Gameroom Magazine

[Level42]

"No home gameroom hobbiest (that's you!) is complete without GameRoom Magazine!" --- saint

Couldn't agree more, but we Europeans are left in the cold.

 

[mrclean]

whens that DVD with all of the pdf's of past issues going to be "released?"

[CheffoJeffo]

RE: DVD Archive: I believe the target date for the DVD is end of the month.

RE: European subscribers: Yeah, when the USPS did away with cheap international rates, the international folks took a hit (as did GRM). Fortunately, it's only a $19 premium for me, as opposed to the $69 premium for the rest of the international community.

I'm really looking forward to the next issue -- I understand that there will be a Death Race restoration featured! 

[mrclean]

I tried lookin' for this magazine in borders books they didn't seem to stock it.

[pinballwizard79]

They are not going to have it, pretty sure its just a subscription based magazine.

[CheffoJeffo]

Yep, subscription only.

[mrclean]

i saw "retro gamer" magazine although i didn't pick up a copy of that .. just curious if anyone here has bought the book :

The Encyclopedia of Arcade Video Games ? http://www.amazon.com/Encyclopedia-Arcade-Video-Schiffer-Collectors/dp/0764319256

[Visitor Q]

I have yet to pick up an issue of this but I am looking to do so at an up and coming Pinball Show this year. If it's good (I'm told it is), I am going to buy as many issues as I can find there.

[KevSteele]

Wow, thanks for the kind words!

If anyone's curious about what the magazine looks like, you can download a full PDF version of the November issue here:

http://www.gameroommagazine.com/PDF/GR_V20_11.pdf

Some other questions:

20th Anniversary DVD

I'm finishing up some last minute additions to the disc, but hopefully it will still release at the end of this month. One disc with 20 years of issues has proven to be a bit of a data-management challenge, but I had Lance Endres, the guy who programmed the Maximus Arcade front end, create a custom GameRoom interface, and it came out very nice.

European subscribers

I'm working on offering a new PDF e-Subscription, which will get rid of the "postage penalty" which is what makes the foreign subs so expensive. The USPS getting rid of foreign periodical class was a killer blow, and while a PDF magazine isn't quite as nice as a printed one, it will be much, much cheaper.

Pinball and GameRoom Shows

I'll be at the upcoming Akron Pinball show in March: http://ohiopinballshow.com/

I haven't finalized our show schedule yet, but we'll also most likely be at California Extreme in July.

[richms]

Have you talked to DHL about their international mail services?

From my understanding if you box them in the right groupings of countries it gets alot cheaper since they take it to the foregn postal services and then split the box up rather then them all leaving the country seperatly.

Im pretty sure it was dhl that offered that...

[Visitor Q]

Looks Great!

PM Sent.

[councilface]

My GFs sister got me a 6 month subscription for xmas.

Boy, is she in my good books! What a great read. Like Retrogamer, this magazine gets read from cover to cover. It's really giving me the pinball bug too...

Im based in England but my GF and her sister are both half septic. I think she gets it delivered to her Air Force PO box.

I'll definately be renewing in the Summer.

[Namco]

I was waiting for my next issue, but to my dismay, I may have only sprung for the 6 months. I need to re-up ASAP. Well worth the subscription price!!

[saint]

Don't forget the BYOAC discount. $4 off of a subscription if you enter code "BYOAC" when checking out.

[CheffoJeffo]

I'm really looking forward to the next issue -- I understand that there will be a Death Race restoration featured! 

I just went out to the mailbox and, yes, there is an article on restoring a Death Race. Not just a Death Race, but a YELLOW Death Race!

* CheffoJeffo rubs hands together in glee with anticipation of a proper reading

[Visitor Q]

I am still trying to order ever back issue there is but the guy has yet to get back to me with a total. 

[Namco]

Just got my new issue the other day. Checked the mailing label, and I'm definitely in for a whole year. Well worth picking up another year (or 10). Especially since 2 of my other mags folded up recently, EGM and Games for Windows. Here's hoping Maximum PC doesn't go anywhere anytime soon. 

[CheffoJeffo]

I am still trying to order ever back issue there is but the guy has yet to get back to me with a total. 

Maybe a spam filter is catching you up.

Have you tried PM'ing him ?

[Namco]

We should have a monthly discussion of the current GameRoom magazine on here. The Death Race restore is a good starting point for this thread. 

[CheffoJeffo]

Death Race is one of my (and, I suspect many others') grails -- one of the coolest cabinet designs and the artwork on the backglass and bezel is very, very cool. I really liked how Rich at This Old Game silkscreened the artwork. There is more Death Race goodness in the two-part Pure Exidy article in the February and March 2002 issues.

It was also pretty cool to see BYOACer's Jigenjuke and Spacies have their outstanding work mentioned in this month's GameRoom News.

