Brett Weiss's Blog, page 4

The NES & SNES Omnibus Digital Books - Just $3 For All Four - Brett Weiss

If you're a fan of retro gaming, I've got an insane deal for youon my Patreon page! For just $3, you can get access to FREE PDFsof all four of my massive Omnibus books, covering the NES and SNES consoles—twoof the most beloved systems in video game history. That's right—$3 getsyou immediate access to all four volumes of my critically acclaimedseries:

1.     The NES Omnibus: The Nintendo Entertainment System and Its Games, Volume 1 (A–L)

2.     The NES Omnibus: The Nintendo Entertainment System and Its Games, Volume 2 (M-Z)

3.     The SNES Omnibus: The Super Nintendo and Its Games, Vol. 1 (A–M)

4.     The SNES Omnibus:The Super Nintendo and Its Games, Vol. 2 (N–Z)

These digital books are packed with in-depth details about the NESand SNES, covering every North American release for both consoles, plus foreignreleases for the NES. Each book is a comprehensive guide, featuring descriptions,reviews, quotes from other sources, nostalgic stories, production info, and awealth of historical context—perfect for collectors, gamers, book lovers, and popculture buffs.

But that’s not all. By signing up at the $3 level, you also getaccess to a ton of exclusive content that I offer to my Patrons. Thisincludes:

Early access to upcoming books and projects before anyone else gets to see them

Exclusive articles and videos, including behind-the-scenes insights into my work process

Personal updates about my life and business, so you can follow along with what I’m enjoying and what I’m working on

Photos of rare video game items, along with information them

And much more!

It’s an amazing value—especially if you’re passionate about retro gamingand want to dive deeper into the history of these iconic consoles. These booksare available digitally as PDFs, so you can download them instantly and readthem on your computer, tablet, or e-reader.

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to my Patreon page, sign up atthe $3 level or higher, and start downloading your free PDFstoday! You’ll also be supporting me in my ongoing work, which means I cancontinue to produce high-quality content for you to enjoy.

Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/c/brettweiss

Thanks so much for your support, and enjoy all the amazing content I’veput together for you!

Brett Weiss

 

8-Bit Guy's New Video Game & Pinball Arcade in Bedford, Texas - Time Rift

My recent video on the new Time Rift Arcade inBedford, Texas has really blown up, especially for a channel my size. You canwatch it by clicking HERE. Featuring a quick interview with co-owner The 8-BitGuy, it has well over 28,000 views and counting, with tons of great comments.I’ve posted some of the better ones here:

@torham – Toobin’ would be enough to get me in thedoor if I lived in the area.

@davidworley6342 - No Rastan? Blah. Cool arcade,though.

@ComdrStew - I've been to newer arcades. Well, theycall them arcades, but they are usually crap. This looks like a real arcade.They are even using the CRTs for the old consoles, the only way they look good.

@Jad_the_Taff - Just found out this is about 5 minutesfrom my house. I will definitely be coming by. Thanks for the video because Ididn't know just how nice a place this is on the inside. Great job 8-Bit guy!

@user-tb5ns7hc5i - I have never seen an arcade withmachines all in that good of condition and working order.  Omega Race! Terrific.

@JasonDavis103 - WOW. I wish this was in Atlanta. Itseems to only be missing Satan's Hollow and Crazy Climber. I'm so jealous thatyou can go there on the way to work.

@JimmyRussle - Great tour and great commentary! Davidis a cool dude. Definitely going to check out the arcade when I’m in Dallas forwork next month.

@Jolly-Green-Steve - A very well-balanced arcade thatI wish had a location in Central Florida. All the best arcades seem to be inTexas for some reason, besides Galloping Ghost.

@dave4shmups - This looks like an awesome arcade!  I really hope that it does well.  I’ve seen some of the videos of The 8-Bit Guyhelping refurbish some of the arcade cabinets and he put in a lot of work.

@xtremejay2000 – Dang, there is one glaring genre thatis my favorite, missing. Where are all the beat-’em-ups? Final Fight, DoubleDragon? I spotted Simpsons, and I am sure Ninja Turtles was there but stillvery slim on the beat-’em-ups and almost NO vertical shooters.

