Death of the Arcade
My buddy T is one hell of a photographer. I think I’ve said that before.
A few weeks ago, T invited me to join him at a video game auction a couple of minutes from my house. I didn’t make it, but he did. That’s the thing about T. When he wants to do something, no late night or general malaise will keep him from going.
That said, the pleasures associated with arcade bars, or video gaming on a console that only took brick-like cartridges is one that seems to be lost on the current generation. In a world where you can make your character jump with a ‘screen touch’ or steer a race car by tilting the phone, the concept of standing in front of a boxed TV screen smashing differently colored buttons is whimsical. But people still love them, which could explain why there is renewed interest in video game auctions even to this day!
For those who have lived that past in their childhood, arcade bars provide a respite. A perfect middle-ground for adults exploring different fun interests on a night out with friends, arcade bars have the right combination of arcade games, food, and drinks. Most of these games, be it House of the Dead 2 or Fire Emblem, are essentially Sega or dreamcast roms emulating that old world video game feel.
If you ever wonder what happens to the Ms. Pac-Man games and KISS pinball machines when they leave your local pizza parlor or arcade, this might be somewhat enlightening. Regardless, it’s fun.
Visit T’s slideshow at Death of the Arcade.
Labels: Photography
