Brett Weiss's Blog, page 5

Planet Cool Stuff - My Full Segment on Rob McCallum's New TV Show!

I recently had theincredible opportunity to appear on Rob McCallum's TV series, Planet Cool Stuff. The show features the lives of pop culture collectors and enthusiasts,highlighting their passions and the fascinating stories behind theircollections. I’m excited to share that I’m featured in Season 1, Episode 2,where I discuss my long-standing interest in video games, my writing career,and some of the books I've authored.

In the episode, Idelve into how my love for video games began and how it has influenced myprofessional journey. From playing classic arcade games beginning in 1975 to collectingsince 1982 (late ’70s if you count handheld electronic games), video games havelong been a significant part of my life. This passion, combined with my enjoymentof reading, naturally transitioned into writing about video games, allowing meto combine my love for gaming with my talent for storytelling and research.

During the show, Italk about my Classic Home Video Games series, which offers comprehensiveguides to video game consoles and their games from the 1970s through the 1990s.These books are a labor of love, meticulously documenting every US release foreach console. I also discuss my other works, such as The 100 Greatest Console Video Games: 1977-1987 and The NES Omnibus: The Nintendo Entertainment Systemand Its Games, Volume 1 (A–L), featuring a foreword by The Goldbergs creatorAdam F. Goldberg. I’m very proud of these full-color hardcover books, which Ihope are as fun to read as they were research and write.

I also discuss my enjoyment of doing video game conventions, where I sell and autograph books andpose for photos with fans. For those interested in seeing my segment on PlanetCool Stuff, I’ve uploaded the entire segment to my YouTube channel, with Rob’s permission.For those not in the know, Rob also directed Nintendo Quest, and I will be inhis next movie, Nintendo 64 Quest.

Being a part ofPlanet Cool Stuff was an amazing experience. It’s wonderful to see a show thatcelebrates the geeky hobbies and passions that people have. Whether you’re avideo game enthusiast, action figure collector, comic book reader, cartoon buff, Universal Monsters fan, or just curious about different collections, I highly recommendchecking out the series. Rob McCallum does a fantastic job of showcasing thestories and dedication behind these fascinating pursuits, making it amust-watch for anyone interested in the world of popular culture.

Thank you forjoining me on this journey, and I hope you enjoy the episode as much as Ienjoyed being a part of it. Keep gaming, and keep exploring your passions!

And, as always,thanks for reading!

Hollywood Zap - Video Game Movie Review - Troma Entertainment

Hollywood Zap(1986)

Movie Review

Distributed byTroma Entertainment, the company co-founded by Lloyd Kaufman, Hollywood Zap isa peculiar piece of cinema that encapsulates the weird, random, raunchy, and crudehumor that Troma is known for. Written and directed by Canadian filmmaker DavidCohen, this film ventures into the bizarre with a reckless abandon that is bothits strength and its weakness, more the latter for sure.

The movie revolvesaround two main characters: Zaxxon video game expert Nash, played by Ben Frank,and ineffectual protagonist Tucker “Downer” Downs, portrayed by Ivan E. Roth,who is on a quest to find his father (who turns out to be…oops, no spoilers!).Their journey is anything but conventional, laced with oddball characters andsurreal scenarios that defy logic and taste. The plot, if one can call it that,meanders through a series of vignettes that seem stitched together by nothingmore than a shared sense of absurdity, which isn’t surprising given the Tromaname.

The narrativekicks off with Downs setting out to find his estranged father. His journeyleads him to cross paths with Nash, a master of the arcade game Zaxxon, a funisometric shooter that was graphically amazing for its time (it blew me awaywhen I discovered it at The Land of Oz arcade in the local mall back in 1982).The duo's adventures are filled with eccentric encounters, including amemorable appearance by Chuck Mitchell, famous for his role in Porky's, as a shadylawyer. Mitchell's performance is one of the film's highlights, delivering hislines with a blend of sleaze and comedic timing that perfectly fits the film'soff-kilter tone.