@michaelcharach – Wow, looks great.  Most important thing to me is that all thegames work properly. Nothing worse than playing these old games and the controls stick, etc. With the 8-Bit guyat the helm, I bet everything works perfectly.

@voodoomotion5855 - These bring back memories of thearcade at the swimming pool in the ‘80s. We couldn't afford to play and had topretend we were playing the demos.

@piggsinablankie - This is awesome.  Thanks for the tour.  Hope the 8-Bit Guy has much success. I washoping to see the Sinistar arcade game and the Gorgar pinball machine. Two voicesthat used to scare the heck out of me as a kid. Really nice ones there like SpyHunter and Mr. Do!

@ChrisH0Y - Awesome - Rad selection! I played so many of these when I was a kid. I'm so gladmy parents were generous with the quarters on pizza night. The background musicfor RallyX still is stuck in my head to this day. Maybe they will find aSinistar machine someday? "Beware I Live!"

@Starchface - Damn. Is there no game you haven'tplayed?  This place looks magnificent,full of pristine machines each carefully restored by David and his brotherMike.  With them and Electric StarshipMike as the 3 partners, I think it will do well. I don't even want to imaginethe electric bill, though!

@andymanaus1077 - I live on the other side of theworld, and it's bittersweet to me to see such an amazing arcade appearing 40years after most of the games were new. It's incredible to see the favorite games of my teenage years side byside with games I've never heard of and other games I know but have never seenin real life, all in perfect working order. I wish the guys every possiblesuccess. Are all the games free play? That would be the icing on the cake for me.As a kid, my family and I were poor, and I had to carefully pick and choose thegames that were worth my money. I could spend days in this arcade. I hope itdoes really well.

Four More Iconic Intellivision Games - The Next Mount Rushmore

 

I recently did avideo on the Mount Rushmore of Intellivision games, meaning the four mosticonic titles. You can watch the video by clicking HERE.

The four listedbelow barely missed the cut and could have easily been included. (Utopia getsan honorable mention.) What are your four picks for the most iconicIntellivision games? Let me know in the comments!

Advanced Dungeons& Dragons: Cloudy Mountain

Advanced Dungeons& Dragons: Cloudy Mountain was a groundbreaking title for theIntellivision, and one of the earliest video games to bear the Dungeons &Dragons name. Released at a time when most games featured simple mechanics andlimited depth, Cloudy Mountain offered a more complex, story-driven experiencethat featured strategy, exploration, and survival. Players ventured throughvarious environments, battling monsters and gathering items, all whilenavigating procedurally generated mazes that increased the game’sreplayability.

                       

The game’s use ofrandom generation to create unique layouts for each playthrough wasrevolutionary for its time, and it allowed players to experience somethingdifferent each time they played. The added tension of limited arrows and theneed to think strategically about each encounter made Cloudy Mountain standout. With its overhead view, sound design, and strategic elements, the gameforeshadowed many of the hallmarks of modern RPGs and adventure games. Itsinclusion on this list is well-deserved for pushing the boundaries of whatvideo games could offer in terms of complexity and innovation.

Tron: Deadly Discs

Based on Disney'sbeloved Tron movie, Tron: Deadly Discs became an immediate hit for theIntellivision due to its fast-paced action and exciting gameplay. Playerscontrolled a warrior who threw energy discs to defeat enemies, while alsoneeding to defend themselves from incoming attacks. The game was simple inconcept but offered a nice sense of speed and reflex-based gameplay thatdelighted fans.

Tron: Deadly Discsfeatured arcade-like action that mirrored the futuristic aesthetic of the Tron film. The ability to use walls to rebound discs for trick shots added a layerof depth that separated it from other action games of the time. Furthermore, itsconnection to the Tron franchise made it an iconic licensed game, showing howvideo games could expand on the worlds established by movies. Its popularity asone of the Tron video game tie-ins and its contribution to the Intellivision'slibrary of action titles firmly secure its place on this list.

B-17 Bomber

The most famoustitle to take advantage of the Intellivoice module, B-17 Bomber brought a newlevel of immersion to video games by incorporating voice synthesis technology.The game put players in control of a World War II B-17 bomber, requiring themto manage various aspects of the mission, including navigation, bombing, andgunning down enemy aircraft. The Intellivoice feature provided real-time audiofeedback, with a voice narrating information about incoming enemy planes, bombtargeting, and other mission-critical details, creating an immersive experiencethat was ahead of its time.

