Brett Weiss's Blog, page 3

Harlan Ellison vs. The Empire Strikes Back Atari 2600 Game: Watch the Full Review

 

Harlan Ellison, the late,great science fiction and dark fantasy author, was never one to shy away fromcontroversy—or criticism. In the early 1980s, as Star Wars mania reached afever pitch, Ellison set his sights on the Atari 2600 adaptation of The EmpireStrikes Back. True to form, he delivered a blistering critique, famouslydubbing the game “an insult to the human intellect” and “a mind-numbing wasteof the Star Wars universe’s potential.”

The game itself hadplayers piloting a snowspeeder to battle an endless onslaught of AT-ATs. WhileI personally loved—and still love—this shooter for its pick-up-and-playsimplicity, Ellison saw it as a squandered opportunity. He lamented its lack ofnarrative depth and creative engagement, qualities he believed all storytellingmediums—including video games—should aspire to.

In his critique, Ellisondidn’t just take aim at the game but also at the emerging video game industryof the time, accusing it of exploiting beloved franchises for profit withoutdelivering quality experiences. “Lucas and Atari should be ashamed,” he quipped,arguing that the game reduced Star Wars’ “artful storytelling” to a mindlesscash grab. To Ellison, the repetitive gameplay was as futile as Sisyphusendlessly pushing his boulder uphill.

Though polarizing,Ellison’s commentary sparked an important conversation about the potential ofvideo games as a storytelling medium. However, I think he missed the pointabout the charm of simple, score-chasing games—experiences designed for quickfun and personal challenges rather than deep narratives.

In my latest video, Iread Ellison’s full review of the game, complete with his fiery comparisons andscathing insights. Stick around until the end, where I reveal a fascinatingtwist: despite his critique of the gaming industry, Ellison later lent his nameto a computer game based on his haunting short story I Have No Mouth, and IMust Scream.

Click to watch the video now, and dive into Ellison’s unfiltered thoughts—and maybe rethink your ownmemories of The Empire Strikes Back on the Atari 2600!

Sega Fanatic Adam Koralik's Top 5 Nintendo Games - SNES and N64

 

Retro gaming fans,buckle up! Adam Koralik, the charismatic Sega aficionado and all-around gamingguru, recently made another guest appearance on my channel—and this time, thetopic was one for the ages. Adam and I sat down to chat about somethingunexpected: Nintendo games he wishes could have graced Sega consoles. As youmight imagine, his choices were as entertaining and insightful as the manhimself.

Now, if you’vefollowed Adam’s journey through gaming culture, you’ll know he’s adyed-in-the-wool Sega fanboy. He’s been on my channel before, waxing poeticabout the Sega Saturn, the Sega Genesis, and even diving into why he’s notexactly a fan of arcades (a controversial take, to be sure!). We’ve also hitthe road for some unforgettable game-hunting adventures. But this time, thefocus shifted to a “what if” scenario that’s sure to ignite the imaginations ofretro fans everywhere.

During ourconversation, Adam highlighted five Nintendo classics he feels would have beenperfect on Sega consoles. Without giving too much away (you’ll have to watchthe video for the full list), here’s a little teaser: Donkey Kong Country 2:Diddy’s Kong Quest for the Super Nintendo was among his picks. Adam raved abouthow the game was even better than the original DKC.

Another surprisepick? Conker’s Bad Fur Day for the Nintendo 64. Indeed, the edgy humor andover-the-top antics would have been right at home on a console known forpushing boundaries, like the Sega Dreamcast.

Adam’s passionatearguments and trademark wit made this a must-watch conversation. Whether you’reTeam Sega, Team Nintendo, or just a fan of great gaming discussions, you’re infor a treat. But don’t take my word for it—head over to the channel and see foryourself which other Nintendo gems Adam wished had crossed the console divide.And who knows? His picks might just spark a few "what if" moments ofyour own.

Exploring Cidercade Dallas: A Retro Gamer’s Dream Spot

 

Nestled in Dallas’lively Design District, Cidercade Dallas offers an enjoyable blend of arcadegaming and laid-back fun. During my recent visit, I got to experience its retroand modern vibe firsthand, and it’s safe to say there’s something here forevery type of gamer.