[KevSteele]

Glad you liked the issue, Cheffo!

This months contents:

Death Race Restoration
Lost Arcade Classics: Pulsar
The Wayback Machine: Space Invaders
Tales of the Silverball: An interview with George Gomez
GameRoom of the Month: Andrew Miner
(and more, of course!)

Here's the cover, for those interested.

[spacies]

Ha!

Yeah thanks for the heads up Cheffo.

Kev, thanks for the kind words and when can I buy a digital copy of Febs issue?

Cheers.

[Visitor Q]

I am still trying to order ever back issue there is but the guy has yet to get back to me with a total. 

Maybe a spam filter is catching you up.

Have you tried PM'ing him ?

He just got back to me via a PM which now leads me to say, you have another PM Kev. 

That new issue looks good, got to love George Gomez being a Monster Bash owner. 

[venkman]

checked out the .pdf tester version that's linked to from the adverts on this site.

it seems pretty good for general musings on arcade machines and pinball. the magazine itslef looks as if it was put together by someone using a very basic word processing program. it's more like a corporate magazine or home made fanzine or something.

the guy who's home arcade is featured has some sweet machines! 

[CheffoJeffo]

it seems pretty good for general musings on arcade machines and pinball. the magazine itslef looks as if it was put together by someone using a very basic word processing program. it's more like a corporate magazine or home made fanzine or something.

Yeah, that's EXACTLY what it is like. 

[missioncontrol]

wat?

[CheffoJeffo]

He definitely wouldn't have liked it back when it was black and white only and printed on pulp stock ... although some of my favourite issues date from that era.

[Visitor Q]

I'm trying to buy a copy of ever back issue Kev has, I hope it's good!

Current issues I own, zero... Current issues I am trying to buy, all of them.

[KevSteele]

checked out the .pdf tester version that's linked to from the adverts on this site.

it seems pretty good for general musings on arcade machines and pinball. the magazine itslef looks as if it was put together by someone using a very basic word processing program. it's more like a corporate magazine or home made fanzine or something.

the guy who's home arcade is featured has some sweet machines! 

Are you looking at the latest issue? The magazine was much different in the past - black and white on newsprint paper, but it's now a full-color glossy magazine.

Here's a link to one of the older issues (December 1998, features Dragon's Lair):
http://www.gameroommagazine.com/PDF/1998_12.pdf

This is the current sample issue online (November 2008): http://www.gameroommagazine.com/PDF/GR_V20_11.pdf

[Visitor Q]

I'm SOLD!

I want them all!!!!! 

Looking forward to hearing back from you Kev. Dig deep for the real early issues please, would love to have a complete set if possible. I'll set up a news rack in my game room!   

 

[Visitor Q]

Well I hope you guys are right, I just bought 95 back issue and a 6 month trial! 

[CheffoJeffo]

Let me get this straight ... you must have every issue going back 20 years right freaking now (!), but only subscribed for a 6 month trial ?

[IG-88]

I've been playing Pulsar ever since I read about it. what a cool little game.

I also devoured the article on the Death race restore. I was a little bummed they had to replace so much of the wood on it, but really, what else could they do 

[Visitor Q]

Let me get this straight ... you must have every issue going back 20 years right freaking now (!), but only subscribed for a 6 month trial ?

It was part of the deal. You don't think I bought close to 100 issues without a little bit of an incentive do you? 

I am not going to disclose all the details but let’s just say Kev gave me a fair shake.

Thanks Kev! 

[Hoopz]

Let me get this straight ... you must have every issue going back 20 years right freaking now (!), but only subscribed for a 6 month trial ?

It was part of the deal. You don't think I bought close to 100 issues without a little bit of an incentive do you? 

I am not going to disclose all the details but let’s just say Kev gave me a fair shake.

Thanks Kev! 

I think CheffoJeffo is slightly incredulous that you had to have everything right NOW and got a great deal, yet only went for a 6 month subscription.  If you got such a great deal, why not show your support and appreciation for Kevin and go full bore?

[Visitor Q]

 

You guys kill me sometimes. I just purchased over 100 issues and you are busting on me for not buying more?

 

I bought every back issue the guy had.

...and whats all this "had to" ---steaming pile of meadow muffin---? I didn't have to do anything.

[Hoopz]

I'm just surprised that you didn't start three new threads or post in nine others wondering if you should buy these or not then debated it for two or three weeks.   

[Visitor Q]

I'm just surprised that you didn't start three new threads or post in nine others wondering if you should buy these or not then debated it for two or three weeks.   

"Don't brand me a troublemaker!"

You got it.

 

[CheffoJeffo]

 

It's just strange to me -- it seems to be a backward way of doing things, that's all.

I subscribed before I bought any back issues and, even then, I only ordered back issues with articles that I knew would interest me (like the two-part Pure Exidy series I mentioned above). Then I decided that I want the full archive (which I'll get on DVD).