The strategicgameplay required players to balance offense and defense, making tacticaldecisions as they attempted to complete bombing runs while fending off attacksfrom enemy fighters. The ability to switch between different stations on theplane, including the gunner and navigator, added layers of complexity and madethe player feel like they were truly in control of a wartime bomber (relativelyspeaking). Its innovative use of voice technology and its multi-facetedgameplay make B-17 Bomber one of the most memorable games in theIntellivision’s catalog, deserving its place on this list for pushing theboundaries of interactive audio in gaming. Say it with me, now: “BeeeeeSeeev-uhn-teeeeen Bomm-ber.”

Night Stalker

Night Stalker isone of the defining titles of the Intellivision, combining maze-based actionwith elements of survival horror. Players controlled a lone protagonist trappedin a labyrinth, stalked by robots, bats, and spiders. Armed with a limitedsupply of bullets, players had to navigate the maze, avoid enemies, andstrategically pick up new weapons to survive. The eerie, pulsing soundtrack andthe tension of being hunted through dark corridors set Night Stalker apart fromother maze games of its time.

The game waschallenging due to its survival mechanics—players had to carefully balanceoffense and defense while making decisions on when to fight or flee. Itsatmospheric design and minimalist graphics contributed to an ominous,high-stakes gameplay experience that resonated with players. Night Stalkerhighlighted the Intellivision's ability to deliver more mature, tension-filledexperiences. Its innovative mix of action, strategy, and suspense helped cementits legacy as one of the Intellivision's most iconic titles, making it anessential part of the console's library. There’s a reason many people wereanxiously anticipating the proposed reimagining of the game on the unreleasedfiasco that was the Intellivision Amico.

Review of Alien Abduction!, a New Title by Audacity Games for the Atari 2600

Alien Abduction!

Audacity Games

New Atari 2600 action/adventuregame by John Van Ryzin

In theever-expanding universe of current games for classic consoles, Audacity Gameshas delivered a nice dose of nostalgia with their latest release, Alien Abduction! for the Atari 2600. This new title, programmed by H.E.R.O. designer John Van Ryzin, echoes the classic gameplay of that great title while having enoughdifferences, such as fresh level designs, to set it apart. It's a labor of lovethat respects the constraints of vintage technology, designed without hardwareacceleration or modern enhancements that weren't available during the goldenage of Atari classics like Pitfall!, Keystone Kapers, and H.E.R.O.

Alien Abduction!had been available digitally for the Atari VCS since May of 2023, but itsphysical release brings an extra layer of authenticity and fun that collectorscrave. The physical package includes a high-quality box, cartridge, and manual,created with care to replicate the feel of classic Activision releases. Thegame itself certainly feels like a classic title.

As a lowly TechSpecialist, Grade 3, you embark on a perilous mission to rescue PrincessZyrvanni, who has been captured by malevolent aliens. Equipped with a spacesuit featuring jet boots, an energy defense shield, and a plasma gun, you mustnavigate through a treacherous spaceship filled with aliens, drones, and robotswhile dodging superheated walls and radioactive floors and managing your healthand energy levels. In H.E.R.O., you are equipped with dynamite for demolishingwalls. Here, you trigger bombs that are positioned in various spots throughoutthe levels.

The controls andgameplay of Alien Abduction! might take a little getting used to, but once youget the hang of it, the game reveals itself to be a lot of fun, boasting thataddictive "just one more time" quality. Points are awarded fordestroying enemies, collecting items, and rescuing the princess to completeeach level. A modern twist is the ability to submit your scores online via QRcode technology, adding a competitive edge to this retro experience.

Graphics in AlienAbduction! are solid and serve the gameplay well. While they may not push theboundaries of the Atari 2600’s capabilities, they effectively create animmersive environment for the player. The sparse sound effects further add tothe retro charm, delivering a minimalistic audio experience that complementsthe game's visuals without overwhelming them.