The arcade floor hasmore than 100 games, featuring everything from beloved classics like Galaga,Ms. Pac-Man, and Qbert* to modern favorites like Need for Speed: Heat Takedownand Super Mario Kart DX. There’s even a massive Rampage machine that I hadnever seen before. Fans of fighting games will appreciate the nostalgic thrillof Street Fighter II, Soulcalibur II, and Mortal Kombat, while pinball fanswill find seven limited edition Stern machines (plus others), including Star Wars, Godzilla, and Deadpool.

Cidercade issimilar to Free Play Arcade with its straightforward setup. For a flat $12admission fee, all games are free to play—no quarters or tokens required. Thiscreates a relaxed and hassle-free environment where you can fully immerseyourself in the games without worrying about running out of change. Plus, it’sone heck of a bargain.

Beyond the games,Cidercade also has a strong local touch with rotating food trucks and animpressive selection of beverages on tap. It’s a great place to hang out withfriends or spend an afternoon rediscovering the joy of arcade gaming.

During my visit, Itook a tour of the space, capturing highlights of the games and the overallvibe. If you’re curious about what Cidercade Dallas has to offer, check out my recentYouTube video, where I showcase everything from the retro classics to thepinball machines and racing games. Watch by clicking HERE.

Whether you’re alifelong gamer or just looking for a fun and unique way to spend a day,Cidercade Dallas is worth checking out. Watch my video for a closer look—youmight find a favorite game or an obscure rarity, or simply enjoy the throwbackto a simpler time.

Step Into the Extraordinary at Meow Wolf Grapevine, Texas!

If you’re looking for anexperience that defies imagination, Meow Wolf in Grapevine, Texas is amust-visit destination. Nestled in Grapevine Mills Mall, this immersive artinstallation is the latest chapter in Meow Wolf’s groundbreaking journey torevolutionize how we interact with art. From surreal landscapes to interactivestorytelling, this experience is like stepping into another dimension.

Meow Wolf began as asmall collective of artists in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2008. Their mission? Tocreate art that doesn’t just hang on walls but surrounds you, drawing you intoits story. Over the years, they’ve expanded with mesmerizing installations inDenver, Las Vegas, and now Grapevine. Each location offers its own unique worldfilled with mind-bending art, mysterious narratives, and moments of pure awe.Grapevine is no exception—it’s a kaleidoscope of creativity that has to be seento be believed.

What makes Meow Wolf sospecial is its ability to blur the lines between reality and fantasy. Whetheryou’re walking through glowing forests, exploring hidden rooms, or interactingwith art that responds to your touch, every step is a new adventure. Grapevine’sinstallation is a feast for the senses, a place where both kids and adults canunleash their inner curiosity.

Curious to see what allthe buzz is about? I’ve created a complete walkthrough video on my YouTube channel to give you a sneak peek into this incredible experience. From the mostdazzling art installations to the secrets tucked away in hidden corners, myvideo captures the magic of Meow Wolf Grapevine like never before.

📹 Click HERE to watch the fullwalkthrough.

Whether you’re planningyour visit or simply want to be inspired, this video is your ticket to thesurreal world of Meow Wolf. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe formore immersive adventures.

Thanks for watching!

The Time Machine: Pop Culture Antique Mall Booth - Fort Worth, Texas

 

Step Back in Timeat The Time Machine - Booth #1320

If you're a fan ofall things vintage and collectible, you're going to love The Time Machine—myantique mall booth located at Lone Star Antiques in Haltom City, Texas, just ashort drive from Fort Worth. You’ll find me set up in Booth #1320, packed withtreasures that are sure to bring back memories or add something special to yourcollection.

So, what can youexpect to find at The Time Machine? A little bit of everything! I’ve stockedthe booth with a carefully curated mix of comics, vinyl records, retro video games, action figures, magazines, trading cards, vintage books, and more.Whether you're hunting for Hot Wheels, Pokemon cards, classic Marvel and DC comics, or superhero figures, there's something here for collectors of allkinds. You'll also spot a wide variety of entertainment media, including CDs,DVDs, VHS tapes, Blu-rays, and even laser discs—perfect for anyone looking torediscover forgotten gems or fill a gap in their collection.

The thrill ofshopping in an antique mall is never knowing exactly what you’re going to find.One day you might stumble across a vintage record from your favorite band, andthe next you could leave with a stack of classic comics or an action figurefrom your childhood. I’m always adding new items, so there’s always a reason tocome back and browse.