I really hope that you enjoy them as much as I enjoy them -- I liked GRM during Tim's reign and love what Kev has done with it.

 

[Visitor Q]

It's just strange to me -- it seems to be a backward way of doing things, that's all.

I subscribed before I bought any back issues and, even then, I only ordered back issues with articles that I knew would interest me (like the two-part Pure Exidy series I mentioned above). Then I decided that I want the full archive (which I'll get on DVD).

I really hope that you enjoy them as much as I enjoy them -- I liked GRM during Tim's reign and love what Kev has done with it.

 

It's all good bro... I am not trying to make waves here but some people are just tools.

I understand what you are saying, I looked at the two samples online and magazines are all most starting to be a think of the past it seems these days. I bought the very first EGM that came out and this month I just bought the very last. 

Just trying to help out Kev a little and he seems like a standup guy and all. There is a little to no doubt that I will continue my subscript far past the first 6 issues but like I said, I got them as part of the package deal. I did not want to ask for more or cloud the deal by tacking more on at this point.

I guess I just found it funny is all that I would get flamed for buying like 100 issues and then that not being enough.

 

Anyways... Let kill all that. I'm sure the magazine is great, the two issues I saw look great and I am very excited to them!

Kev dug up and landed me the very last 4-sale copy of #1!!! 

Hey... I am a comix collector. I love printed stuff! Nothing like holding it in your hand!!!

[Hoopz]

I wasn't flaming you.  It was a legitimate question in regard to wanting X number of back issues but only getting the 6 month trial.  Those two things don't exactly go hand it hand IMHO. 

My second comment was meant as a joke albeit one with a little sarcasm hence the tongue in cheek emoticon.  I'm not sure that constitutes me being a tool but I'm not going to get my panties in a bunch over it.

The troublemaker title was Saint's joke on me.  Don't poke the bear.... 

[Visitor Q]

I'm over it. 

[KevSteele]

Hey, I'm always glad to sell inventory! 

Since digitizing all the back issues, I've been more than happy to sell off as many back issues as I can, as I had literally a 10-foot high industrial shelving unit stacked with boxes of back issues...inventory that I have to pay taxes on every year.

I still have a number of back issues, but the number is thinning rapidly...

[saint]

I had literally a 10-foot high industrial shelving unit stacked with boxes of back issues...inventory that I have to pay taxes on every year.

Huh? Whyzzat?

[KevSteele]

I had literally a 10-foot high industrial shelving unit stacked with boxes of back issues...inventory that I have to pay taxes on every year.

Huh? Whyzzat?

Don't ask me -- businesses in Ohio have to pay taxes on unsold inventory every year. 

[Ummon]

Like they're gonna audit your gig? Maybe, but I wouldn't think so.

[KevSteele]

Like they're gonna audit your gig? Maybe, but I wouldn't think so.

I play by teh rulez. 

[Visitor Q]

Like they're gonna audit your gig? Maybe, but I wouldn't think so.

I play by teh rulez. 

Kev... This ain't no video game! 

[KevSteele]

Like they're gonna audit your gig? Maybe, but I wouldn't think so.

I play by teh rulez. 

Kev... This ain't no video game! 

Which is exactly why I play fair - I've only got one life left...

[CheffoJeffo]

Like they're gonna audit your gig? Maybe, but I wouldn't think so.

Let me guess, you have never been audited, have you ?

 

[cmoses]

How do you determine value of unsold inventory of something that is potentially 20 years old?  Also there is no basis of value.  No one else is selling your old issues.  Do they go by original price?  What you sell them for today was not what they were priced at when they were new?  Don't you have to determine (provide them with) that value?  It could be anything or nothing. 

The following is a hypothetical question, I do not expect you to get rid of your old stock and it to have no value.

If after you digitize all the back issues, you determine that your physical inventory no longer has value (because no one wanted it) and decide to get rid of it, do you have to prove to the IRS that you did?  Receipt from the company that shred them?

That's just crazy.      

[KevSteele]

That's just crazy.      

Yeah, it is. My accountant hates this part of the job. Come to think of it, so do I. 

[SirPeale]

Here's what you do: "sell" them at a loss to someone. Say...Kevin Steele!  Then they'll be his property, not the magazines.  Then, rent storage space to Kevin.  Say...the size of a magazine rack.  $1.00 per year.

[missioncontrol]

Here's what you do: "sell" them at a loss to someone. Say...Kevin Steele!  Then they'll be his property, not the magazines.  Then, rent storage space to Kevin.  Say...the size of a magazine rack.  $1.00 per year.

then in 15-20 when you get done busting big rocks into little rocks at Leavenworth for stiffing the gov't we can get out next issue...

[patrickl]

Having to put a value on your inventory isn't so strange is it? That you have to pay taxes on inventory does sound quite bizarre though.

