The United Kingdom has a rich history of video game development and a vibrant retro gaming community. From the early days of home computers like the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64, to the iconic arcade machines found in pubs and clubs, UK gamers have always been at the forefront of the industry. Let’s take a look at the UK retro gaming scene.
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Where It All Started
In the 1980s, the UK was home to a number of pioneering game developers, including, Ocean Software, Mastertronic, US Gold and Code Masters.
These companies were responsible for creating some of the most memorable and influential games of the era, including classics like Robocop, Kick Start, and Dizzy.
The ZX Spectrum, released by Sinclair Research in 1982, was one of the first affordable home computers in the UK and became a popular platform for game development. Its low cost and advanced graphics capabilities made it a hit with developers and gamers alike, and it played a key role in the growth of the UK video game industry.
The Commodore 64, released in 1982, was another popular home computer in the UK and was known for its powerful graphics and sound capabilities. It was also widely used for game development and played host to a number of iconic titles, such as Elite, Maniac Mansion, and The Great Giana Sisters.
In the 1990s, the UK saw a resurgence in console gaming, with the release of machines like the Sega Mega Drive and the Super Nintendo. These machines offered high-quality graphics and gameplay, and were popular with gamers right across the country.
UK Retro Gaming Now
Today, the UK retro gaming scene is thriving, with a vibrant community of collectors, enthusiasts, and developers who are dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of video games. There are numerous events and conventions held throughout the year.
One of the key attractions at these events is the opportunity to play classic games on original hardware, with many collectors going to great lengths to track down and restore vintage consoles and arcade machines. The popularity of retro gaming has also led to a resurgence in the production of new games for old systems, with developers creating titles for platforms like the Commodore 64 and ZX Spectrum that were previously thought to be long-dead (they never were).
The UK retro gaming scene is not just about playing old games, however. It is also about preserving the history and culture of video games and ensuring that future generations can experience the joy and excitement of playing classic titles. To that end, there are a number of organizations and groups dedicated to preserving the history of video games in the UK, such as the Centre for Computing History in Cambridge.
Retro Gamer Magazine
Retro Gamer is a magazine published in the UK that focuses on the history and culture of video games. It covers a wide range of gaming platforms, including home computers, consoles, and arcade machines, and features reviews, interviews, and features on classic games and hardware.
Retro Gamer was first published in 2004 by Live Publishing and quickly gained a following among retro gaming enthusiasts. It is known for its in-depth coverage of the history of video games and its focus on the people and companies that have shaped the industry.
In addition to its print magazine, Retro Gamer also has an active online presence, with a website featuring articles, interviews, and reviews of classic games and hardware.
Overall, Retro Gamer is a popular and respected resource for those interested in the history and culture of video games, and is an essential read for any retro gaming enthusiast.
UK Retro Gaming Events and Locations to Visit
There are a number of events and conventions held in the UK that cater to the retro gaming community. These events offer the opportunity to play classic games on original hardware, meet fellow retro gaming enthusiasts, and learn more about the history and culture of video games. Some of the most well-known retro gaming events in the UK include:
- Arcade Club Bury is a retro gaming arcade located in Bury, Greater Manchester, in the United Kingdom. It is a popular destination for retro gaming enthusiasts, offering a wide range of classic arcade machines and consoles, as well as a variety of modern games and amenities.
- The Centre for Computing History – Based in Cambridge, the Centre for Computing History is a museum dedicated to the history of computing and video games. It hosts a number of events throughout the year, including retro gaming festivals, talks, and exhibitions.
- PlayExpo – This annual event, held in Blackpool and other locations, features a wide range of gaming activities, including retro gaming, e-sports, and tabletop gaming. It is a popular event for both casual gamers and hardcore enthusiasts, and features a number of vendors selling vintage consoles, games, and accessories.
Overall, these events and locations offer a great opportunity for retro gaming enthusiasts to come together, celebrate the history of video games, and relive the glory days of classic gaming.
Podcasts
There are a number of retro gaming podcasts available in the UK that cater to the interests of retro gaming enthusiasts. These podcasts offer a mix of news, reviews, interviews, and discussions about classic games and hardware, and are a great way for retro gaming fans to stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in the world of retro gaming. Some popular UK retro gaming podcasts include:
- The Retro Hour – The Retro Hour is a weekly podcast hosted by Dan Wood and Ravi Abbott, two retro gaming enthusiasts based in the UK. The podcast covers a wide range of topics related to retro gaming, including news, reviews, interviews, and discussions about classic games and hardware.
- Retro Gaming Discussion Show– The RGDS podcast has a strong following in the UK and covers a wide range of topics related to retro gaming, including news, reviews, interviews, and discussions about classic games and hardware.
- Retro Asylum – Retro Asylum covered a wide range of topics related to retro gaming, including news, reviews, interviews, and discussions about classic games and hardware. The podcast was known for its irreverent and humorous approach to retro gaming and had a large and dedicated following among retro gaming enthusiasts.
- Arcade Attack is a retro gaming podcast that is based in the UK and focuses on classic arcade games and home console systems from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. The podcast is for retro gaming enthusiasts with a passion for classic arcade games and home consoles.
UK Retro Gaming YouTubers
There are a number of retro gaming YouTubers based in the UK who produce content about classic games and hardware. These YouTubers offer a mix of reviews, gameplay footage, and discussions about classic games and systems, and are a great resource for retro gaming enthusiasts looking to learn more about the history and culture of video games. Some popular UK retro gaming YouTubers include:
- Nostalgia Nerd – Nostalgia Nerd is a popular and well-respected YouTube channel among the retro gaming community in the UK, and is a great resource for anyone interested in classic games and systems. If you are a fan of retro gaming and are looking for an entertaining and informative YouTube channel to follow, Nostalgia Nerd is definitely worth checking out.
- TheGebs24 – TheGebs24 is run by Gemma, The UKs most devoted gamer girl. Expect a variety of video from game hunting to coverage of UK retro gaming events.
- Retro Man Cave is a YouTube channel that is based in the UK and is run by Neil where popular formats include “Trash to Treasure”, “Retro Road Trips and videos that sees Neil restore a variety of retro technology.
UK Retro Gaming
In conclusion, the UK has a rich and vibrant retro gaming scene, with a strong community of collectors, enthusiasts, and developers who are dedicated to preserving the history and culture of video games. From the early home computers of the 1980s to the arcade machines of the 1990s, UK gamers have always been at the forefront of the industry, and today’s retro gaming scene is a testament to their enduring love and passion for video games.
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