I am a RETRO NUT

[craptest]

I am a RETRO NUT

We all like making lists. Apparently this enthusiasm also extends to questionnaires.

Below is a bunch of questions (a.k.a a questionnaire) intended for those who regularly visit retroactive (or plan to). The idea being that those new to the forum can pop in , have a read and get an idea about the retro nuts who populate this crazy space. The questions are also intended to touch on a few issues common to the retro scene.

So slip on your shoddy home made Atari t-shirt you fat. hairy, retro bastard and get to answering them question (if I’ve managed to accurately describe you I apologize. Pure coincidence). I suggest QUOTING THIS POST, editing out everything but the questions and writing in your answers. That way the questions will appear in blue & your answers in black. Yay.

**PLEASE no spam. The only replies should be answers to the questionnaire.

*Also. So there's no confusion, retro is Dreamcast or earlier. XBOX & GBA are not considered retro at this point in time (even though they have been superseded by newer formats).
__________________________________________________ _



>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)


------------------END--------------------------

Thanks for doing the survey. You are officially a retro-nut :grouphug:


.

[KickyFunkFresh]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

My beloved NES back in 1990 (or 1989)

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

NES (35)
Master System II (6)
Amiga 500 (I cant remember anymore but I have alot)
SNES (24)
Super Famicom (1)
Megadrive (25)
N64 (25)
PSOne (44)
Dreamcast (1) - Don't even own the console :P
GB/GBC (10)

I'd list Xbox and GBA games seeing as they arent current gen anymore, but I guess this is too much of a grey area (the GCN could be included too).

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

SNES. But only for Yoshi's Island and Unirally.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

2d gameplay.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

Its amazing how many titles you remember as being awesome are actually quite crap. That said there are those games that stand strong against the test of time.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

I doubt it.

Q7. Retro stinky. It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

My sister taking my NES way back when. Its on the mainland somewhere now. I've since gotten most of the games I used to own again though.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Ebay and Cashies. There really arent that many places to get them in Hobart.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

My limit is usually $30. But it depends on the condition and how hard it is to come across said title.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Cant remember.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Parappa the Rapper (PSOne) :)

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Vagrant Story. Without a doubt.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

SNES. I've not come across a better dpad since.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

The N64. Its an absolute beast.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Dreamcast or Saturn. I really want those.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

I've never sold a console.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

I have no idea!

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

I really don't!

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Not really. It'd be nice, but I only care about the games themselves (I won't stand for scratched discs though).

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

I'd enjoy the games more if I had time to play them all :P

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

I just buy games that interested me back in the day but could never afford or just couldnt find.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

They're a good idea, but they're usually a massive rip-off. The best compilation I've played is the most recent Capcom one.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Leave them be. Improved framerates are a god idea though.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

I only enjoy games I pay for myself. Theres just something about actually owning it.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killer' how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

Never had that problem. But thats mostly because girls only ever like me as a friend and nothing more. **** them I say.

[sidochrome]

Yeah - why not. I'll give it a shot. I'm probably not your typical retro nut though (whatever that means).

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

My earliest gaming memory would be on some kind of Pong clone around 83', but the first system I 'owned' was the Dick Smith VZ300 my Dad got for the family one Christmas, 87' I think. It had 16k of ram - grunt to spare!

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

The only one I've still got with me is my N64, but it doesn't see much love anymore. I think I've got about 16 or so titles for it still.

I've still got my SNES somewhere at my parent's place.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

I dunno if I could put it down to one... so many great games across so many systems.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

That's a tough one. Probably the simplicity of it all - you can just pick it up and play without having to familiarise yourself with complex controls or mechanics.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

Quite significant. While there have been exceptions, I tend to enjoy going back to games I've played before, even if only briefly, than those I've never played.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

Well, I don't really collect the true old stuff, but these retro compilations keep getting released... so...

Q7. Retro stinky. It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Can't say I've been unlucky enough to have an 'encounter' as of yet.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

I had a fair eBay stint for a while there. Some on import, and more recent compilations from ye olde EB (I'm a consumer whore).

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Depends on what the compilation comes to, and whether it has enough games I like to justify purchase.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

I did chase a Megadrive 2 + Mega CD 2 bundle on eBay once, and it went to 150 bucks. But I got the Red Book audio of Final Fight CD and the intro for Road Avenger as a result, so no regrets.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Probably any one of several versions of Street Fighter 3: 3rd Strike.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Probably couldn't qualify for that one. Most of my collection prior to DVD cases, I've turfed the boxes to save on space (heresy, I know).

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Probably the N64 controller. It was pretty comfy, but the analogue stick wasn't particularly robust.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

I'd probably say the SNES, but there's probably a fair bit of nostalgia involved. The woodgrain Atari 2600 is pretty ace though.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Final Fight Revenge would be a nice catch (more as a curio than an , but I'd have to get a Saturn, a 4 meg expansion and actually find the thing. Pretty sure it's Jap only and rareish.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Yeah, my parents usually gave away my old systems to my cousins once they got me a new one. I do get the occasional pang of regret, but haven't felt the need to 'reinvest'.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

Hmm... Final Fight definitely. Wasn't totally without merit, but it was pretty close to it. Just lost touch of what Final Fight was about. Part of that was the design, and part was probably the transition to 3D as well,

I agree on Double Dash... that certainly didn't have the magic. I'd probably say the driver/passenger mechanic added unnecessary complications, and I don't remember the tracks being too crash hot.

My frail old mind fails to think of any others atm.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

I guess it depends on how bad I want it, and how likely I am to find it again. Definitely prefer them to be in top nick though.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

More gaming. Not much point in having them if they're just gathering dust. I'm really getting to the stage where I'm well into the process of thinning out the collection, actually (BLOOD IN THE WATER!).

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Anything I enjoy really, but these days, it's mainly compilations/rereleases.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

They're top stuff. Street Fighter Anniversary Collection was mana from heaven, and Capcom Classics Collection Remixed is pretty damn hot.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

I'd prefer they preserve the originals, or at least offer them alongside the 'arrange' version. Ask someone who got that recent Sega Classics package... it looked pretty arse to me.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

If it's something you're actually going to be spending some time playing and enjoying, you might as well legitimise your hobby. At the retro stage, you could probably argue that your money isn't getting back to the developers anyway, but hey - it's good karma.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killer' how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

Sounds like Chilli. ;)

I know of one guy with a wall of retro gear, and he's been married for some time now.

I can see how it might be a delicate balance for some, but you need to keep your pimp hand strong. Or something.

[Ezri]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Computer: 286PC in 1989, Console: Super NES in 1995

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Nintendo 64 (53) - I own 1 PAL and 1 NTSC-U console
Sega Mega Drive/Genesis (51) - 1 Sega Mega Drive, 1 Sega Mega Drive II and 1 ASIAN PAL Sega Mega Drive II.
Nintendo Entertainment System (43) - 2 front loader consoles.
Super NES/Famicom (40) - 2 PAL units, 1 Super Famicom and 1 NTSC-U SNES.
Sega Dreamcast (38) - 2 PAL units.
Sega Master System (38) - 1 SMS and 1 SMSII
Sony PlayStation (35) - 1 Sony PlayStation (modchipped/case modded) and 1 PSone w/LCD screen.
Sega Saturn (24) - 2 PAL model 2's
Atari 2600/VCS (20) - 1 Atari 2600 Jr.
Game Boy Color (9) - 1 purple unit.
Sega Game Gear (7) - 2 units, one dead and used for parts.
SNK Neo Geo Pocket Color (7) - 1 light metallic blue NGPC.
Atari Lynx (4) - 1 Lynx II
Sega Mega CD (4) - 1 Mega CD II
Game Boy (3) - Don't actually own any monochrome GB's
Sega 32X (1) - 2 PAL 32X units (one's boxed with manual, the other loose)
Game & Watch (1) - Turtle Bridge
TV Games (1) - Activision 10-in-1
Atari 7800 (0) - No game carts, but the 7800 has Asteroids built-in.
Amiga CD32 (0) - No games, and the power supply is dead.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Well, it's out of the N64 and Dreamcast, but I'll say N64 because it's more retro than DC at the moment. And why? It's hard to say. The console itself is a shambles. Cartridges hold back what could've been an awesome PSX-killer system, the controllers are a little awkward and the joysticks are delicate.
But this system is home to more AAA games than ANY other system (except possibly the DC).

As for my top 5 games for this system:
Perfect Dark: Close to being the best console FPS ever made, and definitely the best game on the system. Sure, it might seem to exceed to the scope of the console at times, but for me, that's a great thing.

Lylat Wars/StarFox 64: One of the best and most playable 3D shooters ever. Great variety, slick controls and great level design.

Blast Corps: Quite possibly one of the most unique games ever made. It's been screaming for a sequel for 10 years now. I really hope it happens.

Top Gear Rally: Personal favourite here, but it really is the most playable car-racer on the system. Heaps of replayability.

Super Mario 64: The best 3D platformer ever made. I say this with the utmost conviction.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
There's fun to be had from EVERY generation of games, and I make it my goal to get the most out of every system ever made (price/availability permitting). I don't exclude myself from current-gen gaming (my PS2 game collection can attest to that), but I just don't think that if something's old, that it is instantly surpassable.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Knowledge is power, and experience bring knowledge. It's quite simple, if you know what has/hasn't been done before, you know for certain if something current is good or original as it claims to be.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
My retro buying has already slowed down drastically in the last six months, simply due to there being not much else out there that I really want. Sure, a Neo Geo AES or TurboGrafx-16 would be nice, but there's not much left on the consoles I do own that I don't have/need.

Q7. Retro stinky. It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Well, my first Dreamcast wouldn't work properly due to an excess of cigarette ash being caked onto it's internal components.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Cash Convertors, Good Samaritan/Salvation Army stores and eBay.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
That's highly dependant on the system and I have pricing rationales for every console game libraries, which is against dependant on condition.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Well, I paid $50 for Marvel vs. Capcom 2 on DC, but that's not that retro yet. Pre-DC? $39.95 for N64 Re-Volt (complete).

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Hmm, quite possibly my mint, unused NES (that I found for $5).

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Have to say I'm really fond of the Gunstar Heroes box-art.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Super NES. Perfect balance between form and function. The small-style, Sega Saturn digital pad comes a very close second.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
If we're including Dreamcast, then it would be that. If not, then it's probably the PAL Super NES/JAP Super Famicom.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Radiant Silvergun - and it's the cost that's holding me back, as it isn't THAT hard to find online.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Sold my original SNES back in the day, but I now have four in it's place. I have sold many other systems, but those are ones I have found for cheap, refubished them to sell onto eBay/willing customers.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Super Mario 64 > Super Mario Sunshine takes the cake for me. Honourable mentions go to Mario Kart SNES/N64 > Double Dash (GCN) and Ocarina of Time (N64) > Wind Waker (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Going with Super Mario 64, it's pure un-tampered platforming in 3D. Sunshine adds Fludd, which really doesn't make things more fun. It's a new dynamic, but a quickly unwanted one. Also, the fact that Sunshine's camera is WORSE than SM64's is inexcusable. The levels are not very fun to play through - the aforementioned Fludd makes matters worse. The equation here is simple, and it's got nothing to with retro gaming being better. It's to do with the fact that Sunshine is just a BADLY constructed game.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Mintness is nice, but not a necessity. I am no where near as anal as other people I've come across online.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Gaming. Hunting is only a means to finding enjoyable games. That said, I do take great pleasure in restoring games/systems.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
I buy what I want to play, what I enjoyed back in the day, or what people recommend to me as a good game.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Compilations are great when done well, for the right price. Especially when they include games which are often VERY hard to find in their original form.
As for the best compilation? Street Fighter Anniversary Collection is nice, kudos also to Midway Arcade Treasures 3 and Taito Legends 2.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
No. Games should be ported exactly how they were originally made. It makes them more classic and it's easier to determine whether a game is still truly worthy of your attention. That said, SOME minor improvements can be allowed, like running in high resolution, and fixing any glitches or frame rate issues that were a result of rushed dev time, or console inadequacies.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
I emluated for years, but it just isn't the same. The feel isn't there, and there isn't always 100% emulation perfection. I do emulate still, but not as my primary retro-gaming experience. There's just no substitute for holding the original controller, sitting infront of a cathode ray tube television and really reminiscing the proper way.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
My significant other has no issues with my gaming/collecting habits, and in fact thinks it's pretty cool.

[Not Matt]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Probably like 1989 or 1990 on the Atari 2600

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
NES x2 [+ 1 toploader]
SNES
Megadrive
Megadrive 2 x3
Mega CD 2 x3
32x x4
Master System
Atari Lynx 2
Game Gear
Gameboy
Gameboy Pocket
Gameboy Colour
Dreamcast
PSone (w/screen)
Playstation
Saturn x2

[Screw games count :)]

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Dreamcast: The sheer diversity, simplicity and character. The load times are kept minimal and the games are pick up and play, but have so much more character than any other system around. The graphics were crisp, clean and fun. It was just a fantastic machine where nearly every game is an enjoyable experience.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

In terms of collecting, the thrill of the hunt. These games you read about years ago and always wanted to play but never had a chance. Finally coming across that title in the wild is such an enjoyable experience.

In terms of gameplay, the kitsch value for one. Just downright cheesy. It's a simple fun distraction that takes me back to my childhood.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

A simple, basic retro game can seem like the best game around thanks to nostalgia. Retro gaming is always about the memories and no one judges retro games quite the same as modern ones, we seek their values and not their faults half the time. This applies for the older they get I think. We are willing to give games we overlooked a 2nd chance.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

NEVER! Today my floor is litered with retro arcade boards and my cupboards chocked with retro awesomeness, but I just can't stop. Why oh why can't I sell rare games I'm not even a fan of!

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Nothing that bad really. Perhaps my used Power Gloves... doesn't stink so much as it is icky to the touch.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Cash Converters largely

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

$5-10 normally

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Nothing that bad really, perhaps $45 for Shenmue I guess so all good.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Hmmm personally to me it would have to be the dreamcast and games (Shenmue, JSR, Powerstone 2 *wub*). Along with my powergloves. Though in collecting stakes, my 32x and Mega CD stuff (Knuckle's Chaotic, Kolibri, Night Trap, Sonic CD for the win!

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

No idea really

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Power Glove!
Strength: It's so bad!
Weakness: It sucks :(

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

Woodgrain Atari!

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Hmm a bunch of Dreamcast games out there I reckon like SF3TS and Shenmue 2. I guess both cost and rarity are factors that prevent me from owning them. Also a ROB, with likewise factors.

EDIT: Sorry, wasn't in my right mind... would like to change that

One of my holy grails of recent years has been the r360 arcade machine by Sega ... it's just so over the top, yet of a very high price and hard to find

Also I have always wanted a twin sit down cabinet of Outrunners.... and also a 4 player TMNT machine

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Sold both of my 32xs back in the day to Cashies along with a bunch of other stuff to buy Destruction Derby :\. Luckily found 4 a year or so ago for a bargain price!

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

House of the Dead 2 on DC > House of the Dead 3

Need I say more, who thought shotguns could be kinda lame?

Goldeneye on N64 > Goldeneye Rougue Agent

OMG like you suX0rs if you don't think Goldeneye is the pinacle of FPS ever

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Yeah to an extent, more so for CD based games as I buy a lot of carts, but I much prefer mint and complete.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Collecting over gaming lately :(

I'm not losing money if the game is worth lots. I absolutely enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Although, when it comes to the DC or arcade games it certainly comes down to gaming an dthe thrill of the hunt is still there.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Probably an opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), although often I hesitate and buy only if I know it's rare for certain.

[COLOR=Blue]Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

No comment really, no opinion. SF Anniversary collection though... finally get to play TS :D

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Atari Retro Classics on DS anyone?....

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

****** EMULATION! The thrill in retro games is the physical component.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

I'm not in a relationship now but it's never posed a problem. I think when it comes to arcade stuff they have no problem and think it's cool. For consoles and games I just say it is worth lots lots of money and wont be worth less if I sell it now or later. Mmmmm assets

[dragonfly]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

Our Mega Drive I, in about 1990, maybe a year or two later.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Master System (6)
NES (19)
Mega Drive x 2 (22)
SNES x 2 (4)
Saturn (7)
N64 (14)
GB (9)
*GBA SP (4)

*ok, so this probably shouldn't be in here yet

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Mega Drive easy, because I grew up on it. Fave games are the Sonic series, and out of those I love Sonic 1, Sonic Spinball and Dr Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

Memories. Collecting started off as a way to recapture childhood memories with the mega drive (as we gave ours away when we 'upgraded' to the n64) and it grew from there, as I had never had the chance to own any of the other systems and was sure I was missing out. Turns out, I was right :)

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

When it comes to the Mega Drive and some NES games, nostalgia definately plays a part. I mean I just bought Art Alive (MD) on Saturday, what a piece of crap, but I had to have it, and it was fun to remember what I spent hours playing with when I was younger. Personally I enjoy the 2D graphics alot more than some of the 3D stuff that is around now, although I have found a love for Sonic on GCN and GT3 Concept on PS2. My favourite will always be the old 2D platformers though.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

Nah, I may slow down in purchases, but I will always own and cherish my retro goodies.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past? Solution?

The second Mega Drive that I purchased absolutely stunk of smoke. I haven't done anything about it yet, as I don't use it, just got it as a bargain and a backup.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Cashies, Game Rush, Game Traders. In that order.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

It really depends on how hard the title is to get, and how much I want it. I pay about $5 on average, more for the obsquer games.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

I think it was about $30 or $40, I haven't really had to pay a large amount for one title yet.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Sonic Spinball. I was so excited when I finally managed to track down a reasonably priced copy, then I found 3 more with about a week, ah well. I love it.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Don't have one.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Mega Drive, but I think that's just because I grew up with it. I have one with the little turbo switches, loved that when playing Wonder Boy in Monster World. lol.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

The N64, I love the curves. All the others are boxes.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Currently I really want a Dreamcast. I passed up on buying one for $50 and have regretted it ever since.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

My mum gave away our Mega Drive. I was really sad to see it go, but if I still had it now I probably wouldn't have started collecting in the first place and look what I would have missed out on!

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Sonic. I do like playing the new ones on my Cube, but I don't love it. It's hard to compare them though, they are really different.

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

The 3D graphics adds a whole new dimension, one that is unwanted by me. :P

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

To start with it wasn't, as I just wanted to get all the games I could lay my hands on, as long as they worked. I would always buy a game in better condition over poor condition where possible, but I often didn't have the money to do so. Now that I have the basics I find that I can wait to find games that are in better condition.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

It does depend on the game, but sometimes the hunt does outweigh the gameplay, but I think that this is often because I really don't have the time to sit down and enjoy playing games at the moment as I always feel I should be doing something else. (like now, I should be working on an assignment, but hey, this is for retroactive!)

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

I tend to collect all the games that I had or played when I was younger and then go for whatever else interests me, or if I find something dirt cheap I will pick it up.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

They can be good, but most of them don't really interest me. The Sonic Mega Collection is a good one (imo), although I never did manage to buy a copy for my Cbe, I did hire it once so my sister could have a play of all the old games. (My retro collection is a group effort with my bf and it lives at his place as I don't have a tv here, so my sister doesn't get to play on any of my systems appart from my Cube and the n64 and second snes I have here).

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Meh. Leave them alone unless they were really poor for the old system's standards.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

I hate playing games on the comuter, it's just not the same as sitting in front of the tv in a bean bag and having the controller in your hand!

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killer' how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

As I previously stated, my partner collects with me, so no issues there. :D

[Dorepoll]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
I had a NES when I was 4 or 5.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Nintendo 64 (18)
Nes (12)
Gameboy Chunk (3)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

NES - My controllers still work and the games are silly fun, and I haven't been able to finish every game due to the ludicris difficulty on some of the games.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

I don't play it that much. Usually just nostalgia.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

A shitload. Old games now, regardless of how fun they are, can be very primitive. I think that better graphics and power has allowed us to branch out to new areas of gameplay.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

I don't buy anymore, merely keep what I already have.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

My retro items all smell like flowers. Or flour, I'm never sure which one exactly.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Cash Converters.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

$4.59 - $5.01

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

$20 for Tennis on NES, which I lost.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

TROG on NES.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

The original Megaman game. He looks like a constipated man in the valley of yellow arses. Other games should take note, and learn from this fine example of art and video entertainment,

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

NES. It doesn't wear out, and it does it's purpose. No wankery, just function.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

PS1's looked awesome when they went miniture.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Jacki Chan on NES is the only game I would consider buying if I saw it.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

No, they just gather dust in my attic.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

Pretty much every N64 game has been followed up with a sub-par sequal on GCN. Mario Kart and Mario Tennis, I'm looking at you.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Working and not stinky is all want. I don't get into the collectable stuff. I buy games to play games, as strange as it sounds.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Haven't been sucked into it, unlike my comic habit. I buy retro games (however infrequently) purely for the nostalgia trip, or if I missed out on a huge title the first time round. The Final Fantasy series is an example of the latter.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

I've probably bought only a few titles, and downloaded the rest. Basically, I just buy things if I used to love them as a kid, or my original is now worn to crap. So I'm going to go with other.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

I've only played the Street Fighter stuff, and the novelty wears off. Good history trip and time killer, but ultimatly not a huge thing for me.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Agreed. The prettier things are, the more absorbed you are into the game (assuming the gameplay allows so), and as such, if I get sucked in a game that I love moreso than I used to, then that's got to be a good thing.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

Good point. They don't sell it, I shouldn't buy it. Have a dollar.