David Cohen'sdirection and writing are unapologetically unrefined. The humor is often grossand crude, pushing boundaries in ways that are both absurd and occasionallyfunny. Scenes are strung together with little concern for continuity orcoherence, giving the film a dreamlike, or perhaps nightmarish, quality. It's afilm that revels in its own low-budget aesthetic, with cheap sets, wonkyediting, and rudimentary special effects that only add to its peculiar appeal forZ-grade movie fans.

Despite its manyflaws, Hollywood Zap has moments of genuine humor. There are scenes so absurdthat they transcend bad taste and become oddly endearing, such as the littledance the Zaxxon hustler does just prior to playing the game. The film’srandomness keeps viewers on their toes, never quite knowing what bizarre twistwill come next. This unpredictability can be as exhausting as it isentertaining.

The performancesrange from bizarrely compelling to outright bad. Ben Frank's portrayal of theZaxxon expert is oddly charismatic, while Ivan E. Roth's protagonist is goofy andweak, embodying the awkward everyman lost in the chaos of a nonsensical world.The supporting cast, including a host of characters that defy easy description,adds to the film's eclectic and erratic energy. And, of course, it’s cool tosee a vintage arcade with games like Baby Pac-Man, Super Pac-Man, and Moon Patrol. At one point, Nash even mentions Walter Day’s legendary arcade, Twin Galaxies, implying he aspires to go there to break the Zaxxon world record—sucha great time capsule!

Released on VHSbut never on laser disc, DVD, or Blu-ray, Hollywood Zap has achieved a kind ofcult status among fans of obscure and unconventional cinema, and among gamers,at least for those who have heard of the movie—it’s one of the most obscurevideo game-related films ever released. For those curious to experience thisoddity, it is available for rent on Amazon Prime for just $2.

After years of knowingof its existence (in addition to loving video games, I’m something of a film buff),this was my first time watching the movie, and having long wanted to see it, Ifound it at once perplexing, disappointing, and strangely satisfying. In otherwords, it was a hot mess, but I kept watching as though it were a train wreck,and I couldn’t look away. Essentially, it makes Joysticks, the 1983 B-moviedirected by Greydon Clark, seem like Casablanca in comparison, but the videogame angle and sheer weirdness kept me interested and even entertained to somedegree.

Hollywood Zap willappeal to a very specific audience—those who appreciate the outré, the gross,and the random. It fits right in with Troma Entertainment's legacy of pushingcinematic boundaries and embracing the bizarre. If you're in the mood forsomething entirely out of the ordinary, have a taste for the crude and thecheap, and love classic arcade culture, Hollywood Zap might just be worth awatch.

 

YouTube Channel Subscriber Milestone for Brett Weiss - 5000 Subs!

Hello, fellowretro gamers!

I’m thrilled toannounce that my YouTube channel my YouTube channel, simply called Brett Weiss, has reached the milestoneof 5,000 subscribers! When I started this journey, I had every intention of buildingsuch an amazing community of passionate gamers who love the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90sas much as I do, even though naysayers said my channel would never grow. Yoursupport and enthusiasm mean the world to me, and I want to take a moment tothank each and every one of you.

It’s been a blastsharing stories and reliving the golden eras of gaming with you, from arcadegaming on the cheap to the first console I owned, the ColecoVision, to the first time I played Super Mario Bros., we’ve covered a lot of ground together.Each video, each story, and each game we discuss is evidence of the impactthese classics have had on our lives.

Your comments,likes, and shares have not only supported the channel but have also created avibrant community where we can all reminisce and celebrate the games that defined our childhoods. I’ve enjoyed reading your memories and hearing aboutyour favorite games, and it’s been fantastic to connect with so manylike-minded people who share a love for retro gaming.

As we celebratethis milestone, I’m excited to share that there are many more stories to come.We’ll continue cover video game history, exploring lesser-known titles, andhighlighting the cultural impact of our favorite classics. I have some specialcontent planned, including more Mount Rushmore videos, where I’ve been showcasingthe four most iconic games for each console. These videos will be a fun way tocelebrate the games that are famous, great, and emblematic of each system.

I also want tomention how much I enjoy meeting many of you in person at retro gamingconventions, such as Corgs this past weekend. These events are a highlight forme, offering a chance to connect, share stories, and immerse ourselves in thenostalgia of our favorite games. If you see me at a convention, please don’thesitate to say hello, even if you aren’t in the market for a retro gaming book—let’stalk games and anything else pop culture!

