Category Archives: Travel

$100 Challenge at Portland Retro Gaming Expo + PICKUPS!

Metal Jesus & Drunken Master Paul are at Portland Retro Gaming Expo w/ $100 each to buy 3 great games PLUS collectables. Who do YOU think had the better pickups at Portland Retro Gaming Expo?

Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant city nestled in the Pacific Northwest known for its eclectic culture, lush greenery, and laid-back atmosphere. With a backdrop of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains and the nearby Columbia River Gorge, Portland boasts a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, the city embraces a thriving food scene highlighted by farm-to-table dining, a plethora of food carts offering global cuisines, and a fervent craft beer and coffee culture. Artistic expression flourishes in Portland, evident through its numerous galleries, street murals, and the iconic Portlandia statue. The city’s love for the outdoors is evident with its extensive network of parks, bike-friendly streets, and proximity to hiking trails and scenic vistas, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Yet, Portland also grapples with challenges such as homelessness and urban development, which add complexity to its dynamic identity. Overall, Portland captures a blend of natural beauty, creativity, and a unique sense of community that draws both locals and visitors alike.

Evercade Panel at PRGE 2023 Portland Retro Gaming (Sean Cleaver, MetalJesusRocks, John Hancock & John Riggs)

Sean Cleaver, MetalJesusRocks, John Hancock and John Riggs look at the Evercade, the variety of games, the rebirth of classic cartridge gaming, bringing back arcades and home computers, and the future of the ecosystem. This panel was recorded at the Portland Retro Gaming Expo Oct 13-15, 2023 in Portland, Oregon.

The Portland Retro Gaming Expo is an electrifying celebration of gaming nostalgia, drawing in enthusiasts and gamers alike from across the globe. Nestled in the heart of Portland, this annual extravaganza transforms the Oregon Convention Center into a haven for all things retro gaming. From classic arcade machines blinking in neon splendor to rows of vintage consoles displaying timeless favorites, the expo pulsates with an infectious energy, rekindling memories of bygone gaming eras. Attendees immerse themselves in a vibrant tapestry of tournaments, panels featuring industry veterans, and a bustling expo floor teeming with rare collectibles, merchandise, and passionate gamers swapping stories. The camaraderie among attendees, united by their love for retro games, fosters an atmosphere brimming with nostalgia, making the Portland Retro Gaming Expo an unmissable pilgrimage for gaming aficionados.

JAPAN GAME PICKUPS! 26 Games + Collectables (Switch, PS5, PS1, Vita, Xbox 360)

Here are all the Japanese import games I picked up on our trip to Japan (Kyoto, Osaka & Tokyo).

GAMES SHOWN:
The Adventure of Little Ralph (PS1)
Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster (Switch)
Metallic Child Advanced (Switch)
Red PSP
Onechanbara Special (PSP)
Godzilla Vs (PS4)
Abarenbo Tengu & Zombie Nation (Switch)
Darius Cosmic Collection (Switch)
Fire Shark (Switch)
Ray’z Arcade (Switch)
Tiger Heli (Switch)
Zero Fire (Switch)
Mario Hori Pro Controller
Earth Defense Force 2 & 3 (Vita)
Kamen Rider Battride War Genesis (Vita)
Dead Cells: Return to Castlevania (Switch)
DoDonpachi (Saturn)
Eastward (Switch)
Mr Driller Drill Land (Switch)
Override: Mech City Brawl (Switch)
River City Girls 1 & 2 (Switch)
Espgaluda II: Black Label (Xbox 360)
DoDonPachi SaiDaiOuJou (Xbox 360)
Gal Gun (Xbox 360)
Vampire Rain (Xbox 360)
Nintendo store plushies
Lost Odyssey (xbox 360)
Front Mission 5 (PS2)
Grim Guardians Demon Purge (PS5)

Metal Jesus in JAPAN – Game Hunting in TOKYO & Yokohama!

Part 3 of my epic trip to Japan, this time we sightsee around Tokyo, go up in the Shibuya Sky, rock out at heavy metal bar, visit the Ramen Museum and explore the Gundam Factory + lots of GAME HUNTING! ++ Watch >> https://youtu.be/jt1pWVTPssQ

Top 10 Things to do in Tokyo:

Tokyo, Japan is a vibrant and dynamic city with a wide range of activities to suit various interests. Here are ten popular things to do in Tokyo:

1. **Visit Meiji Shrine**: Located in the heart of Tokyo, this Shinto shrine is a peaceful oasis surrounded by a dense forest. It’s a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

2. **Explore Tsukiji Fish Market and Outer Market**: While the inner wholesale market has moved, the outer market is still bustling with shops and restaurants offering fresh seafood, street food, and Japanese kitchenware.

3. **Experience Harajuku and Takeshita Street**: Harajuku is known for its unique fashion and youth culture. Takeshita Street is lined with trendy shops, boutiques, and crepe stands.

4. **Stroll in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden**: This spacious garden offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.

