Tag Archives: Expos

Featured, Travel, Recent Pickups

Is video game collecting as bad as they say?

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We’re heading to Columbus, Ohio, for TORG, the Ohio Retro Gamer Expo! In this video, I’ll focus on deals you can find at these events. I’ll ask vendors—who buy and sell games daily—what they think are the best deals today. I’m also working on my Sony PSP collection, and I’ll show you everything I picked up at the end.

The Sony PSP (PlayStation Portable) is the cool kid who showed up at the party with the swagger of a console and the size of a big smartphone (back when phones weren’t that smart yet). It’s like the Swiss Army knife of gaming, trying to be your gaming console, your MP3 player, and even your Netflix (though streaming wasn’t quite ready to party yet).

The PSP flexed its muscles with a gorgeous 4.3-inch screen, boasting graphics that made you say, “Wait, this is portable?!” It had Wi-Fi so you could school your friends in multiplayer—if you could convince them to lug their PSPs around. And let’s not forget the UMD discs, those quirky little Frisbees that carried your games and movies. They looked futuristic but were basically mini-CDs with trust issues.

Sony even tried to make the PSP your entire life: it had a web browser (sort of), a photo viewer (but no camera), and music playback (for when your iPod forgot its place). The battery life was decent—unless you were watching UMD movies, in which case it gave up faster than a kid in a math test.

The PSP was like that overachiever friend who insists on doing everything, and honestly, it nailed a lot of it. Sure, the controls felt a little cramped, and the proprietary memory cards were pricier than gourmet coffee, but the PSP brought portable gaming into the spotlight, and it did it with style. Plus, it gave us Monster Hunter marathons and the ability to watch Spider-Man 2 on the go—what more could you want? (Except maybe fewer smudges on that glorious screen.)

Featured, Travel

The state of retro game collecting…

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We’re heading to Portland Oregon for the annual retro gaming expo. I’m sharing highlights from my weekend also diving into the current state of game collecting. See the prices for games and hardware, both the expensive stuff…and some of the good deals. Plus I ask the vendors what is hot right now.

Reggie and I are going to show all the games we picked up in an upcoming PICKUPS video…so stay tuned!

Here are five lesser-known facts about Portland, Oregon:

  1. Shanghai Tunnels: Portland has a network of underground tunnels, known as the Shanghai Tunnels (or “Portland Underground”), which were used in the 19th and early 20th centuries. These tunnels are rumored to have been used for human trafficking, where people were kidnapped (or “shanghaied”) and sold to ship captains as laborers.
  2. The City That Briefly Banned Cars: In 1971, Portland became one of the first major U.S. cities to cancel the construction of a freeway (the Mount Hood Freeway), opting to invest in public transportation and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. This decision helped shape the city’s reputation for sustainability and urban planning.
  3. The Simpsons Connection: Portland has a strong connection to the famous TV show “The Simpsons.” Series creator Matt Groening grew up in Portland, and many of the characters’ names in the show are based on Portland streets and landmarks (e.g., Flanders, Lovejoy, and Quimby).
  4. World’s Smallest Park: Portland is home to Mill Ends Park, officially recognized by the Guinness World Records as the smallest park in the world. It measures just 452 square inches and was originally created as a spot for a journalist’s pet leprechaun.
  5. The Original “Stumptown”: Portland’s nickname “Stumptown” comes from the 19th century when the city’s rapid growth required a lot of land clearing, leaving numerous tree stumps throughout the streets. The name has stuck around as a part of Portland’s identity.

These quirky and historic facts reveal Portland’s unique charm and cultural heritage!

Travel, Metal Jesus Likes

The Immortal John Hancock in Brazil!

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The Immortal John Hancock got the honor to attend Retrocon in São Paulo, Brazil and had a blast!

São Paulo, Brazil, is like the over-caffeinated cousin at the family reunion—loud, bustling, full of energy, and impossible to ignore. It’s a city that never sleeps because it’s too busy figuring out how to squeeze 24 hours’ worth of activity into every 12-hour day.

First off, São Paulo is enormous. If you think your daily commute is long, imagine traversing a city that seems to have its own gravitational pull, sucking in everything and everyone within a 50-mile radius. You could probably fit several European countries in there and still have room for a football match.

The traffic is a whole adventure in itself. Navigating São Paulo’s streets is like playing a never-ending game of Tetris, where the blocks are other cars, buses, and the occasional motorcycle zipping by at warp speed. It’s the city where being “fashionably late” is a way of life because, honestly, there was no way you were getting there on time anyway.

But São Paulo is also a city of contrasts. One minute you’re walking past skyscrapers that make you feel like you’ve accidentally stumbled into a “Futurama” episode, and the next, you’re in a leafy neighborhood where time seems to have slowed down just long enough for you to enjoy a leisurely coffee—probably the strongest, richest brew you’ve ever tasted, because in São Paulo, coffee is not just a drink; it’s a lifestyle.

The food scene? It’s like the United Nations on a plate. You can eat your way around the world without ever leaving the city. From sushi to pizza, to Brazilian barbecue that’ll make you question your life choices, São Paulo has it all. Just be prepared to roll yourself home after indulging because portion control is clearly a foreign concept here.

And the people? Paulistanos are the kind of folks who can juggle a dozen different things at once while still managing to look effortlessly cool. They’re friendly, direct, and have a knack for making even the most chaotic day seem like just another Tuesday.

In a nutshell, São Paulo is a wild ride—a chaotic, vibrant, electrifying metropolis that’ll leave you breathless, a little bit lost, and definitely craving another shot of that amazing coffee.

