> The Arcade Signal

Today at work I was busy working on another expensive item I couldn’t afford, which in my opinion is kind of fun to do. Especially since I’m off tomorrow, which is going to be a big day for me. It’s my birthday, and of course I’ll be partaking in the good old birthday tradition of getting blazed, playing video games, and watching the classic Day of the Dead. One of the true films of all time.

While working, I started listening to a podcast episode on Silent Hill 2 and found myself thinking about a few games. Well, more like a few projects. I’m currently working on my Double Dragon–style game based on a real-life hero, a guy I know named Eddie. But that’s all I’m going to say about that for now.

Anyway, it got me thinking about the state of game development. You know how people say the mind is the only thing holding you back. It’s your worst enemy. But while I’m building these towers at work, it’s kind of nuts how wild your thoughts can get. You’re separated in another part of the shop with nothing but your thoughts and whatever podcast you’re listening to. It’s enough to drive a guy a little crazy… or at least get him thinking deeply about the projects he wants to make.

For whatever reason, I started thinking about Mighty Final Fight for the NES. My dad picked it up for me after I asked him. It was ten bucks back in ’95 at the end of the summer. One of the few times he bought me something I asked for. But I remember thinking about how innovative that game was. Honestly, I played that version first before ever seeing the arcade or SNES versions. So naturally I thought I had discovered a little hidden treasure of my own.

Don’t you hate when that happens?

You think you’ve stumbled upon some hidden gem, only to find out later that it’s actually part of a bigger franchise. Don’t get me wrong, I still love the game. But if it had been its own standalone title, I’d probably have a shirt with the box art on it.

Now before anyone asks how I didn’t know it was based on the arcade game or the SNES version, the answer is simple. I didn’t have the internet back then… and I lived up north.

With that being said, I’m about to hit the old dusty trail. Tomorrow is going to be my ultimate day of rest.

Ah, who am I kidding.

I’ll probably be slaying goblins.