Also, playing NES games on your PSP kicks so much arse.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

I get a whole "you are Seth Coen" routine whenever I meet someone, so I get a cute smile on this subject thanks to the wonders of crappy US teen dramas. The comic collection pulls more chicks than my lines ever could.

[craptest]

........

[UC1]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
I started off on PC, playing arcade and adventure games (tho have never played a "point and click" adventure). First console was the sega master system 2.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
I have a dreamcast around here somewhere... thats about it. It stopped working, and I sold all my games for it.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Arcade CPS2. Had such a great mix of fighters, shmups and beat em ups.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
In the fighting, shmup and beat em up genres, many of the best efforts are retro. You can pick them up and play them and actually want to come back after you "finish" them, and they don't need extra weapons/costumes/endings to have that appeal. A lot of single player games these days seem to lose their appeal after just one playthrough, but that could also be due to the sheer amount of games available these days.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
I get nostalgia from new games, not old games. Wind waker is a good example, getting the sword from the stone and rescuing the princess doesn't seem to get old. I play retro games because they are good, not because they stir up some memories. I think younger gamers who never played a lot of the 2D games need to have a look, they really are timeless, and its a shame that the industry demands 3D these days.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Well until I buy a bunch of arcade cabs (which won't happen) I'm still waiting for the best emulations of certain classics. Streetfighter alpha anthology will hopefully fill a huge void in that regard. To be honest I'd rather buy back older games as compilations than hunt down old consoles. I don't like having a tonne of consoles unless I think they have enough exclusives to make them worth getting. With ports and compilations (and virtual consoles and live arcade type stuff), retro consoles lose a lot of their exclusives.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I don't think I've bought a 2nd hand game or console since the megadrive.... Never had a stinky game or console iirc.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
In compilations =P playasia, liksang and ebay are good sources at any rate.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
If its that good I'd pay $100, maybe more. For SFA anthology I would honestly pay up to $200, but it'll likely be a budget release.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Probably around $100.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Streetfighter AE. I really should buy a few more copies just in case...

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v507/ultracrazy1/GnGBoxArt.gif
Ghouls n ghosts for megadrive.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Any decent arcade stick. I play pretty much every 2D game with an arcade stick, even platformers. There have been some shockers in the past, so I'll use the dreamcast official arcade stick as a bit of a benchmark.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
To be honest I think most consoles look like mis-shapen plastic pieces of crap. Every time I see a vs city cabinet I think its pretty ****ing cool tho =P If I really wanted to splurge on something retro, it'd be one of those.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
A vs city cabinet, sanwa or seimitsu controls and a working CPS3 board with 3rd Strike. I'd also love to build a mame cabinet with a CPS2 board. The reason I won't have the 3S board is because they have to be sent to Japan to be fixed every 5 years or so. I get *almost* the same experience with my current set up, and the difference is not all that important to me.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I've sold my master system 2, megadrive 2, N64, and all my dreamcast games. I have absolutely no regrets because I still have a lot of retro games playable through emulation. Its great that companies realise the importance of keeping the old games alive and re-releasing them on more powerful consoles.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
Capcom Fighting Jam was a step backwards, and even tho its a great game, I'll say the same about CvS2. When you mix characters who have a lot of frames of animation and mix them with characters who don't have as many, you have to make it all look cohesive. The better approach is to take the time and draw a bajillion sprites for each character, but at the same time having a game with a bajillion characters is also pretty cool. CvS2 gets away with it because it has a tonne of awesome characters.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Yeah. I just figure I'll get more life out of something if its new.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
I always want to play new games (including old games that are new to me), but it is all about playing them. If I really do think that I'm not going to play something anymore, I'll try to sell it.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
I'd say eclectic. I could give a number of reasons why I think the other 3 are insane =P.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
They are totally awesome. Best to date = Streetfighter AE. Also love the capcom classics collections, and recently have really enjoyed gradius portable on psp. SFA anthology will likely be a close 2nd to SFAE.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
NO! Just no... If it is a totally new game, or "new enough" and still decent, then its fine. Megaman powered up and Ultimate Ghosts n Goblins are good examples. Sega ages is the best example of ****ing up remakes.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
It depends on what it's really worth. I wouldn't hold it against anyone to own an emulated copy of radiant silvergun because it is not worth $300+ Also a lot of arcade games that you simply can not buy are worth playing, and the only way is through illegal emulation. The Punisher and Alien vs Predator by capcom are examples. These days you can't go to the arcade, pay $1 and try something out. Your legal alternative is often paying thousands of dollars to a private seller and the company still gets nothing. Of course if you can readily buy the game for a reasonable price then I would definately pay respect to the software company and buy the game.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
3 words: DATE JAPANESE GIRLS.

[StompBrother]

Hi. I'm Stompy and I'm about kicking arse!

Oh oops...

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

Back when I was a wee one. I remember playing Pong... but really got started on Atari and then NES.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Rough estimates:

NES - 4
SNES - 25
GameBoy - 11
N64 - 50 (if this is considered retro)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Nothing in particular. My retro gaming actually happened back then and I have never really had the urge to play them again now. But if we are to choose one:

SNES - Mainly because it had a trememndous amount and variety of games.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

Haven't hunted retro games really. I kept my retro stuff when I bought them when they first released. I'm not much of a retro gamer. I've played all I want from back then and am really just seeking and excited over upcoming stuff.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

While graphics today do impress, I still believe people won't buy a shit game regardless if it looks like god. As for the nostalgia factor... I do believe a lot of it plays a part in the DESIRE to play retro games. How often do I replay an old game and realise how awful it is. A case of being spoilt by better control design and less tolerance on developmental annoyances such as controls.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

Not really. I'll get "retro" with the Wii's Virtual Console thingy but i won't really seek out old games. As I stated above, I already have the games I want. OK I lie... I want to acquire a PAL Shadowrun for the SNES and Parappa The Rappa for the PS1.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Hasn't happened. Although a pre-owned PS2 game I bought recently reeked of cigarettes.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Anywhere that sells retro items. Game Traders, Cash Converters and if necesarry........ ebay *shudder*

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Wouldn't pay more than $50 for a good condition retro game. Although for a perfect copy of Shadowrun......

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Super Metroid (jap) imported it from japan back when it released. $160 + $80 for a convertor cart. Although this doesn't qualify as a retro buy. It was new. Therefore...

$30 for Vib Ribbon

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Terranigma (Aus PAL) & Final Fantasy 3 (US)

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Castlevania games. (3 and 4) And generally all Konami releases back in the 8 & 16 bit days.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

SNES. Great button layout and perfect sized d-pad. The addition of the shoulder buttons back then was certainly welcomed. Although the controller may be a tad small for people with big hands.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

SNES (Jap & PAL, not the poxy US one). Still bloody beautiful to this day.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Shadowrun (PAL SNES). Not really hard to find. I just don't ebay.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Nope. Next question.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

None that I can think of at the moment.


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Yes. Unless said game is near impossible to find complete or am desperate to just play it. Also doesn't have to be in near perfect condition. A bit of normal wear is fine. And not fussed with having less that perfect corners.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Enjoy the playing rather than the hunt. Good bargains are good too. Ocasionally I get bouts of "must own set syndrome" but thats only with GC stuff nowadays.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Not much a collector of retro stuff. Already have what I wanted with just one or two wishlist must haves. So none of the above when it comes to retro stuff.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

These compilations are great. Although there are reports of glitches and quirky oddities, I still think they are a great idea. Saves you the hassle of unpacking old consoles or tracking down games you really wouldn't buy in the first place. Best compilation... Mega Man Anniversarry Collection. Robots! Megaman! The original Megaman series! Enough said.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

That's fine but ALWAYS include the original version in the compilation, selectable from the very beggining or a tleast unlockable.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

Impossible to find games... emulate away. And this is really a stupid question. I don't need to justify to anyone why I would want anything in particular and pay good money for it.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

Moderation and obviously understanding. If it's bothering your partner so much and you aren't overboard with it, maybe she isn't as understanding or loving as you initially thought. I can ramble on a different tangent on relationship politics but that would be stupid. In the end, never place material possesions above loved ones.

-Stompy

[Chilli]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Early 80's, my friends Atari 2600

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
4 ARCADE
21 ATARI 2600
?? ATARI ST
8 COMMODORE 64
15 N-Gage
15 PC
2 Game & Watch
25 NES
27 SUPER NES
31 N64
16 GAMECUBE
4 GAMEBOY
6 GAMEBOY COLOR
80 MASTER SYSTEM
165 MEGA DRIVE
16 MEGA CD
60 SATURN
39 DREAMCAST
8 GAME GEAR
40 PLAYSTATION

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Sega Mega Drive - Good quality boxes

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Nice and cheap, and a challenge to find.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Nostalgia plays a large part, this week I bought Kid Chameleon for the Mega Drive - I hate it. I hated it when it was new. But it brings back some good memories.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
When I can't hide or sneak any more crap into the house.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I've just had a few smell like cigarette smoke, I left them in a cupboard in the garage with a couple of car air freshners, good as new. Also I wipe everything down with disinfectant.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Garage Sales.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Garage Sales $3 - $8 Stores $8 - $15

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Final Fight Mega CD $40

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Road Rash for the Megadrive - for nostalgic reasons

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Spiderman Venom : Maximum Carnage

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
I enjoy the Mega Drive contoller - you can really throw that SOB around.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
The original Mega Drive - reminds me of KITT

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Not really, I wouldn't mind a Sega Rally two player arcade machine, but I don't think I could hide it from my girlfriend for long.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
No. But yes I am aware I'm an idiot.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Road Rash (MD) > Moto GP 3 (xbox) as there are more cows that you can hit.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
It's preferable, but depends on the price also.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Hell Yeah. The Hunt. I don't have enough time to play all the games I purchase.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
From your definitions, Opportunist is most appropriate, as sometimes I forage through the Opportunity Shop.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
I buy them if the price is okay, but don't care either way. The best would have to be Taito Legends and the Capcom Collection on Xbox.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
If they redo a game they should also include the original.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………Because I don't want a heap of disks written on with marker lying around, and I want to blow all my money now so I can be a burden on society later.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
I have to sneak stuff into the house and just pretend it was there before, for example when referring to anything from a Game Gear cart to a Dreamcast Kiosk "Oh yeah, that old thing, thats been there for years"
I've also taken over one of the spare bedrooms and she isn't allowed in there, simply because more often than not she bursts into tears when she sees all the crap I'm hoarding.

[ElPresidente]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

1980 - Atari 2600

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

None but I still play retro PC games on my current system.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

The PC. Mainly because it is so easy to play old games on and doesn't require the depreciation one must live with when hanging on to an old system from years gone past.

Most importantly though is the fact that I find PC games age better than console games. Because of storage space, processing capacity and other factors retro PC games tend to be more complex than console games of the same time (I'd argue this gap was finally closed with the release of last generations consoles). Nothing upset me more than realising I no longer liked The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past upon playing it on the Gameboy.

Can't give an exact number of retro PC games I own (Gonna say anything more than 10 years old at the moment) but the figure is somewhere around the 250-300 range.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

A sense of history and place. You guys who've been on Hyperactive for a while know gaming is important to me for both leisure and professional reasons. Going back to classics like Ultima VII, Loom and more remind me of where we have come from and where we are going.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

I have to say I'm not a nostalgic retro gamer by any stretch. I've argued vehemently on this board and others that gaming is getting better not worse. I don't play a lot of retro games simply because most of them no longer hold up for any reason other than nostalgia in my eyes. Those retro games I do play are still considered some of the best in show, Ultima VII being a prime example.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

Since I rarely actively seek retro gaming there's nothing really to curb. My collection of old PC games is really there simply because it would be too much effort to sell them considering how much they would go for.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

It doesn't smell bad but my box for Grim Fandango (which, admittedly is pushing the definition of retro a bit) is beyond repair. It just kept collapsing in on itself.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Gametraders & eBay. A god send for finding those old classics you missed the first time around.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Not more than $20 but I did pay about $100 for a CE version of Symphony of the Night.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

See above.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Original Ultima VII box with cloth map and Journey of the Fellowship guide.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Once again... Ultima VII. A box that still has not been beaten in terms of visual appeal. An example of sheer genius in box design.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c102/ElPrezAU/u7box.gif

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

I guess I'm gonna have to go console on this one eh? ;)

I'd say it would have to be the N64 controller. More buttons and more conveniently placed than something like the Dual Shock. Nonetheless I find it hard to get excited about controllers... except the 360 one of course which is peerless but then again this is the wrong thread for that. :P

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

The Saturn.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Panzer Dragoon Saga

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Super Metroid > Metroid Prime

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

2D makes tight level design much easier. Retro did a good job but the move to 3D didn't result in a better game, it felt too loose and aimless in comparison.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

If I can get them mint/complete then yes, I'll pay more just to get those versions.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Nope. The games are definately the end to which the hunting is a means.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Call me the historian. I like to hunt down and find those important or great games I missed first time around.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

Compilations are good. They make it easier on everyone. For the best does the Street Fighter Anniversary Edition count?

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

I'm half and half on this one. Ideally there is an option to enjoy the retro graphics if you wish or enjoy the game in new sexyness.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

Nothing beats opening my gaming drawers and seeing all those pretty boxes staring back at me. Nothing.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

No amusing stories. All my gfs have been pretty understanding of my gaming obsession and I don't let it interfere with those relationships. Girl is over, computer is off. I like sex more than games. :D

[SOX]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
In 1996 the day before my birthday on my brand spanking new N64.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
NES(1) don't own console
SNES(8)
N64(15)
DC(10)
GameBoy Pocket(4)
PSone(3)

wow i so don't have as much as i thought :cry:

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
The retro platform of choice is totally the N64. My favourite console of all time bar none. The reason I love it so much was Rare's involvement and the multiplayer the console promoted. Top games off the top of my head are Conker's Bad Fur Day, Jet Force Gemini, GoldenEye, Perfect Dark and Mario Kart 64.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Well for one its ten times cheaper to pick up retro games and secondly its fun searching for rare titles.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
All I know is that more often than not, nostalgia lies.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
The only thing curbing my retro-ness is my income, which at the moment is almost non existant :-(

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Never happened to me.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay or Cashies.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Depends on the rarity but not normally over $20.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
I spent $80 on a mint copy of Ikaruga on DC with spine card... but it never arrived.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Fully working 64 controller.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
I keep all my boxes but I don't have a favourite.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
N64 controller FTW.
Strengths: 6 face buttons, analogue control, z trigger
Weaknesses: Wear out quickly, are useless after the stick dies.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Dreamcast, I love the look of the console and the controllers.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Radiant Silvergun. I'm not a shmup fan but this is the rarest game I know of.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Never.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
PD > PD0. 1080 Snowboarding > 1080 Snowboarding: Avalanche. WaveRace > WaveRace: Blue Storm.

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
These games were great during their time and their current gen iterations haven't changed them for the better OR haven't grown into the current gen.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
It's important but I will still buy something that isn't.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
I enjoy collecting games more than playing them.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Opportunist

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
They suck and they are just publishers wanting to make more money.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
No, they should only change things like the resolution and maybe aliasing (remove the 64's dodgy vaseline-o-vision).

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
I don't mind emulating as long as I at very least own the console. But realistically its always better on the source.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
I've had one major relationship in the past (two and a half years) and I'm currently in another (been going for over two years) and neither of the girls have had a problem with my gaming. Yay me!

[Kloppy]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Gawd... 1986 mabye? On an Atari 2600

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Master System II (3)
Megadrive (20ish)
PSX (4)
Game & Watch machines (6, incl one brand new, boxed)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
That would have to be the NEO-GEO. So many years of arcade history.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Nostalgia, obviously. Also a lot of the games while not technically advanced, are actually more fun (that's why people still play pinball tables, right?)

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
OMG... it's almost an exact repeat of my answer to Q4! Many memories of games are tinted with the rose-coloured glasses that is nostalgia, but a few games still impress.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
No. When I have more money I will build my collection more so.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Never stinky, but sometimes so grimey that your afraid to touch.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay, Cashies and Op shops

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Not normally over $10, unless it's impossible to emulate. This may change when I have a bit more dough.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
I think I paid almost $40 for Street Fighter Ann Collection for PS2 (NTSC).
Maybe $25 for Virtua Racing for the MD.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Setup: Sega MD (modified for NTSC by me) + Street Fighter II' Plus: Champion Edition (Japanese version) + 2 X Sega Arcade Power Stick II (both sticks boxed)

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
I keep the boxes, but the art has never had a big impact on me.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
See Q11.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Atari 2600 Woody.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
A few actually:
A NEO-GEO system (w/ Pulsar and a KOF)
A Saturn with Nights (w/controller) and RS.
A Dreamcast and HotD (I love shooters), Datona and Soul Calibur (w/ appropriate controllers in each case)
Thing holding me back? MONIES!!!

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I sold my Atari 2600 jr with 96 (!) games back in the day. It'd be a pretty cool collection to have these days.
I gave my MSII (with about 15 games) to my girlfriend who gave it away when we split. She gave away everything apparently :cry:

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
True Sega classics > Sega Ages/Sega Classics
Shinobi
Every mario game after SMB3 (Although I haven't played NSMB)

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Games are made by committees these days; So 'too many cooks spoil the broth' is appropriate.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
It's important but I will still buy something that isn't if I really want it.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Playing is the most important BY FAR.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Opportunist probably.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Retro compilations are just legal emulation... it's ok, but you haven't got the thrill of owning the collectors item, nor are you likely to be playing using the original controllers.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
They definately should NOT touch the graphics unless they're creating a whole new game. e.g. Outrun, Rygar, Contra.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
You need the correct hardware for the correct experience. This means
A) playing on a TV
B) playing on original controllers.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
Ha ha ha. Don't worry about me, I do alright in that department ;)
Nearly all the girls I've been with have liked videogames at some level, and are far more likely to enjoy the retro games over the latest thing.

[Grand-Funk]

Q1. Late on 90's on Snes,Megadrive and Pc

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
Nes 6
Snes 4
Md 3
Gb 5
Saturn 1
Sms 1
Atari St 24

Q3.Dead heat between Snes and Md because of their great range of games

Q4. I find retro a lot more fufilling and cheaper

Q5. Some from the stuff i played as a kid

Q6. until I fill a room

Q7. None
Q8. Cashies

Q9. 5$ or so

Q10. like 20$ for a bunch of stuff

Q11. Faxanadu coz its my only complete nes game

Q12. Police quest 2 because of the awesome airbrushed faces

Q13: Md because of its comfortable curves
Q14:Sms because its not a BOX
Q15.Chrono Trigger Earth Bound and select game and watches
Q16. Megadrive I got another on a few years back for cheaper :-P

Q17. I can't say/dont understand the question

Q18. Yes if its a game I can't play i.e NTSC

Q19. half half
Q20. Everything I can get my hands on

Q21.Depends on what it has
Q22. As long as they don't tamper with the gameplay

Q23.No prison


Q24. N/A

[Dr Skinnybones]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Age 6, SEGA Megadrive + Sonic 2.
I was signed, sealed and delivered on SEGA.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
Megadrive (13 )
Mega CD2 (1 )
Saturn (33 )
NB All current total after selling off some titles.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
Saturn all the way. Despite the mistakes SEGA made with the machine, they really pulled out the stops in some cases to get the better of the PSX. The Virtua Fighter 2, Virtua Cop and SEGA Rally ports were and are superb. NiGHTS still plays as well today as it does then.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Well being a SEGA fan, the simplicity in having all the great SEGA games on the one console (for that generation).

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
I think this suggestion that today's games are only about graphics is bunk. Games were about graphics back then, it's just we can achieve now more than we could then. That said, gameplay has always stood the great games from the crap. Always.

Nostalgia plays a big part, but a great game is a great game.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Saturn games are expensive, plain and simple. So I've stopped chasing after them but I will always consider certain games for the right price.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I haven't had much in the way of offensive smells, but I have had a few manuals with pages fused together with mystery adhesives (none of which I believe to be love juice, thank god).

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
I've only got the one place in my town trading in retro games. It lacks variety so ebay is my only refuge.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
I've since stopped, but $40 would be a fair average.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
This is embarassing. Panzer Dragoon Saga $269. It wasn't even in mint condition. Stupidly, it was my first ebay purchase and I didn't research the item properly (I wasn't aware the PAL release had an outer box).

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Can't choose!
NiGHTS and 3D pad. NiGHTS is only in a CD jewel case, but the fun I've had with that game...

Guardian Heroes. So many hours clocked on this thing.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
There isn't much in the way of AMAZING cover art in my collection. The Panzer Dragoon games, despite having amazing art in the game, have really lame covers.
I'll go with Dragon Force.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Saturn pad! Six buttons, shoulder buttons and nice D-pad. Sure it borrows from the SNES pad, but it trumps it.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
I can't go past my Saturn. For a squarish box, it has sexy curves.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
If we're talking anything, SEGA Rally arcade unit.
Realistically, Shining Force 3 for Saturn. Both cost and rarity. I've seen SF3 on ebay a total of 3 times.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Sold my Gameboy Pocket and Gameboy Color (x2).
No regrets as they were ursurped by following models. Why have a Gameboy Color when the Advance plays the games fine?