The pedigree ofAlien Abduction!'s development team is noteworthy. John Van Ryzin, a seasonedprogrammer from the Atari 2600 days, spearheaded the project with additionalprogramming by the legendary David Crane. These names alone are enough toexcite any retro gaming aficionado, as both Van Ryzin and Crane played pivotalroles in creating some of the most beloved games of the era. The game’spackaging and manual were designed by Sean Kelly, co-founder of the National Videogame Museum, who also served as a beta tester along with John Hardie,another NVM co-founder. This attention to detail and involvement of industryveterans ensures that Alien Abduction! not only plays like a classic but alsolooks and feels like one.

Alien Abduction!is a commendable effort by Audacity Games to bring a new yet familiarexperience to the Atari 2600. It’s a game that respects its roots whileoffering fresh challenges and fun gameplay. Garry Kitchen, another legend fromthe Atari days, personally handed me a copy at the Corgs Retro Gaming Expo, ahighlight of that great convention.

Whether you're along-time fan of the Atari 2600 or a newcomer curious about all the hypesurrounding retro gaming, Alien Abduction! is a title worth adding to yourcollection. If you ever wanted to play H.E.R.O. in space, now’s your chance!

Game Informer Shuts Down, Lays Off Staff - RIP to an Iconic Magazine

 

After 33remarkable years, Game Informer is shutting down, marking the end of an era forone of the most influential video game magazines ever published. This decisioncomes as a significant blow to the gaming community (although not entirely surprising),which has relied on Game Informer for insightful reviews, previews, andindustry news since its inception. Well, not so much in recent years, but youget the idea.

For me personally,Game Informer's closure is particularly poignant. For their Classic GI column, GreatestGame of All Time, I had the honor of writing about Mr. Do!, my favorite video game. Additionally, they interviewed me years ago, and severalof my books were featured in their holiday and reading guides, furthersolidifying my connection to this iconic publication. Up until a decade or so ago(yeah, I’m part of the problem), I was a steady subscriber, thanks in part totheir GameStop rewards program, which was icing on the proverbial cake—it savedme a lot of money over the years!

Founded in 1991,Game Informer became a staple in the gaming world, covering everything from theretro scene (I was surprised and excited when they reviewed Lady Bug for theColecoVision) to the Super Nintendo (debuting the year they began) to themodern era of what are essentially interactive movies. The magazine's abilityto evolve with the industry while maintaining a dedicated readership speaks toits quality and relevance. However, like many print publications, Game Informerfaced increasing challenges in the digital age. The decision to close was notmade lightly but was influenced by a combination of factors, includingfinancial pressures and shifts in how audiences consume media.

GameStop, theparent company of Game Informer, has been undergoing significant restructuring,which included substantial layoffs and strategic shifts. This restructuringeffort aimed to adapt to the changing retail climate but unfortunately also ledto the discontinuation of the magazine.

Reflecting on thelegacy of Game Informer, it's clear that the magazine was more than just asource of gaming news; it was a community hub that brought gamers together. Thefarewell message from the editorial team encapsulates this sentiment,emphasizing the shared journey with readers from "the early days ofpixelated adventures to today's immersive virtual realms." This journeywas marked by the magazine's dedication to quality journalism and its abilityto capture the essence of gaming culture. Yeah, not everything they publishedwas great (some articles were outright clunkers), but they cranked out a ton ofdeep-dive features, news items, previews, and reviews that were well-writtenand thoroughly researched.

As we bid farewellto Game Informer, it's important to acknowledge the contributions of itstalented team (including my buddy Ben Reeves, who wrote the foreword to mybook, The SNES Omnibus Vol. 2). Their passion and expertise helped shape themagazine into what it was, and their work will be remembered fondly by readersworldwide. While the presses may stop, the impact of Game Informer willcontinue to resonate in the gaming community for years to come.

The closure ofGame Informer signifies the end of an era, but it also serves as a reminder ofthe evolving nature of media consumption. As gamers, we’ve already adapted and foundnew ways to stay up to date on the the video game industry. In fact, we didthat years ago via such websites as GameSpot and IGN, as well as social media.And yes, Game Informer’s own website. Although Game Informer will no longer bethere, the legacy it leaves behind will inspire future generations of gamersand journalists alike.

