The Mariana Sequence: An Original New 8-Bit Platformer

9 Comments | crazygrouptrio, crowdfunding, homebrew, Homebrew Games, Kickstarter, NES | By Peter Paltridge | April 21, 2026 | 2 minutes of reading

We caught this one when there were less than two days left, but you won’t want to miss The Mariana Sequence, the upcoming game from NES wizard CrazyGroupTrio (despite the name, this is a solo developer). CGT’s track record is spotless so far, having produced some of the NES’s most memorable homebrew titles: Shera and the 40 Thieves, Mawthorne, Mawthorne 2, and the wildly original Tryptic, which was several genres blended into one.

The Mariana Sequence is a quasi-sequel to Tryptic that plays differently every time you turn it on. The introductory sequence has you answering a series of questions that will determine the seed of the game. You are Cal, a subject in the Mariana Sequence Project, which means shadowy figures want you to play a game-within-the-game and see if you make it. The goal is to explore and uncover hidden paths until you dig deep enough to discover the game’s true ending — the Mariana Sequence itself.

Highly re-playable platformer!
Many secrets and hidden paths to discover!
Find hidden bosses!
10 different game modes each with their own Sequences to uncover!
Dialogue options and Name Entry.
PCM Playback for spoken dialogue cutscenes.

To save on shipping and work around tariff nonsense, there are separate purchase tiers for The Mariana Sequence depending on your location. WIthin the US, the game will be manufactured and shipped by Dalyen Retro Games. Everywhere else, the game will be made and sent by Broke Studio in France. Both versions cost $60, but there is also a Limited Edition for $90 that comes in a red cartridge and packs in a poster and notebook. Those just interested in the digital ROM can get it for a $10 pledge.

The time is now to decide if you want The Mariana Sequence; as of this writing 40 hours remain. The campaign ends April 23 at 6 AM Pacific / 9 AM Eastern.

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Shin Gouki

Member

1,027 messages 6 likes

#1 Dec 18, 2024

So this is the reason why Toni Storm is able to have the "timeless character" in AEW, she got trained to speak on old Holltywood style of speaking.

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Sexy Dexy

New Member

375 messages 33 likes

#2 Dec 18, 2024

Mildred Burke's story is long overdue for cinematic appreciation. I'm pleased to see her legacy examined so thoroughly. Burke's contributions to the sport were not only important; they changed what women could accomplish in a male-dominated sector. It's easy to forget that women who headline pay-per-view events now are building on the shoulders of pioneers like Burke. I hope the film doesn't gloss over the nuances of her hardships, particularly her tumultuous connection with Billy Wolfe, which emphasizes the dark side of wrestling history. This is a must-see for anyone who values the history of women's wrestling.

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blisssfan

Glitter Bliss

26 messages 0 likes

#3 Dec 18, 2024

I’ve been following women’s wrestling for years, and this movie feels like a celebration of how far we’ve come. The casting alone excites me—seeing wrestlers like Toni Storm and Britt Baker bring historical figures to life is brilliant. It’s also incredible that they’re acknowledging figures like Ethel Johnson, whose contributions often get overshadowed. Mildred Burke’s story proves that women have always been capable of greatness in wrestling, and I hope this film inspires more people to dig into wrestling’s rich history. March 7 can’t come soon enough!

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Johnny Wrasslin

Rebel Heart

40 messages 2 likes

#4 Dec 18, 2024

It’s interesting to note that Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss were originally supposed to be part of Queen of the Ring, but WWE pulled them out of the project. It’s not surprising, considering how protective WWE can be about their talent and outside appearances. Naomi’s involvement is a different story altogether. She wasn’t signed with WWE when she worked on this movie; she was with TNA at the time. That’s probably why WWE couldn’t block her participation—it was already a done deal. This dynamic makes Naomi’s role even more compelling, as she’s essentially showcasing a piece of wrestling history that WWE might not fully control. It’s always fascinating to see how these behind-the-scenes decisions shape what we get to see on screen.

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Poncho

High Heat

86 messages 1 like

#5 Dec 18, 2024

After Fighting with My Family and other great wrestling biopics, I’ve been waiting for something like Queen of the Ring. Mildred Burke’s story feels more raw and intense, especially with the era she lived in. I appreciate that the film brings attention to the golden age of women’s wrestling, which often gets overshadowed by modern achievements. Wrestling fans and casual viewers alike will benefit from learning about Burke’s impact, and I’m curious to see how the movie balances her personal and professional life.

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Kai

Member

66 messages 7 likes

#6 Dec 19, 2024

@Poncho you should watch Ironclaw too, one of the bets wrestling biopics

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Stormer

I'm okay!

35 messages 1 like

#7 Dec 19, 2024

Honestly, "Queen of the Ring" would've been much better suited as a TV series. Mildred Burke's life story is so rich with events, characters, and the evolution of women's wrestling that a movie just can't do it justice. A TV show could explore the depth of her personal struggles, her impact on the sport over time, and the intricate relationships she had with others in the wrestling world. Plus, with the current popularity of wrestling-themed TV shows, it would've had a great platform to really dive into all aspects of her legacy. A series could cover the breadth of her career and influence, giving each significant moment and character the time they deserve. It's a bit disappointing that we're getting a movie instead.

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FlickerOfHope

New Member

6 messages 0 likes

#8 Dec 19, 2024

Finally, a movie that dives into the legacy of Mildred Burke! Her influence on women's wrestling is undeniable, and "Queen of the Ring" seems like a respectful nod to that. I'm thrilled to see how they portray her journey, especially with such a talented cast. The inclusion of wrestlers like Toni Storm and Britt Baker in the film adds a layer of realism that's going to make this a memorable watch

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