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
Sonic 2 > Sonic Adventure.

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Sonic was designed to be simple to control. The move to 3D complicates this and can't be helped.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Depends on what we are talking here. Anything that attracts collector prices have to be in collector condition. Generally the games I buy are the ones I want to play, so reasonable condition for a reasonable price is cool.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Gaming. I buy what I want, but there was a time I was purely collecting.
The hunt makes me anxious and sometimes make poor decisions (hello Panzer Saga) but the relief in getting that must have game is great, I must say.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
I was a completist (trying to get all the must haves or all in a series) but the cost and effort began to outweigh the benefits. More an opportunist now.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Compilations are great and the antidote to overpriced rare games.
Also when extra features are added, it can really add to the games. Sonic Jam for the Saturn had the option to Time Attack all the levels, which is simply the best way to revisit the old games. It encouraged your mastery of the old games.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
I believe the original should always be available but have no qualms against competent re-envisionings of the original titles. Fixing technical problems like frame rates should be encouraged.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
Well it depends on the game and system. Saturn emulation, as I have experienced it, leaves a lot to be desired. Also I hate playing console games on the PC, nothing can beat tv + control pad.
But for games that are impossible to get a hold of, emulation is vital. I'm really looking forward to the Wii's Virtual Console, it'll make getting the older games easier and with the benfits of playing from a console on a TV.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
It's never interferred with a relationship, I find that a good deal of girls had a SNES or Megadrive hanging around their households when they were young. It's fun to revel in the nostalgia together.
But I have found it can be a bit of a stigma. I still cop a lot of nerd shit but that's probably reflected elsewhere anyhow. It just doesn't help sometimes.

[Char Aznable]

Dammit! I was going to be the first one to reply here but I decided to wait until I got home to get exact game counts. Well, screw that!

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Commodore 64 am of love. The first actual console I played on would have been the Atari 2600 (Space Invaders ftw!), then the NES, but my first console that I actually owned was a Mega Drive. Superior.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
These are all guesstimates and I've sold off at least 200 of my games in recent times. Sigh. I used to have pretty much every console.

Master System (12)
Mega Drive (54)
Sega 32x (2)
Mega CD (7)
Amiga CD32 (6)
Japanese Saturn (5)
PAL Saturn (0) <- saving for the RPGs
Dreamcast (25)
American SNES (1)
Game Boy (2)
Game Boy Colour (4)
Bandai Wonderswan (2)
Neo Geo Pocket Color (7)
PlayStation One (21)
Nintendo 64 (7)
Game & Watch (1)
PC (5)
N-Gage (2)
Game Gear (8 )

I think that's it, I could be wrong.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Sega Mega Drive. No competition there, at all. I only buy games that I will definitely play nowadays, and as you can see, the MD owns the game count. I loved how revolutionary it was when it came out, and the games were so easy to find, which was a blessing considering where I grew up. The games, of course, speak for themselves. Sonic, Rocket Knight Adventures, Arrow Flash, Alien Soldier, Phantasy Star, Soleil etc etc etc.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Decent gameplay. Pure and simple. Current gen games definitely do not do it for me.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
I don't think I'm very nostalgic. I know a good game when I get my hands on it, and it's very hard to wade through the masses of PS2 crap. Of my 22 GCN games I play probably one regularly, and I don't own an Xbox, I only own a few Sega games and such for it. I don't think I'll ever buy one either. Whenever I have the need to play Panzer Dragoon Orta, I just bring it to my friend's house. Retro is so much easier, since you already have a knowledge of what is really bad and a lot of the time it's even easy to tell just by looking at the back of a box.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Um, I'm curbing already. It makes me sad. I don't think I'll ever stop buying Sonic the Hedgehog merch though.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
It's never happened to me, thank goodness!

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
My boyfriend has bought most of my recent aquisitions. Before that, I'd go with eBay since I don't even know where a Cashies is around here. Le tear. In Western Australia, it was Cashies, Game Traders and the thrift stores.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Nothing. Hehe.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$100 for a Japanese complete Knuckles' Chaotix, Japanese complete Sonic R and EMS shipping. You can't go wrong with that, considering the Jap Chaotix is a lot rarer than it's stupidly overpriced PAL counterpart.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Chaotix, and my FFIII for Super NES. Love.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Sonic 3 (PAL MD, but the NTSC-US one cracks me up) or FFIV for the GBA. I know it's a remake, but the art on it is gorgeous. I can't get enough of it.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
The Saturn controller. 3D or just the basic pad. They were the epitome of gaming excellence. So easy to use and adapt to. No weaknesses, dammit! :P

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Portable: Wonderswan, Console: Dreamcast. Especially the case variants, they're gorgeous.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
PAL Chaotix, althought I can afford it right now even without a job. I just refuse to pay top dollar for a pristine copy because the pricing of games on eBay is ridiculous. I've always been like that, hence why I don't own a lot of "rare" games.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I've sold my NES, SNES, GBA (if it counts), others that I don't remember. No regrets. I'm actually glad I finally got rid of my NES as I owned about 12 games for it and played 1, Kirby's Adventure. (Yeah, I owned the Marios and Zeldas and stuff too.)

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Majora's Mask > Wind Waker
FFIV & FFVI > all new FFs
Sonic R > Sonic Riders
Sonic Adventure 2 > Sonic Heroes

Oh. You said one. Hehe. I'll stop now.

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Wind Waker was a half-finished nearly unplayable pile of toss, whereas Majora's Mask completely immerses the gamer and I, for one, was unable to put the game down (rental = pain for my father, I own it now though) until I finished it.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Yes and no. It isn't for the consoles I don't really care about, but obviously if I'm buying it from eBay I will not pay premium price for a Chaotix without an insert or one that has a ripped box. However, if I found it for $5 in a Cash Converters cart only, I'm snapping that bitch up!

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
I hate the hunt! I just want to play my freakin' games! Really, I'm glad when I find them in the wild, but I just don't expect it anymore, especially when even on this forum I constantly read about people that will just buy games to resell them. I find that disgusting and I can't stand people like that. Leave the game there if you already own it, moron. I did it with a mint complete Phantasy Star 3 for $5 just because I knew it wasn't as good as the other 3, but I know in my heart, the next person that came along snapped it up for eBay. It really pisses me off.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
A little of every column EXCEPT for opportunist. Once again, I don't understand people that need to own every game when there have been so many crap ones. Oh, it fleshes out your collection? That's nice, don't care. Collection size is just a number. I'd be more impressed if someone owned a Panzer Dragoon Saga than if someone owned 500 NES games.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
I think it's nice that new gen game players have a chance to experience the old stuff. Naturally my favourite is Sonic Gems, but only so I don't have to pay out the wazoo for Sonic the Fighters until I'm ready for it. Hehe.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
I prefer it, but I don't mind. Playing the redone FFIV after the original FFII US is hilarious. I suggest you all try it. Oh man, I can totally understand why it didn't hook me first time I played it, the dialogue is terrible.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
You're a moron. :) Emulation is awful. I use it only to play games that I haven't got and would perhaps like to own to see if it's a waste of my money. I should really emu Gunstar Heroes. Expensive games, like SotN I understand emulating, but really, you'll never get the same experience that you'd have playing it on a tv tucked up in bed.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
I have NEVER had that problem, perhaps unsurprisingly. My last boyfriend before this one was just as into games as I am (and still is, I think he just hit the 400 mark) and my current sweetie-pie has a Dreamcast and flipped out when he saw all the awesome games I own, hehe. He and my best friend are constantly asking to borrow stuff off me. It's a lot easier being a gamer girl though, there is no shortage of guys that adore the fact that you understand their hobbies.

[Lazlow]

It's a lot easier being a gamer girl though, there is no shortage of guys that adore the fact that you understand their hobbies.

Ahem... amongnst other things >_>

[Lazlow]

Fine >_>

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

'91 or '92, Sega Master System II

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Sega Master System II (10)
Sega Dreamcast (10)
PSone (25)
PC (6)
PS2 (1) <---- I'm including this as it is Garou, and if it can count as retro on the DC, i don't see why a port of the exact same game, can't count on PS2.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Dreamcast and PSone on equal footing. I dunno the shit's are just fun to play.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
I'm not a complete retro wackjob (like some >_>) I'm basically picking up the shit I missed back in the day. There's only so much a 14 year old can afford. I don't differentiate between the old and the new.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
None what so ever. Like I mention, I have no link to the past with these old games. It's all new to me.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Well I i want to move to brisbane/get a car/buy a new guitar/travel to Norway, I guess I'll have to.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Probably Bust-A-Groove (PSone). Played it twice.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay, sometimes Cashies.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
$10-$30

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$85 (roughly) for Discworld on PSone. Next would be roughly $56 for Shenmue on DC.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Chrono Cross (PSone/NTSC-UC), KoF '98 (PSone/NTSC-J), Toukon Retsuden 4 (DC/NTSC-J), Shenmue (DC/PAL)

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
http://img67.imageshack.us/img67/8107/kof986ck.jpg
King Of Fighters '98

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Only really got one;The Namco Jogcon. Strength's would be the true force feedback steering dial, the weakness are its digital face buttons (inaccurate for driving games like GT, where deft acceleration is the key), causing it to have limited support.
EDIT: I forgot, I also have the NegCon, but I never use the bloody thing. Plus the GunCon45.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Sega Saturn

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Don't think I really have a holy grail

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Never sold a system, most I've ever done is give my bro my old PSX, when I got a PS2. I regret it though because I had it chipped (for other seemy reasons >_>), and now that I have import PSone games, I have to use my PC to play them.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
Nothing beats the old 2D point 'n' click adventure games. Take the Broken Sword series for example. Shadow of the Templars, and the Smoking Mirror are infinitely more enjoyable to play than The Sleeping Dragon; and not just because of the cursed crate puzzles. The lush backdrops and 2D sprites had oodles more character than the garish 3D efforts in BS3. Plus I prefer the more relaxed single handed interface, than the roaming Resident Evil style 3D control.
That said, Syberia/Still Life are awesome examples of the marriage between lush 3D visuals, and relaxed point 'n' click.


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Only if that's how it is advertised. Ebay has many grey areas, due to the subjectivity of what 'great condition' means (ie see my "great condition" Sonic Adventures for DC, with its ratty manual, and scuffed and cracked case, with lightly scratched disc.)

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
If I had the time, I'd probably enjoy playing them more. As it stands, I spend more time hunting than enjoying my spoils.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Eclectic with some slight opportunist. When it comes to the King of Fighters, completist.


Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Meh.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
If the gameplay stays in tact, it can't hurt can it? Although in the case of FFVII (if there was ever a remake), I think I'd prefer the ambiguous chibi designs, over the girly-man designs of FFVII:AC.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

56k.


Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)


Only "significant other" in my life at the moment is my mum (whom i share a house with). And when we had a row the other night, she used my collection as an example of my apparent selffishness. Although, I think she still belives every game costs $100.

[Hotaru_oz]

My turn

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
hmmm.. I remember playing space invaders on an arcade machine when I was 5. My first console experience was when I was 7 on my cousin's Atari we were playing Asteroid or something all I remember is that it was a space game. We used to play it all the time after school then my mum went to Singapore and brought back a NES.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
SNES (2)
Nintendo 64 (5)
Sega Mega Drive (6)
Sega Saturn (1)
Sony PSX (lost count ages ago)
Gameboy (games went missing...again)
GBA
I used to have a master system but for some reason I gave it to my brother who is probaly a bigger retro nut than I am.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Mega Drive has always been my favourite mainly because of Sonic the Hedgehog, I loved playing those games growing up

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

I'm a fan of 2D platformers and fighters.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

I think it's because alot of people put more effort in making games back then compared to now.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
When I have my hands on all the Sonic games I think my collection will be complete.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Extreme G... it came with the 64. I'm not really into Racing games that much.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
My local Pawn broker, cash converters, ebay

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

roughly 10-20 dollars depends on how rare the game is

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

possibly 8 bucks on a Sonic 2 cartridge with no case. It looks damaged but it still works,

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

My Sonic Games

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Rival schools for the PSX

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

The Psx dual schock, I didn't like the original controller because it was too light. The Dual Shock had a bit of weight to it. It took a while to get used it at first.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

Sega Mega Drive 2...don't know why.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Sega Dreamcast and Sega Mega CD

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Giving away my master system.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

Sonic on the Mega drive beats Sonic HEROES anyday, switching between the characters slows the game down and is a little frustrating.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Depends on the game

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

I only buy the games I remember enjoying playing as a child.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

not sure where I fit in, If I see a game that appeals to me I'll buy it.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

Sonic Gems since it's the only one I played besides Activisions greatest games and Sonic Mega Collection.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

When it comes to games like Final Fantasy VII it wouldn't hurt to upgrade the graphics a little. 2D games should stay the same

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

Roms are ok I guess, I get to play all these old Japanese RPG's in English.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

Never had that problem.

[Kevin C]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

When I was about 6 or something on an Atari 2600

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Atari 2600 - not many
SNES
C64 - a few
Amiga 500 - a larger few

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

SNES Super Mario Kart, this is one of the greatest racers of all time, the best of the mario kart series that I've ever seen, great sense of speed, and its caused many, many, MANY fights in our house over the years

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

Playability. So many current games lack the playability of retro titles. Look at the Atari 2600 games for example, how many controlers have you destroyed playing something like "dodge 'em"

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

Retro titles required excellent playability for the game to sell. I don't really get that nostalgic about retro games except for something like 'defender of the crown'. The fact that I can cruise over to a mates place who owns an atari, plug it in, get angry as with his 100 in 1 cartridge flicking it on and off constantly to pick the right game, and get straight into a game where we want to punch each other afterwards demonstrates how retro games own new stuff.

The only modern game that I've gotten the same amount of screen punching from is probably gotham city racing.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

No way, I love retro games, I DJ at a club called "retro", retro rocks :wink:

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Royal Rumble on the SNES

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Haven't been buying for a long, long time, my mate aquires them, and I borrow them

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

I would happily pay $20/game :-P

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

$40

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

My Atari 2600

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

My Atari 2600, isnane box picture :)

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Guess ... Thats right, atari 2600. ITS INDESTRUCTABLE! Weaknesses is a mega sore thumb.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

SNES

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Super Mario Kart for the SNES, I owned it when I was young, sold it for $80 (score!) when I was in year 11. Teenage stupidity (sigh)

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

As above :)

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

Mario Kart series, but dude, nothing beats the best.

Outrun

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

erm :)

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

You're racing your brother, suddenly, .02 of a second before you finish in first, a red shell thumps into you, that was fired by your brother.... Lets just say you don't have time to fire Tekken 4 up.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Nah, but the important bits should be in 100% working order.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Gaming

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Electic Opportunist

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

hmmmm, undecided

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

I figure that if they're going to redo the graphics, they shouldn't take away from the gameplay which is what so often happens (glares at mario kart)

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

Yeah emulators are cool, if you have time time to donk around with emulators, kickstart ROMS, finding free emulations, then you've got to play them using your keyboard with donkeys constantly sending you nudges and winks through messanger.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

I store things at my mates place, and bare the brunt when his mum (hes over 30, you'd think he'd have a place of his own ;)) wakes up at 6am to us sitting on his couch screeching and laughing at a game we have nicknamed "condoms" (because we don't know the actual name of the game, and the 'cars' look like condoms). She usually offers to cook me breakfast ... I love greeks.

And my girlfriend just points, laughs, and calls me "Otaku".

[Travi_D]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
At the age of 8 on my Atari 2600

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Atari 2600 – (approx 15)
NES – (approx 20)
Gameboy – (approx 10)
N64 – (approx 20)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Probably the N64 because of the multiplayer memories with games such as Goldeneye, Mario Party and Mario Kart

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Memories. Good Memories.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
the rose coloured glasses effect plays a big part, but its not all nostalgia that makes older games seem more playable. Some games on the other hand just suck when you go back to them after 10-15 years

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Dunno. By the time that the old stuff gets boring, todays new stuff will be old, so it will probably be a big cycle

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Probably the Atari 2600 Game collection, bar a few classics. Seemed so great at the time, but now I think they are really shallow and unplayable.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay, Game Traders

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
10-20 bucks

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$20

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
My still sort of working NES


Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
The cover of Pitfall

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
NES control. Simple, effective.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
N64

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
No not really

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

No never. I don’t sell my old consoles, and I never will

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
Spy vs Spy and all 3D worms games.


Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Lost all of its charm with the advent of 3D


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Yes now, but because it wasn’t when I was younger, a lot of my retro collection looks a bit worse for weat…

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
No. The games always come first

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
An Opportunist.




Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
It almost brings a tear to my gaming eye. I don’t get as excited about games as I used to and I hate it.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Yes, to keep up with current hardware, but not to lose the charm.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: Good for you. 9/10 an emulation is just a poor substitute. Not bad if you are looking to try before you buy though


Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
My girl supports me in whatever I want to do. It’s a pity there aren’t more like her, but she’s mine and you cant have her so there.

[pezhead015]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

Early memories of playing like console cant remember what it was called but it plugged into the tv and had like 30 games built in and they were all meant to be sports games howver they were just pong but with slight variations. I had and apple 2e and an Atari 2600 but I can't honestly remember which came first but one of those two was where it all began for me.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Gosh all my stuff is put away and I don't know how many games I have for each system but I have the following.. dreamcast, n64, snes, and an atari

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Amiga 500 is my favourite platform closely followed by the SNES. I had a PC when the Amiga was around and my best mate had one and the graphics were just so impressive and the games were awesome. I just have the fondest memories of amiga games in particular Speedball 2.



Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

I guess a sense of nostalgia but most of all for me retro games are fun. I can pick a game up and play for five or ten minutes and go on my way. Games these days are too complex with stories I couldnt care for.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

Its not so much they disguise a lack of gameplay its just that they make the game appear new as it has new graphics while the gameplay remains the same. No innovation, I mean look at the EA sports titles. Since the first releases on the current gen was it 2003? up until the latests ones has the gameplay changed dramatically if at all? no its the same experience but with player changes and more polished presentation.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

Probably not. I guess the DS and Wii will make me want to play games more as they are new experiences and exciting besides that I will forever play wit "funky" old stuff and stand proud in my retroness.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Im assuming stink means bad and not the smell... I guess the game that I came back to and was sadly dissapointed was Omni Sports Horse Racing on the Amiga 500.. I must have played that game a thousand times with my friends and we thought it was amazing. Sadly time hasnt been kind to the realistic (ha) horse racing simluator and its quite a boring game these days.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Cash converters, op shops... but mainly eBAY.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Depends on the platform but I have found most SNES games go for 15 bucks roughly.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

I think I paid 90 for shenmue on the dreamcast if you would call that retro.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

My woody. Atari2600. Its in great condition.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

The cover of HERO or PITFALL on the Atari 2600. Infact Pitfall takes the cake as if you take the cover sleeve out on the back it has instructionsd and a picture of the game designer in all his nerdy retro ness its worth buying the game for.


Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Can't beat the Joystick in my opinion. Give me a felic input device any day. Just felt so great on sports games, kind of more immersive.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

Has to be the woody Atari or probably the Saturn that was pretty swish.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Not so much for value or rareness but I have always wanted a frogger arcade machine because it would look super retro and cool in my lair.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

I think I have bought and sold nearly every console over the years. Sadly Im not much of a collector of retro gaming goodies because my collection focus is on Pez dispensers.. werd.. Howver I emulate heaps and heaps so its more about playing the retro titles for myself.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre). For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”


Pretty easy really. Every single Sonic game of recent years. They all suck.
Oh I forgot to say in my honest opinion. Infact i think its that clear i don't need to back up my arguement. There is no arguement,



Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Mint is nice in chocolate. If the game is playable I dont care about all teh other crap really.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Gaming.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

I only collect to play games not to collect for rarity and the like so this question is annoying.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

I call them emulators and they are better than the rip off packages gamin companies put out.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

No. Infact Id prefer they never do that.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

One hundred thousand percent agree. Also Id rather use my xbox for emulation and have one system hooked up to my tv than have to mess around with wires and stuff.. plus it keeps your old games and systems from wearing out. Oh and no blowing into old nes carts. :)


Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

My girlfriend is a SNES addict so I have no such problems explaing my geekiness.

------------------END--------------------------

Thanks for doing the survey. You are officially a retro-nut :grouphug:


.[/QUOTE]

[Not Matt]

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Hmm a bunch of Dreamcast games out there I reckon like SF3TS and Shenmue 2. I guess both cost and rarity are factors that prevent me from owning them. Also a ROB, with likewise factors.


Sorry, wasn't in my right mind... would like to change that

One of my holy grails of recent years has been the r360 arcade machine by Sega ... it's just so over the top, yet of a very high price and hard to find

Also I have always wanted a twin sit down cabinet of Outrunners.... and also a 4 player TMNT machine

[gooche]

I'm pretty sure retro stinky does actually mean the game has an odour, like cigarette smoke..

