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We first reported on the Joe & Mac Retro Collection earlier this year and are now pleased to see the announcement that it will release on Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and Steam on October 29th, 2026. A later Switch 2 version will also be announced, and retro fans wanting to keep things physical can pre-order a copy for Switch and PS5, with various editions available, now.
The Joe & Mac Retro Collection Rock Edition contains a copy of the game, a retro-inspired box, an acrylic stand, a three-badge set, a sticker sheet, a double-sided poster, and an instruction manual. Those opting for the deluxe pack, limited to 500 copies per system, will also get a reversible cover and a sleeve with alternate art. Developed by Red Art Studios, Red Art Games‘ internal development studio, the Joe & Mac Retro Collection is a compilation of Joe & Mac: Caveman Ninja, Congo’s Caper, and Joe & Mac 2: Lost in the Tropics, the three Joe & Mac titles developed by Data East and released on Super Nintendo between 1991 and 1995. All three games are part of the Tatakae Genshijin franchise in Japan.
Joe & Mac: Caveman Ninja (ジョーとマック 戦え原始人) is a run ‘n gun platformer that follows the titular Joe & Mac as they fight through 12 hellish levels using prehistoric (but not just) tools and weapons. While the game was censored when it came out in the West, the new collection also includes the original Japanese version!
Congo’s Caper (戦え原始人2 ルーキーの冒険) is a side-scrolling action platformer centered around Congo, a half-human, half-monkey boy looking to rescue his girlfriend from a demon through 35 varied levels.
Joe & Mac: Lost in the Tropics (ジョーアンドマック戦え原始人3主役はやっぱり) adds a light roleplaying aspect to the series. While the goal is still to defeat cavemen and dinosaurs, players can court and wed their Stone Age girlfriend, and even have a child with her! The Joe & Mac Retro Collection also brings numerous quality-of-life improvements, a brand new Boss Rush Mode, and multiple bonus features!
Key features:
Three classic games from the 16-bit era
Includes both the Western and uncensored Japanese versions of each title
Brand new Boss Rush Mode to put players’ skills to the test
Save states have been added to facilitate progress
Made a mistake? Go back in time by using the Rewind feature
Optional CRT filter for an even more retro experience
Joe & Mac 1 and 2 can be played by two players in coop mode
Customizable aspect ratios
Check out the original game boxes, manuals and cartridges via the Virtual Unboxing Experience
Listen to all three games’ soundtracks in the in-game music player