To all 5,000 ofyou, and everyone else reading this, thank you for being a part of this journey. Your support is the gamer fuel that drives this channel, even morethan caffeine, and I’m grateful for each one of you. Here’s to many morestories, many more games, and many more memories together. Please share thechannel, and let’s get to 10,000 subs sooner rather than later!

Stay tuned, keepgaming, and, as always, keep it retro!

Oh, and thanks forreading. 😊

Best,

Brett Weiss

Atari Acquires Rights to Intellivision Games: A Nostalgic Revival

In a significantmove for retro gaming enthusiasts, Atari has recently acquired the rights to a largeselection of Intellivision games, marking a reunion of two iconic names fromthe golden age of video gaming. This acquisition promises to bring a wave ofnostalgia to long-time gamers and introduce a new generation to classic titlesthat helped shape the video game industry.

Intellivision,originally launched by Mattel Electronics in 1979, was one of the earliest homevideo game consoles and a formidable competitor to Atari during the early1980s. Known for its innovative hardware, distinctive controller design, and alibrary of games that pushed the boundaries of what was possible at the time,Intellivision quickly carved out a niche in the burgeoning video game market.Its games, such as Astrosmash, Night Stalker, and Major League Baseball, becamebeloved titles for many.

Atari, a namesynonymous with the early days of home gaming, has been a significant player inthe industry since the release of its first console in 1977, the Atari VCS (laterrenamed the Atari 2600). The company's rich history and enduring legacy make ita natural custodian for the Intellivision game library. By acquiring theserights, Atari aims to preserve and rejuvenate these classic titles, ensuringtheir continued relevance for today’s gamers.

Fred Chesnais, CEOof Atari, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition. “BringingIntellivision's library into the Atari family is not just about preservingthese games but also about celebrating the rich history of our industry,” hesaid. “We are excited to introduce these classics to new audiences and offer atouch of nostalgia to long-time fans.”

The plan for theseIntellivision titles includes re-releasing them on modern platforms, makingthem accessible to a broader audience. This move is expected to involve notonly straightforward ports but also enhanced versions with updated graphics,sound, and additional features to meet contemporary gaming standards.

Furthermore,Atari's acquisition is seen as a strategic move to bolster its catalog of retrotitles, positioning the company as a leader in the retro gaming market. Asgaming technology continues to evolve, and as nostalgia remains a burgeoningmarket, there is a growing appetite for classic games that offer simpler, yetprofoundly enjoyable experiences.

As a fan of bothAtari and Intellivision, I can’t wait to see what comes next!

The Double-Edged Sword of Video Gaming: A Balanced Perspective

Playing video games captures the imagination, interest, and money of millions and millions of people worldwide,presenting a form of entertainment that blends interactive storytelling withvisual artistry. On one hand, video games offer substantial benefits, enhancingcognitive skills, providing community, and serving as a stress reliever. On theother, they pose certain risks, potentially leading to unhealthy habits if notapproached thoughtfully.

Exploring theBenefits

Video games aredesigned to entertain, offering players worlds rich with challenges andstorytelling that can truly be rewarding. The fun derived from these games ispalpable, as they provide a break from the routine of daily life. For many,games are a primary source of relaxation and a temporary escape from thestresses of the real world, effectively serving as a tool for stress relief. Theycan also give you a confidence boost if you are good at them.

The sense ofcommunity in gaming is also significant. Many gamers find not just camaraderiebut also a sense of belonging and connection through online platforms. Thesecommunities often extend beyond virtual spaces into real-life gatherings atconventions and events, celebrating the culture and advancements of the gamingworld. These social gatherings highlight the cultural impact of gaming, withevents like E3 (may it rest in peace) and PAX pulling in huge crowds and fostering a shared enthusiasmfor new releases and technological advancements. Retro cons like PRGE, Classic Game Fest, Game On Expo, The Midwest Gaming Classic, Corgs, and too many othersto mentions are some of my favorite events each year.