[craptest]

I'm pretty sure retro stinky does actually mean the game has an odour, like cigarette smoke..
Correct. However if someone wants to interpret the question differently thats absolutely fine. People generally do that with questionnaires anyway. As long as some thought is put into the answer it's all good. And in hindsight asking what literally 'smells' isnt the most fascinating question imaginable.


Sorry, wasn't in my right mind... would like to change that You should just go back and edit your initial questionnaire reply. We want to keep this thread as tidy as possible (ie only questionnaire replies , no chatter).

You can almost hear the sound of Ezri cicling above ...ready to swoop down and delete our last 3 posts (hint hint)

[Not Matt]

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Hmm a bunch of Dreamcast games out there I reckon like SF3TS and Shenmue 2. I guess both cost and rarity are factors that prevent me from owning them. Also a ROB, with likewise factors.

EDIT: Sorry, wasn't in my right mind... would like to change that

One of my holy grails of recent years has been the r360 arcade machine by Sega ... it's just so over the top, yet of a very high price and hard to find

Also I have always wanted a twin sit down cabinet of Outrunners.... and also a 4 player TMNT machine


Extra Extra, read all about it, man obtains holy grail

Turtles you are mine!

[Slurry Murray]

Ah, lists. I love answering these things.

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
I first started gaming on my counsin's Commodore 64, playing a cheap rip-off of Super Mario Bros, called Giana Sisters. Yes. Read about it, it was reasonably famous about fifteen years ago. This probably started when I was about three, way back in about 1991.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
Not a huge amount, really.
- SNES (1)
- N64 (1)
- GB Pocket (1)
- GB Colour (1)
- GBA (1), if you could count that already.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
The SNES. Mostly for the games I never actually owned (cough).

Chrono Trigger - never released over here, but it was a fantastic game. One of the best ever. I love the whole time travelling idea, and Square executed it EXTREMELY well. While it's PSX sequel, Chrono Cross was a great game itself, it had nothing on the original.

Final Fantasy VI - While it took a while to get going, I found it to be one of the better FF games (short of VII). I love the character personalities - you really feel for them. Amazing how this was executed on a SNES - something which provided very little in the way of visual expression due to its low-res, small sprite capabilities.

Notable mentions: the Marios, the Donkey Kongs, Zelda III, among many other fantastic games on the system.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

I have trouble finding the quality and the challenge in today's games. That's not to say that games these days aren't that good, but the storytelling just excelled in those days. It had to! They couldn't use FMV or high bit-rate orchestral music to convey emotions. They had to word it into the conversations. No cheap shortcuts.

They were also a hell of a lot harder, and quite often longer. Go play Super Mario Bros. Then play New Super Mario Bros. The levels are shorter and a lot easier in the latter. They're catering towards new gamers. If I go and play Super Mario Bros now, I'll still have a hard time beating it even after all these years.

Games of twenty hours in length were considered 'short' in those days. Now it's the norm. Do they think the casual gamer won't invest that much time into a game? Are they just cutting corners? Either way, I miss how it was.

* Yes, I realise not all games were like this. But many were. Square games, in particular.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

I love that feeling of nostalgia, but I don't use it to determine whether a game is good or not. I get that warm feeling inside when I sit down to play Super Mario World, Zelda or Donkey Kong Country, they're great games from my childhood. However, as I've gone back to play the games that I never did, games like FFVI, Chrono Trigger and Super Metroid, I've discovered just how great they are. I had never played them before, so there was no nostalgia clouding my judgement.

Had they lacked any gameplay, I would have just thrown them away and not bothered to play them. But that wasn't the case with most. Same with today's games. Graphics, sound and longevity are great, but who cares about any of it if there is no gameplay to back it up? Why would I want to spend time playing a crappy product?

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

I think I'm starting to curb my retro-ness now. I've played quite a lot of SNES and Genesis games over the last couple of years (though I rarely venture back to the previous era - many of the games seem too 'prehistoric' to me), and I'm starting to move into the PSX generation. I recently bought FFVII - a fantastic game. While this may be a nine year old game, I'm slowly moving towards having played many of the titles that I wanted to, and soon I probably won't bother with a lot of retro games at all. Except for replays of course, but I don't tend to have a lot of time for that anymore.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Probably when I got Zelda III and Super Mario All-Stars from a closing-down video shop. They had that dusty smell to them, and the boxes were in pretty bad condition. Apart from that, I have no 'retro-stinky' items, as everything else I have I own first-hand. As I'm a clean (:-P) person, I don't have this problem.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

I don't. I have a little friend known as the internet.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Oh, along the lines of $0.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Technically I didn't pay for it. It was a birthday present. Mum paid $25 each for Zelda III and Mario All-Stars in about 1999.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Zelda: A Link to the Past? I love that manual. So much backstory, and it links to OoT.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Zelda: A Link to the Past. Can't go past that glitter-gold and rugged shield with bits of paint missing from 'ZELDA'.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

SNES. Strengths are that it's actually comfortable as opposed to the NES controller. Weaknesses? Doesn't fit as nicely as a GCN controller.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

N64. It just looks cool. Black, sleekly moudled plastic is far superior to any old grey box.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Nope.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Never! I couldn't sell any of my gaming systems. Well, until they start selling for $1000 each...

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

Any 2D Sonic game > any Sonic 3D game.

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

2D Sonic games are all about running around as fast as you can. This is fun. Getting forced to run around as Knuckles in SA2 looking for treasure was a pain in the butt. I want Sonic, not Knuckles!

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Oh yes. If I > bought < any retro games, it would be. I love looking at the old boxes and reading the old manuals. Makes me feel like I actually own the whole product, not just a part of it.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Gaming. Or it would if I bought any.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Completist. Always. If there's a series I like, I'll always try to get every game in the series. It's one reason why I'm avoiding going back to play Metal Gear Solid, as I'll never play MGS4 (I'm not buying a PS3).

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

Retro compilations are great. Best one is Super Mario All-Stars - the Mario games are great; timeless. They're as good now as ever. Aside from that, there haven't been any other compilations I've cared about.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Yes. If it's just a port I won't bother to replay it if I've played the game before. But it's not to prevent the games 'looking so shit,' but rather because I like to see what's new. Eg, Super Mario 64 DS is quite good to replay because it not only has improved graphics but also other things thrown in here and there. I like being able to say, "Oh, I haven't seen that before, that's new," as opposed to thinking, "Oh, it's exactly the same as it was fifteen years ago. Why don't I just play the SNES version (Final Fantasy IV/Donkey Kong Country series).

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”

Your reply: I'm like this guy. I don't buy them. :-P

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

I've love to, but I have the unfortunate problem of not actually having a girlfriend.

[Old Stoney]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

An Atari 2600 clone at my cousins place. It wasn't the traditional woody and it wasn't the flashy rainbow and silver model. It was beige. Still don't know what it was, but we had great fun with Pitfall, Frogger, a submarine game and a boxing sim. I was 6 back in 1988. My first system was a Game Boy in 1989.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Original Game Boy x 2 + 1 x Clear Limited Edition (32)
Super Game Boy (9)
Master System x 0 ie No console but Powerbase Converter (15)
Mega Drive (about 110)
- Model 1
- Model 2
- Genesis Nomad
Mega CD Model 2 (8 )
32X (4)
Saturn (3)
Dreamcast (36)
NES x 0 (1 game no console)
SNES (13)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Currently, it's the Dreamcast due to some lovely new acquisitions (Under Defeat, Radilgy, Capcom vs SNK, Street Fighter 3 SI, Headhunter) but I fluctuate. Now that my DC's broken, I'll probably return to my Nomad for some Thunderforce loving while I sort out a replacement DC.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

I like the simple gameplay and the charm of old school 2D visuals.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

I think it might have been true that flashy graphics masked some dud gameplay in the early transition from 2D to 3D, but now all games have flashy 3D graphics to some degree and the only equaliser now is the quality of the gameplay. Every generation has duds and classics. That being said, nostalgia probably plays a big role in my appreciation of retro titles. I'm more tolerant of old school graphics and gameplay because that's what I grew up with.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

Never. Hardcore Retro for life.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Can't say that it's happened to me yet. I've had some problems with sticky labels on ex rental carts but that's about it. Oh wait, I just remembered that the manual of my Jap MD copy of Granada has pink texta scribbled throughout and is a bit torn and shabby. Kids today have no respect

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Pawn shops and eBAY.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

about $25 to $30

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Paid $170 for Under Defeat and Radilgy. It was worth it.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Either my Genesis Nomad, the Sonic Adventure 2 10th Birthday pack, Shining Force 2, My Pal 32X CD game, the Golden Zelda 1 cart for NES, or the Limited Edition Jap release of Virtua Fighter 3tb with the Project Berkely disc. Probably the Nomad.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

http://www.sega-world.com/PSO-WORLD_DE/dreamcast/media/images/ingame/Under-Defeat2005/under_defeat_poster_s.jpg

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Probably the Master System pad purely for nostalgic reasons. Other than that the 6 button Mega Drive pad has served me well. I've got no problems with the DC pad either.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

I love the Square Circle Triangle design of the DC.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

I have 3

Tempest 3000 and a Nuon
A John Sands Sega SG1000 or SC3000
Border Down for the DC.

All extremely rare and expensive

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Yes, I sold my Master System and all my games in order to pay for my Mega Drive. Regretted it from day one and soon after bought a Powerbase converter, a MS pad and almost all my games again. I've never sold anything since then.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre). For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

I'm going to stay out of this one since I'm not really that experienced with current gen stuff. I've only recently bought a Gamecube

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Yes, it is important but I won't go silly with the price just to get it. I've bought $2 games for the DC just for the shiny cases to replace shabby ones in my collection.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Currently working 50 hours a week, I don't have much time for gaming, but I still buy games that I want to play. I consider it an investment for when I retire.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

When it comes to my Mega Drive and Dreamcast I'm a completist. I intend to own every great game and have complete sets of great gaming franchises for those systems. I'm obsessive like that. For the other consoles if I see something cheap and worthwhile I'll probably snap it up.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

Again, don't really own current gen consoles, so not much experience with compilations. I'll just stick with the originals

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Yes if it's done right, but the original should also be available

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

It's not the same at a computer with a keyboard. It's got to be at the TV with a control pad. I'm not against Flash carts and DC emulation though, but there is something special about owning the physical game.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

I don't have a girlfriend, but I do smuggle in new games and systems from my mum and sister and add them to the ever growing pile and just claim that they've always been there.

[Hippie]

Hey, I don't really have a retro gaming problem.



>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

1978 , TRS-80 model 1 computer

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Atari Jaguar (25)
Atari Jaguar CD (5)
3DO (22)
Sega Saturn (11)
Sega Dreamcast (10)
Nintendo 64 (36)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

N64 is my platform of choice, carts are just so rugged. Ocarina of Time and Majora's mask are just perfect games.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

Solid game play.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

I was more into Atari ST, Amiga and PC when the earlier console generations
were around, so for me it would be a kind of false nostalgia for a console
experience I never had. I only get titles that are fun to play, nostalgia
doesn't really enter into it for me.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

No I don't plan on curbing my retro-ness. I keep buying till I have all the games I
want that can be obtained at a resonable price on a particular platform.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Nothing too bad, Some N64 game boxes that smelled like a British pub, stale beer and
cigarette smoke.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Ebay or online stores.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Depends on the platform. I have a rule I won't pay more than new price
for a retro item. I try not to pay more than $35-$40 for a N64 cart with box
and docs in good condition or $20-$30 for just the cart.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Think I paid about $90 for Shenmue Dreamcast.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Paper Mario N64

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Hmmmm all the boxes are packed away, I can't really think of any
standouts.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

MadCatz Panther Dreamcast. It's a flight stick for the Dreamcast.
It's great for playing the Aerowings games.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

I think the Dreamcast looks most stylish.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

I have two:

Battlesphere for the Atari Jaguar.

Panzer Dragoon Saga for the Sega Saturn.

Cost prevents me from obtaining them.


Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

No, I never sell games consoles or PCs LOL.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Perfect Dark (N64) > Perfect Dark Zero (X-Box 360)

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

X-Box 360 just sucks.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

It's not vital, I mainly just want to play the games. I like to have the docs though.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

I hate hunting for stuff, I just want to play all the good games on the various
platforms I have.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Elitist/Eclectic

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

It's fine if it gets me access to games I haven't had a chance to play.
That being said, I don't actually have any retro compilations.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Sure, as long as the orginal artistic style is preserved.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

I don't have any of the older retro platforms, there isn't any RELIABLE emulation
of most of the systems I have.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

My wife likes playing RPG games and has no objection to buying more games.
As long as I keep the mess of systems, controllers and cables in some sort of
order.

.

[Xanafalgue]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

1989, NES

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

NES (2)
Master System (12)
Mega Drive (35-ish)
SNES (8)
Sega Saturn (20)
PSOne (7)
Dreamcast (18)


Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Mega Drive.

PHANTASY STAR SERIES.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

Substance and Style were distributed equally throughout most games. There was emphasis on FUN.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

More than anything the creators of todays games could learn a big lesson going back and seeing what fun could be had with such simple tools. Sometimes it's best to look back to go forward.

For me, most of the old games I play have a few memories attached to them, time, place, who I may have been playing with, who I threw the controller at etc.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

I guess I thought at my age now I would be over video games (i am 22). I dont see my interest curbing anytime soon, especially re: retro-goodness. Most of my friends would rather sit around playing Micro Machines '96 rather than the latest Nintendo,Sony or Microsoft offering! I'll keep playing them as long as time goes by...so slowly

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

My Alex Kidd In Shinobi World box for master system looked like it developed a fungal infection some time back...

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

You'll be suprised what small video shops and cash converters have for sale...

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Once or twice a fortnight, don't have much time to be honest.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Megalomania (MD) - $5

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Phantasy Star IV: End Of The Millenium for MD. Doesnt get much better.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

I love the Parodious/Fantastic Journey cover for Saturn. Its so queer

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Some el cheapo 6 button controller I bought for my Mega Drive about 11 years ago... Mortal Kombat 3 suddenly became a whole lot easier. Weakness ? It was obviously made for feminine Japanese hands.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

Master System (one)! Looks like a bloody space ship, love it.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Panzer Dragoon Saga (Sega Saturn), still in fantastic condition, still hard to get! (discounting Ebay)

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

I sold my original Mega Drive and 14 games so I could buy Theme Park for the Sega Saturn. I did buy it back though, but for about $20

The games however where never to be seen again. Some of them werent available in AUS too...

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

Errrm.... VIRTUAL HYDLIDE > SHENMUE> SHENMUE 2 :)

Yes I'm taking the piss.


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

No way, better it looked LOVED.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Gaming. Im not much of a collector.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Eclectic. Really though if I see something I'll just buy it as the cost is usually very low. I dont go for anything in particular, saying that I wouldnt buy anything like Desert Strike.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

Im not a fan. If you want to play retro games that much it'd probably be cheaper to look for the consoles and games than the actuall collection!

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

2d - leave it alone

3d - an update is always welcome, some of those games are so very UGLY.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………


****** PLEASE :hand:


Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

My partner refers to me as LITTLE BOY whenever Im playing games...

KINKY.

I do, however, tone down my gaming tendancies when around friends until i get a few DRINKS or LOLLIES into me and rave on about how MOTHERBRAIN destroyed Parma...much to their DISGUST.

[MartyMcFly]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
In 1987 on my brand new NES

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
NES (12)
GB/GBC (3)
SMS (22)
Mega Drive (16)
Mega CD (4)
Neogeo Pocket Color (1)
N64 (4)
Dreamcast (3)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
SNES, Near arcade quality games, sounded amazing, looked amazing. - The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Super Metroid, Rock'N'Roll Racing, Super Mario Kart and Super Mario World.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Not so much a collector, but i feel Retro gaming comes from remembering times your had with games back in the day as much as still enjoying them today.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
A Fair bit to be honest ;)

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
NEVAR!!@1!

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I bought a Megadrive game at a garage sale, that when i opened the case when i got home, i nearly threw up. It looked clean but smelt like a cross of poop and vomit.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Garage Sales.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Garage Sales, are bargain bins. Most retro shops charge through the ass.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$115.52 total for 4 brand new sealed copies of "The Legend of Zelda" for the NES. (28.88ea from BigW clearance sale)

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
My Neogeo Pocket Color and game "Snk Vs Capcom: Match of the Millenium"

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Super Mario Land (GB)

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Sega Saturn controller, best 2D Fighter pad ever, even though it was strong, it wasn't strong enough *cries*

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
prolly the MK1 Megadrive, looked like a UFOon a landing pad.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Guardian Heroes for Sega Saturn

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I sold an N64 with about 70 so games, all in perfect condition (Manuals/Box's/Inserts/Hardware). I recently bought a N64 with games from a supposed 'collector' on ebay, saying that they were all mint, lets just say "i fart in his general direction". I AM TEH IDOT!1!

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Super Metroid > Others in the all of series

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Why buy the cow when you get the sex for free?

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Yes.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Both equally

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
opportunist

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Street Fighter II Collection on Xbox

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Depends, if they re-do the graphics to flatter the old style yes, if they do it to make a series 'cooler' aka bomberman 360, HELL NO!

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
At the end of the day, your still sitting in front of your computer. If you own the original stuff, you play it how it was intended.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
Well i dunno about other halves (Broke mine off a while back), but i have a storage room at my mums house, and one day, went in and decided to make more room (good intentions), so she threw out over 2 dozen, box's manuals etc, and just stacked the carts in the shelf :crazy: (This includes, LoZ:LTTP mint, Super Metroid Mint, Ocarina of Time Mint, Majoras Mask Mint and a few others just to name a few).

[MartyMcFly]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
In 1987 on my brand new NES

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
NES (12)
SNES (18)
GB/GBC (3)
SMS (22)
Mega Drive (16)
Mega CD (4)
Neogeo Pocket Color (1)
N64 (4)
Dreamcast (3)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
SNES, Near arcade quality games, sounded amazing, looked amazing. - The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past(The Epitome of the RPG) , Super Metroid(The Claustriphobic Emptyness), Rock'N'Roll Racing(Classic Tunes, Upgradable everything, Stupid Announcer that doesn't get annoying), Super Mario Kart(what can i say?) and Super Mario World(Amazed me).

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Not so much a collector, but i feel Retro gaming comes from remembering times your had with games back in the day as much as still enjoying them today.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
A Fair bit to be honest ;)

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
NEVAR!!@1!

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I bought a Megadrive game at a garage sale, that when i opened the case when i got home, i nearly threw up. It looked clean but smelt like a cross of poop and vomit.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Garage Sales.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
$0.50c ~ $50 accordingly
Garage Sales, are bargain bins. Most retro shops charge through the ass.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$115.52 total for 4 brand new sealed copies of "The Legend of Zelda" for the NES. (28.88ea from BigW clearance sale), and my still working NES.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
My Neogeo Pocket Color and game "Snk Vs Capcom: Match of the Millenium", i bought it in Japan :D

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Super Mario Land (GB)

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Sega Saturn controller, best 2D Fighter pad ever, even though it was strong, it wasn't strong enough *cries*

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
prolly the MK1 Megadrive, looked like a UFOon a landing pad.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Guardian Heroes for Sega Saturn

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I sold an N64 with about 70 so games, all in perfect condition (Manuals/Box's/Inserts/Hardware). I recently bought a N64 with games from a supposed 'collector' on ebay, saying that they were all mint, lets just say "i fart in his general direction". I AM TEH IDOT!1!

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Super Metroid > Others in the all of series

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Why buy the cow when you get the sex for free?

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Depends

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Playing more, prolly Gaming (75%) / Collecting (25%)

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
opportunist

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Play the original, but if its a kind of game that meshes series well then yay!. The only game i think did this well was the Street Fighter II Collection on Xbox

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Depends, if they re-do the graphics to flatter the old style yes, if they do it to make a series 'cooler' aka bomberman 360, HELL NO!

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
At the end of the day, your still sitting in front of your computer. If you own the original stuff, you play it how it was intended.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
Well i dunno about other halves (Broke mine off a while back), but i have a storage room at my mums house, and one day, went in and decided to make more room (good intentions), so she threw out over 2 dozen, box's manuals etc, and just stacked the carts in the shelf :crazy: (This includes, LoZ:LTTP mint, Super Metroid Mint, Ocarina of Time Mint, Majoras Mask Mint and a few others just to name a few).

