We’re gonna need a bigger shelf!
Limited Run Games is ending 2025 with something I absolutely did not expect: a full physical re-release of Jaws, the 1987 NES game based on Spielberg’s iconic shark thriller. Yes — the same Jaws you might have rented repeatedly from a tiny video shop in the late ’80s (or avoided because that title screen music was unsettling).
This time, the great white is resurfacing on Nintendo Switch and PS5, with pre-orders opening December 19th.
A cult classic gets a modern second life
Jaws on the NES was always an odd one — half top-down ocean navigation, half underwater shoot-’em-up, topped with tense sonar bleeps and a final showdown that either lived in your nightmares or made you feel like the coolest kid alive.
It is a game that has been derided for many years, partly due to game length (the graphics are strong for the era), partly because it felt like a cheap and belated movie tie-in (it was released to coincide with Jaws 4, but is based on the original 1975 movie). However, it has also been the subject of some considerable reappraisal… and the current feeling is that Jaws — which was only released on NES — isn’t really all that bad.
It’s certainly more thrilling than SEGA Bass Fishing.
This new release preserves the original game as-is, pixelated tension and all. You’ll still:
- Sail the ocean hunting for upgrades
- Dive to fend off jellyfish, sharks, and other sea beasties
- Track the big guy via that iconic threat-meter blip
- Hunt for better boats and submarines to make the final encounter survivable
It’s exactly the 1987 game — just now playable on modern hardware.
Two physical editions, including one with a pixelated shark lamp
Limited Run is doing two editions: Jaws: Retro Edition, and Jaws: The Bigger Boat Edition. They’re gloriously OTT in that classic LRG way:
Jaws: Retro Edition — $34.99
- Physical game (PS5/Switch)
- 8-page booklet
Jaws: The Bigger Boat Edition — $99.99
- Physical game
- NES-style oversized box
- Soundtrack on CD
- Jaws keychain pin
- A pixelated shark lamp (instant desk item, frankly)
Pre-orders close January 18, 2026. If you want that lamp — or just want Jaws on your shelf next to your NES carts — jump in early.
Celebrating 50 years of Jaws
This re-release also lands during the 50th anniversary of the original film. Universal’s been slowly rolling out celebratory tie-ins all year, but this one feels the most unexpected — and, for retro fans, the most fun.
If you want a slice of 8-bit shark panic this holiday season, keep an eye on Limited Run Games when pre-orders open on December 19th.
And yes… you’re absolutely going to need a bigger shelf.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
