)

The Original “Fat” Game Boy was Nintendo’s first foray into portable gaming. With its green-tinted monochrome display, D-pad, and two-button controls, it looked simple but proved revolutionary.

  • Monochrome screen with greenish tint
  • 10-30 hours on 4 AA batteries
  • Instant classic design and portability

Retro Gaming Note: Great for nostalgic charm, but limited by its screen and sound capabilities. Most people emulate GB games via GBC or GBA emulation today.

🎮 Game Boy Pocket (1996)

A sleeker, smaller version with a better screen and improved portability.

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Improved screen with no green tint
  • Required 2 AAA batteries

Retro Gaming Note: Same game compatibility as original Game Boy. A good physical choice for collectors, but not essential for emulation.

🎮 Game Boy Light (1998, Japan Only)

Similar to the Pocket but featured an electroluminescent backlit screen.

  • Backlit monochrome screen
  • Extremely rare and collectible

Retro Gaming Note: Rare and expensive. Not essential unless you’re a hardware purist.

🎮 Game Boy Color (1998)

Brought full color to the Game Boy line and introduced new cartridge formats.

  • Full-color screen
  • 8-bit processor with improved speed
  • Slim, rounded design

Retro Gaming Note: Essential for playing color-enhanced versions of classics. Best way to enjoy both original Game Boy and GBC-exclusive titles.

🎮 Game Boy Advance (2001)

A 32-bit system with shoulder buttons and wide game compatibility.

  • 32-bit CPU
  • Shoulder buttons (L and R)
  • Backward compatibility with all previous Game Boy games

Retro Gaming Note: The most versatile platform. Can run nearly the entire Game Boy library (GB, GBC, GBA) with better controls and performance.

🎮 Game Boy Advance SP (2003)

Refined version of the GBA with backlight and rechargeable battery.

  • Rechargeable battery
  • Folding design to protect screen
  • Bright screen ideal for all lighting conditions

Retro Gaming Note: Widely considered the best physical Game Boy hardware for retro gaming. The backlit AGS-101 model is especially beloved.

🎮 Game Boy Micro (2005)

Ultra-compact GBA variant with a sharp screen but no backward compatibility.

  • Tiny size, highly portable
  • Bright, crisp screen
  • GBA game compatibility only

Retro Gaming Note: Only good for GBA titles. Best suited for collectors or ultra-portable fans.

🕹️ Recommended Game Boy Platform(s) for Retro Gaming

✅ Best All-in-One System: Game Boy Advance (or SP)

  • Plays the widest range of games (GB, GBC, and GBA)
  • Best value for space and compatibility

Retroarch & OpenEmu Tip: If you’re emulating, you only need to install a Game Boy Advance core (like mGBA in RetroArch or OpenEmu). Once installed, you can load ROMs from Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance into a single GBA folder, and they will all work. The GBA emulator handles backward compatibility just like the original hardware.

✅ For Game Selection + Visuals: Game Boy Color + Game Boy Advance

  • Some Game Boy Color games, such as Shantae or Metal Gear: Ghost Babel, pushed the hardware to its visual limits with vibrant palettes and fluid animations.
  • Modern emulators like mGBA emulate GBC functionality fully, even when run through a GBA core.
  • Game Boy Advance titles offer the most advanced 2D visuals and audio in the Game Boy family. Games like Wario Land 4 and Metroid Fusion showcase the system’s graphical capabilities and sound design.

❗ Skip If You’re Emulating:

  • Game Boy Pocket and Game Boy Light (offer no additional compatibility or performance)
  • Game Boy Micro (GBA-only)

🔧 Best Handheld Devices for Game Boy Emulation

When selecting a handheld device for emulating Game Boy titles, screen size and aspect ratio are crucial for an authentic experience. The original Game Boy and Game Boy Color featured a 10:9 aspect ratio, while the Game Boy Advance utilized a 3:2 aspect ratio. Here are some top recommendations:

⭐ Miyoo Mini+

  • Screen: 2.8-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio.
  • Pros: Highly portable, excellent for Game Boy and Game Boy Color games.
  • Cons: Smaller screen may not appeal to all users.
  • Emulation: Runs GB, GBC, and GBA games smoothly using Onion OS.

⭐ Anbernic RG35XXSP

  • Screen: 3.5-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio.
  • Pros: Clamshell design reminiscent of the GBA SP, comfortable for extended play.
  • Cons: Lacks analog sticks, which may limit compatibility with some games.
  • Emulation: Handles GB, GBC, and GBA titles effectively.