Moreover, theeducational potential of video games can't be overlooked. Strategic gamesencourage critical thinking and problem-solving, while other games haveeducational content embedded in their design, teaching everything from historyto physics to money management in a fun and interactive manner. True story: Ilearned to type during the 1990s by playing Mario Teaches Typing on my Mac.

Acknowledging theHazards

However, alongsidethese benefits are potential hazards. The immersive nature of video games canlead to extended periods of physical inactivity, often exacerbating unhealthylifestyles. Long hours spent gaming can contribute to a sedentary existence,which is associated with increased risks of various health issues, includingobesity and cardiovascular disease.

The structure ofmany games also encourages lengthy sessions of play, which can interfere withnormal eating habits. Snacking and on-the-go meals become commonplace, oftenreplacing nutritious meals, which can lead to poor dietary habits. I love myfellow gamers, but even many of them will acknowledge that they would benefitfrom more exercise and less junk food and soda (god knows I could certainly cut down onsweets).

Moreover, theaddictive qualities of video games can be concerning. The rewarding feedbackloops and the continuous challenges that encourage just "one moregame" can lead to excessive gaming. This prolonged engagement caninterfere with daily responsibilities, sleep, and even social relationships,leading to isolation and sometimes exacerbating mental health issues such asanxiety and depression.

Finding a HealthyBalance

The key to ahealthy gaming lifestyle is not necessarily moderation but making sure you are taking care of yourself and those you love. Setting and adhering to limitsregarding how much time is spent gaming each day compared to other stuff can help mitigate the risk ofaddiction and the encroachment of gaming on essential activities andrelationships. Integrating physical activity and social interactions into dailyroutines can help balance the sedentary nature of gaming.

Encouraginghealthy gaming environments also involves parents and caregivers being activelyinvolved in the gaming habits of younger individuals, promoting a balancedlifestyle that values physical activity and social interaction as much asvirtual achievements. In short, regardless of your age, use that pause button to take walks, shoot somehoops, go visit friends, and even do some volunteer work.

Conclusion

Video gaming is amultifaceted activity with the potential to both enrich and complicate lives.Understanding both the benefits and risks associated with gaming is crucial. Byactively promoting and practicing balanced gaming habits, individuals can enjoythe vast positive aspects of these virtual experiences while avoiding theirpitfalls. This approach ensures that gaming remains a positive addition tolife, providing entertainment, education, and community without adverse effects.

I certainly love gamingand do plenty of it, but I try to incorporate it as a part of a well-rounded lifestyle,not something that takes over my life. I did a recent video addressing thistopic. You can watch it by clicking HERE.

Best of luck and happygaming!

New YouTube Series from Brett Weiss - Mount Rushmore of Video Games & Consoles

Discover the MountRushmore of Video Games for Classic Consoles!

Hey gamers, haveyou ever wondered which games truly define each video game console? Well,you’re in luck! I've began a YouTube series where I unveil the "Mount Rushmore of Video Games" for various legendary gaming consoles. Each videodives into the top four most iconic games that have left an indelible mark ontheir respective systems. Whether you're a retro enthusiast or a curiousnewcomer, this series is your ticket to nostalgia!

Super NintendoEntertainment System (SNES)

Years ago, before Ihad the idea to film a series, I did a Mount Rushmore of games for the mighty Super Nintendo. In the video, I explore four games that not only define the SNES butalso helped shape gaming in general. From the platforming excellence of SuperMario World, the primary pack-in title, to the brilliance of The Legend ofZelda: A Link to the Past, which was even better than the original Zelda, thesepicks are sure to spark debate and fond memories. Check out the short video to seewhich other two games made it on the list!

Nintendo 64 (N64)

To kick off the actualseries, I tackled the Nintendo 64, a console that revolutionized 3D gaming. My MountRushmore for the N64 features titles that brought friends together and turnedgaming into a shared adventure more than ever before, or at least since the heydayof the Atari 2600 and Intellivision. Remember the countless hours spent onSuper Mario 64 or the intense multiplayer battles in GoldenEye 007? Relivethese moments and find out the other two games that complete the N64’s MountRushmore by watching the video.