Metal Jesus Likes

Looking for the COOLEST things at GeekFest in Everett, WA

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Geekfest in Everett, Washington, is an annual celebration of all things geek culture, drawing enthusiasts from various fandoms together under one roof. This vibrant expo features a diverse array of activities and attractions that cater to fans of comics, movies, video games, anime, and more. Attendees can immerse themselves in the world of cosplay, with many participants showcasing their creativity and dedication through elaborate costumes. The event often includes cosplay contests, workshops, and photo opportunities, making it a highlight for both participants and spectators. Additionally, Geekfest offers a wide variety of gaming experiences, from video game tournaments to tabletop and card games, providing entertainment for gamers of all kinds.

The expo also boasts a bustling marketplace where vendors and artists display and sell their unique creations. Visitors can browse through a rich selection of collectibles, comics, artwork, and memorabilia, often finding rare and exclusive items. Panels and workshops featuring industry professionals and creators provide insights into the latest trends and developments in geek culture, offering fans the opportunity to engage with their favorite artists and creators. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse programming, Geekfest in Everett has become a must-attend event for anyone passionate about geek culture, fostering a sense of community and shared enthusiasm among attendees.

Travel

10 Reasons why Midwest Gaming Classic is the Best Gaming Expo

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Midwest Gaming Classic is an annual tradition in Milwaukee, WI, that brings so many of us together. Here’s a quick look on why I love it so much.

Milwaukee, located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin, is a vibrant city renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic urban landscape. As the largest city in the state, Milwaukee offers a blend of industrial heritage and modern innovation, with iconic breweries like MillerCoors and Pabst Brewing Company reflecting its legacy as a brewing powerhouse. The city is also celebrated for its thriving arts scene, highlighted by institutions such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum, as well as a lively performing arts community. Visitors and locals alike enjoy exploring the city’s historic neighborhoods like the Third Ward and Brady Street, bustling with eclectic shops, trendy restaurants, and lively entertainment venues. With an array of festivals, including the world-famous Summerfest, and a strong sense of community pride, Milwaukee exudes a unique charm that captivates all who visit.

Metal Jesus Likes

10 Best NEW Things for Gamers at Consumer Electric Show (CES Vegas) 2024

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The Consumer Electric Show (CES) in Las Vegas 2024 brought some interesting new updates in the world of gaming tech.

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) has seen some incredible announcements over the years. Here are a few that stand out:

  1. VCR: In 1970, the VCR was introduced at CES, revolutionizing home entertainment by allowing people to record and watch TV shows at their convenience.
  2. Compact Disc Players: Philips and Sony unveiled the first CD players in 1981, changing the way music was listened to at home.
  3. HDTV: In 1998, the introduction of high-definition television (HDTV) sets marked a significant leap in TV display technology.
  4. Xbox: Microsoft announced the original Xbox in 2001, signaling its entry into the gaming console market.
  5. Blu-ray: Sony showcased the Blu-ray disc technology in 2004, paving the way for high-definition optical discs.
  6. 4K TVs: Several companies introduced 4K TVs around 2012, setting a new standard for picture quality.
  7. Virtual Reality: VR headsets like Oculus Rift and HTC Vive made their debut in the mid-2010s, revolutionizing gaming and entertainment.
  8. Smart Home Devices: CES has been a platform for various smart home innovations, from smart speakers like Amazon Echo to advanced home automation systems.
  9. Electric Vehicles and Autonomous Cars: Companies like Tesla have used CES to unveil advancements in electric vehicles and self-driving technology.
  10. Foldable Phones and Flexible Displays: Companies like Samsung have showcased foldable phones and devices with flexible screens, hinting at the future of smartphone design.

Each year brings its share of surprises and innovations, making CES a hub for groundbreaking tech announcements and advancements.

Featured, Travel

$100 Challenge at Portland Retro Gaming Expo + PICKUPS!

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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.

Travel

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

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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.
Metal Jesus Likes

Vloggin w/ the PSP Camera in 2023 – It looks better than you think! 😂

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I mean really folks the title is about as simple as it gets. I was at Retro Game Con this year in Syracuse, NY. You know I’m always on the hunt for games across PS1 games, Wii, GBA, CIB Pokemon, things like that. And I figured you know what. I’ve got a PlayStation Portable with the Camera accessory. I’ve got a YouTube Channel. I can do that whole vlogging thing, right? I’ve got what it takes, right? I do. So that’s why we’re filming video like it’s the 2000s.

The Sony PSP, short for PlayStation Portable, was a handheld gaming console released by Sony Computer Entertainment in 2004. It was a groundbreaking device that offered console-quality gaming experiences on the go. The PSP featured a sleek, portable design with a large, vibrant 4.3-inch LCD screen that provided impressive graphics for its time. It boasted a wide range of multimedia capabilities, allowing users to not only play games but also watch videos, listen to music, and view photos. With a powerful processor and ample RAM, the PSP delivered smooth gameplay and immersive graphics, making it a popular choice among gamers.

One of the defining features of the PSP was its UMD (Universal Media Disc) format, a proprietary optical disc that allowed for high-capacity storage of games, movies, and other media. This format gave developers the ability to create visually impressive games and provided users with a diverse library of titles to choose from. The PSP also supported online multiplayer gaming, enabling players to connect with others over Wi-Fi and compete in multiplayer modes. Additionally, it had a range of accessories and peripherals, including a camera attachment and GPS module, which expanded its functionality beyond just gaming. The PSP left a significant mark on the portable gaming industry and remains a beloved console for many gamers around the world.