To give you abetter idea of what The Time Machine has to offer, I recently put together afull video walkthrough of Booth #1320. If you can’t make it to Lone StarAntiques right away, or just want a sneak peek, check out my YouTube video byclicking HERE. In the video, I take you shelf-by-shelf and bin-by-bin, showingoff some of the coolest items currently in the booth. It’s a great way to get afeel for what’s available and maybe even spot something you’ve been searchingfor.

If you’re in theHaltom City area, stop by Lone Star Antiques at 5605 Denton Hwy, Haltom City,Texas 76148, and head straight to Booth #1320—ask a worker at the front deskwhere it is. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual shopper, or someonelooking for a blast from the past, The Time Machine is a little slice ofnostalgia waiting to be explored.

See you there—anddon’t forget to check out the video!

Retro Gaming Treasures at Hobby Lobby! Perfect for the Holidays!

 

If you love retrogaming or know someone who does, you’re in for a treat! Hobby Lobby has quietlybecome a hotspot for retro gaming-themed decorations and merchandise. I wassurprised to see just how much their collection has grown, with items inspiredby iconic franchises like Pac-Man, Mario, Legend of Zelda, Sonic, Pokémon, andeven the classic Atari 2600. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts or addsome nostalgic flair to your home.

Want a firsthandlook at the cool finds? Be sure to check out my YouTube walkthrough of theHobby Lobby retro gaming section! I take you on a tour of everything they haveto offer, and I’ve saved the quirky and not-so-cool stuff for the end—it’sworth sticking around for! 🎮 Watch the videoby clicking HERE.

Walking throughthe aisles, I felt like I had stumbled into a gamer’s paradise. Hobby Lobby hasembraced the retro gaming vibe with an array of items perfect for fans of allages. From decorative wall hangings to fun little accessories, the selection issurprisingly robust. Whether you’re looking for something to jazz up yourgaming space or searching for a standout holiday gift, this collection deliverson nostalgic charm.

The items rangefrom bold posters and colorful signs to small trinkets and collectibles.There’s something for every fan, whether you grew up smashing buttons on anarcade machine or exploring pixelated adventures on your console. I was amazedat how well these items capture the essence of those classic games we all knowand love.

As I exploredfurther, I couldn’t help but admire how much variety there was, from Atari toNintendo to PlayStation to Xbox. The mix of decorative and functional items isgreat for anyone looking to display their love for gaming in unique ways.However, not everything is a winner—be sure and stay till the end of the videofor the lame section. LOL.

If you’re startingyour holiday shopping or just want to treat yourself, Hobby Lobby’s retro gaming treasures are worth checking out. They’ve really stepped up their game,offering more than I ever expected. But don’t just take my word for it—watchthe full walkthrough on my channel to see it all for yourself. Whether you’re aseasoned gamer or just love the aesthetic of retro gaming, you’re bound to findsomething cool.

🎄 Ready to explore the collection? Click HERE to watchmy Hobby Lobby retro gaming walkthrough!

 

Let me know yourfavorite find from the video, and happy holiday shopping!

1977: The Year Pop Culture Changed Forever - Atari 2600, Star Wars, Apple II and more!

 