PlayStation (PS1)

The original PlayStation changed the game with its groundbreaking graphics and expansivegame library. In this video, I delve into the four games that arequintessential to the PS1 experience. From the revolutionary Final Fantasy VIIto the heart-racing action of Metal Gear Solid, these selections highlight theinnovation and sheer mass appeal of the PlayStation. Check out the video to seewhich other games are immortalized on this virtual monument. Plus, I just hadto include an honorable mention.

Why Watch theSeries?

Each video in theseries more than just a rundown of great games; they’re a celebration of gamingculture and the impact these consoles and their games have had on both theindustry and players across the world. I blend fun facts, personal anecdotes,and a deep dive into what makes each game worthy of its Mount Rushmore status.

Join theConversation

After watching,don’t forget to hit the like button, subscribe, and ring that notification bellto never miss an episode. Plus, jump into the comments section to share yourthoughts. Do you agree with my choices? What games would you put on yourpersonal Mount Rushmore for these consoles? Let’s get the conversation going!

What’s Next?

The journeydoesn’t stop here! Stay tuned as we continue to explore more consoles inupcoming videos, including the Atari 2600, ColecoVision, and Sega Saturn. Whichconsole should we tackle next? Drop your suggestions in the comments, and yourfavorite just might be the next feature!

Get ready for a blastfrom the past and celebrate the legends of gaming. Watch the series, share withfriends, and let the nostalgia take over. Here's to the games that made us and tothe adventures yet to come! See you in the next video! 🎮🕹️👾

The 100 Greatest Console Video Games: 1988-1998 Writer Spotlight - Brian "Civicminded" Lesyk

A machine. That’swhat comes to mind when I think of Brian “Civicminded” Lesyk. Other than me, hewrote the most essays for my most recent book, The 100 Greatest Console Video Games: 1988-1998, and he turned them all in well before the deadline. He’s alsocollaborated with me on several long-form articles when I was simply too busyto write them on my own, doing most of the heavy lifting and always turning thework in ahead of time. Not only is he punctual and prolific, he writes clean copy,and his words reveal just how much he cares and knows about the subject ofretro gaming.

Brian is a bundleof positive energy and a fantastic writer, and I’m super stoked that he’s startedwriting for Old School Gamer, a gig he definitely deserves. And I’m sure he’ssuper stoked as well--he's extremely enthusiastic about every writing projecthe takes on. Additionally, listeners can enjoy his insights on the Pass the Controller podcast. More importantly, he’s a staunch ally for various marginalizedcommunities, as you can see if you follow him on social media. If more peoplemirrored Brian's dedication and inclusivity, the retro gaming community would bean even cooler space to inhabit. I’m proud to call him my friend, and I alwayslook forward to running into him at the next convention. See you soon, Brian!

10 of the Most Iconic Cheat Codes of the 8-bit & 16-Bit Video Game Eras

The golden age of8-bit and 16-bit gaming was not only defined by groundbreaking gameplay andstorytelling but also by the secrets hidden within these classic games. Amongthese secrets, cheat codes stand out as a fascinating aspect of gaming culture,offering players new ways to experience their favorite games. From grantinginvincibility to unlocking hidden levels, these codes have left an indeliblemark on the hearts and memories of gamers worldwide. Here are 10 of the mosticonic cheat codes from the 8- and 16-bit eras, each a key to unlocking part ofgaming's rich history.

1. Konami Code(Contra/Gradius) - The Konami Code first appeared in Gradius but gainedlegendary status with Contra, where it granted players 30 extra lives. Thissequence of Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A became an iconiccheat, transcending the world of gaming to become a part of pop culture lore.It's celebrated for making tough games more accessible and for its sheermemorability. Today, the Konami Code represents a universal symbol of gamingsecrets and Easter eggs, even appearing on T-shirts and other merchandise.

2. Super MarioBros. (NES) - Infinite Lives Trick - Discovering the trick to gain unlimitedlives in Super Mario Bros. felt like unlocking a secret of the gaming universe.By exploiting a glitch with a Koopa shell in World 3-1, players could secureendless lives, empowering them to tackle the game's challenges without fear ofrunning out. This trick became a staple of playground lore, a testament to theingenuity of gamers. It reflects the deep-seated human desire to find and sharesecrets, a trait that unites players across generations.