In the Netherlands I only have to pay taxes on my inventory if it has gone up in value (ie when I theoretically made a profit on it), but depreciation of my inventory means I can deduct the loss and pay less taxes.

[SirPeale]

Here's what you do: "sell" them at a loss to someone. Say...Kevin Steele!  Then they'll be his property, not the magazines.  Then, rent storage space to Kevin.  Say...the size of a magazine rack.  $1.00 per year.

then in 15-20 when you get done busting big rocks into little rocks at Leavenworth for stiffing the gov't we can get out next issue...

He should check with his accountant first, but there's no reason that shouldn't be legal.

[CheffoJeffo]

Here's what you do: "sell" them at a loss to someone. Say...Kevin Steele!  Then they'll be his property, not the magazines.  Then, rent storage space to Kevin.  Say...the size of a magazine rack.  $1.00 per year.

then in 15-20 when you get done busting big rocks into little rocks at Leavenworth for stiffing the gov't we can get out next issue...

He should check with his accountant first, but there's no reason that shouldn't be legal.

Perhaps (IANATL) not illegal per se, but there may be offsetting (or worse than offsetting) entries in the tax ledger.

For example, he takes a capital loss as GRM, but makes a corresponding capital gain as KevSteele at the presumably higher personal tax rate ? Given the nature of the items involved, perhaps the second part would never make it to a declaration, but selling inventory at a loss to yourself would tend to open up a can of worms with the tax authorities as it is likely tax avoidance and potentially tax evasion and even if that wasn't true -- audits suck.

The answer, of course, is perfectly clear -- Kev should sell the inventory to me for $1!

[missioncontrol]

I'm sure depreciation of stock fits in somewhere...

[KevSteele]

I just do what my accountant tells me to, and write checks when I'm told to. When he calls from the Bahamas he's always really friendly...

[shardian]

I was gonna make some comment followed with some ?!?!?!'s, but when you said Ohio, it all makes sense. Sure you don't pay food tax in Ohio, but they get you on the ground and gang beat you on everything else! At least, that's what I've been told.

[KevSteele]

I was gonna make some comment followed with some ?!?!?!'s, but when you said Ohio, it all makes sense. Sure you don't pay food tax in Ohio, but they get you on the ground and gang beat you on everything else! At least, that's what I've been told.

We pay food tax. I think you're thinking of PA, which has no food or clothing taxes...

[pinballwizard79]

I can help you avoid paying taxes on inventory.

Just send me everything, I will sell it via consignment.

Actually I will just keep em all, never mind.

[driph]

Just wanted to toss in another recommendation just in case anyone is still on the fence... I'm several months into the trial subscription and I love this magazine. One of the very few mags I'll read from cover to cover.

Great work, Kevin, and thank you!

(now if only we could get Retrogamer out here in the US at a reasonable rate)

[Ummon]

No food tax in AZ, either.

Like they're gonna audit your gig? Maybe, but I wouldn't think so.

Let me guess, you have never been audited, have you ?

 

I'm not sure of the nature of your question, or what you're implying.

[CheffoJeffo]

Like they're gonna audit your gig? Maybe, but I wouldn't think so.

Let me guess, you have never been audited, have you ?

 

I'm not sure of the nature of your question, or what you're implying.

Only that I find that people who have been audited don't share a cavalier attitude towards the process.

[KevSteele]

Thought I'd get this thread back "on topic" -- got a question for BYOAC'ers:

What would you like to see in GameRoom? What's your "dream interview?" What machine would you like to see a retrospective on? Any interest in MAME stuff, or just restoration of classic arcades? Any non-arcade game room stuff you'd like to see more of?

[shardian]

Thought I'd get this thread back "on topic" -- got a question for BYOAC'ers:

What would you like to see in GameRoom? What's your "dream interview?" What machine would you like to see a retrospective on? Any interest in MAME stuff, or just restoration of classic arcades? Any non-arcade game room stuff you'd like to see more of?

I would love to see some DIY gameroom decoration ideas. It could be anything - painting, organizing, custom art, etc. I realize the news section kind of does this, but a more indepth article on a specific subject would be a neat read for a page or two each issue.

I've seen a couple neat custom items in the "gameroom of the month" section, and it always fascinated me to hear the backstory on them. The main one that comes to mind is the crazy guy who decorated his ceiling 100% with football helmets. I was wondering how in the hell he did that, then find he wrote a big section about it. That is kind of what I had in mind.

P.S. I might be able to have my arm twisted into heading this up. It would be sweet to be published!

[RayB]

More mentions of ME.
 

[shardian]

I was curious, did anyone else feel that George Gomez came off a little too cocky and condescending in his interview? The way he phrased things kind of rubbed me the wrong way.