Game Informer'sshutdown is a significant loss for the gaming community. It was a publicationthat not only informed but also connected and inspired its readers. As we lookback on its 33-year history, we can appreciate the immense contribution it madeto the world of video games and hold on to the memories and insights itprovided. Farewell, Game Informer, and thank you for being a part of our gamingjourney.

Hopefully, someonewill write a retrospective on the publication in Old School Gamer, which is anindependent publication and one of the few print video game magazines left.

Classic Game Fest 2024 - Report!

 

Classic Game Festwas an unforgettable event, filled with memorable moments and excitinginteractions. Among the notable guests were Atari co-founder Nolan Bushnell,Keystone Kapers creator Garry Kitchen, and David Crane, the legendary creatorof Pitfall! Their presence added a ton of nostalgia and prestige to thefestival, helping attract a bunch of old-school gamers. Speaking of, Old School Gamer Magazine was set up near me, and it’s always great catching up withpublisher Ryan Burger. During the event, Isold quite a few books, which is always nice, and I met some new readers whoshared my passion for video games. Additionally, I caught up with friends,including the talented video game artist Kale Menges, who has contributedentries to my Omnibus and 100 Greatest books, and David Kaelin, who runsClassic Game Fest, as well as the Game Over Videogames retail chain.

One of thehighlights was spending quality time with my son, Ryan. We had fun running ourbooth, and we had a great trip to and from Austin. We also enjoyed a deliciousmeal at Hopdoddy Burger Bar with my niece Cara and her family. It was great tomeet their adorable new dog, Moonie, and see what their kids have been upto—they are adorable! The vendors roomat Classic Game Fest was essentially a museum but with everything for sale. I recorded a walkthrough, capturing the incredible variety of Sega Genesis, SegaCD, Dreamcast, and Saturn games on display, including many rare titles. I evenpicked up a new NES homebrew, a fantastic side-scroller that is decidedlyretro. Now back home, I'mexcited for my next video game con, the Portland Retro Gaming Expo. I’mparticularly excited about the panel I'll be hosting on the industry crash. Itwill be called, “I Survived The Great Video Game Crash of 1983.” Classic Game Festwas a blast, blending the fun of connecting with fellow gamers, the thrill ofdiscovering rare games, and the pleasure of spending time with family andfriends. See ya’ll inPortland!

My 2024 Retro Gaming Convention Schedule for July - October -- Brett Weiss

 Here's myconvention schedule for the next few months. October is going to be packed!

Classic Game Fest- July 19-21 (Austin, TX)

This fantasticshow is hosted by my good buddy David Kaelin of Game Over Videogames, who hassupported my writing career since the beginning. Classic Game Fest is anawesome celebration of retro gaming, featuring a vast array of classic video games, consoles, and memorabilia. With numerous vendors, panels, andtournaments, and even live music, it’s an event that brings together gamers ofall ages to relive the golden era of gaming. The guest list this year isimpressive and includes Atari co-founder Nolan Bushnell, E.T. and Yars’ Revengeprogrammer Howard Scott Warshaw, and Pitfall! and Freeway creator David Crane.I’ll be a guest as well, selling and autographing my books.

Portland Retro Gaming Expo – Sept. 27-29

One of theoriginal retro gaming conventions, this event is a must-visit for any videogame fan. The Portland Retro Gaming Expo is beloved for its extensive exhibitorhall, packed with rare games, consoles, and accessories. Additionally, itoffers an impressive lineup of speakers, including industry veterans and gaminghistorians, as well as educational and entertaining panels and a super funauction. It’s the closest thing we have to the late, great Classic Gaming Expo.The guest list this year is long and includes the original Mortal Kombat crew: DanielPesina (Johnny Cage, Sub-Zero, Scorpion), Ho-Sung Pak (Liu Kang, Shang Tsung), ElizabethMalecki (Sonya Blade), Richard Divizio (Kano), and Carlos Pesina (Raiden). I’llbe a guest as well, doing a panel on the market crash of 1983.