⭐ Analogue Pocket

  • Screen: 3.5-inch LTPS LCD with a 1600×1440 resolution, matching the 10:9 aspect ratio of the original Game Boy.
  • Pros: FPGA hardware offers near-perfect emulation, supports original cartridges.
  • Cons: Higher price point, limited availability.
  • Emulation: Exceptional accuracy for GB, GBC, and GBA games.

⭐ AYANEO Pocket Micro

  • Screen: 3.5-inch display with a 4:3 aspect ratio.
  • Pros: Premium build quality, powerful hardware capable of emulating up to GameCube titles.
  • Cons: Higher cost, may be overkill for solely Game Boy emulation.
  • Emulation: Excellent performance for GB, GBC, and GBA games.

⭐ Retroid Pocket 5

  • Screen: 5.5-inch OLED display with a 16:9 aspect ratio.
  • Pros: Powerful hardware, versatile for various emulation needs.
  • Cons: Widescreen aspect ratio may not perfectly match original Game Boy games.
  • Emulation: Capable of running GB, GBC, and GBA games with ease.

⭐ FPGBC (FunnyPlaying Game Boy Color FPGA)

  • Screen: 2.6-inch IPS display, closely matching the original Game Boy Color.
  • Pros: FPGA-based hardware offers authentic Game Boy Color experience; supports original cartridges; excellent build quality.
  • Cons: Assembly required; limited to GB and GBC games.
  • Emulation: Not applicable; runs games natively without emulation.

⭐ Powkiddy RGB30

  • Screen: 4-inch 720×720 IPS display with a 1:1 aspect ratio.
  • Pros: Square screen ideal for GB and GBC games; affordable price point; good battery life.
  • Cons: Build quality may feel less premium; performance may vary with more demanding systems.
  • Emulation: Excellent for GB, GBC, and GBA games; supports various retro systems.

⭐ TrimUI Smart Pro

  • Screen: 5-inch 720p display with a 16:9 aspect ratio.
  • Pros: Affordable; large screen; decent performance for retro games.
  • Cons: Widescreen aspect ratio may not be ideal for GB/GBC games; controls may feel less responsive.
  • Emulation: Suitable for GB, GBC, and GBA games; performance may vary with more demanding systems.

When choosing a device, consider the screen’s aspect ratio and size to ensure the best possible experience for Game Boy emulation. Devices like the Analogue Pocket and Anbernic RG35XXSP offer screens that closely match the original Game Boy’s display, providing a more authentic feel. For those seeking portability, the Miyoo Mini+ is an excellent choice, while the AYANEO Pocket Micro and Retroid Pocket 5 cater to users desiring broader emulation capabilities.

👁️ Top 10 Game Boy Games (Spanning All Generations)

These 10 titles represent the Game Boy platform’s legacy, influence, and diversity across its many forms — without relying on Pokémon entries:

  1. Tetris (GB) – The killer app that sold millions of Game Boys
  2. The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (GB/GBC) – A full Zelda adventure in your pocket
  3. Metroid II: Return of Samus (GB) – Essential for Metroid lore, and later remade as Samus Returns
  4. Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins (GB) – Introduced Wario and massive improvement over the first game
  5. Wario Land 4 (GBA) – One of the most polished platformers on the GBA
  6. Advance Wars (GBA) – Addictive tactical gameplay with incredible replayability
  7. Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow (GBA) – Metroidvania perfection on handheld
  8. Fire Emblem (GBA) – First English release of the legendary series
  9. Shantae (GBC) – One of the most visually impressive and technically ambitious GBC games
  10. Metal Gear: Ghost Babel (GBC) – A brilliant stealth-action experience uniquely crafted for handhelds

In every iteration, the Game Boy combined intelligent design, great games, and legendary portability. Whether it was the green screen of the original or the sleek form of the Micro, Nintendo’s handheld legacy began with a simple idea: great games, anywhere.

The Bright Side of Sunlight: How to Enjoy the Sun Safely Every Day

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sunbathing sun exposureSunlight often gets a bad rap due to skin cancer warnings and anti-aging concerns, but when used wisely, daily sun exposure is one of the most natural, powerful health boosters available to us. If you’ve been avoiding the sun out of fear, it’s time to rethink your approach. Here’s how to safely enjoy the sun and reap its many benefits without risking your health.