[Level42]

I think Jed Margolin would be a good candidate for an interview. The guy worked with Atari for "ages" compared to some others, so he should be able to tell some nice stories.....at least I hope

Kev, if that on-line/pdf version would become real I'd subscribe in a heart-beat. Especially when it will have the nice form of a real magazine where you can flip pages, easily zoom in and out etc. that you see regularly now on the internet. Much like this:

http://kruidvat.nl/domains/kruidvat/pages/magazine/S2/kruidvatmagazine.aspx

That still wouldn't be half as good as a real paper one, but coming close. I do understand that there may be some concerns about copying it that way....

Would it at all be possible to have the real thing printed over here and then distribute it within Europe ? With today's "on demand" printing of books you'd say it should be possible. Not sure how big the market would be here of course.

Maybe it's a nice suggestion to have an article about Euro cabs ?

[cmoses]

I would enjoy seeing some MAME articles. 

Article of Cliff Hanger Laser Disc game.

Also articles on games that never made it to the arcades (company went out of business, arcades tanked, etc)?  Marble Madness II comes to mind. 

[KevSteele]

Would it at all be possible to have the real thing printed over here and then distribute it within Europe ? With today's "on demand" printing of books you'd say it should be possible. Not sure how big the market would be here of course.

Unfortunately, on-demand printing or a European print run both would raise the cost per issue to the same as me mailing it first-class. There's just not enough European subscribers (...yet. I can dream, right?)

The online mag is looking more and more like the way to go for electronic distribution. I can't find a DRM solution for PDFs that isn't a pain in the butt for end-users, and I don't want to make this any more painful than it has to be...

[MameMaster!]

How about an interview with Billy Mitchell ? 

[shardian]

How about an interview with Billy Mitchell ? 

Isn't he already on your speed dial? 

[KevSteele]

How about an interview with Billy Mitchell ? 

Isn't he already on your speed dial? 

 

[MPS]

I'm really looking forward to the next issue -- I understand that there will be a Death Race restoration featured! 

I just went out to the mailbox and, yes, there is an article on restoring a Death Race. Not just a Death Race, but a YELLOW Death Race!

* CheffoJeffo rubs hands together in glee with anticipation of a proper reading

I was there when that game was delivered in 2007.  I helped Gary Vincent take it off of the truck , and it was an unmitigated disaster.  The bottom literally fell out of the cab while we were trying to lift it.  There was a huge chunk of plywood missing from one of the sides.  The metal parts were full of rust, and we were all standing there thinking it would take a major miracle to get that machine running again.

Gary Vincent, Bob Lawton & everyone else involved at the American Classic Arcade Museum should be commended for the outstanding work they did restoring that game.  Gary has not put it out on the floor yet, but I did see it last week while I was up in NH helping Gary restore two other games.  The cabinet looks amazing. 

[RayB]

How about capturing the Tim Skelly chat tonight and then publishing a condensed and edited version of the chat? Slap a big Coin Op Space logo at the top and everyone's happy.
Come on Jeff, give him permission to do that.

[KevSteele]

How about capturing the Tim Skelly chat tonight and then publishing a condensed and edited version of the chat? Slap a big Coin Op Space logo at the top and everyone's happy.
Come on Jeff, give him permission to do that.

Strangely enough, you're the second person to suggest that -- I've already asked Jeff if he'd be willing to "interviewize" the chat for GRM. Looks like there's plenty of interest!

[CheffoJeffo]

How about capturing the Tim Skelly chat tonight and then publishing a condensed and edited version of the chat? Slap a big Coin Op Space logo at the top and everyone's happy.
Come on Jeff, give him permission to do that.

Strangely enough, you're the second person to suggest that -- I've already asked Jeff if he'd be willing to "interviewize" the chat for GRM. Looks like there's plenty of interest!

Must be something in the water ... 

[Ummon]

I think Jed Margolin would be a good candidate for an interview. The guy worked with Atari for "ages" compared to some others, so he should be able to tell some nice stories.....at least I hope

He does. At least several at his site. What he can say of them, anyways. Lots of legal stuff in his past that seems to be still on the table or able to hound him.

[councilface]

What I would love to see in Gameroom is an interview with Nicola Salmora. Probably the most important name in retro gaming. 

[CheffoJeffo]

I was curious, did anyone else feel that George Gomez came off a little too cocky and condescending in his interview? The way he phrased things kind of rubbed me the wrong way.

I see what your saying, because he did sound a bit cocky at times.

On the other hand, I liked a lot of the questions that were asked, so thought it was a great interview.

[Visitor Q]

Awesome Mag! Lovin' It!

Big Thanks Kev!! 

Anyone got any issues they want to sell? I have some gaps to fill. 

[KevSteele]

Cool - didn't know you had a Monster Bash - glad you found the issue about it!

[Visitor Q]

Cool - didn't know you had a Monster Bash - glad you found the issue about it!

