We are about nine video game console generations in. Although the history of the video games industry is relatively young compared to other commodities, video game preservation has been a hot topic for some time. Many of us enjoy returning to a game from our childhood (hello, nostalgia, my old friend), but how we experience that game can vary. Some feel that retro games are best experienced on original hardware while others would rather see it on a virtual console or similar. How do you like to experience “retro” games?

Regardless of what you consider “retro”, technology has made leaps and bounds, leaving old titles in the dust. Unfortunately, many are simply left behind.

For all pre-2010 video games, only 13% are actually still commercially available, which means the other 87% are, we like to say, critically endangered.

-Phil Salvador, Library Director of the Video Game History Foundation

In many instances, the only way to experience a game from yesteryear is to play it on the original console (if you own one that still works). Some titles are lucky enough to either be remastered or ported to a modern platform–think Nintendo Switch Online’s library of NES, SNES, N64, Game Boy, and Game Boy Advance Collection. Sadly, those libraries are far from complete. Microsoft has been known for its backwards compatibility for its games, which is great.

With all that said, I used to be hung up in the idea that the only way to truly experience a retro game was on the original console. However, that was before I tried my N64 and Game Boy Color games. Only then did I realize how I experienced it didn’t matter.

In fact, it was a massive hassle finding adapter cables or a well-lit room (looking at you, Game Boy Color) to deal with old technology. In fact, I’m very much looking forward to pre-ordering an Analogue Pocket. This creation will play any Game Boy/Color and Game Boy Advance Games, providing that retro feel with backlighting, enhanced graphics, and sound.

I really hope the big three, Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft allow better access of older games on their modern consoles. I also hope many third party companies will create a means to play old games.

How do you prefer to play older games? Do you blow dust off your PSP, Xbox 360, or Super Nintendo, or would you rather enjoy it from a virtual console on a modern platform? Please share your thoughts with us on our Boss Rush Facebook Group or our Boss Rush Discord.

The Boss Rush Podcast: The Flagship Podcast of Boss Rush Media and the Boss Rush Network

The Boss Rush Podcast – The Boss Rush Podcast is the flagship podcast of Boss Rush Media and the Boss Rush Network. Each week, Corey, Stephanie, LeRon, and their friends from around the internet come together with other creators, developers, and industry veterans to talk about games they’ve been playing, discuss video game and entertainment based topics, and answer questions solicited on social media and the community Discord. 

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Sources: NPR

Featured Image Source: Nintendo via IGN