When we think oftransformative years in pop culture history, 1977 stands out as monumental.This was a year that revolutionized technology, cinema, music, and television,creating a ripple effect that shaped the cultural landscape for decades. Fromthe dawn of iconic video game systems to the cinematic juggernaut that was Star Wars, 1977 left an indelible mark on the world. In fact, this pivotal yearinspired my latest video, where I explore the pop culture milestones of 1977—besure to check it out for a more personal dive into this pivotal year. Check out my channel HERE.
The GamingRevolution: Apple II and Atari 2600
In 1977, gaming aswe know it took its first steps toward mainstream acceptance with twogroundbreaking releases: the Apple II and the Atari 2600.
The Apple II,designed by Steve Wozniak and marketed by Steve Jobs, wasn’t just a personalcomputer—it was a platform that brought gaming and computing into the home.With its color graphics and expandability, it became a foundation for earlygames like Apple Adventure and Mystery House, inspiring a generation ofdevelopers and paving the way for the PC gaming industry.
Meanwhile, Atarilaunched the 2600, a revolutionary console that made interchangeable cartridgesmainstream. Games like Combat and Air-Sea Battle, two of my favorite two-playergames, entertained audiences, but the system’s legacy would truly unfold in theyears to come as Pac-Man and Space Invaders fueled its success. These releasesmarked the beginning of gaming’s transition from arcades to living rooms,setting the stage for the home console industry’s explosive growth (before the crashof 1983).
A Galaxy Far, FarAway: Star Wars
No discussion of1977 is complete without Star Wars, which I was lucky enough to see in thetheater during its original run (mind-blowing!). Released on May 25, GeorgeLucas’s space epic not only redefined the blockbuster but also became acultural phenomenon. Its groundbreaking special effects, epic storytelling, andunforgettable characters made it an instant classic.
Beyond the silverscreen, Star Wars influenced video games profoundly. Titles like Star Wars: TheArcade Game (1983) and X-Wing (1993) owe their existence to the original film’smassive popularity. The Star Wars universe provided a rich playground fordevelopers, and its influence can still be felt in modern gaming, fromsprawling RPGs to VR experiences.
The Death of ElvisPresley
The King of Rock‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, passed away on August 16, 1977. His death marked theend of an era, but it also cemented his status as an enduring icon. Elvis’smusic and larger-than-life persona continue to influence pop culture, appearingin everything from merchandising to films and commercials that reference hislegacy. He popularized rock music like few other artists.
Saturday NightFever: Disco Fever Peaks
In December,Saturday Night Fever hit theaters, bringing disco culture to the forefront.With John Travolta’s electrifying performance and the Bee Gees’ unforgettablesoundtrack, the film helped turn disco into a global phenomenon. While the eraof disco was short-lived, its influence on music, dance, and even earlyrhythm-based video games like Dance Dance Revolution is undeniable.
Roots: ATelevision Milestone
The miniseriesRoots, based on Alex Haley’s novel, aired in January 1977, capturing theattention of an estimated 140 million viewers. Chronicling the story of anenslaved African man and his descendants, Roots was groundbreaking in itsdepiction of African American history and its impact on cultural conversationsabout race in America. Its success also set a new standard for televisionstorytelling, influencing countless series that followed.
A CulturalCrossroads
1977 wasn’t justabout gaming, movies, or music—it was a crossroads for pop culture. Punk rockgained momentum with bands like The Clash and The Sex Pistols challenging thestatus quo, while Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours dominated the charts. In fashion,bell-bottoms and platform shoes ruled the streets, while home technology sawthe rise of VCRs, laying the groundwork for a future where entertainment wasalways on demand.
The Legacy of 1977
Looking back, it’sclear that 1977 was a turning point. The year introduced technologies, stories,and cultural phenomena that are still shaping our world today. The Apple II andAtari 2600 made gaming a household activity. Star Wars redefined what moviescould be and left a legacy that extended to toys, games, and pop culture atlarge. The death of Elvis marked the passing of a legend, while Saturday NightFever and Roots highlighted the power of music and television to shape societalconversations.
These themes and moreare explored in my latest video, where I explore what made 1977 such a definingyear. Be sure to watch and share your thoughts in the YouTube comments—what’syour favorite pop culture moment from this incredible year? And what year doyou think is the most impactful in the history of pop culture?

Step Inside the National Videogame Museum: A Nostalgic Walkthrough of Gaming History

Nestled in the welcomingDiscovery Center of Frisco, Texas, the National Videogame Museum (NVM) is amust-visit for gamers of all ages. The museum, located north of Dallas, wasn’talways destined for Texas; its founders initially envisioned its home inSilicon Valley. However, thanks to a serendipitous connection with a local gamedeveloper and enthusiastic support from Frisco’s city council and mayor, themuseum opened its doors in April 2016. Fast forward to today, and it’s a meccafor gamers and collectors.

If you’ve everburned hours on a Commodore 64, honed your reflexes on an Atari 2600, or donneda VR headset to battle digital foes, the NVM offers something to rekindle yourlove for gaming. It’s a hybrid experience—a blend of a traditional museum and ahands-on arcade—offering a fun and immersive journey through the fascinatinghistory of video games.

My latest YouTube video takes you on a full walkthrough of this incredible museum, capturingevery nostalgic moment. From the world’s largest playable Pong console to thedarkened magic of the Pixel Dreams arcade, this tour will have you relivingyour childhood and marveling at gaming's evolution. You can check it out myvirtual tour of the museum by clicking HERE.

The NVM boasts ajaw-dropping collection of rare artifacts. Highlights include the Sega Neptune,a prototype console combining the Sega Genesis and 32X that never made it tomarket, and Ralph Baer’s 1967 Brown Box, the prototype for the world’s firsthome gaming system. The museum also displays valuable rarities like theNintendo World Championships cartridge, Magical Chase for the TurboGrafx-16,MUSHA for the Sega Genesis, Blockbuster exclusives, and prototypes of games youmay never have realized existed.