Why Daily Sun Exposure Is Good for You

1. Vitamin D Production

Sunlight, specifically UVB rays, triggers vitamin D3 synthesis in the skin. Vitamin D is essential for:

  • Supporting immune function
  • Strengthening bones
  • Regulating hormones
  • Enhancing mood and energy levels

Just 10–20 minutes of direct sun exposure on bare skin (arms, legs, or torso) without sunscreen is often enough for most people, depending on skin tone, time of year, and time of day.

Personally, I have light brown skin and was born in Malta, where the sun is strong and ever-present. My skin handles sun exposure fairly well, so I aim for about 15–20 minutes of morning or late-afternoon sun on arms and legs, usually while out for a walk or doing light activity. I also occasionally sunbathe semi-nude (just covering the private parts – it’s a common thing in Spain), exposing my torso and buttocks — which provides an even more effective way to stimulate vitamin D synthesis across a larger surface area of skin. As long as the exposure is kept short and well-timed (early or late in the day), this can be done safely and healthily.

2. Improved Mood and Sleep

Morning sunlight exposure helps regulate your circadian rhythm by influencing melatonin production. This:

  • Improves sleep quality
  • Reduces symptoms of depression
  • Boosts mental clarity
  • Aligns your internal body clock

3. Heart and Metabolic Health

Moderate sun exposure has been linked to:

  • Lower blood pressure via nitric oxide release in the skin
  • Better blood sugar regulation
  • Healthier cholesterol profiles

When Sunlight Becomes Risky

As with anything, balance is key. Too much sun can result in:

  • Skin damage: premature aging, sun spots, and increased cancer risk
  • Sunburn: especially in fair skin or under intense midday sun
  • Eye strain: long-term UV exposure can harm your eyes
  • Dehydration: especially if exercising outdoors in direct sunlight

How to Get the Benefits Without the Burn

Strategy Benefit
Expose skin gradually Builds tolerance, reduces burn risk
Aim for morning or late afternoon sun Gentler UV, optimal for circadian rhythm
Start with 5–15 minutes a day Ideal for vitamin D without damage
Protect face and neck These areas are more sensitive and often get overexposed
Hydrate before and after Supports detox and cellular function
Use sunscreen if out longer than 20–30 minutes Helps prevent cumulative damage

In my routine, I use ISDIN sunscreen on my face and neck whenever I expect to be outside for longer than 15–20 minutes — even in the late afternoon. It’s lightweight, effective, and doesn’t irritate my skin. I usually apply it after cleansing and before stepping outside.

Pre- and Post-Sun Skincare and Hydration

Before sun exposure:

  • Cleanse the face and apply a light, hydrating layer (like hyaluronic acid or a gentle moisturizer)
  • Apply ISDIN sunscreen to face and neck
  • Drink a glass of water with trace minerals

After sun exposure:

  • Rehydrate with water or herbal tea
  • Apply a soothing cream with aloe vera or panthenol if needed
  • Rinse face and reapply a light moisturizer if you’ve sweated

What’s Ideal for Most People?

If you live in a sunny climate (like Spain or Malta) and have moderate to fair skin:

  • Try 5–20 minutes of sun exposure daily on bare arms and legs
  • Prioritize morning sun (before 11am) or late afternoon (after 5pm)
  • Use a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses if staying out longer
  • Consider supplementing with vitamin D during winter or if lab tests show you’re deficient

My Supplementation Routine

To support my skin, immune system, and overall wellness (especially with sun exposure), I take the following daily:

  • Vitamin D3 + K2: Maintains healthy levels, especially with less sun
  • Omega-3: Anti-inflammatory and supports skin elasticity
  • Vitamin C: Boosts collagen production and skin resilience
  • Zinc: Aids in skin repair and immune function
  • Trace minerals: Added to water before or after sun time

This combination helps me recover better from sun exposure, avoid dehydration, and keep my skin barrier strong.

Final Thoughts

The sun is not your enemy—in fact, it’s a vital source of life and health when approached with respect. Daily, mindful sun exposure can support immunity, improve sleep, elevate mood, and contribute to long-term well-being.

So go ahead: step into the light—just do it wisely.

Best Mechanics, Spray Painters and Detailers in Barcelona

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car detailing barcelonaHere are my favorite mechanics, spray painters and car detailers in Barcelona.

Mechanics

Spray Painting

Punctures

Detailing and Car Wash

 

 

 

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Jean Galea

Investor | Dad | Global Citizen | Athlete