May 31, 2024 – Exciting news for classic game enthusiasts: the beloved 1997 PlayStation game, Tomba!, is making a comeback. The Special Edition is set to launch on PlayStation 5 on August 1, 2024. This revival is part of an effort by Limited Run Games to bring retro titles to modern consoles.
Tomba! was originally released on the PS1 in 1997 in Japan and 1998 in North America and Europe. The game, known for its quirky charm and engaging side-scrolling action, features the pink-haired jungle boy, Tomba, on a quest to retrieve his stolen bracelet from a gang of evil pigs.
Tokuro Fujiwara, the original creator, is collaborating with Limited Run Games on this project. He has expressed his enthusiasm about bringing Tomba! to a new generation of players. “We’ve added modern enhancements while keeping the original charm,” Fujiwara said in a recent interview.
The Special Edition will run on Limited Run Games’ Carbon Engine, which allows for classic games to be played on modern hardware without losing their nostalgic feel. One of the significant updates is the new soundtrack by Harumi Fujita, who also composed the original music. Fujita’s involvement ensures that the game retains its original spirit while benefiting from modern audio quality.
Tomba Special Edition is coming to PS5 August 1 🐖
Creator Tokuro Fujiwara discusses the side-scroller's enhancements and PlayStation heritage: https://t.co/0HB7SZk8FW pic.twitter.com/TDuHUyhp9q
— PlayStation (@PlayStation) May 31, 2024
The game will be available on PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and PC, giving players multiple options to enjoy this classic. Both digital and physical editions will be offered, catering to collectors and new fans alike. The physical edition is expected to include special packaging and extras, though details are yet to be fully revealed.
Fans of the original game have shown a great deal of excitement. Many remember the game fondly from their childhood and are eager to revisit Tomba’s vibrant world. “It holds such a special place in my heart,” said one fan. Another mentioned, “I feel like I’m living a dream!” The community’s response highlights the enduring popularity of Tomba! and the nostalgia it invokes.
This revival also fits into a broader trend of bringing retro games to current consoles. Retro titles have seen a resurgence in popularity, with other classics like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro also making successful returns. This trend speaks to both a nostalgic longing among older gamers and a new interest among younger players in experiencing the history of video gaming.
Limited Run Games has built a reputation for handling such projects, having worked on other remasters and re-releases. However, some fans have voiced concerns about the company’s practices, particularly regarding the availability and distribution of physical editions. Despite these concerns, the excitement around Tomba!’s return remains high.