Yup...

Here is the link: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=87911.0

[KevSteele]

Whew...just finished the March issue and got it sent to the printer.

Here are some of the issue highlights:

GameRoom, March 2009

• Ritchie Knucklez: Keepin’ the arcade dream alive
  
• The REAL Fireball Classic - A mod by Jim Copeland
  
• The Mod Squad: Eddie Cramer’s Revenge from Mars
  
• Coinocopia: Revisiting the Nevada Slots Trip
  
• The Many Incarnations of… Asteroids
  
• The Wayback Machine: Arcades - Gone Forever?
  
• Tales of the Silverball: CSI interview with John Borg
  
• I Remember Them Well… Gottlieb’s Lite-A-Card
  
• GameRoom of the Month: Adam Fowler
  
• GameRoom Reviews: Bling Pinballs & Mill Wipes
  

* cover shot is of Clay Cowgill's Ground Kontrol arcade.

Printer and postal service willing, it should be arriving in subscriber's mailboxes in two weeks or so, and will be on sale at the GameRoom web site on March 1st.

(Now I can enjoy the weekend!  )

[KevSteele]

I've got an interview with Chris Gerding of Quasimoto Interactive tomorrow -- I'll be touring their facilities and seeing what they're cooking up both for operators and home use.

Anyone have any questions they'd like me to ask?

http://www.quasimoto.com/home

[Ummon]

Not to diss your post. Just commenting: I remember first seeing a cab that had no controls, but game pads connected to it, and it just took the wind out of my sails. Still totally leaves me despondent.

[KevSteele]

Not to diss your post. Just commenting: I remember first seeing a cab that had no controls, but game pads connected to it, and it just took the wind out of my sails. Still totally leaves me despondent.

I know what you mean - I'm a big fan of "big controls" (i.e., arcade-style buttons and sticks)

Still, the GameGate is a commercial game console system, pay-to-play. Good news is that it allows Internet gaming, and if you've got your profile on a memory card you can just plug and go.

Might be good for some console gaming at a bar, but it's not really a home system...not unless you REALLY need to control your kid's gaming. 

The Arcade Station, on the other hand, is a multi-platform control panel and cab with built-in system and AV switcher (up to 4 systems, including PC), and it should have a really great price point (can't say more right now, but I was impressed at how inexpensive they're planning on selling it for!)

[TheShanMan]

Just signed up as a first-time subscriber. Looking forward to it!

[gaffner]

Kev, in response to your question on what users might like to see in Gameroom magazine...

First, keep in mind that I've only been subscribed for 2 months now (but plan on always being subscribed  ), so if I hit on something you already do, then my bad.  Also, I'm just throwing out ideas here and seeing what sticks.  With that said:

1.  I would love seeing more Mame stuff. 

2. Specifically, I really enjoy coming to this site and seeing someone's project or idea to make their own arcade machine; it would be nice to see an article that features a build of one from scratch.

3. Seeing someone build something other than an arcade machine from scratch would be very cool as well.  A homemade pinball machine, juke box, or beverage dispenser (for example), or whatever old time machine would be a very interesting read.

4.  Most of us come from the same background and have a lot of the same ideas about what should be in a game room.  I think Gameroom magazine could really help us by giving us different perspectives of what could go well in a game room.  For example, I would think an interview with a savvy fashion designer on how to pimp out a game room might give us some new ideas (or maybe just ideas to laugh at, who knows).  At the very least, it would get us thinking outside the box.

5.  I would love to see articles about pros and cons of different kinds of pool tables, ice hockey machines, shuffleboards (since I'm going to get one of those myself), electronic dart boards, etc.  I enjoy reading about pinball machines, arcade machines, and old fashioned machines, but I'd love to see stuff about other things that might go into my game room.

6.  Sticking with point 5 above, I would like to see some articles on slot machines, or even pachinko machines.  It could be an article about restoring one, or it could be a discussion on different types (or the history of).

That's all I can think of for now.  I hope this gave you some ideas you can use; others feel free to feed off these ideas.  I really enjoy reading Gameroom Magazine and would love to see it grow.   

[shardian]

Kev, in response to your question on what users might like to see in Gameroom magazine...

First, keep in mind that I've only been subscribed for 2 months now (but plan on always being subscribed  ), so if I hit on something you already do, then my bad.  Also, I'm just throwing out ideas here and seeing what sticks.  With that said:

1.  I would love seeing more Mame stuff. 

2. Specifically, I really enjoy coming to this site and seeing someone's project or idea to make their own arcade machine; it would be nice to see an article that features a build of one from scratch.

3. Seeing someone build something other than an arcade machine from scratch would be very cool as well.  A homemade pinball machine, juke box, or beverage dispenser (for example), or whatever old time machine would be a very interesting read.