3. Mortal Kombat(Sega Genesis) - Blood Code - The A, B, A, C, A, B, B code unlocked the game'ssignature blood effects on the Sega Genesis, directly challenging the era'sconcerns over video game violence. This not only preserved the game's grittyaesthetic but also sparked important conversations about censorship andcreative expression in video games. The Blood Code is emblematic of the era'scultural battles, remembered for its role in the establishment of the ESRB videogame rating system.

4. Sonic theHedgehog 2 (Sega Genesis) - Debug Mode - Sonic 2's Debug Mode offered anunprecedented peek behind the curtain, allowing players to manipulate levels inreal-time. Entering Sound Test: 19, 65, 09, 17 unlocked this mode, wherecreativity and curiosity led to endless fun. This cheat not only enhancedreplay value but also fostered a deeper appreciation for game design among theplayer base. Debug Mode in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 remains a prime example of howcheats can open up new ways to interact with video games.

5. Street Fighter II (Various Platforms) - Play as the Same Character - This code broke the moldby allowing both players to choose the same fighter, adding a new twist tocompetitive play. It illustrated the game's flexibility and the developers'openness to fan experimentation. Such innovations deepened the game's strategyand replayability, making every match a unique experience. This cheat remains abeloved memory for fans of the franchise, a nod to the creativity andcamaraderie that define the gaming community.

6. Metroid (NES) -Justin Bailey - A pivotal moment in late ‘80s gaming lore emerged with therevelation that Samus Aran, the protagonist of Metroid, was, in fact, a womanupon completing the game. Completing it in under three hours rewarded playerswith an ending where Samus appeared in a simple pink leotard, defyingexpectations. Inputting the password "Justin Bailey" granted playerscontrol of Samus in a revealing one-piece swimsuit, alongside her power-ups,departing from her iconic Power Suit. The etymology of "JustinBailey" remains an enigma, not tied to any known creator, perpetuating themystery surrounding this iconic cheat code.

7. The Legend of Zelda (NES) - Second Quest - Entering ZELDA as a new save file name unlocked anentirely new adventure, doubling the game's content. This early example of a"new game plus" mode challenged players to rethink their strategiesin a familiar yet altered Hyrule. It was a groundbreaking feature thatshowcased the developers' commitment to providing players with lasting valueand challenges. The Second Quest is revered for its innovation, adding layersof depth and replayability to an already rich game.

8. Mike Tyson'sPunch-Out!! (NES) - Direct to Tyson - The code 007-373-5963 became legendaryfor skipping directly to the final challenge: Mike Tyson. This not only allowedplayers to practice against the game's toughest opponent but also became a riteof passage for many. It demonstrated the game's cultural impact, with the finalfight against Tyson becoming a shared goal and achievement within the gamingcommunity. The ability to jump straight to the bout with Tyson transformed howplayers engaged with the game, turning what could have been a lengthy journeythrough the ranks into an immediate test of skill and reflexes.

9. Final FantasyIII (SNES) - Vanish/Doom Trick - The combination of Vanish and Doom spells inFinal Fantasy III allowed players to defeat almost any enemy with ease. Thisstrategy, straddling the line between a cheat and a glitch, showcased thegame's complex mechanics and depth. It became a piece of gaming folklore, aclever tactic passed among players to conquer the game's most formidablechallenges. This trick is a symbol of the communal nature of gaming, wheresharing knowledge enhances the experience for all.

10. Aladdin (Sega Genesis) - Level Skip - By pausing the game and entering A, B, B, A, A, B, B,A, players could leap forward, bypassing troublesome levels. This code provideda lifeline for gamers eager to see Aladdin's story unfold without getting stuck.It exemplifies how cheat codes can tailor the gaming experience to individualplayer needs, ensuring that the magic of the game's narrative and design couldbe enjoyed by all, regardless of skill level.

What is yourfavorite cheat code? Let me know in the comments!