5. **Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple**: Asakusa is a historic district in Tokyo, and Senso-ji is the city’s oldest temple. Explore Nakamise-dori for traditional snacks and souvenirs.

6. **Experience Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue**: Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world and a symbol of Tokyo’s energy. Don’t forget to pay your respects to Hachiko, the faithful dog.

7. **Discover Odaiba**: This artificial island offers a mix of shopping, entertainment, and futuristic architecture. Highlights include the teamLab Borderless digital art museum and the Odaiba Seaside Park.

8. **Go to Akihabara (Electric Town)**: A paradise for anime, manga, and electronic enthusiasts. You’ll find shops selling everything from figurines to the latest gadgets.

9. **Enjoy the nightlife in Roppongi**: Known for its nightlife scene, Roppongi offers a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

10. **Visit Ueno Park and Museums**: Ueno Park is a large public park with cherry blossoms in spring. It’s also home to several museums including the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo.

Remember, Tokyo is a vast city, so make sure to plan your itinerary based on your interests and the areas you’d like to explore. Additionally, check for any seasonal events or festivals that might be happening during your visit for a unique experience.

Metal Jesus in JAPAN – Game Hunting in OSAKA & KOBE!

We continue our trip in Osaka Japan doing some sightseeing, visiting Universal Studios Japan & Super Nintendo World, trying tasty food, visiting the city of Kobe and and yes… lots and lots of VIDEO GAME HUNTING! 

Play Colossal Cave v2.0 : https://bit.ly/3PSzc3M

0:00 Intro

1:58 Osaka AirBnB

3:14 Dotonbori & Ramen

4:43 Universal & Super Nintendo World

9:00 Crazy Osaka Weather

10:18 Nintendo Store

11:45 Pokemon Stores

12:09 Capcom Store

12:38 Video Game Hunting

15:00 Colossal Cave 3D

16:30 Mexican Food?!

18:07 Space Station Bar

18:50 Kobe Day Trip

21:47 Osaka Castle

23:02 Outro

Oregon Retro Road Trip – Behind the Scenes + Audio Commentary

Drunken Master Paul, my wife Rebecca and I recorded a Behind the Scenes Audio Commentary from the Oregon Trip along w/ a “Director’s Cut” of the entire road trip. I’ve added scenes, lengthened others and I think you guys will like hearing the extra stories not originally included.

Oregon is a captivating state that offers a diverse range of attractions, making it a fantastic destination for travelers. Nature enthusiasts are drawn to its breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean to the lush forests and towering mountains of the Cascade Range. The iconic Crater Lake, a stunningly deep and clear caldera, stands as a testament to the state’s natural wonders. Visitors can also explore the Columbia River Gorge, known for its dramatic waterfalls, and the high desert terrain of central Oregon, which provides a unique contrast to the state’s more verdant regions. Beyond its natural beauty, Oregon boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The city of Portland is renowned for its eclectic arts community, quirky neighborhoods, and an emphasis on sustainability, as evidenced by its numerous eco-friendly initiatives and farm-to-table dining experiences. With its combination of captivating landscapes and vibrant culture, Oregon offers an enriching and memorable experience for every type of traveler.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Oregon’s diverse geography provides an array of recreational activities. The state is a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering an extensive network of trails and paths that wind through forests, alongside rivers, and up mountain slopes. The Oregon Coast, with its charming seaside towns, offers opportunities for beachcombing, tidepooling, and even whale watching. Wine aficionados can explore the Willamette Valley, a renowned wine region that produces exquisite Pinot Noir and other varietals. Furthermore, Oregon’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in its many national and state parks, where camping, fishing, and wildlife observation opportunities abound. From its captivating landscapes to its welcoming communities, Oregon beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its abundant beauty and diverse experiences.

VOX: What I learned from taking a train across the US

Here’s how US train travel went from excellent to mediocre.

Several factors contribute to the decline in train usage among US citizens compared to the past. One of the main reasons is the significant expansion of the highway system and the widespread availability of affordable cars. As personal vehicles became more accessible, convenient, and faster, people gradually shifted away from train travel, opting for the flexibility and independence that driving offers. Additionally, the rise of low-cost domestic flights further diminished the appeal of train travel for long-distance trips, as air travel became a more time-efficient option. Moreover, the United States has historically invested less in its passenger rail infrastructure compared to countries with robust train systems, leading to issues with outdated tracks, slower speeds, and limited coverage in certain regions. These shortcomings have resulted in a perception of trains as a less efficient and less viable mode of transportation for many Americans. However, there is a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly travel options, which may present an opportunity for a revival of train travel if investments are made in modernizing and expanding the rail network.

VIDEO GAME HUNTING in Eugene Oregon (4 Game & Music Stores)

My epic OREGON ROAD TRIP ends in Eugene where we hunt for video games and explore dark basements for musical hidden gems! Oh yeah, and I FINALLY found a holy grail game too!

CLZ Games app: https://www.collectorz.com/game/clz-games or just search for “CLZ” in the App / Play Store on your device.

** DISCLAIMER: Thanks to CLZ Games App for sponsoring this video! **