[spopeblue]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Atari 2600, 1984 or 5, probably. Was my Dad's system, and he bought us the Sesame street games, with the big controller. I would have been 5 at the time.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Atari 2600 x3 - Individual Games, about 40. One of the consoles has 200 or so built in.
Sega Mega Drive - 2 original, 2 MD2, 1 Mega CD 2, 2 32x, 1 US Genesis and 1 US 32x. I have cables for all of them too :) Games 70 or so MD, 4 32x, 8 CD, 1 32x CD.
Sega Saturn - 25 games - 3d controllers x2, steering wheels x2
Sega Dreamcast - 12 games
PSOne - 3 games. Don't honestly know why i still have the console, since I own a PS2

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
Sega Mega Drive
It was the first console that really belonged to me - we spent almost an entire summer holidays when I was 12 or so playing Sonic 2.
I spose it is all about recapturing my misspent youth. :)

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Memories, a lot of the time - good or bad. The fact that it is affordable to build up quite a collection of titles, my games cabinet looks very impressive. :)

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Nostalgia is a major part of playing with the older games. But basic gameplay can't be overlooked - whipping Sonic across the TV screen at a million miles an hour is as much fun now as it was 14 years ago (wow, that's scary!)
A lot of the 3d games I pick up now have problems with trying to do to much. Flashy 3D graphics, etc... early console games had to have good gameplay, graphics didn't and couldn't account for all that much.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Doubtful. Even when I think I have had enough, I am still searching for that elusive copy of "Daze before Christmas" or "Panzer Dragoon Saga"
I doubt it will ever stop.
And I still can't stop myself from ducking in to every op shop when I am in a different town.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Buying two sticky mega drive controllers off ebay. Supposed to be new condition, they had obviously been played with by kids.
I have been fortunate not to purchase anything yet that has been a cat toilet, although the box my Saturn came in was a bit off, although a bit of baking soda and a couple of days in the sun fixed it up.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay, if I am looking for something in particular.
Cash convertors or op shops when I am just being opportunistic.
Haven't got into garage sale trawling yet.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Depends, if it is just a collection builder, about $3-4 probably.
If it is a title I am particularly after, around $25 is probably closer.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$35 for Rock n roll racing on MD - ebay moment of madness.


Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
My working Sega 32x. The only game I play on it is Virtua Racing Deluxe, and I know it is hardly a standout console, but I am so happy with it, and I couldn't bear to part with it. Especially after previously buying 2 that didn't work properly.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
That's a very good question, but one I can't really answer. I don't really go nuts over box-art, I am far more concerned about the contents.
The cover of Daytona USA 2001 for DC is very nice though.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
The good old Mega Drive 6 button controller. I have never been great at using all my fingers, so having every button usable with my thumbs is great. I never liked shoulder buttons, but then again, I never owned a SNES.
It can get a bit uncomfortable after a while, larger grips would probably have been better.
Oh, and you can't discount the comfort of the Saturn 3D controller.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Mega Drive 2. Small, sleek, unassuming. Curves in all the right places. :)

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
I own my holy grail. :) Daytona USA 2001 for DC. Love the game.
The one game I don't own that I would like to is Panzer Dragoon Saga for Saturn. Simply too expensive, as I know that I wouldn't play it that much.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I let my Dad give away his Atari 2600. With the Sesame Street controllers, and the basic controller, and the paddles, and the 60 or so games we had.
Had no idea then that I would spend so much time and effort trying to get it all again. Still don't have those sesame street controllers!
So yes, I am aware I am an idiot.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
I don't know about Retro VS Current Gen, but I can say Mega Drive vs Dreamcast. (2D vs 3D)
The 4 sonic platformers, (1,2,3 and Knuckles) were all classic, fast paced games, that are easy to pick up and play, for either 5 minutes of 5 hours. The action, the noise, the colour, all spectacular.
Something which is definately missing from most 3D games.
The concept of a 3D platform game is still flawed too, there have been countless attempts at it, but none have succeeded in my mind, in that genre, all you want to do is run, jump, kill some enemies, dodge some obstacles. You don't want to spend your time lining yourself up with the next platform, or moving the camera.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
No, but I very rarely buy cart only games. I really prefer them to have boxes, and I will pay more for one with a game and manual in good condition.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Collecting fuels my buying habits now, but I still play the same dozen or so games I did when I started collecting. So the thrill of gaming is still there.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Oppurtunist. I am always looking to expand my MD collection, you never know when you might stumble across a long forgotten game.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Not a fan at all. Ironically though, it was a compilation on PS2, sonic mega collection, that got me seeking out a Mega Drive.
They just don't feel the same unless you are playing with the original controller.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
That implies that the graphics were shit. :p I don't agree. If you are trying to pass them off as new games, then I guess that it is ok.
Hey, Road Avenger might be a good game if it had real 3D graphics. I doubt it though.
But if you are releasing a retro compilation, leave it alone. If they are good enough to put in a compilation, then they must already be acceptable.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Playing console games on the PC is crap. Besides that, there is a sense of joy that comes from holding an original cart, or flicking through and original manual, that emulation will never have.
Plus, this way I have a cupboard full of consoles.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
I don't believe it for a second.
My housemate is a retro nut too, he is into SNES and N64, so it works out ok.
Hey, there are a lot worse things we could be spending the money on, and at least playing games stimulates your mind, which is more than can be said for staring at a TV show.

[the_tic_begins]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

Played my uncles sega wheni was younger but i didnt own a system till 98.
PS and N64

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Nes (9)
Snes (35)
Sega Master System (10)
Mega Drive (8)
32X add on (3)
N64 (20)
PS (lots)
Dreamcast (12)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Snes : With Super Mario, Metroid and RPG heaven how can you go wrong.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

Wouldnt say im a collector, but i love catching up on games i missed when i was young or in some cases unborn.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

Same answer as Ques 4.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

No chance. Purely because every system becomes retro at some point and i'll be playing cube, PS2 , xbox games for a while yet

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Mario Paint $25 with no mat or mouse. (Didnt know it needed one at the time.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Cash converters, trade o rama, local pawn shops.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

$5 - 20 unless its rare or i realy want it

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Mario Paint $25 with no mat or mouse. (Didnt know it needed one at the time)

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Dreamcast Console, or Snes. I love them to death.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Dont have one.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Snes. Perfect button layout and they are almost indestructible.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

Dreamcast, looks so sleek and sexy.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Neo Geo, Dam ebay.
Sega Saturn with Panzer Dragon Orta.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Havent sold any but had to buy a few at considerable cost.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

Super Mario World > Mario Sunshine.
If i wanna clean up graphitti (sic), i'll join a keep melbourne clean program


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Cd based games but cart games dont phase me as long as they work.
Its to hard to find any cart games still in the box.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

I enjoy playing just as much as hunting, although i dont get much time to play games.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Im an opportunist.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

What are you an idiot. Graphics dont make the game. Look at Doom 3.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

Its not the same. Grabbing a comfy chair, control in hand playing on a nice big tv is the way to go.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

My gf doesn't mind my gaming collection and is a bit of a Snes nut herself.

[bobthenerddestroyer]

God- I mean, could you make the posts any longer. Oh well heres my attempt:

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

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you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

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v

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks


you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks


you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

you are all gay freaks

Especially ezri

óh no he didn't'

[Beinkasaurus Rex]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

PC, NES or SNES =/ Around when I was 3, so... 94?
Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg.
SNES (20) NES (40) Nintendo 64 (16) GCN (9) PS2 (5) PSX (8) GB (7) GBA (12) Master System II (3)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Super Nintendo, first console, I think I went SNES, NES then 64 =/ I've forgotten, but, with such games as Chrono Trigger, Final Fantasy 6, the Donkey Kong series, Secret of Mana, Yoshi's Island, I am in love with it, really =P

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Cheaper, I, for some unknown reason, just prefer playing older games.
Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Nostalgia plays little, as, I'm getting into new old games, as opposed to reliving memories.
Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Nah, its pretty fine as it is.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Hmm.... That dolphin game on the SNES >_> Whatsitsname! I took it back >_> I was younger then, though

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Cash Convertors, I'm not looking for quality, I'm looking for good games to play. Also, Gametraders if I want a game looking good, if possible. Garage Sales are always good.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

10-20 dollars =)

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

Hmm... can't think of anything immediately, but... 20 dollars for a master system II and 3 games >_> Still haven't used it, either ;o

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

USED to be Chrono Trigger and Secret of Mana. Chrono Trigger disappeared courtesy of my older brother, Secret of Mana was lent out by my mum when I was younger, the box was crushed, AND SO WAS MY HEART.
Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

SNES. Just because.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

Dreamcast, puuurty =P
Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Chrono Trigger, I once owned the holy grail, then lost it =(

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

Yes, well, it wasn't me, it was my dads old one. It was a commodore 64, cbf buying one again tbh

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

Hmm... Secret of Mana>sequals. Eh, the sequals have felt too repetitive, like a dungeon crawler, didn't hold the charm of secret of mana, and I honestly don't think they could of topped it.


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Not at all, I'm looking for a game to play.
Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Gaming. Could be my age?
Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
I just pick up whatever I recall has good things said about it, maybe uber rare items if they are cheap and just... anything I know isn't crap xD


Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Played none =(
Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Dunno, depends on the game? Eh, bit too vague for me to really hammer down.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: The worth of it, nostalgia and the comfort that you actually OWN it.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
Play them anyway, collect them too, just to piss her off for lols >_>

[Big Scib Man]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
I got a NES for my 10th birthday and i guess everything took off from there.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
NES (12), N64 (36)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
I don't think anything can beat the N64. All the best games such as Mario Kart, Goldeneye, PD, etc, as simple as they were, were so much fun to play with a bunch of mates.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Nostalgia generally. And sometimes it's easier to relax playing a simple game or something you have played before than something more recent.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
I'm not really a major collector of 64 titles but when i see something I like the look of, I do buy it and I don't see why that would stop anytime soon.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Cash converters.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
about $20 to $30.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$35

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
NES Super Mario Bros. Common I know but its so good. And Duck Hunt is always fun. I also enjoy a bit of Wild Gunman.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
SNES

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
64 hands down.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
Mario Kart. I tend to belive shooters are the only things that can really be improved by next gen technology.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Not really. As long as it works im happy. A manual is always good too.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Why hunt if you don't enjoy the game. Of course the gaming wins.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
I only buy games that were considered great and fun with 2 or more people to play. This is largely the more common titles whihc is cool with me.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
To an extent, yes.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
Using the controller the game was designed for is half the fun. Try playing Mario Kart on the computer. It's just not as fun.

[mantis*ant]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Atari 2600 (w/ Midnight Magic and Pole Position) for my 5th birthday.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg.
NES (24)
A2600 (36)
DC (4)
GB/GBC (11) (original brick - they're beautiful - and a PKMN GBC that I wish I'd kept in better condition :p)
MS (3)
MD/MCD (3) (1 Mega CD game, still no Mega CD >_>)
NGPC (3)
NES (14)
N64 (12)
PSX (12)
SS (5)
SNES (19)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
I’ll go with the SNES because I’ve probably sunk more hours into it than any other platform. That, and it plays host to Secret of Mana :D

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Whilst I consider reliving my childhood and going back to dead or waning genres to be of some importance, I think the underlying principle is that there’s always going to be certain games you can only get on certain consoles. No overarching trait specific to one time period or misty-eyed nostalgia, just individual titles themselves – the same reason you’d play titles across all three modern consoles.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
As I said above, it’s definitely a factor – if you automatically associate certain titles with simpler/easier/better times in your life, that’s going to colour your perception of them. However, there was an equal amount of shit released back in the ‘golden days’ and often titles simply aren’t as much fun as when you were a kid.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Perhaps it’s because I’m also buying new titles and have become aggravated with the lack of time I’m spending not-gaming, but in the last year I’ve really narrowed my hunting to but a handful of specific retro titles. I still scout places just out of habit, though >_>

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I can’t remember anything exceptional, although all second-hand items inherently smell odd. Never had anything approaching cigarette/cat’s pee-scented titles :D

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Cash Converters and indies. Or eBay and Game Traders if I feel like paying too much.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
$35.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
I’m not going to post as we all know that Stormin wins this section anyway :p

I guess my biggest splurge was tracking down an NGPC, Card Fighters and Match of the Millennium in the space of a week – it all ended up costing somewhere over $200.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
My copy of Secret of Mana. It was second-hand when I bought it and the box and manual have been raepd, but I was just so pleased to find a copy when I bought my second SNES (see Q16) that I didn’t care. The aforementioned NGPC comes a close second – it's in fantastic condition and Card Fighters is stupidly addictive.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Virtua Fighter Kids ^_^

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
I’m going with the NES brick design. These days we’d horribly ridicule something so un-ergonomic, but back then it never seemed to be a problem. The d-pad wasn’t the most comfortable, but those little red buttons are equally adorable and responsive.

The NGPC deserves high praise, too. Handheld + thumbstick = win.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Again, the NES (version 1.toaster) - inelegant to the point of magnificence. The Fami gets honourable mentions for looking utterly unique and attempting to bring controller-docking into fashion – why the shit did that never catch on?

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Guardian Heroes (Saturn). It’s not exceptionally rare, but online prices tend towards insanity and I still haven’t tracked down one in the wild.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I sold my MS to pay for my SNES, and then got rid of the SNES when I picked up an N64. **** this questionnaire, now I want to play Bonanza Bros. and Super Mario All-Stars again!

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
Secret of Mana > the entire Seiken Densetsu series. I cannot comprehend how Square could craft the most finely-tuned action-adventure RPG in existence, and then proceed to mess with the beautiful combat formula so that the series degrades with each instalment.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Working condition is fine, yet resale value is always a consideration.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
I used to enjoy the hunt, but it became less fun when reality finally hit me across the skull – the odds of finding that mint copy of Divine Sealing are low, and others are willing to pay much more for it than I . The immediacy of online auctions doesn’t hold the same thrill as finding something in the wild, either *le sigh*

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Part elitism and part eclecticism, I guess – I just want to play old classics and odd stuffs I never got around to Back in the Day™.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
I’m thankful that the growth of online services and media storage capacity are slowly changing the way companies think about delivering their old material. We’re seeing more games in compilations (e.g: Metal Slug Anthology) and less ludicrous prices – the $30 ‘NES Classics’ range for the GBA of several years back, for instance, has now been replaced by the VC (region specificity still needs to DIAF, though).

As for compilations themselves, I guess Capcom Classics Collection Vol. 1 was pretty neat. Aside from the obvious win of SFs, Commando, Gunsmoke and GnGs, I’d never played Higemaru before and became addicted for a good while.

I also recently picked up the Forgotten Realms Deluxe Edition and despite having spent little time with it, the fact that it contains the entire Baldur’s Gate saga makes it beyond awesome.

Super Mario All-Stars would be another favourite – why that never got a run on the GBA I’ll never know *hits Nintendo with a stick*

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Hate to use the old gameplay over graphics cliché, but if it plays as well/ better than it used to (removal of slowdown or such), then I don’t particularly care what it looks like. That said, I’ve enjoyed watching Capcom’s curious overtures with Super Street Fighter II Turbo X Sugoi HD 5001 Royale Edition: just wish they were buffing every aspect of it.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
The implacable feeling of playing it the way it was intended; primarily, as Scib just pointed out, using the original controller.

[TheMixta43]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
First started gaming on Master System and Megadrive back when I was a kid when I was around 3 to 5 in like '95-'97 but to save myself confusion im gonna say Playstation in '98 or N64 in '99.
Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)?
Playstation (23), N64 (7), SNES (0 Haha), Master System (2), Gamecube (22), XBOX (44 maybe up to 46?), Game Boy (2), GBC (4) and finally GBA (8).I really only consider like N64/PS1 downwards retro but the others are in there anyway.
Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love? - When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.?
My Retro platform of choice would be N64. Even though I have like crap all games for it, it still holds THE best memories of my gaming life in it for some reason. Probably
due to Goldeneye, The Pokemon games (mainly Snap for some reason), Mario 64 and Banjo Kazooie. Just so many great memories!
Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Although I do quite enjoy current gen gaming quite a bit, retro gaming does seem to be a whole lot funner most of the time. Just the memories coming back to you as you play is one of the greatest feelings in the world.
Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
As I have practically said in the past questions, this plays the biggest part in my retro gaming these days.
Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
I'm not a sole Retro-er of sorts but I do enjoy to buy the odd retro game here and there. Better yet I just play the games that remind me of the good times I already have.
Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I actually haven't come across this to tell the truth! My N64 control is quite dodgy though, it seems like it doesn't have long to live!
Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
I can't say that I have actually bought any retro items as of late but If I do Revolution CD seems like the place I have gone to the most. Gametraders also seems to have quite a good range of retro goodies.
Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Well last time I checked I bought Tomb Raider and Pokemon Stadium 1 both from Revolution CD. Both were in perfect condition and everything with them. Tomb Raider was $9.95, a great price indeed. Pokemon Stadium on the other hand was $49.95. Trust me it was worth it though. came in the original big box with the Transfer pack and instructions, and they were laminated! A great price for a Pokemon fan like me!
Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)?
Probably the Pokemon Stadium for $49.95 come to think of it. It was well worth the price though.
Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Either Super Mario 64 or Banjo Kazooie. Both were from the good days of my life. Although there not in perfect condition by far or there not the rarest games, I still value them with my life.
Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
I really liked the box art from Pokemon Blue and Red for some reason even if it's not the most innovative out there.
Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Really liked the PS1 and N64 controls. Just love the button layout and the feel really.
Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
I vote N64, It looks great. Everytime I see It i get excited. Also SNES looks pretty nifty.
Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Nope
Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Never have, nope.
Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre). For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN). Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Could I say Sonic 1,2 and 3 (Mega Drive) > Sonic Adventure Battle 2 (GCN) ? Haha I dunno, it's definately not as good but I still think AB2 was great.
Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Not really no.
Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games? The hunt is a great experience and spotting them rarer titles is great fun but the gaming is what I live for!
Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Opportunist if anything, I don't buy that much rather than just play the classics I own.
Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
I love retro compilations! Although the thought of them isn't as gratifying as owning the original games it's still the next best thing to it. My favourite one I actually own would have to be Sonic Mega Collection + and Gems, all filled with countless classic Sonic games, shortly followed by Midway Arcade Treasures 2 with the likes of MK2 and 3, Primal Rage and a few others. One I haven't actually played but Know I would love is Sega Mega Drive collection, filled with all those classics from my childhood.
Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Yes and No IMO. The original graphics give it that retro feel and true feel to it, but newer graphics are an exciting concept for people like me.
Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?” Your reply: …………
Even though I do sometimes Rom it here and there, having it on the console is more reliable and more complete and just feels much MUCH better.
Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please?
Well seen as I'm not really a nut, more of a Casual retroer, I would let her do her thing but still love my retro games and get the odd one here and there if it means anything to me.

[Seal]

[EDIT] That didn't work

[consoul]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
I think it was 1979 on some Texas Instruments system that plugged into the TV and did Pong and stuff.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Vectrex (3), Atari 2600 (18), Master System I & 2 (8), NES (7), Mega Drive (5), SNES (1), MegaCD (5), 32X (2), GameGear (11), Gameboy (8), PSX (about 100), N64 (16), Saturn (28), Dreamcast (7), Arcade (3).

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Saturn. A system that tried so hard with the odds stacked so much against it.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Simplicity and nostalgia. A sense of light-hearted fun lost from many modern games.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Nostalgia counts for a lot in my experience, but without kick-ass graphics, old school games had to rely on gameplay.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Probably never. I am becoming very selective though, so that in itself limits my purchases.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
ET on Atari 2600 and Dragon's Lair on NES. Obviously bad games...but that's exactly why I bought them. I appreciate a bit of retro stink.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Flea markets and pawnbrokers. Ebay is no fun.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Ten bucks or less. I am a tight-ass as well as a retro nut.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$300 if you consider a Soul Edge arcade machine a retro title. As console games go, $60 for the original Metal Gear (NES) boxed and complete.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Capcom's Sweet Home (the real first Survival Horror). Minty fresh.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Policenauts

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Neg-con. Kooky looking, but worked great as an analog steering controller. Great for WipEout.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
PAL SNES. So hawt.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Have already got most of my holy grails. One left is Deep Fear (Saturn PAL). Rarity is the problem. Only a matter of time though. Also Dancing Eyes the Namco System 11 arcade PCB. Again rarity is the problem, not cost.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Not sold, but lost. My newer Atari 2600 system (the black and silver kind) with swivelly Pong controllers. Still have my woodpanel one thank god. Moral of story: Don't lend shit to people.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Final Fight. Original game Vs. Streetwise. That's pretty self-evident really. One broad way in which Retro > Current is in difficulty. Few new games punish the player like retro games do.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
No. Nice for sure, but I'll take cheap and working over ludicrously expensive and mint anyday.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
I'm ashamed to say yes. The hunt is everything. Playing is good, but nothing beats the rush of a great find (and a great bargain).

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Both completist and eclectic. Must have everything for certain series, but also drawn to bizarre one-offs.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Meh. For the most part, emulation leaves me a bit cold, however the Sega Ages series (as bad as they are) makes me smile.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
I have no problem with a really good remake (like Capcom's "REmake"), but I always appreciate the option to play the original as it was. I'll take Double Dragon or SFII on Virtual Console over the HD versions on XBLA thanks.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
Get out of my house. Your roms are worthless and your emulation imperfect. I want the real deal and I'm happy to pay for it.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
Well obviously you hide it all and don't tell. However, when my wife started buying me retro shit for my birthday I knew I'd broken her and I could geek out totally from then on.

[UKG.]

I still have my Intellivision and Binetone game consoles in their boxes. Now that was the begining of gaming for me. I was walking past a Cashies the other day and they had an original woodgrain Atari with 2 original joysticks and games sprawled around it, Empire strikes back, outlaws, frogger etc (too many to mention ) I paid $5 after haggling for the lot and when i got home EVERYTHING worked!!! both joysticks aswell. The gaming gods were smiling on me that day.