 

The Sims Franchise Leaps to the Big Screen: Margot Robbie Takes the Helm as Producer

 

In an excitingdevelopment for fans of the iconic life simulation video game series, The Simsis set to make a transition from gaming platforms to the silver screen.Spearheading this ambitious project is none other than Margot Robbie, theAustralian actress renowned for her roles in such blockbuster hits as Barbie, I,Tonya and Birds of Prey. Hopefully, her involvement suggests a strong interestin bringing the complex, vibrant world of The Sims to life and will be aproject filled with the creativity that the series is known for.

Since its debut in2000, The Sims franchise has entertained millions with its unique blend of lifesimulation and gameplay, allowing players to create and manipulate virtualpeople, known as Sims, in a variety of settings and scenarios. Its popularityhas spanned numerous sequels and expansions, each adding layers of complexityand engagement to the immersive world. The leap to a feature film represents anew frontier for the franchise, one that offers both challenges and excitingpossibilities in translating the essentials of the game to a narrative filmformat.

Known for herversatility and dedication to her craft, Robbie's involvement is a promisingindicator of the project’s ambition and the team's desire to capture the game'sspirit. The film's premise, while still under wraps, is speculated to explorethe themes of creativity, control, and the simulation of life, central to thegame's appeal. The challenge lies in adapting a title known for its open-endedgameplay and the absence of a traditional storyline into a cohesive andengaging movie that people will enjoy.

The project shouldprove to be a fascinating experiment in video game adaptations, a genre thathas seen mixed success—to say the least—in the past. The key could lie in TheSims' inherently narrative-driven gameplay, which has always encouraged playersto tell stories through their Sims' lives. This aspect offers fertile groundfor a film, potentially allowing for a rich, character-driven story thatcaptures the game's essence while providing a new, standalone experience foraudiences.

As the film is inthe early stages of development, details about the cast, director, and specificplot points remain eagerly anticipated by fans. What’s hoped for by video gamefans is that Robbie and the creative team behind The Sims movie are poised toredefine what a video game adaptation can be. By focusing on the thematic coreof the game, the filmmakers could transcend the traditional boundaries of thegenre, offering a fascinating glimpse into the simulated lives of itscharacters.

For fans of theThe Sims, those who barely know what the game is, and everyone in between, let’shope the movie will be a compelling exploration of life, creativity, and theendless possibilities that define the human experience—both virtual and real.

Celebrating 25 Years+ As a Freelance Writer

I’ve always wantedto be a writer. At least as far back as I can remember. And last year, I celebrated 25 years of being a professional in my chosen field.

My interest inbooks, reading, writing, and the like goes back to when I was a little kid andwould read anything we had lying around the house, whether it was thechildren’s books in my room—Billy Goat’s Gruff, Flat Stanley, and Charlotte’sWeb immediately come to mind—to the more grownup stuff in the living room,including a pair of encyclopedia sets: a standard edition and one based onscience. And I absolutely LOVED the Guinness Book of World Records; I wouldpour over that thing for hours, marveling at all the freaks, geeks, and amazingfeats. I still remember the name of the world’s tallest man—Robert Wadlow!

My mom, who introduced me to writers like TomTryon and Mary Higgins Clark, would take me to used bookstores, where I bouightas many Peanuts paperbacks as I could afford, as well as comic books. We also wentto thrift stores. I distinctly remember buying a stack of Mad magazines atThrift Town for 10-cents each—a bargain even back then.

Mom let me orderthree items per month from the Scholastic Book Club. I always selected DynamiteMagazine—a pop culture treasure trove of fun celebrity profiles, cartoons,puzzles, etc.—and two books, usually a non-fiction title like Ripley’s Believeit or Not or Strange But True Tales and a novel. This is how I discoveredthe greatness of H.G. Wells. War of the Worlds is the first “grownup” novel Iremember reading. Later, I got into Stephen King, Richard Matheson, RodSerling, Dean Koontz, Ray Bradbury, Clive Barker, and too many others to count.