4.  Most of us come from the same background and have a lot of the same ideas about what should be in a game room.  I think Gameroom magazine could really help us by giving us different perspectives of what could go well in a game room.  For example, I would think an interview with a savvy fashion designer on how to pimp out a game room might give us some new ideas (or maybe just ideas to laugh at, who knows).  At the very least, it would get us thinking outside the box.

5.  I would love to see articles about pros and cons of different kinds of pool tables, ice hockey machines, shuffleboards (since I'm going to get one of those myself), electronic dart boards, etc.  I enjoy reading about pinball machines, arcade machines, and old fashioned machines, but I'd love to see stuff about other things that might go into my game room.

6.  Sticking with point 5 above, I would like to see some articles on slot machines, or even pachinko machines.  It could be an article about restoring one, or it could be a discussion on different types (or the history of).

That's all I can think of for now.  I hope this gave you some ideas you can use; others feel free to feed off these ideas.  I really enjoy reading Gameroom Magazine and would love to see it grow.   

Most of what you mention has been in the magazine at least once in the last 2 years I have been a subscriber.

I will second an article debating the pros and cons of coin-op dartboards though. That would be an interesting read if written by someone who knows their technical stuff. Even though each dartboard has mostly the same basic features, they really are different. For instance, my Pubtime Premier lets you play against the computer. Arachnid and English Mark don't have this option.

I have not seen a single article on dart boards.

[KevSteele]

Kev, in response to your question on what users might like to see in Gameroom magazine...

First, keep in mind that I've only been subscribed for 2 months now (but plan on always being subscribed  ), so if I hit on something you already do, then my bad.  Also, I'm just throwing out ideas here and seeing what sticks.  With that said:

1.  I would love seeing more Mame stuff. 

2. Specifically, I really enjoy coming to this site and seeing someone's project or idea to make their own arcade machine; it would be nice to see an article that features a build of one from scratch.

3. Seeing someone build something other than an arcade machine from scratch would be very cool as well.  A homemade pinball machine, juke box, or beverage dispenser (for example), or whatever old time machine would be a very interesting read.

4.  Most of us come from the same background and have a lot of the same ideas about what should be in a game room.  I think Gameroom magazine could really help us by giving us different perspectives of what could go well in a game room.  For example, I would think an interview with a savvy fashion designer on how to pimp out a game room might give us some new ideas (or maybe just ideas to laugh at, who knows).  At the very least, it would get us thinking outside the box.

5.  I would love to see articles about pros and cons of different kinds of pool tables, ice hockey machines, shuffleboards (since I'm going to get one of those myself), electronic dart boards, etc.  I enjoy reading about pinball machines, arcade machines, and old fashioned machines, but I'd love to see stuff about other things that might go into my game room.

6.  Sticking with point 5 above, I would like to see some articles on slot machines, or even pachinko machines.  It could be an article about restoring one, or it could be a discussion on different types (or the history of).

That's all I can think of for now.  I hope this gave you some ideas you can use; others feel free to feed off these ideas.  I really enjoy reading Gameroom Magazine and would love to see it grow.   

Most of what you mention has been in the magazine at least once in the last 2 years I have been a subscriber.

I will second an article debating the pros and cons of coin-op dartboards though. That would be an interesting read if written by someone who knows their technical stuff. Even though each dartboard has mostly the same basic features, they really are different. For instance, my Pubtime Premier lets you play against the computer. Arachnid and English Mark don't have this option.

I have not seen a single article on dart boards.

All really good suggestions, and all things I'm working on getting included - I really want GameRoom to cover "anything and everything" about home game rooms, from pool to darts to video games and pinball.

Speaking of darts, we did have a tour of the Arachnid factory in a previous issue, but a comparison of dart machines would be great. It's just a matter of tracking down someone with the knowledge who's willing to write.

I've got a few articles on home-made digital juke boxes coming up sometime this year, and a look at digitial jukebox software, and hopefully some articles on unique decorations like pong clocks and such.

I'll see what I can do, and if you know of any interesting game room projects you think we should look into, just let me know.

[Spyridon]

I'd like to see more articles on arcade restorations. 

[gaffner]

All really good suggestions, and all things I'm working on getting included - I really want GameRoom to cover "anything and everything" about home game rooms, from pool to darts to video games and pinball.

Speaking of darts, we did have a tour of the Arachnid factory in a previous issue, but a comparison of dart machines would be great. It's just a matter of tracking down someone with the knowledge who's willing to write.

I've got a few articles on home-made digital juke boxes coming up sometime this year, and a look at digitial jukebox software, and hopefully some articles on unique decorations like pong clocks and such.

I'll see what I can do, and if you know of any interesting game room projects you think we should look into, just let me know.

That home-made digital juke box article sounds like it will be a great read!