[flamecondor]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Late 80's and would of been on a C64

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
SNES (42), N64 (19), NES (16) Atari 2600 (3), I would say 19+ Gameboy games, but I don't have an old Gameboy they are all played on either my Super Gameboy of GBA SP
Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
SNES, it just had everything, great RPGs, great SHMUPs, great Fighters, great everything and an awesome controller.
Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Cause its fun playing all the games I missed out on when I was younger due to lack of money
Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Nostalgia plays a big part, Back then much like now there were alot of crap games, yes you had rock solid gameplay, but the same can be said about alot of todays games.
Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Maybe one day......when I have ever SNES game ever
Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Some N64 games, man those graphics have dated, and the controller is really odd to use now.
Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay
Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Try for no more then 30, but sometimes the games are worth more
Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Chrono Trigger and I think it was like $75 on ebay only cause I went buy it now instead of losing out all the time
Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Secret of Mana, I love this game so very much.
Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
I'm gonna go with Gokujuo Parodisu just for the random crap happening on the box. But seriously I don't have alot of boxes, and I can't think of anything that jumps out at me as ZOMG
Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
SNES, its simple, feels good in your hand, its pure awesomeness in controller form
Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
SNES PAL, it looks awesome
Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Vectrex, I dunno why but the graphics and everything about the system just look great, it soo 80's yet so future, I would kill to get one.
Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I sold all my original systems and consoles back when I had them, oh if I never sold my old SNES how great my life would be, I miss it every day and all the games I had for it.
Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Mana games, Heroes of Mana & Children of Mana, weren't bad games, but next to Secret of Mana, I died a little on the inside.
Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
While I respect them for wanting to do new things with the games, when new things don't work too well, I really wish they would just bring back everything that made Secret great, oh well one day.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
As long as I can play it, its cool
Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Playing the game is always the most rewarding part
Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Whatevers going I guess, I have a list of games I want to get, if I see a game on that list I want, I'll get it, if not I'll um and ahh about it, and most likely get it anyway.
Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
I don't play many compilations, I think they are a great idea and the only 1 I own of the top of my head if Metal Slug Anthology for Wii and thats ok I guess.
Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Well that depends sometimes upping the graphics is ok, like Street Fighter HD Remix, but sometimes like with SNES games, how do you better perfection, you just can't
Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
Its not the same, emulation is ok for trying games, but if I like it, I want the real thing (or at least a legal version of it, Virtual Console games and so on)
Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

When I loved one who dosen't like my collection, I'll let you know
------------------END--------------------------

Thanks for doing the survey. You are officially a retro-nut :grouphug:

[Mike-Towns]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
My brother got a SEGA Mega Drive when I was...arund 3-4 and i'd play Sonic and Asterix when I wasn't at kindy.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
C64 (20 or so games), NES (50-60), SNES (2)...I miss my MegaDive I sold (minus 12 or so), Saturn (1)...won't include 64, GCN or PS2.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
NES, didn't have the 'power' of the SEGA MasterSystem, but the games were a shit load better.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
How long and how much would it cost to build up a collection of 60 Xbox360 games? I like going back to the days when games were simple and more...childish. Plus, iv'e always liked collecting things that are seen as 'rare' or 'sought after'.


Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Halo and GTA are shit, retro gaming makes up for this. Some new games are good, but these days 'clones' aren't fun like they were in the old days.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Never, my NES collection is like a child to me.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Rings of ****ing power, that was one of the worst things ever.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay , forums or GameTraders (I get second hand stuff at near-cost price)

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Common - $3 or so, Rare - $15-$20 (many being worth $50-$150)

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Probably around...$20 to be honest...NEARLY bought Lufia (best game on SNES) and Terrignigma (also one of the best SNES games) for $150 together...then I found Lufia cart only for $16.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
My two NES TopLoaders. Bought one with 30 or so games for $90 (which means I got it pretty much free) and another I bought for $15 with around 5 games and a FrontLoader (so I probably got it cheap also).

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Hmm...just looked in my drawer, this NES game called 'TOTALLY RAD' has some weird, coolish boxart.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Not a 'controller' per se, but the C64 keyboard was rather functional.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
The NES toploader is preeeeety.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Twin TopLoaders, appareantly they're hard to come across.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I miss my Chef Game and Watch I sold to get an eyebrow peircing...which later rejected. That and my MegaDrive collection.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
The new Bionic Commando, while looking kinda cool, won't be as good as the classic one. Also; Final Fantasy games.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
I count 'Mint' as sealed, but I try to find stuff that's perfect conditon and make them stay that way.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Deffinatly, I don't really have time to 'game' too much anymore.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
All of the above.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Compilations are normally crap, but the recent Sonic ones have been decent...so was Street Fighter Alpha Anthology

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
They should include a 'classic' and 're-done' versions to please everyone.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Piratings for music and movies, games are much better when played legally.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition?

Not currently in a relationship, but the girls i'm close to love retro games they played as kids.

[Marble]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
It would of been in the early or mid ninties, either on the Mega Drive or a black and white Macintosh.
Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
SMS (12)
SMD (21)
Saturn (11)
DC (12)
NES (17)
SNES (20)
N64 (5)
GB/C (8)
Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
That's way too hard.
Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Well, there's just a lot of quality old games of all genres, but in particular, 2D platformers and side scrolling beat 'em ups were much more common back then. I mean sure, there are some new ones on handhelds today, but I don't think they meet the standards of these genres set in the 8-bit and 16-bit era.
Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
I haven't played enough current gen games to see if I think that's the case or not. But yeah, I don't think nostalgia plays a huge part in my liking for retro games, as only a handful of the retro games I play these days I actually played as a kid.
Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
I'll be happy when I have every single retro game that I consider to be great.
Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Rings of ****ing power, that was one of the worst things ever.
Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay, Cash Converters and Game Traders.
Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
These days, between $5-20.
Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Probably $60 for a cart only copy of Secret of Mana. Hahaha.
Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Maybe Super Mario World or Shenmue or something. (My good games are more prized to me then my rare ones.)
Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Streets of Rage.
Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
The SNES controller was good, but the D-pad was stiff and the shoulder buttons were uncomfortable.
Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Mega Drive.
Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Well, I would love to have Shenmue 2 on the DC (and intending to buy it soonish).
Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I sold my 64 once... and bought it back, for less, if my memory is correct. And I'm thinking about selling it again!
Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Sonic. The Mega Drive games and Sonic Adventure are some of my favourite games, but by Heroes and Shadow the series had gone way down hill. :(
Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Not really. Sure, if I can get a good game that's mint at a good price, I'll get it. But if I have a choice between buying a game cart only or forking out an extra 30 or more dollars to have the box and manual, I'll take it cart only.
Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
It's a good feeling to get a game for way less then it's worth, but playing them is always more fun to me (depending on the game :p ).
Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
I'm only after certain games, but these days I'm fairly opportunistic about buying them. As I said earlier, I do want to own every retro game I consider great. But I'm in no rush to track them all down now.
Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Compilations kinda take a bit of the fun away somehow. But Mega Games 6 on the Mega Drive.
Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
I don't really care, I don't buy ports of old games to new system unless the original copy is EXTREMELY hard to get or this new port has enough new content to make it worth it. Though I can't think of an example. :p
Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
Playing them on a keyboard, on a computer screen, doesn't do it for me. I couldn't care less about how legal it is, it's just not the same unless it's the real game on the real system.
Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
I'm not in a relationship, and since I wouldn't describe myself as someone who is "totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts," I couldn't see myself in one with someone who would oppose.

[This_is_me]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system? My first systems where the NES and commodore 64.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own? Dreamcast (20),PS1(5),NES (40),Snes (15),Megadrive, (10) saturn (15)


Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love? My Dreamcast i think it was the Only time
i got really excited for a console, Sonic Adventure for the first time send me
chills. It was small and funky the it was console, plenty of good games with replay value.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles? That these games are fun and can play all over again.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles? The devlepoers put a lot time and effort in these games long way before the whole commercialized everything, it was made by gamers for gamers.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’? NEVER.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past? My NES came with me after leaving the UK smelt pretty bad.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items? All over the place depends on the tittle I'm looking for.:cool:

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days? anywhere between $5-$50

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed) A us version of Final Fantasy 6 it was around
$100 us at the time.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is……. Shenmue 2 the pal version got at gamesmen in Wollongong.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection? The final fantasy box art is nice.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses? The dreamcast, looks cool and very console like, but like all controllers it breaks for time to time.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?) The dreamcast and the Snes.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it? My Shunmue 2.:cool:

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?) no not really have not done that yet.:cool:

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre). Thats a tough call, I'm thinking the streetfighter series we all remember the Haddoken and preety much play the same.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you? hahah some are and some not so much.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games? Both are on equal terms on that regard.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)? I'm just a very random person depends how much money i have at the time.:cool:

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date? Makes me warm and fuzzy and a big Geek. lol

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Well i have the old game and what it would be nice not to make it 3d just make it HD new sounds and don't **** the game play simple and just add the old game with it. Win Win.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: It's an investment sucker.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? Well my partner dose not care too much as long a keep to a budget and make nice and tidy then its fine, i don't tell how much a pay these games.:cool: because she thinks it's old its only worth so and so amount.

[flugle]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

Christmas 1978, on an Atari VCS (which is still going strong)

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Atari 2600 (approx 350)
Atari 5200 (25)
Atari 7800 (30)
Atari XE/8 bit computer (40)
Colecovision (30)
Intellivision (60)
Vectrex (10)
NES (60)
SNES (85)
N64 (40)
3DO (25)
Atari Lynx (8)
Emerson Arcadia (8)
Game & Watches (10)
Sega Saturn (23)
Sega Megadrive/32X (37)
Sega Dreamcast (20)

I also have a stack of old computers like a Vic 20s, C64s, Atari 800, Amiga CD32 with an SX-1, texas TI, and a Speccy

Also an extensive collection of gaming magazines, including

Full Zzap!64
Full Hyper (yes have been buying it since issue 1)
The first 10 years (ie the good ones) of C&VG
Full Commodore User

I also have a collection of multicarts, including all the Cuttle Carts

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Atari 2600 - my first gaming love and still is. The primitive graphics and sound leave everything to the imagination, leaving nothing but gameplay.
Its very hard to choose between this and the SNES.


Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

As I'm busy with work, they provide a good dose of simple, arcade gaming that doesn't need me to remember 100 joypad combinations or read a manual for half an hour before playing

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

A large part - these were titles I grew up with (I still have the ones I owned as a kid) and they are part of my life.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

No, and never.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

I had a NES I found at a garage sale that was full of roaches and smelled really bad. I binned it.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Garage sales

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

$60 for a boxed Secret of Mana PAL

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

My original Atari VCS.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

A tough one, but I love all of the old Imagic silver boxes for Atari

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

N64 - fits beautifully in the hand, but I seem to go through a lot of them

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

My Atari 5200 - its a beast of a thing, all black and a bit of silver

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

I'm not really focused on any particular titles. Not being in the US, my holy grail would be a lot of the titles that never came out here

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

I sold a stack of Game & Watches for a stupidly low amount when I started on Ebay and didn't know what I was doing. I still regret it.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).



For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

Metroid - sorry I hate the 3D ones. To me Metroid was the epitome of 2D platforming, and I just can't get into the 3D view. (not much of an argument but just my opinion)

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Mint - not so much, but complete in box is important to me. Most of my Atari titles are CIB

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

Yes, the hunt is part of the fun.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

Opportunist

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

They're fine - I have most of the originals so it's no big deal, but I do like the Capcom ones for PSP

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

Sure, otherwise what's the point. As long as the original gameplay stays intact I don't really care, but the majority of today's market will.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

I enjoy it, so its never a waste of money. Also some of my stuff is quite valuable so I treat it as an investment.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

I'm lucky to have a partner in crime who enjoys it :)

------------------END--------------------------


I stumbled onto these forums from OCAU (I think I was a member here years ago and completely forgot about it). it's nice to find a retro forum. I'll add some photos to the pictures thread when I get a chance.

[Dizrythmia]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

My first system was an Amstrad CPC.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Phew... OK. You asked for it:

Atari Jaguar
NES toploader
SNES PAL
SNES NTSC
Super Famicom
Virtual Boy
Gameboy
Gameboy Colour (limited edition Pokemon)
Gameboy Colour (Pokemon GS edition)
Gameboy Advance (Limited edition green Celebi edition)
Gameboy Advance SP (Limited Edition Charizard Red)
Gamepark GP2X
Nintendo 64 PAL
Nintendo 64 JP NTSC
Nintendo 64 (Limited Edition Pokemon AU)
Nintendo 64 (Limited Edition Blue Pikachu US)
Nintendo 64 (Limited Edition Orange Pikachu Japanese)
Gamecube (PAL)
Gamecube (PAL with Qoob chip)
Gamecube (US NTSC)
Gamecube (JP NTSC)
Nintendo DS (limited edition Mario Kart Hot Rod Red)
Nintendo Wii (NTSC)
Neo Geo MVS (4 slot board)
Neo Geo AES
Neo Geo Pocket Colour
Capcom CPS2
Bandai Swan Crystal
Bandai Wonderswan Colour
PC Engine Core Grafx 2
Turbo Grafx 16
Sega Master System 1
Sega Master System 2
Sega Megadrive 1
Sega Megadrive 2
Sega Megadrive 2 (Japanese PAL)
Sega Genesis 2
Sega Mega CD 1
Dreamcast
Sega ST-V
Amstrad GX4000
Amiga CD32
Microsoft Xbox

Don't even ASK me how many games we're looking at here :rolleyes:

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

SNES is my platform of choice. It was the system that really give you some top quality games that are perfectly playable today. I'm a huge fan of platformers so some prime examples of that genre on the SNES are:

Mario World - OF COURSE
Do Re Mi Fantasy: Milon No Doki Doki Daibouken - A great late platformer that really showed off the SNES animation & scrolling
Contra 3 - Brilliant game
Twinbee: Rainbow Bell Adventures - A fast paced zippy platformer with 3 different characters to use
Kirby's Dreamland 3 - Kirby rocks & consequently so does this game!!

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

Variety, instant playability & most importantly: replayability. I get a hankering for a game of Mario World or Zelda 3 more than I would for anything on current generation machines.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

A little from column A, a little from column B

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

I'm slowing down my collecting to mainly focus on the SNES. When will I have enough? Well I have a list of essential games I have to purchase before I even come close to considering retiring from collecting.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Mystic Quest Legend immediately springs to mind...

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Ebay mainly as I prefer NTSC games over the inferior PAL equivalents. Still, I do get the odd surprise from Cash Converters or Game Traders. Depends if the people running the store want to buy NTSC games.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Depends on the game & system

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

$320 for a brand new SNK vs Capcom Chaos for Neo Geo MVS. It's the only Neo Geo game I've bought brand new because I HAD TO HAVE IT!!

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

That's a hard one... Virtual Boy would be in there... any limited edition console would also be in the running... pass!!

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Never really paid much attention to box art to be honest. I'd rank any Castlevania game highly.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

The SNES all the way. If I was to say it had any weaknesses I'd have to say the shoulder buttons.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

The PC Engine. It's a tiny machine that contains a real hybrid 8/16 bit powerhouse inside!!

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

I've obtained most of my holy grails, so I'd have to say no really.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

I sold a Sega SC3000 computer. No regrets as I bought it cheap & sold it at a profit. I had no interest in the machine. My parents selling my original Amstrad however... that's a WHOLE other issue...

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

Zelda 3 (SNES) > Zelda Windwaker (GC)

Zelda 3 is gaming perfection for it's genre. No amount of 3D graphics or longer gameplay can take that away.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

Not TOO important, but again it depends on the game. Some games I INSIST on having in mint packaging, but others I couldn't care less as long as everything is in "good enough" condition (in played in, yet looked after condition)

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

I enjoy the hunt more & owning the game than playing it. I rarely get time to play games these days, but I always find the time to hunt them down.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

A bit of everything. I have games I want, & I really like collector pieces. On the other hand if I see something I "kinda want" I'll buy it.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

Not a fan of retro compilations. I'd rather own the original game on the original machine.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

I disagree with the harshness of the statement, but agree with the sentiment behind it DO AN EXTENT. If the graphics can be updated without sacrificing any of the gameplay then do it. An alternative would be to include both versions, old & new.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

Takes the fun out of it. I used to emulate old games on my PC & I had CDs upon CDs full of ROMS & I never played them for more than 5 minutes at a time. It just didn't have the old school feel you get from playing the real machine.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

My girlfriend was also a retro collector when we first met. Not really a collector, but she had a Megadrive & SNES & was getting games for it when she saw something she liked. Nope no real issues here. She supports & encourages my habit.

[Sac]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Hmmmm...to be honest, I can't remember the exact date, but I THINK it 1987 or 1986, when my dad bought a commodore 64 (With a tape deck! We updated to a disk drive about 6 months later)

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
PC- Tons, Can't be bothered to count 'em all. And I mean boxed proper copies, not downloaded games. If I don't have an actual copy(Cart, CD, Disk, boxed), it doesn't count for my collection.
Gameboy - 7
Megadrive- 31
Playstation- 28
Gameboy Advance- 16
Commordore 64 - 2
(Not gonna count DS, PS2, Wii or Cube)


Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
While I don't play it too much these days, I'd have to say PSX, simply because it has such a great line up of RPGs, my genre of choice.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
I like collecting, plus there are so many games I wanted when I was a kid, but could never have (Never had money as a kid), so it's great to track down those games. Plus I LOVE the old style PC game boxes, they just feel a bit more satisfying than the jewel cases games come in these days.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Maybe, but old games that I found good back ion the day I still find good today, so I guess it's more that my tastes in gaming simply haven't changed much.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Probably never, though I could consider myself satisfied if I manage to get a boxed copy of all the old Sierra adventure games.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
My recent copy of KQIV, had some stains on the front of the box, but I managed to wash most of 'em off without damaging the box.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Cash Converters or Ebay. I really should find some more sources.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Not much, as I don't have a lot of spare cash. That said, most of the games I want tend not to be worth much (Which also means they don't drop up too often...or at all)

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Can't remember, though I don't think I've ever paid more than what a game would have retailed for.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
That would be my copy of the Quest for Glory Collection Series. Includes QfGI-IV, the VGA remake of 1 and a soundtrack CD for QfGV which also includes a demo of V.
(This demo, which ran on the old PC at the time, caused me to buy QfGV when it was released, only to discover the full version wouldn't actually run on my PC. I was quite upset to discover this. I can easily run it these days though)

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Probably an qqual tie between Quest for Glory V and Innocent until Caught

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
The joysticks I had with my old C-64, best joysticks I've ever owned. Thw weakness? Me and my little sister had a bad habit of banging them down on the table when we got frustated, so they eventually stopped working.
That and most joysticks you can buy these days are these ultra complicated looking flight sim designed jobbies. Bah! BAH I SAY!

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Megadrive

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Any Sierra On Line adventure game, boxed, that I don't currently own. They don't drop up too often, even less frequently for the PC. (My actual Holy Grail I already own, which was the Quest for Glory Collection Series pack. My excellent mum scoured Sydney for a copy when I missed out on a trip to Sydney when she was staying there years ago)

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Oh yes. I sold my original Gameboy, and my Pokemon edition Gameboy Pocket (or was it a Gameboy color? Can't remember). Wish I'd kept both :(

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
I can't think of any now, sorry.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Oh yes. It annoys me greatly to discover stuff missing from my games, even though I intend never to sell 'em, so value in meaningless (I was recently horried to discover I was missing a calendar that came with my copy of Kilrathi saga for the PC)

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously they're not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Yeah, I don't tend to play my retro games as much I intend when I buy 'em. That's probably more to playing my current gen games, though.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Aside from looking for certain releases rarely, I tend to just look around at reto games and buy ones that I think look cool, sometimes I like to grab games I read about in mags from my youth and always wanted, but never got to try.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
I like 'em, it good to see old games back for sale. Best comp would be the Megadrive collection, simply because it included Phantasy 2, 3 and IV.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Depends. If its a few tweak that's ok, but otherwise I'd like a port left alone. Otherwise, it'd just feel like a half assed remake. If you ARE gonna remake an old game, it should be done properly.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
I like to own actual boxed copies for my collection. Plus there's just no satisifaction from owning pirated copies of games.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
Sorry, I got nothing :(

[extra_anchovy]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
Before I even started school, it would of been about 1988/1989. My dad owned an Atari 2600 Slim because were sold as budget gaming systems at the time (he was a cheapass).

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Atari 2600 (74), Atari 7800 (8), Commodore 64 (7) (+ many copied games on disk), Nintendo 64 (4), Nintendo NES (3), Nintendo SNES (30) (+ many copied games on disk), Panasonic 3DO (1), Samsung Gam*Boy (1), Sega SC-3000/SG-1000 (12), Sega Master System (11), Sega Mega Drive (2), Sega Saturn (16), Tsukuda Original Othello Multivision (2)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Another SNES fan here. It's the console that I had the longest (would of been 2600 but it got given away). I've played and finished more games on it than any other console. There are literally dozens of high quality games: platform games, fighting games, beat em up, racing, flying, everything you could ask for (besides graphic adventures). The best part for me though is that it has many enjoyable 2 player simultaneous games.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Big difference in playing and collecting old games. The playability of the vast majority of new games these days is atrocious. But there are thousands of hours of enjoyable gameplay to be milked from retro games.

