Published on: April 07, 2024
WWF WrestleFest, the iconic arcade wrestling game developed by Technōs Japan—the same renowned studio behind Double Dragon—is making its highly anticipated debut on modern hardware.
More than three decades after its original 1991 release, this beloved title is set to become playable on the Analogue Pocket, bringing its legendary roster and vibrant arcade action to a new generation of retro gaming fans.
Background and Release Details
Originally launched in arcades in 1991, WWF WrestleFest quickly earned a reputation as one of the most comprehensive and engaging professional wrestling games of its era.
Featuring a lineup of sports entertainment's biggest stars, including Hulk Hogan, The Ultimate Warrior, Ted DiBiase, Big Boss Man, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Earthquake, Mr.
Perfect, Sgt.
Slaughter, Demolition Smash, Demolition Crush, and The Legion of Doom (Hawk and Animal), the title delivered intense tag team action and signature finishing moves across its colorful, cartoon-inspired stages.
Despite its widespread popularity and critical acclaim, WWF WrestleFest was never given an official port to any home console.
Gamers seeking to relive the nostalgia had to rely on the original arcade cabinets, until a mobile remake appeared in 2012 for smartphones.
However, for those interested in authentic retro experiences, this new release on Analogue Pocket is a significant milestone.
FPGA developer Atrac17, a key figure in the retro gaming hardware scene, has officially confirmed that the WWF WrestleFest port will be exclusive to the Analogue Pocket.
There are no current plans to develop a MiSTer version of the game, making this launch particularly notable for handheld and FPGA enthusiasts.
"We are focusing on delivering the highest quality arcade experience to Analogue Pocket users and have decided not to extend this project to the MiSTer platform at this time," Atrac17 stated in confirming the exclusivity.
Significance for Retro Gaming and Analogue Pocket
The Analogue Pocket, acclaimed for its cutting-edge FPGA technology and high-fidelity display, continues to expand its robust game library with carefully curated ports of beloved retro titles.
The addition of WWF WrestleFest as an exclusive supports Analogue's mission to preserve video game history and make legendary experiences accessible to portable gamers.
With faithful emulation and authentic controls, this new port of WWF WrestleFest is poised to deliver the same thrilling, competitive multiplayer matches arcade fans remember, now in a sleek, modern form.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the arrival of WWF WrestleFest on Analogue Pocket marks another chapter in the ongoing renaissance of classic gaming.
This release affirms Analogue’s reputation for excellence in game preservation, showcasing legendary titles that have shaped the gaming landscape for decades.
Stay tuned to our coverage for updates on WWF WrestleFest’s Analogue Pocket launch and further developments in arcade-to-FPGA preservation efforts.
arcade Analogue Pocket WWF Analogue WWF WrestleFest Technōs Japan Double Dragon Atrac17 FPGA MiSTer