In short, I was averacious reader from a young age, which played a big role in my opening a pairof comic book stores with my brother-in-law during the early ‘90s and laterworking at Waldenbooks. During my stint at Waldenbooks, which was a lot offun—I got to hang out with Charlton Heston, Richard Simmons, Waylon Jennings,and other celebrities during autographings—I tried writing fiction, which wasmet with limited success. I had a few short stories published in small pressmagazines, I got a hand-written letter of rejection from The New Yorker askingme to submit more stories, and I was a quarter-finalist in the L. Ron HubbardWriter’s of the Future Contest. This was an interesting and fun time ofcreativity, but it hardly paid the bills. (I’ve since collected these storiesin a book called The Arcade and Other Strange Tales.)

In 1997, myaforementioned brother-in-law emailed me a want-ad from a company looking forpeople to write about video games for such vintage consoles as the Atari 2600,ColecoVision, and Commodore 64, as well as for what were then newer systemslike the PlayStation and Nintendo 64. This began my association with the AllMedia Guide, the company behind the All Music Guide and the late, lamented AllGame Guide, which was an amazing website dedicated to describing, reviewing,and cataloging every video game ever published for every console, handheld, andcomputer in the history of forever. I was dumbfounded that I actually got paidreal money to write about old (and new) video games.

Oh, did I notmention that I’m into video games? I’ve been gaming since 1975 when Idiscovered Pong and Midway’s Gun Fight at the local bowling alley, and I’vebeen collecting since way before retro gaming was considered cool. During the1990s, you could find tons of older games for pennies on the dollar at garagesales, thrift stores, flea markets, and discount bins at various retail stores.Working for the All Game Guide kicked my collecting bug into overdrive. Afterall, video games were both research and a tax write-off!

In addition tocranking out a ton of game synopses and reviews, I became an editor with theAll Game Guide. I also began writing for the Comic’s Buyer’s Guide (which older readers may remember as The Buyer's Guide for Comic Fandom), as wellas other publications. Between these writing gigs and selling stuff on eBay, Iwas able to quit my job at Waldenbooks and work at home, which was awesome: Iwas living the dream! And changing a lot of dirty diapers as our kids—Ryan andKatie--were little at the time. Speaking of family time, my wife Charis—a highschool English teacher—was a HUGE help during this point in my writing career.She’s a fantastic writer and editor in her own right and would look over mywork on a regular basis, offering all kinds of great advice for polishing up myprose.

Writing steadily for the All Game Guide and the Comics Buyer’s Guide helped me hone my craft to the point where I was ready to write abook. In 2006, I went to San Diego Comic-Con, where I met an editor withMcFarland Publishers. I left a business card, and three days after I got home,they emailed, asking if I had any interesting book ideas. This contact and myfascination with reference volumes and electronic entertainment led to myClassic Home Video Games series, the first installment of which came out in2007—right around the time retro gaming started becoming super mainstream.Later, I wrote more books, including some for Schiffer Publishing, such as the Omnibus books and mynewest, The 100 Greatest Console Video Games: 1988-1998.

In 2009, I wrote my first cover feature for AntiqueWeek, where I have a pop culture column. My friend—former AntiqueWeekcontributing writer Rick Kelsey—gave me contact info for the paper, which isobviously still going strong. My first AW article was about video games (theAtari 2600, in this case), but I’ve written about countless other topicsrelated to collecting. In 2010, I started a near-decade-long career as afreelancer for a major metropolitan newspaper, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Iloved that job, but they downsized like so many publications during the pastfew years and now rarely use freelancers for entertainment-related articles.

The pasttwo-and-a-half decades have been hugely gratifying careerwise. At least most ofthe time. Writing articles for Game Informer, Filmfax, Fangoria, Robot, NativePeoples, Back Issue, Alter Ego, and other mainstream publications has been adream come true. I’ve interviewed numerous celebrities. I called Adam West, andhe answered the phone, “Hello. Batcave.” I had an argument with WilliamShatner. I’ve been on tons of press junkets, getting wined and dined at museumgalas and restaurant and bar openings. Getting press passes to comic book conventions is always fun. Even better is being invited to video gameconventions across the country as a guest author, YouTuber, and panelist.

It’s been a goodrun, but I’m far from finished. These days, I’m cataloging video games andwriting blog posts for Heritage Auctions, as well as continuing to domy own stuff. I hope to keep at it in one form or anotherfor another 25 years!
As always, thanks for reading! And thanks for your support!