And collecting new games is therefore pointless, also buying retail is boring. Collecting retro games on the other hand - its fun to get that rare or sought after game below average price but even better when you find it for next to nothing in the wild.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Nostalgia is a large factor for me. I like to remember the days when buying a new game really was exciting and a big deal. Also you could goto the store and see new 2600, C64, NES, SNES, SMS and SMD stuff all at the same time.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
I suspect that one day I may be really tempted to sell my collection if the price is high enough.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Atari 2600 can be pretty filthy - plaque growing on them, yellowing, dirty labels. But the worst is buying stuff from the UK and it smelling moldy due to it being stored in a damp environment. Also stuff that is infused with the smell of cigarettes.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Has been eBay for a while but recently I've been getting the most stuff from my local flea market.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
I prefer to buy in lots so each game only costs few dollars. If buying one game then the average would varies depending on the console but as a generalization probably around $10-$20.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
I think around $50 for King's Quest on Sega Master System.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
My mint and complete software for Sega SC-3000.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Shadowgate for NES has a nice box.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
My favourite controller is definitely the Battlestation II joystick. It has many strengths and nearly no weaknesses. It's an dual arcade controller (2 joysticks in one), you can use it with about a dozen systems, its built by an arcade manufacturer and therefore very sturdy and won't get worn out easily, it gives games more like arcade like experience. Can't think of any disadvantages except that it's not suited to some games (e.g platform games).

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Can't beat the Amstrad Gx-4000 its like a space ship.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Grandstand SG-1000.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Yes I do sell systems now and then on eBay but only if I already have one.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
The Harvest Moon series.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Yes, very much so.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Both are good but the gaming part is the reason I collect in the first place.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
I live to get stuff cheaper than it's average price mostly but than there are some very rare stuff that I would fork out loads of cash for.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
I'm not too fond of the idea of playing old games on new systems. But I would say Metal Slug Anthology for the PSP.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.”
I prefer it the graphics are as originally intended.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Because old games run on PC do not feel or play the same. And not all systems can be properly emulated anyway.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
Usually don't care

[Queenie]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
The year was '97. My mum got me one of those newfangled GAME BOY COLOR things and pokemon silver. later that year, for christmas we got a 64, Zelda OoT and Banjo-kazooie.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
Game boy color (4), Game boy advance (7), SNES (3), PSX (11), 'Cube (30ish), N64 (100+ and growing)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
n64- greatest rare console of all time. Contains JFG, Banjo, Blast Corps, Goldeneye and 4-player multiplayer! Also has teh marios, and Zelda MM which is my fave game of all time.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Retro games are slightly cheaper than current-gen games.

And collecting new games is therefore pointless, also buying retail is boring. Collecting retro games on the other hand - its fun to get that rare or sought after game below average price but even better when you find it for next to nothing in the wild. copypasta

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
I think it makes everything seem a lot better than it probably is, and how well we did for the hardware limitations.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
I want to collect every N64 game, and every SNES game. Then I'll be happy. Maybe cube, but that thing had so much crap on it i'm not sure.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
DBZ stickers on my first 64 are wearing off and are sticky.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Ebay, or here. mostly ebay.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
anywhere from 5 to 50.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
110 for MGS: TTS on 'cube. After that, probably conker for around 80, followed by Battle for naboo (50)

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Gundam wing: Endless duel (boxed, manual).

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
The japanese n64 game, shit why do i forget these things? You know, the one craptest loves, it's an on-rails shooter with voice acting.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
NES: You can play it with one hand! (unlike 3 for the 64, and similar amounts in newer ones that require 15 buttons to be pressed simultaneously).

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
I like the ps2, but they're still releasing games for it aren't they (and selling better than the PS3 versions?)

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
That golden nintendo cartridge... you know, one sold last year sometime to the tune of around 10,000.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
No.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
The Harvest Moon series. <-- can't think of anything else so i stole his idea

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Yes, and it pisses me off when family members LOSE THE MANUAL FOR FANTASY STAR ONLINE WHICH IS SO FREAKING HARD TO GET

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Originally gaming, but now, it's collecting, and then gaming when i have the time.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Opportunistic completist who isn't afraid to fork out the big ones for the Elitist's items.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Zelda Collector's edition.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.”
Well not so they don't look shit, perhaps more so I can see what I am doing.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Because I run a macintosh.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
"You never told me you played games!"
"Wait a second, this isn't my house!"

one of the worst possible things that could have come into my mind.

[Revoltix]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
My earliest gaming memory is playing Dracula on Intellivision, umm... 1986, could have been playing Donkey Kong game and watch about that time too.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Saturn (3)
Playstation (150ish)
Master System (20)
Mega Drive (27)
Mega CD (15)
SNES (12)
Nintendo 64 (45)
Very slowly selling them all off however

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
I guess the playstation, I never stopped playing it. I've killed two of them by over-use. It was the transition from 2D to 3D that captured me. Gran Turismo probably my favourite game, I gave the PS a serious workout. Oh yes, the Final Fantasy games (4,5,6,7,8,9), lot of hours there :)

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
The modern day hunter. In the old days, men hunted rare and exotic animals. New age man hunts playstation games at cheap prices. :)

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Yes, I still play Road Rash

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
I have curbed it a lot. As mentioned I have started selling things slowly. I can let go, but I can't stop cold turkey.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I bought a mega cd and mega drive with games, and the games had been stored in some sort of strange crate, a few of them smelt extremely funky. (some vulgar condensation). Took months of airing, but I got rid of it.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Usually ads in the paper

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
At little as pssoble. around the $10 mark

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$160 for an original mega cd

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Original Mega CD lol, although I'm quite fond of the Saturn and the Master System 3D Glasses

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Always been a fan of the Doom 2 box for PC :)

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Twin PS1 sticks, awesome. It's big, it looks like it would pilot a fleet of star destroyers. However, on a practical level, it's not comfortable.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
The Nintendo 64 is probably the most stylish

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Virtua Racing on Saturn, can't seem to find the bastard anywhere.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Well, i sold my Saturn, but my boss gave me one for free, but I re-bought some games :) I know I'm crazy

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Grand Theft Auto, started back on the PS1 and PC, still going and still in Liberty City. No argument, the game has improved.


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Hell yes, I hate half eaten books, scratched discs and generally mistreated games. STOP THE ABUSE!

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
The hunt consumes me, the gaming keeps me addicted.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Complete horder - if i like a game, let's say Doom, then i own doom, doom 2, doom 3 and every expansion on every system i own. Several years ago I had every version of doom availble ever!

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
While it's a good idea, they are never the same. EA classics on psp on a gameplay/ graphical level is awsome, but the music and sounds have been changed, ruins the whole thing. (yes, talking about road rash)

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Sega made good with re-doing outrun on the sega classics on ps2, so yeah, but they should include the original so you can re-live the experience

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
It's not the same as owning physical games.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

The best trick is to say "honey I've had this game for ages". Keep the retro pile in a semi-disorganised state of chaos, no one is suspecting.

Gaping holes in your wallet need to be explained, but hey, the price of fuel was a killer this week.

Keeping your latest console retro console in the middle of the floor is not a good idea.

------------------END--------------------------

[AllSchoolGamer]

oo i do love these things

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
I was 4 and it was on the woodgrain Atari and commodore vic20..that was '82

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
ok first i couldnt estimate the number of games so i wont however as far as systems go i got
both atari 2600's wood,jnr and 7800
both master systems (2 version2's and 1 version1)/ 4 nes frontloaders
2 megadrives and megacd/ 1 snes
N64/dreamcast/2 psx's
xbox/ps2/gamecube
2 gb colours/2 gb pockets/1 gba
1 game and watch

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Hmm toughy..its really a toss up between Megadrive, Snes and dreamcast
I'll probably change my mind later but will say Megadrive cause I does love the Strider and the megacd game Snatcher.
Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Fun without the stress of trying to acheive 100% completion and its also good for pick up and play..even if its just 5 minutes.
Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
I think nostalgia plays a small role in it really...as simply as i can, a good game is a good game regardless of when
Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
NEVER!!! I will have enough when I have it all, when there is nothing else to collect.
Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
If you mean an item that is smelly then I haven't had that yet and been collecting a while. if you mean games that are crap now to when i first played them then the only example I have is midtown madness 3. When that first came out me and my daughter played the hell out of it...now its not so good.
Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Online
Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
about $10 average
Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
So far around 25 bucks but that included postage for my beloved Strider for the megadrive
Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
final fight (snes) strider (smd)..actually the boxes for games and consoles...seems to be the hardest part to get
Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Wow I really dont have a favorite
Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Dreamcast..its comfortable and has the vmu and rumble pak.
Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
SNES
Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
hhmm another good 1...usually as soon as i think of another game i buy it, or take whats available on forums. Adventures of Link I guess but i just recently found it for very cheap.
Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
oh yeah back in the day i sold my snes with 30 games and the superscope for 160 bucks! what a twonk!!!
Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
mega man for sure and they proved that point by releasing megaman 9 in 8bit
Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
Well mainly based on the fact that the 8 bit versions were always more fun even if they were formulaic
Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Yeah..well the mint condition bit is and complete is important but that can get very expensive
Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Hahaha yeah sometimes
Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Quite honestly all of the above with this question
Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
yeah is ok ..a good way to get updated versions of old games.
Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Yeah they should change the graphix but leave the game itself untouched...however i do prefer the original version of mario over the 1 that comes with all stars
Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
cause its not the same as playing it on the actual system..besides emus and roms should only be used to a) decide which title to buy next b) historical preservation
Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
Sorry got none...my wife just got me a boxed atari with 8 games for $3, so she is so wonderful and supportive...love you kate!:p

[AllSchoolGamer]

damn sorry double post.

[Twisted Conspiracy]

I wouldn't really call myself a Retro Nut. but I do love a bit of Retro every now and then; hence me doing this questionaire;

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system? Was born in '93, been gaming since '99. (Since I was six years old... :))

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
I suppose GBA counts these days... But apart from that, nothing. My mate had a SEGA MS and MD. (Approx. 30 games maybe...)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
I love the Megadrive. I grew up with it... And It had "Zombies Ate My Neighbours"... "Sonic" (is legendary), "Comix Zone"...
Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles? Just that feeling of nostalgia when playing Sonic the Hedgehog on the Master System; takes me right back to that busted sofa, empty cans of Fanta littering the floor, level codes scrawled in crayon on the floor...

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles? There is a time and place for for everything. Flashy graphics are the present, flashy gameplay was the past. Todays games are brilliant, don't get me wrong, but the oldies just have that feel to them that makes them a whole lot better. (Mostly).

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Err... When they release a decent Gamepark GP2X (or something of that nature) I'll be in line... (Is the Wiz any good? Anyone know?)
Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past? Since I don't really collect... Got nothing. Although there are some very mediocre retro games out there, you really have to sort through the shit...

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
...
Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
...
Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
If PS1 games count; Tomb Raider. 50c.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Uh, damn... Oh I know, my PS1 original Dualshock controller. Thas' all I got.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Comix Zone had a nice cover... Or any of the Street Fighter games...

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Dualshock 1. Dude, they still use them... Well, a variation of the sorts...

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
Neo Geo. Should be the definition of 'sexy' in the dictionary.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Kizuna Encounter. Yeah, kinda self explanatory... Or a mint condition MGS. Or a boxed Tetris. Man there's heaps.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I had a GP2X. Sold it because the controls were so clumsy... No regrets; but I'll invest in another newer version in the future...

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Gee, uh... Chrono Trigger... ;) No, the MGS series hasn't changed mush from it's roots as a PS1 game... Metal Gear Solid > Metal Gear Solid 4

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
When simplicity was king and stupid little gimicks were not. Well not much anyway. (*Cou-R.O.B-gh*) Oh and TETRIS!!!!

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Definitely. More so if it's an awesome game.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Playing. Outstandingly better than the hunt.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
If it's good; I play it. (Usually fuelled by recommendations from Hyper))

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date? I don't have a compilation (that's legal).
Super Mario Gold or something... On the SNES.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Yeah, if I want to play an original retro title, I'll get that. Reskinning is good.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: ………… Yeah I know... :)

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
I'm only 15. Bloody hell.

------------------END--------------------------
Sorry if some statements are toeing the line of Rules & Regulations (In terms of Emulation), but they did ask...

[Syntheia]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
I remember having to sit on phonebooks to reach the joystick/keyboard, so I must have been around 7 when I started.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
An Amiga 3000 (which replaced a 500). Unfortunately, my parents for some reason thought consoles were the SPAWN OF SATAN, and would rot my brain faster than the Amiga would. Oh, we used to have an old Amstrad somewhere but I have no idea what model it was.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
Aforementioned Amiga and the clicky joystick we used with it (used to drive my parents mad with the noise). We had a whole drawer full of games my dad had pirated onto floppies. Particular favourites were Moonstone, Zool, Lemmings and Monkey Island.

Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Well I don't really collect. I just have fond memories of growing up with video games.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Some of the games I played (Monkey Island is a definate standout) had really excellent stories and dialogue, and I've never seen wit quite as cutting since.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
We just keep the old beast around for old time's sake - the memories are precious (and the drawer full of games is still just as it was back in the 90s). I keep the joystick on my shelf.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
The worst I've had is slightly yellow floppy labels. We never actually bought games because we were too poor (read: cheap). The beloved joystick, however, remains just as shiny and colourful as it did when we got it.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
Don't.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
N/A

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Could you count a $10 bargain-bin copy of Catz5?

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
JOYSTICK (http://www.hyper.com.au/forums/showpost.php?p=1175480&postcount=767)

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
I may not have any boxes, but I do have an original DOOM ad. It featured 3 shitty screenshots at the top, with a long spiel in black Times New Roman over white background underneath. We've come a long way O.O

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
The N64's mega-awesome-dinosaur-claw was funky-looking, but I always felt like I was wasting the 3rd, unused claw. Gamecube and PS ones were great, though.

But I have to give a shout out to the Power Glove™. Even if it didn't work, it was a GLOVE. Made of POWER. I mean, cmon...

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console?
I'm not familiar with that many, but you've got to love the boxy awesomeness of the original Nintendo controller. It's so cool it has wormed it's way right into modern geek-pop culture.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Slightly unrelated, I really want to get Time Commando working on my computer. Never got around to it.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Nope.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
Monkey Island. Went to shit and lost most of the visual character when they introduced 3D graphics.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Nah, the more bettered ones are the most loved.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Gaming FTW!

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Eclectic.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Never played any, to my knowledge.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.”
Some work, some don't.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
I don't waste it anyway =P

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
I should really introduce Syt to the Amiga. Hmm.

[Vindik8or]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
I mucked around on relatives NES when I was quite young, but I didn't really get into it properly until about 1993 when my family got our first PC.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Gamecube
PC (so effectively all of them)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
The PC for above reasons.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
I can keep playing my old favourites, no other reason.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Weasel words. As a general trend, games have improved in all aspects over the years. However there are certain watershed titles which remain timelessly playable, those are what I'm interested in. Nostalgia is the bastion of conservatives who have faulty memory and I have no time for it.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
It essentially costs me nothing and as time goes on and more things enter into this "retro" era my collection of games that count as that will increase.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Nothing. I'm not into retro for the aesthetic or anything. Digital only copies of stuff are good enough for me.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
HA! Buy.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
HA HA! Pay.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
$50 for an untouched copy of Metroid Fusion I found in the games shop on the top of the Myer Centre in Brisbane.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
My flesh and bones.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Probably the box for Baldur's Gate II is the only one I've kept, so that.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
All I've got is Gamecube controllers. They've got everything they need and nothing else.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
The Gamecube's gotta be the only one where some bold industrial design has actually taken place.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
Metroid Zero Mission. Basically it has been laziness stopping me from tracking it down with any gusto.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
Nup.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
The point and click adventure genre has only seen remakes of classics of late. It really needs a new title of the calibre and importance of Grim Fandango to give it some life of its own rather than perversely resurrecting the dead and gone. Ho ho! See what I did there?

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
I've never bought anything 'pre-owned' neither have I ever traded anything in. So yeah, I kinda want to be the first person to despoil a game.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
Oh man. Buying.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (sees and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Discerning. I don't buy into this whole "retro" idiom, I'm mainly looking for things that remain great, or that I wanted to play first time around but never got to for one reason or another.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Well the Lucasarts SCUMM adventure torrent I found was pretty swell.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
They should try making something new. I'm looking for some decent future editions to my collection.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
I know! I don't!

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artefacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

The physical stuff I have is quite slight and kept neatly away, plus she plays some of my Gamecube titles. Everything else is in completely digimal format so it's no issue.

[jons2ann]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
1988. Atari 2600.

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
- Atari 2600 (33)
- SNES (19)
- PlayStation (20)
- Dreamcast (28)
- And if it counts... Macintosh (7)

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
- SNES.
- BEST controllers of ANY console.
- Huge leap in graphics and game play options from the last generation.
- No loading screens as opposed to later generations.
- 2D gaming enables you to play right down to the frame.

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
- Old titles have much better replay value because they're old.
- Before the PSX, Saturn etc, people were playing games to the fullest because there were hardly any tools for piracy.
- Hiring games from the local video store was exciting.
- Old games are rare. Collecting them is rewarding.

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
Simple. Gaming is meant to take people away from reality. Nostalgic titles do a much better job at that.

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
Not sure. Hopefully I'll run out of things to buy. My only problem is that as time goes on, other things become retro.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
I'm not sure what you mean by that.

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
- Play-Asia (http://www.play-asia.com/)
- Jap-Sai (http://jap-sai.net/Index.htm)
- Yahoo! Auctions Japan (http://auctions.yahoo.co.jp/)
- eBay (http://ebay.com.au)
- and Gametraders.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
Around $50.

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Super Street Fighter II for the SNES. It was $149.95 according to Hyper Magazines review of the game about 15 years ago. We got it for around $120 back then.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Well that depends. I collect game magazines, audio CDs, games, consoles, figurines etc.
Games: My entire PSX collection of Capcom and SNK games unused and in immaculate condition.
Console: SNES.
Audio CD: Athena the Music.
Magazines: Gamest Mook #1 - Sound Complete Super Street Fighter II X + Music CD. (If I find Hyper Magazine #1, that would be my most prized magazine. If someone working at Hyper is looking at this... print one for me pretty please????? I'll pay very good money!!!)
Figurines: Coming in Dec 2010.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Street Fighter Zero 3 Saikyoryu Dojo for Dreamcast
http://www.segagagadomain.com/dc-covers5/streetfighter3zero-f.jpg
It has no black lines.

or

Pocket Fighter (Japan) for Playstation
http://media.strategywiki.org/images/thumb/c/ca/Pocket_Fighter_PSX_JP_box.jpg/120px-Pocket_Fighter_PSX_JP_box.jpg
Looks like art made with fabric.

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
SNES. Not the ugly US version.
- Strengths: 6 buttons. Good size. Sturdy. Doesn't give you hand cramps.
- Weaknesses: Needs small joystick that you can attach to the D-Pad.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
- If it counts, slimline PS2 (silver). Or else Woodgrain Atari or SNES.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
- At present? Hyper Magazine Issue #1. I'm dead serious. It's rarity.
- Also Street Fighter II Pinball by Gottlieb. It's not rare. Just no one to deliver it.

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I had a SNES. I didn't sell it. I lent it to a Maori guy who pretended to be my friend. Then I never saw it again. Never trusted Maori teenagers ever since. I even call the Police on them. Around that time, emulators came out. Played all my SNES games on my Pentium II. That got me into Japanese SNES games. I bought the console again recently with games that enjoyed playing on the emulator.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
I'm wondering why no one has mentioned...
Super Mario World (SNES) > NSMB(DS)

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
- Game play is a lot smoother than NSMB.
- First Mario game to have Yoshi.
- You can actually RIDE on Yoshi.
- Yoshi comes in 4 colours and with different powers. You can combine powers by holding different coloured shells.
- The cape.
- BGM changes to same tune but with drum beats when you ride Yoshi.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Without a doubt. Yes.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
It's the collecting. I guess I get the same feeling as those who collect antiquities. You appreciate the history.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
As Abraham (Grandpa) said on the Simpsons: A little from column 'A' and a little from column 'B'.

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Unworthy. I bought Metal Slug Collection for the PC and it sucked. Emulation is best. It reflects the original formula of the game.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
Depends on the game really. Remake of FF7? Sure.
But some devs/artists can do an awful job at it. For example Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix. It was the only reason why I bought a PS3. When they advertised it at Harvey Norman it looked awesome. When I played it, the characters they didn't advertise were butt ugly.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
I buy legit copies for collecting. Emulated or backup copies for playing.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

Well, Thank God I have a girlfriend who is into the same kind of thing.
If she happened to be one of those "dream killers", then I wouldn't be with her.
Why be with someone who takes away what makes you happy? The missus isn't everything. She doesn't define who I am.