Houston Arcade Expo – October 11-13

Known for itsparty-like atmosphere, this expo features live rock and pop music and runs intothe crazy hours of the night. The Houston Arcade Expo offers a uniqueexperience with numerous arcade games and pinball machines set to free play,allowing attendees to enjoy endless gaming, as well as a little drinking andcarousing. The event also includes tournaments, cosplay contests, and a Saturdaymorning swap meet, making it a highlight of the year. I’ll be a guest at theshow, autographing and selling my books, and I’m looking forward to seeing theother guests, including my buddies Brian F. Colin (Rampage) and Tim Kitzrow(the voice of NBA Jam and NFL Blitz).

Video GameSummit/Pinball Expo - Oct. 17-19 (Near Chicago)

A melding ofVideo Game Summit and the long-running Pinball Expo, one of the oldest events ofits type in the country, this gathering promises a fantastic blend of bothworlds. Attendees can explore a wide range of video games and pinball machines,attend informative panels, and participate in exciting tournaments. The eventattracts collectors, gamers, YouTubers, pinball experts, and more, offering a funopportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Along with yours truly,guests include “The Immortal” John Hancock (YouTuber), Michael Thomasson (historian), Brian F. Colin (Rampage), and Paul Niemeyer (Mortal Kombat artist),all good friends of mine. Yes, I will have a supply of my books with me.

Retropalooza –October 26-27 (Fort Worth, TX)

I've attended mostDallas-Fort Worth Retropaloozas since its inception in 2013, and also to a couple in Houston. Hosted by the Game Chasers, this event is always a lot of fun. Retropalooza features YouTubeguests and a fantastic vendor’s room. The swap meet-like atmosphere makes it afavorite among retro gaming fans—you will definitely have great opportunitiesto add to your collection and probably find some good deals. I’ll be thereeither as an attendee/fan, a vendor, or working at the Heritage Auctions booth—thatremains to be seen. The guest list thus far is comprised mostly of voice actors and YouTubers, the latter including familiar faces Boogie2988, the Game Chasers, and 8-bit Eric.

I hope to see youat one of these conventions! Each event offers something unique, and they’reall fantastic opportunities to celebrate the rich history of gaming.

Meet Gaming Legend & Atari Co-Founder Nolan Bushnell at Classic Game Fest in Austin!

Are you a fan ofclassic video games and the industry pioneers who made them possible? If so,you won't want to miss the opportunity to meet Nolan Bushnell, the legendary co-founder of Atari and a true icon in the gaming world, at Classic Game Fest inAustin on Saturday, July 20th. This is a rare chance to interact with the manwho played a pivotal role in creating the gaming industry as we know it today.

Nolan Bushnell isscheduled for a panel and Q&A session where he will share his incrediblejourney, insights into the early days of Atari, and the impact of his work onthe gaming industry. This is your chance to hear firsthand stories from one ofthe most famous figureheads in all of gaming. Whether you're a long-time fan ora newcomer to the world of video games, Bushnell's stories and experiences aresure to be both entertaining and enlightening.

But that's notall! For those who want an even more exclusive experience, there will be aspecial VIP-only meet and greet with Nolan Bushnell. This is your opportunityto get up close and personal with an icon, ask him questions, and maybe evensnag an autograph. It's an experience no gaming enthusiast should miss, especiallyif you are in driving distance of Austin or you can grab a reasonably pricedflight.

I have the honorof being a guest at Classic Game Fest as well. I will be there all three days,signing my books and sharing my passion for classic video games. Speaking ofbooks, I first met Nolan Bushnell back in 2009 at the ScrewAttack Game Convention. He was incredibly cool and very nice, making a lasting impressionon me. During our conversation, he expressed his surprise and delight thatMcFarland had published a textbook-quality hardcover book focused exclusivelyon Atari and other pre-NES consoles: Classic Home Video Games: 1972-1984. Hisappreciation for the preservation and recognition of early gaming history wastruly inspiring, and it’s an encounter I’ll never forget. 

In recent times, we were in the same documentary, Playing With Power: The Nintendo Story, which was very exciting and something my 12-year-old self would not have believed.

Classic Game Festis shaping up to be an incredible event for anyone who loves video games, witha diverse lineup of panels, vendors, console games, live music, arcades on freeplay, and special guests, including Howard Scott Warshaw (E.T., Yars’ Revenge),David Crane (Pitfall!, Freeway), Garry Kitchen (Keystone Kapers, Atari 2600Donkey Kong), Dan Kitchen (Crackpots, Atari 2600 Double Dragon), and G. to theNext Level (YouTuber), among others. Make sure to mark your calendars and joinus for a weekend full of nostalgia, fun, and fantastic opportunities to add toyour collection and connect with fellow gamers and industry legends like NolanBushnell. See you there!

