Why I prefer to Game on original hardware with modern upgrade

First, let's clarify something: I'm not an elitist, and I'm not here to dismiss emulators. Emulators are fantastic—they make retro games accessible to everyone with near-perfect accuracy. Heck, I've even built a few emulator boxes before, and throughout high school, a lot of my retro gaming was done on the Wii via Virtual Console. But for me, there's something uniquely satisfying about experiencing these games on the hardware they were originally designed for minus paying the high cost.

Retrofitting Old Hardware with Modern Convenience

There's an undeniable charm in using the original controllers that came with these classic consoles. Whether it's the iconic Dreamcast controller with the VMU or the original N64 controller, holding these familiar devices brings back a flood of memories. It's not just about playing the games; it's about reconnecting with the past. However, a lot of these controllers no longer hold up. You'd be lucky these days if you still had an N64 controller with a perfect stick. Fortunately, these days, you are spoiled for choice with so many options from creators such as 8bitdo, BlueRetro, and even officially licensed controllers released by Nintendo. There's always an option available for you.

Unlocking New Possibilities with Flash Carts

Flash carts and ODEs are a perfect solution for people like me. These devices let you load game ROMs or ISOs onto an SD card, providing access to an entire library without the need for physical copies. Whatever console you own, there's a solution—hence why the majority of my consoles (excluding the Philips CD-i) are kitted with an ODE or flash cart solution. This not only saves money but also opens up new possibilities. You can explore ROM hacks, fan translations, and even back up your save games. You can experience the games as they were meant to be played without having to take out a mortgage just to afford them.

Modern Convenience Meets Retro Gaming

Today's technology has made it easier than ever to enhance the retro gaming experience. Modern upscalers like the OSSC and Retrotink4K allow you to connect your old consoles to high-definition displays, resulting in crisp, vibrant visuals that bring these classic games to life in ways we've never seen before. It's an exciting blend of old and new, preserving the essence of the original games while making them look better than ever.

For me though nothing will beat playing the games on a nice calibrated CRT, hence why I mainly prefer to play my games on my JVC TM-H150CG monitor.

Not Just a Shelf Collector

Unlike many collectors who showcase their games as trophies, I’m not about just letting them sit pretty on a shelf. So, what is a shelf collector? A shelf collector is someone who amasses games more for display purposes than for actual play. Their collections often become showpieces, meticulously arranged and rarely touched. Scroll through the #retrogame hashtag on Instagram, and you'll see exactly what I mean—rows upon rows of pristine game boxes and cartridges, their collections often become showpieces, meticulously arranged and rarely touched.

Though I own over 20 consoles, my physical game collection is tiny—just about 10 games. For me, it’s all about playing the games, not displaying them. The only time I buy a physical game is when it has a special significance to me or offers something unique that flash carts can’t replicate, like the original Pokémon games needed to interact with Pokémon Stadium. My focus is on experiencing and enjoying the games, not just having them gather dust on a shelf.

I believe video games are meant to be played, not sit and collect dust as part of some elaborate display. With flash carts and optical drive emulators, I can dive into my favorite titles without the need to hunt down overpriced physical copies. It’s all about the gameplay, the nostalgia, and the authentic experience of using original hardware—without breaking the bank or supporting the retro scalpers who have driven up prices to absurd levels.

Refusing to Support Scalpers and Investors

One major reason I avoid buying physical games is the impact of retro scalpers and investors who have driven prices through the roof. These individuals have really ruined the hobby by turning it into a market for profit rather than a community of enthusiasts. And let's not forget the "crackhead sellers" this is term i stole from Godpuu —those people who think anything old is suddenly worth a lot of money. I mean, $250 for a loose Game Boy Color? Get the hell out of here. You can find these sellers on Facebook Marketplace, thinking that just because they have the game console displayed on a nice little stand, it increases the value by three times. I refuse to give them any of my money.

The Perfect Blend of Modern Convenience and Retro Authenticity

Whether you're a hardcore retro gaming enthusiast or just curious about the classics, playing on original hardware offers a unique experience. And with the added benefits of flash carts, you can explore a world of games, hacks, and translations like never before. It's a perfect blend of modern convenience and retro authenticity, giving you the best of both worlds.

So, there you have it. While emulators have their place, for me, using flash carts on original hardware offers an unmatched experience. It's a way to connect with the past in a meaningful and affordable way. Whether you agree or not, I hope this gives you some insight into why I prefer this approach. Happy gaming!