------------------END--------------------------

Thanks for doing the survey. You are officially a retro-nut :grouphug:

[AllSchoolGamer]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

3-4 arcade/atari/commodore vic20


Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

Atari 2600 - 31 games
atari 7800 - 4 games
sega mega drive - 57 games
nes - 22 games
game boy advance - 11
gba e-reader - 4 games
gameboy colour - 4
13 gameboy games but no original gameboy
dreamcast - 10
mickey and donald double screen game and watch (can i count those?)
n64 - 10
gamecube - 10
ps1 - 55
2 sega saturn games but no saturn yet
sega cd - 6 original games
sega master system - 36
4 Sega SG-1000 games but no Sega SG-1000
snes - 13...that cant be right...will have to check
original xbox - 41
thats all just from my "game collectorz" listing so thats not counting doubles/triples or anything like that...and i think i need to add about a dozen more megadrive games to the list

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

Fav platform is 16 bit, so both smd and snes

f-zero (snes)- best racing game ever
strider (smd)- 1 of the best games ever
final fight (snes)- would have been perfect if it was 2 players but alas


Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

less serious gameplay but at the same time more challanging games...they are too easy to finish these days and games have lost a lot of replayability. plus a lot of the story is still left to your imagination. also as much as i enjoy modern cutscenes im not missing them when i play retro


Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

Honestly it helps to play a lot of more basic games and more reptitive games (donkey kong on the nes had what?, 4 screens?) though im not sure if it does have much impact, because ive introduced my 16 year old step son to games like xevious and what not and he frickin loves it!

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

no in fact i believe it will get worse due to internet distribution of games....i might buy those kinds of games occasionally but i really want games on cart/disk incase the system breaks....not to mention how it looks on the shelf


Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

when a friend found a heap of gaming gear at the dump i guess...but even then it wasnt that bad. ive never heard of/experienced "retro stinky" before tbh


Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

op shops/sites like this and ebay

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

what system? hhmm ok maybe 5-10...on average

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

$80 for skullmonkeys
90 for wild 9 both for the ps1 and both to try and get my wife to play (guys quick! skullmonkeys works! lol:D)

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

my ability to play the older games

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

shadow of the colossus and ico (the cardboard 1's with postcards)
i know probably npt retro enough but they really are the only 2 times ive ever gone "man that cover looks rad!"


Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

snes - sits perfectly in my hands and no cramps or what not

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

my atari 2600 vader...but only cause its on the main telly next to all the current gen consoles lol
though just generally the first sku of the mega drive


Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

YES! and i even use the term holy grail...its Snatcher for the sega megacd
BEST.GAME.EVER

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

hahaha yes my original snes + 40 games +4 controllers + superscope
for 160 bucks
im not even close to halfway to getting it all back :(
idiot would be a polite word to use here but i wont use the bad words im thinking of because i dont want to get booted lol


Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

Zelda link to the past > all zelda games after

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

that series really peaked with that game then it was all the repetitive way back down the hill after that. to the point where i couldnt finish twilight princess or majoras mask just for the fact i knew exactly what was coming and it made it very very boring...eg "yes yes yes i need to get that glove to move that boulder, blah blah blah" *URGH*

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

as much as breathing is

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

sometimes...when i go op shopping its all about the big finds and thats a lot of fun(if you find stuff)


Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

60% competeist 40% opportunist...that hunt really is a lot of fun

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

depends on the format...if its on disc/cart i love it...if you have to download the game ill put that money towards a real copy

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

i like howyou can swap between old and new graphics...the new graphics help to not scare people off when you want to show them the game because they think its only a recent release lol. old graphics can scare newer gamers i find.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

just not the same...plus since i didnt spend money on it theres no value to playing them...i find on emus i will play any game, even my top 5, for 30 minutes max. i dunno why but i have to have an actual copy to play a game to the finish.

Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

wow i am lucky...my wife AND kids support my collecting and help when they can.....i think i need to take them all to disneyland lolz
------------------END--------------------------

[Machine of God]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?
About 1988 or so on PC
Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)
Game Boy (30), Game Boy Advance (20), Atari Lynx(20), Goldstar 3dO(20), Dreamcast(50), Saturn(50), Virtual Boy(10), Gamecube (40), PS2 (100+), Playstation (100+), Super Famicom (10)
Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.
Sega Saturn for sure, just so many good arcade memories of when I was growing up in the likes of Virtua Cop, Virtua Fighter, Sega Rally, and also incredible games like Panzer Dragoon Saga and Magic Knight Rayearth
Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?
Just because I brings back memories of a simplier time in my life. I had no worries and life was just fun when I was a kid.
Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?
A huge part, like I said above just the memories of playing these games as a kid with friends and brothers is what I most enjoy about going back to a retro title
Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?
No, not really. I tend to go through stages where I will buy a whole heap of retro stuff and then not buy anything for a few years
Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?
Hmmm probably some old NES consoles I had that smelt like ciggarettes.
Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?
No place in particular, ebay, pawn shops, friends, a good game store that is a bit of a secret
Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?
20 bucks or so
Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)
Maybe 50 dollars or so. Most of my retro stuff wasn't retro at the time when i bought it
Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….
Probably my copy of Panzer Dragoon Saga or Shenmue II
Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?
Probably Shenmue 2, the beautiful yellow box it came in is pretty nice
Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?
Dreamcast, sure it needed more face buttons but it's lovely to hold and the VMU slot is awesome
Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)
I would say the dreamcast, such a beautiful little white box.
Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?
[I] No, nothing really
Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)
I've sold consoles I've had doubles of but nothing I regret.
Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).
Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”
The final fantasy series, new ones like 14 just pale in comparision to number 6. I want proper turn based combat, not this auto combat crap
Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?
Yes, I'm a little anal about stuff like that, including having all the little garbage bin ties for controller cables
Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?
As I get older the hunt becomes more important to me
Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?
Opportunist, I'll get anything that tickles my fancy and is at the right price
Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?
Some of them I love like the sega ones on PS3 and xbox360
Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....
I really love how with monkey island lucasarts give you the option to play the game with the old graphics as well. I think they should do this for all ports
Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………
Because I like to collect and actually own retro titles
Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)
It's all been good, my girl doesn't mind at all, and I can't wait to play these games with my kids one day!

[ireadtabloids]

If anyone here is a retro nut then get in on this auction. http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Sega-Megadrive-Game-STREET-FIGHTER-II-/120733607509?_trksid=p3286.m7&_trkparms=algo%3DLVI%26itu%3DUCI%26otn%3D4%26po%3D LVI%26ps%3D63%26clkid%3D525420786762473153#ht_500w t_1156

I don't know if it's legal to put up ebay auctions, but even though I don't know the seller I feel bad knowing how cheaply the item is going.
Street Fighter 2: Special Championship Edition. It is a bit cheaper on VirtualConsole etc, but what you have here is well worth a look.

Edit: I picked it up for $20. Gonna be the first time I have ever owned a Streeties game. yay!

[Cyan_Phoenix]

>>RETRO-NUT QUESTIONNAIRE >>

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

Early 1990s - Parent's Atari 2600

Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

hmm. most I no longer have and all sega consoles were actually really my brothers:

Master System (about 10 games) [no longer own]
Mega Drive (use to have about 30 games, but now only about 10)
Mega CD (use to have 30 games, then my brother sold it all -including snatcher - for a bloody Sega Saturn)

Nintendo 64 (my first console actually owned by me and not my brother) [how many games? I am currently trying to get every game BOXED, including US and JAP only games, so at last count I own 267 games (206 boxed) - If anyone has Stunt racer 64 (complete) let me know :P)

Game Boy/Game Boy Colour (about 15 games)

Not sure if XBOX/Playstation 2/Gamecube is classified as retro yet, but if so I have about 30, 50 and 30 games respetfully.

Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

nintendo 64. because it was the first console I owned myself, my first nintendo system (before that everything was sega). Playing mario 64 and Zelda 64 for the first time rocked (most memorable moment for mario 64; watching the intro for the first time, seeing mario jump out of a pipe and waiting, waiting and waiting until I realised It was my turn to actually play - In disbelief that what I was seeing was actual in-game graphics and not some type of FMV intro! most memorable moment for Zelda: hearing about these 'Goron' creatures and thinking they were going to be some evil nasty animal that I will have to face off at the top of the mountain and then finding out they are actually cute rock creatures]

Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

No idea. n64 boxes look cool, something about cartridges over CD/DVD's that rule. Older games seem more fun (though it probably isnt really true - there are plenty of great new games on 360/PS3, and plenty of crappy n64 games)

Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

I dont doubt that nostalgia probably does have a big role for some games. I wouldnt mind playing Top Gear Rally again even though there is so much better stuff out now, graphically and gameplay wise. so for some games, Nostalgia plays a big part. But for some games (mario 64 and zelda 64), these games are still good and are on par (gameplay wise) than today's games).

Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

No.

Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Retro Stinky? What the bloody hell is that? my retro games don't smell bad - I dont know where youve been putting your games... :P

Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

ebay - I love the range available, I hate the prices some buyers want. I did buy some games at Gamtraders in the past, but they are even worst RE price.

Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

Oh my. the most I have ever paid for a CIB n64 game is a certain american exclusive bowling game which is as rare as it is crap (lets just say it was over 200$). The most I have ever paid for a manual of a certain american exclusive clay-fighting game is also as rare as it is crap (lets just say it was also over 200$). fortunately I didnt buy the games to actually enjoy them, otherwise they would be both very expensive coasters about now).

Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

I am embarrased. See above.

Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

clayfighter Sculptors Cut Manual. Oh crap, I guess i gave that one away.

Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Mario 64 and Snatcher CD (sorry that is two).

Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

Nintenod 64 of course. No real strengths though, weakness - the analog stick gets loose very quickly.

Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

(Oh bloody hell, how many questions? I only decided to answer these to raise my post count) the Gamecube - because it looks so dam stupid - its a cube FFS.

Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

A complete and mint Clayighter's Sculptors Cut would probably be the rarest and my most wanted game. I still need the bloody box and I'm not paying 299.99$ for it (dam you guy on ebay).

Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

I have never sold a console and very rarely sell games (and only if they are crap games). My brother, on the other hand, sold Snatcher CD once. I managed to get a copy much later (it isnt that rare, but everything likes to sell it for a sh*tload of money) so happy ending.

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).

Zelda and Mario 64. The later ones are great, but they aren't as brain-bendingly revolutionary as the 64 versions.

For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

They dont make them like they use to.

Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

As long as it has a cartridge, manual and box (and cardboard cartridge holder) then it is complete in my mind. I couldn't care less about the 'precaution brochure'. It has to be in good condition - i cant stand tears and stickers on the box or manual but I can accept wear and slight tearing/bends on the flaps of the boxes. Biggest pain in the arse: when you buy an n64 game on ebay where the manual on the photo is great, then you get it open it up and found that they rammed the manual in the box and it has been bent.

Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

I dont even have time to play the games - I mainly collect them at the moment. I go as far as testing the game out when I receive it and then store it. Sad I know.

Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

completist - you aren't a 'real' n64 collector unless you also have the ntsc only games (and japanese).

Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

complilations are usually a crappy idea. for example: I purchased the sonic collection on gamecube (to play Sonic CD - as I use to own it on Mega CD but no more). They just HAD to change the music.... the ICO/shadow of Colossus ps3 compliation does look cool though.

Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

True. But they also need to add things that makes it worth people who have the original buying again.

Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: ………… You can emulate new stuff too. noob.


Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

"Honey - this package containing an ultra-rare n64 game I just received from the UK did NOT cost me $450 I swear. What do you mean the insurance value on the box says $450? No, that is not really true - really. I just got the sender to write that down so just in case it gets lost in the mail we can claim $450 and i can buy you a nice dress and take you out to dinner"

Problem solved.

[Tempest]

Q1. When did you first start gaming and on what system?

My first videogaming experience was with Space Crusader on my Dad’s Commodore 64. I can’t recall the year, but it was probably in the mid to late 80s. Due to the long loading times of the system’s cassette based games (it was half an hour per game and sometimes the game wouldn’t load properly and we’d have to start again), my fascination with games didn’t really take off until the early 90s (1991 I think) when my friend brought a SEGA Master System II. I fell in love with Alex Kidd in Miracle World to the point that my parents brought me and my sister the same setup for Christmas one year.



Q2. What retro systems (ie not current gen) do you own?
- include the number of games you own for each platform in brackets eg. NES (24)

All games are PAL unless otherwise noted.

SEGA Mega Drive I (10)
SEGA Mega CD I (6)
SEGA Saturn (55 x PAL, 9 x NTSC-J, 1 x NTSC-U)
Sony Playstation (recently sold the system, but still play games via PS2) (14)
Nintendo 64 (11)
SEGA Dreamcast (17)
Sony Playstation 2 (25)
Nintendo Gamecube (played via the Wii’s backwards compatibility these days) (8)
Microsoft Xbox (25)


Q3. What is your retro ‘platform of choice'? What is it about this system and the games that has you so in love?
- When mentioning games limit yourself to a few examples (max 5) rather than paste a whole list of titles without comment.

SEGA Saturn. It has so many underrated gems that are still so much fun today, like Panzer Dragoon Saga, NiGHTS Into Dreams..., Panzer Dragoon II Zwei, SEGA Rally Championship, Guardian Heroes, Cotton 2, Astal, Fighting Vipers, and Street Fighter Alpha 2. Further, many are not available anywhere else.


Q4. Why retro gaming? What do you get from playing & collecting old titles that you can’t get from the current generation of consoles?

My enthusiasm with retro games began when SEGA collapsed as a console manufacturer. I was appalled with the poor quality software offered on the alternative formats (and I toyed with them all for various amounts of time) and began collecting games for all of SEGA’s consoles, especially the Saturn and Dreamcast. Funny, now that I’m collecting PS2, GCN and Xbox games, some of these games are actually quite good. I also like trying out games I missed out on back when they were new that other people recommend. Further, except for the rare or overrated titles, retro games can be had so much cheaper. They are still just as fun, and most times more so, than the current generation of games. Also, you can get so many more retro games for the same price as a new current generation game. Were new game prices to drop significantly, this may lead me towards being more enthusiastic about the current generation. Finally, when buying retro games, other players have had years worth of experience with them, so you generally know which are the good ones and which ones to avoid.


Q5. It is sometimes said that flashy current gen graphics disguise a lack of gameplay in many of today's games. With that in mind what role do you think nostalgia plays in your appreciation of retro titles?

In some cases, yes, nostaligia does play a large part in my appreciation of retro games, to the point that I’m more forgiving of lesser qualities (specifically, some of SEGA’s poor arcade ports on the Saturn). But frequently I also pick up a game I never played back when the system was current and find it still such a blast to play. In my opinion, if a game plays well when released, it always will.


Q6. Do you plan to curb your retro-ness in the future? When will you have enough funky ‘old stuff’?

No – I think good games will always be good. I might play less well-played retro games as I move on to ‘newer’ formats (ie. the last generation of consoles, in this case DC, PS2, GCN, Xbox) but I think I will always return to the classics. I would like to curb the amount I spend on games so I can catch up and play through the ones I already have though.


Q7. Retro stinky (retro items that smell bad). It happens to us all eventually. What's been the worst example from your collecting past?

Can’t think of anything I own that smells bad, but I once rented a copy of NiGHTS that smelled pretty bad.


Q8. Where do you buy most of your retro items?

Typically it’s from either second hand stores (like Cash Converters and Cash Mate), or for more select and harder to find titles, eBay. Occasionally Game Traders have some good bargains and sometimes EB will have good sales on the last generation of games, so occasionally I’ll pick titles up from them, but usually both stores are overpriced.


Q9. On average what do you pay for a retro game these days?

My spending limit for any game is $30 unless it’s something hard to find and pricey. If that’s the case then I will make a limit I’m prepared to pay and make sure I get a bargain. For last generation’s stuff (PS2, GCN, Xbox), I tend to stick to $10 or less, since most of it can be had for $5 or less.


Q10. What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a retro title? (tell us the game and price if you're not embarrassed)

From memory, $200 (including shipping from the UK) for Shining Force III. Fortunately, I sold that copy for more than that, and paid half that price upon my recent repurchase of the game.


Q11. Your most prized retro item is…….

Panzer Dragoon Saga. It’s probably my favourite game and one of, if not the, best RPGs ever made.


Q12. What would you consider to be the nicest example of box-art in your retro collection?

Probably Panzer Dragoon Saga, with its outer sleeve.


Q13: Favourite retro controller? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

The standard Saturn pad. It’s comfortable to hold and use (very important, and an oversight by most console manufacturers since) and has more than enough buttons for just about any game. Its only downside is the lack of an analogue stick and triggers, which the Saturn Analogue pad comes in handy for.


Q14: Based purely on design aesthetic, what is the best looking retro console? (i.e which console casing looks more ace?)

The model 1 Mega Drive combined with the model 1 Mega CD. It’s just sexy.


Q15. Is there a game or item out there that represents your holy grail? Is it cost or rarity which excludes you from owning it?

Not that I can think of at the moment. Generally, if I want a game, I’ll end up getting it somehow, even if it takes years to find a good price for it.


Q16. Have you ever sold a retro system? Regrets? Did you end up re-buying everything at considerable cost? (And are you now aware that you’re an idiot?)

I think I’ve sold and rebrought every console I owned except my original Saturn and Dreamcast (although the latter died and I had to buy a replacement). There’s too many games I’ve done the same with, all because I had too many games and chose to take an elitist attitude, only wanting to own what I considered “triple A” quality games.

[Tempest]

Q17. Find one example where you think there’s a clear case of _RETRO > CURRENT GEN_ within a continuing game series (or similar games in the same genre).
For example Mario Kart (SNES) > Mario Kart DD (GCN).

The Sonic series. The Mega Drive games are far superior games to any of the ones released on current generation sytems, and all of his 3D outings (although a few were good).

Back up your view with something that resembles an argument. Or at least add some amusing rhetoric eg “They don’t make em like that anymore”

The Mega Drive Sonic games were crafted lovingly, and each was a noticeable progression from the last. The gameplay was well balanced between speed and exploration. Since Sonic Adventure, Sonic Team have been unable to find that balance properly without sacrificing some other element (like a poor camera). I love the Adventure games, and even Heroes to a degree, but Sonic works best in 2D, which the Gameboy Advance and DS games have shown.


Q18. Is ‘mint & complete’ (ie games with all packaging and in near perfect condition) important to you?

When buying a game, it definitely has to be complete with case, manual and disc/cartridge. Otherwise I won’t buy it unless, in rare occasions, it’s rare, I really want it, and is going for an unbelievable price. I’m less picky about a game being mint, and am happy so long as it appears well looked after and the disc/cartridge is fully functional.


Q19. Gaming VS collecting. Obviously theyre not mutually exclusive, but which fuels your retro buying habits? Do you find yourself enjoying the hunt more than playing the games?

In the past, during my holidays, sadly I find myself spending more time hunting for games and bargains rather than playing the many unfinished games on my shelf. I’ve recently separated my collection into ‘completed’ and ‘to be completed’ sections and I’m finally playing some games through to completion. I’m not sure which I prefer more, it just depends on the mood I’m in.


Q20. How would you characterize your retro collecting habits? Elitist (wants only true classics or uber rare items), completist (wants everything for a particular platform or series), opportunist (see’s and buys whatever), eclectic (picks diverse odities), or other (you define)?

I think I’m a mix of the categories, but mostly elitist. I only want to keep good games in my collection, so if I play something that turns out to be quite dull, despite recommendations or my initial thoughts, I tend to sell it quickly after purchasing it. Sometimes, if the game isn’t too bad, I’ll try to finish it first. I’m also an opportunist because if I see something for a good price, I will pick it up, so long as I’ve heard good things about it and have a mild interest in it. However, many of these games tend to be sold rather quickly as they disappoint (although I’ve had a few surprises like Viewtiful Joe.) I also like a lot of eclectic games, which comes from being a SEGA fan, so I have plenty of stuff that’s really enjoyable but few friends will want to play it. In some ways I’m completist too, keeping many Saturn games that I’ll probably never play again simply because they make up a collection of good games for the system. It’s probably the only system I do this for though.


Q21. How do you feel about retro compilation? (warm and fuzzy ?) What is the best compilation you've played to date?

It depends how much work has been put into the compilation. If developers just cram many original games onto one disc without trying to jazz them up or adding additional material to them or the front end, then you’re better off with the originals. If the developer shows the games some love by removing flaws, updating the games and/or providing new material, I don’t mind them. But when too many games are put onto one disc, many don’t get played.


Q22. “When porting old games to new systems developers should re-do the graphics so they don’t look so shit.” Discuss.....

I think developers remake a game, the graphics need to be overhauled, but done so carefully without destroying the original feeling and art style. Look at the SEGA Ages 2500 series – most of the games had redone graphics and so many of them lost the original look and feel that made them unique and great in the first place, meaning they weren’t really the same games anymore. I do prefer having the option to play the game in its original mode or in the new graphics mode. Nintendo seem to have done well with the 3DS release of Ocarina of Time from the screenshots I’ve seen.


Q23. “Dude all this old stuff is emulated and free if you know where to look. So why waste your money?”
Your reply: …………

A lot of the time, the emulation isn’t 100% accurate and the games just play better on the original system. I will admit this is becoming less of an issue though.


Q24. Believe it or not, but some retro-nuts (6%) are in relationships (no way) with people (real ones) that aren't totally down with the idea of hoarding lots of priceless video game artifacts (junk). These poor souls often have to find interesting ways to keep the dream alive. If your significant other is one of these cruel 'dream killers' - how do you manage to keep collecting when faced with such opposition? (Amusing stories of lies and deception please)

My significant other isn’t a ‘dreamkiller’ but tends to roll her eyes when I mention gaming. She doesn’t seem to care that it’s mostly retro stuff, although the rest of my family continually tells me to get rid of all my ‘clutter’.