One of my favoriteexhibits is the recreation of the Great Video Game Crash of 1983, a pivotalmoment in gaming history. The display features a replica game store on thebrink of collapse, complete with bins of unsold cartridges marked down topennies on the dollar. This leads into the computer section featuring a lineupof early machines like the Commodore Vic-20, Amiga, and Apple II, all set upfor gaming.

The NVM’sattention to detail is remarkable. Two mock-ups transport visitors to gaming’sgolden eras. One is a 1981 living room where you can play an Intellivision on awood-paneled TV while seated on an authentically garish couch. The other is alate 1980s bedroom complete with a Max Headroom poster, Pac-Man bedsheets, anda working Nintendo Entertainment System hooked up to a tiny TV/VCR combo. It’sthe perfect nostalgia trip for gamers who grew up during this era.

Anotherfascinating exhibit chronicles the often-bumpy development of virtual realityin gaming. From the innovative but commercially unsuccessful Atari MindLink—aheadband that attempted to read muscle movements in the forehead—to iconicoddities like the Nintendo Virtual Boy and Power Glove, the display highlightsboth the hits and misses in VR’s journey to becoming mainstream.

At the museum’send lies the Pixel Dreams arcade, a dimly lit homage to the 1980s gaming scene.With classic rock and pop music pumping through the speakers, visitors canenjoy timeless titles like Robotron: 2084, Centipede, Tempest, Space Invaders, Ms.Pac-Man, and Mortal Kombat. Your admission comes with four tokens to get youstarted, and additional tokens are available for purchase. If you’re goodenough to set an all-time high score, you’ll even earn free tokens!

Whether you’re alifelong gamer or simply curious about gaming’s cultural impact, the National Videogame Museum offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a space where historycomes alive, memories are rekindled, and new stories are made.

In my new YouTubevideo, I guide you through every corner of the museum, from iconic relics tothe interactive exhibits that let you dive hands-first into gaming’s past. Ifyou’ve ever wanted a close-up look at one of the most comprehensive publicdisplays in gaming history, this video is your front-row ticket.

Don’t miss thischance to relive the magic—check out the video and take a virtual tour of theNational Videogame Museum today!

 

Top 5 Retro Video Games - With My Nephew Chris! - NES, PS1, ColecoVison

 

Having my nephewChris join me on my YouTube channel to talk about his five favorite retro video games was a fantastic experience. He was home from Okinawa, and it was greathanging out with him. Not only did it allow me to showcase a fresh perspectiveon some classic titles, but it also provided viewers with a glimpse into thegaming interests of a “younger” retro gamer (at least compared to me). Chris and I covered several nostalgic games, with two of his standout picks beingSmurf: Rescue in Gargamel's Castle for the ColecoVision and Final Fantasy VIIfor the original PlayStation—two vastly different games that highlight thediversity and depth of retro gaming.

First, Smurf:Rescue in Gargamel's Castle is a unique retro title that Chris remembers withgreat fondness. Released in 1982, Smurf was a significant game for its time,especially because of its cartoonlike graphics and innovative platformingmechanics. In the game, players take on the role of a Smurf trying to saveSmurfette from Gargamel’s Castle, which Chris found both beatable and fun—heliked that it had an actual ending.

On the oppositeend of the retro gaming spectrum, Chris’s choice of Final Fantasy VII for the original PlayStation revealed his appreciation for immersive storytelling anddeep gameplay. Final Fantasy VII, released in 1997, is considered a landmarktitle in the RPG genre and is one of the most beloved games of all time. Thegame has complex characters, such as Cloud Strife and Sephiroth, and amemorable storyline, which revolves around saving the planet from the evilShinra Corporation. It has an excellent turn-based combat system, something commonin classic JRPGs. Our discussion of Final Fantasy VII brought out hisappreciation for both the technical achievements of the time and the depth ofgameplay that has allowed it to remain relevant in the gaming community evendecades after its release.

Throughout thevideo, Chris and I covered additional retro titles that rounded out his topfive, emphasizing the qualities that make each game a special part of gaminghistory. He offered a bonus pick as well. From early arcade-style games to themore graphically rich RPGs of the late ’80s and into the 90s, Chris’s picksshowed the evolution of retro games and his broad taste in video game genres.