Classic Game Fest

Palmer EventsCenter

Austin Texas

July 19-21, 2024

Get tickets HERE.

Metal Jesus Rocks & Kelsey Lewin are Annoyed with Retro Gaming Stores

Recently, popular YouTuberMetal Jesus Rocks and Pink Gorilla store owner Kelsey Lewin released a videohighlighting some of the most frustrating practices in retro gaming stores. Inspiredby their discussion, I decided to create a response video to share one of mybiggest pet peeves when it comes to shopping for vintage video games.

In their video,Metal Jesus Rocks and Kelsey covered a lot of ground, mentioning howfrustrating it is when stores don't mark reproduction cartridges as such orfail to price their games. These issues can make it hard to trust a store andleave customers feeling annoyed. Their video really got me thinking about my own experiences and what bothers me the most when I'm game chasing.

Without giving too much away here, I can say that it's something that someof you have probably encountered and found equally frustrating. It's a practicethat can ruin the shopping experience and make you want to turn around andleave immediately.

This particularannoyance is something that not only affects the way we shop but also speaks toa larger issue within the retro gaming community. It's a problem that reflectsa lack of consideration for the customers who keep these stores in business. Byaddressing this issue, and by highlighting MJR’s video, I hope to encouragestore owners to improve their practices and create a more welcoming environmentfor all of us who love hunting for classic games.

I won't spoil the surprise here because I want you towatch the video to find out what it is. I think you'll find it relatable, andhopefully, it will spark some positive changes in how retro game stores operate. There are awesome retrogaming stores all around the country, but some could use a few pointers.

 

Exclusivity and Rising Costs - Meeting Modern Gaming Challenges

Exclusivityand Rising Costs – Meeting Modern Gaming Challenges

Foras widely enjoyed as gaming is, it can also be a very expensive hobby. Thisfeels especially true now, when you have to deal with expensive consoles or PCparts and incredibly expensive games. The cost isn’t only on the side of theconsumer either. The increasing scope of games means that more money than everis being poured into game development, with more and more time between popularreleases.

Regardless, gaming might be a hobby you’re passionate about, meaningyou don’t want this to stand in your way. That means that you have a fewdifferent options presented to you.

GameSubscriptions

Whilethis might have seemed like a novel idea not too long ago,subscription services like Game Pass or PlayStation Plus are embedded into amodern understanding of the gaming landscape, many titles will be released onthese services at the same time they release in general, giving audiences a wayto play them without paying full price.

However, the main draw is much the same as something like Netflix. Ifyou pay a monthly subscription fee, you’ll have access to a wide array oftitles, potentially helping to remove some of the stress that might be involvedwith committing a much larger amount on a single game. Of course, the negativeof this approach might be that you become overwhelmed by choice, feeling a lackof commitment towards each game.

Budgetingfor Gaming

Ifgaming is a regular hobby to you, it might make sense to start allocating forit in your budget. At first, this might seem like an extreme reaction to take –making you worry that you’re going to spend more money on it now than you wouldbefore. However, you might find that you’re already spending a lot of money onit simply without tracking those costs, meaning that sticking to your budgetcould actually help to restrict that spending.

It might also be that if you’re saving up for a specific target – suchas a new console – you can look for ways to increase your allowance in yourbudget. That might mean through taking on additional work for a short period oftime, or it might be through identifying belongings that you don’t need anymoreand selling them on, perhaps with the help of delivery companies like Shiply US for larger items.

CloudGaming Services

If you’re facing an issue that you can’t afford a powerful enough console or PCto play the games you want, you might turn your attention to cloud gamingservices. These can allow you to play more demanding titles using the hardwarethat you have available – especially useful if you have a laptop that you usefor work or general use. This isn’t your only option, though, and once again,the major publishers in the gaming world, Sony and Microsoft, have introducedtheir own cloud gaming services that might be worth investigating if you feelthey appeal to you.