Sharing theseinsights with my YouTube audience not only enhanced my content but alsoappealed to viewers who have a shared passion for retro video games. It was afun experience for both of us, and I look forward to having him back on thechannel to discuss more games.

5 Questions with Patrick Hickey Jr. - New Red Dead Revolver Comic Book!

I recently caught upwith my buddy and occasional collaborator Patrick Hickey Jr., who has a newproject he’s incredibly excited about: Red Dead Revolver, based on the awesome Western-themed video game. It’s not just any comic, though, as you’ll discover in theinterview below.

BRETTWEISS: What inspired you to choose Red Dead Revolver as the focus for thiscomic, and what unique aspects of its development story are you most excited toexplore? Is this a one-off issue? Do you plan on covering other video games inthis manner?

PATRICK HICKEY JR.: The story of Red Dead Revolver is anamazing one, full of twists and turns, and I felt like I needed another way toconnect audiences to my video game journalism. Like my Minds Behind the Gamesbooks, it delves into the development cycle and the history of the game’sdevelopment, mainly how it was a game Capcom had no idea what to do with, aswell as how damn good Angel Studios was before (and after) their merger withRockstar.

This story appears in my Minds Behind the Shooter Gamesbook. However, that book, despite performing well in the marketplace, was avictim of a sad realization that many gamers don’t want to read “real books.”They see black and white photos and a ton of text and get turned off. They wantsomething fun, something they put on the coffee table and something they canpick up and read quickly. Despite the fact my books are chapter-based andeasily accessible, the fact that they were released through an academicpublisher hurt their mainstream appeal as well. It sucks when you know you havekiller content that wasn’t presented to the proper audience, so I felt the needto figure it all out in another way.

After writing seven video game books in six years, Istarted my own comic book company, Legacy Comix. After the death of Ed Piskorearlier this year, who did an amazing job telling the origins of Hip HopHistory and the X-Men in comic book form, I felt this was a fitting tribute tohis work and a way for me to combine my two major creative loves, comics andgames.

My hope is that this is just the beginning of tellingstories in this manner. I just need the audience to come out and support.

WEISS: How did your experience as a video game journalistand author of the Minds Behind the Games series influence the way youapproached writing this comic?

HICKEY JR.: I knew I had killer quotes, but writing a comic book script and an article are two different beasts. Luckily, I have 30 single-issuecomics under my belt the last two years, and I was able to condense and tell astory here that works wonderfully in 24 pages. Add in excellent sequential artby Joshua Adams and two variant covers, and it’s got something for everyone.

WEISS: The comic is told through the perspective of DominicCraig, one of the game’s developers. How did you decide on him as the lens forthe story, and what parts of his story resonate most with you? Are therefictional elements to the story?

HICKEY JR.: There are zero fictional elements to thisstory. It is Dominic’s story to tell because I felt he had the most insight, andconsidering how well we worked together on other chapters in my books, it was ano-brainer. From his breaking into the industry to his efforts on the game,he’s incredibly kind, relatable and honest—the type of person you’d want tohear a story from. This I feel makes his view of the development cycle perfectfor a comic.

WEISS: How closely did you collaborate with artist JoshuaAdams and variant cover artists Valentin Quinones and Brandon Bentfeld tovisually capture the atmosphere of the Red Dead universe while staying true tothe real-life story of the game’s creation?

HICKEY JR.: I not only wrote the comic, but I’m theEditor-In-Chief and Owner of Legacy Comix. Every single page has my blessing. Ihired Josh, Val and Brandon for their respective roles. If the book fails, it’sall on me. The whole goal was to bring this story to life and connect gamersand comic book fans the same way a sports fan will watch an ESPN 30-for-30 orsomeone will watch an episode of a Netflix documentary. I think we’re on ourway to doing that.

WEISS: Given Red Dead Revolver's place in gaming history asa precursor to the Red Dead Redemption series, what do you hope readers andfans of the games take away from this behind-the-scenes look at itsdevelopment?

HICKEY JR.: That this game almost never existed and wasmarred by uncertainty and failure before becoming a success on the Xbox and PS2and before helping, in its own way, to provide the identity to one of gamingand Rockstar’s most successful titles. Can you seriously imagine Rockstarwithout this series? Maybe, but I can’t.

Red DeadRevolver

Legacy Comix

WrittenBy Patrick Hickey Jr.

Letters,Pencils, Inks, Colors and Cover by Joshua Adams.

VariantCovers by Valentin Quinones and Brandon Bentfeld.

Available January 2025