I know there is a huge difference between throwing out ideas and actually implementing them in the magazine.  Finding people who want to contribute to the magazine or researching a particular topic probably takes a lot of time (if they can be found even). 

I appreciate the opportunity to provide feedback to the owner of a magazine that covers an interest I have a passion for.  When I have more time, I plan on writing about the things I really like about your magazine that make me want to read it so much.    I figure the more information an avid reader can give, the better (since you asked...).  Till then...

[FrizzleFried]

Printer and postal service willing, it should be arriving in subscriber's mailboxes in two weeks or so, and will be on sale at the GameRoom web site on March 1st.

(Now I can enjoy the weekend!  )

Really?  I just got February's on Tuesday (2/17)...

[FrizzleFried]

Something I've often wondered... why post an OLD Twin Galaxies poster each issue advertising an OLD event?  Why not put an UPCOMING flyer in the magazine so folks can actually make plans to attend one of these events?

Also,  the biggest gripe I hear at KLOV is that the magazine has too much of a pinball bent... not nearly enough arcade machine stuff.   I like both so I don't care... I still read the mag each issue from cover to cover...just relaying what I've heard people say.


EDIT: +1 for Scott representing with his Steeler attire each issue!  I noticed he upgraded to Championship attire for this last issue... W00T!

[2600]

Not to be a downer, but I actually let my subscription expire as I just wasn't enjoying the magazine as much anymore.  I've had my subscription for a few years and I believe my subscription started exactly when Kevin took over or one before Kevin took over, not implying that is what affected my decision..  I am thinking of picking up the archives on DVD though. 

Whatever you do keep David Ellis, I will probably miss his articles the most.

[shardian]

Not to be a downer, but I actually let my subscription expire as I just wasn't enjoying the magazine as much anymore.  I've had my subscription for a few years and I believe my subscription started exactly when Kevin took over or one before Kevin took over, not implying that is what affected my decision..  I am thinking of picking up the archives on DVD though. 

Whatever you do keep David Ellis, I will probably miss his articles the most.

Man, I just don't understand this logic. If that magazine doesn't give you the $3 price tag worth of entertainment each month, then I don't know what will.

Sure some issues are better than others, but even the worst issue I've read entertained me for a weeks worth of 'throne visits'. That's all I ask. 

[FrizzleFried]

Sure some issues are better than others, but even the worst issue I've read entertained me for a weeks worth of 'throne visits'. That's all I ask. 

+1

The wife bitches at me because I end up with a stack of 8-10 Gameroom magz and there used to be a few PC GAMER's thrown in for the hell of it.  I let PC GAMER lapse because that IS one magazine that's turned to complete ---steaming pile of meadow muffin---.  (Lets not talk about the atrocity that is/was Computer Gaming World/Games For Windows.)

[KevSteele]

Printer and postal service willing, it should be arriving in subscriber's mailboxes in two weeks or so, and will be on sale at the GameRoom web site on March 1st.

(Now I can enjoy the weekend!  )

Really?  I just got February's on Tuesday (2/17)...

January and February's issues seem to have gone into a USPS black hole, and are popping out at random intervals. I've had subscribers just getting their January issues this week, while some got their February issue on January 27th.

Did I mention I hate the USPS?

[KevSteele]

Not to be a downer, but I actually let my subscription expire as I just wasn't enjoying the magazine as much anymore.  I've had my subscription for a few years and I believe my subscription started exactly when Kevin took over or one before Kevin took over, not implying that is what affected my decision..  I am thinking of picking up the archives on DVD though. 

Whatever you do keep David Ellis, I will probably miss his articles the most.

Well, I can understand that if the current "mix" of articles isn't your thing -- what sort of articles would you like to see more of?

I've got many "tribes" of readers, each who want more of their interest area. Video gamers, Pinheads, jukebox nuts, antique slot collectors, pachinko enthusiasts -- I've heard from all of them.

Getting the right "mix" is tough, but I'm always trying to make everyone happy.

[FrizzleFried]

I  think it's safe to say that you can eliminate MOST Pachinko coverage... 

[KevSteele]

I  think it's safe to say that you can eliminate MOST Pachinko coverage... 

Oh, you are going to LOVE the next issue... 

[2600]

It's not like I dislike the magazine and will never renew.  I just 
found myself reading one article an issue and once in a while 
another.  Although, the February issue is really good and will 
probably make me renew again.
 
I think it was just the mood I was in where I was in the middle of 
board repair and restoration and wasn't finding any articles that 
interest me, but maybe it was more then that.  I'd have to think 
about it.  I know there are a few sections that I don't really care 
for and never read.  I don't mind some focus on Pachinko or whatever 
else is out there.  I kind of like the history on things I've never 
seen.  Maybe an issue on Mahjong is due.
 
As far as topics I'd really like to see,
 
-Interview with people at Atari who designed the controllers.
-The development of (Insert pin, vid, etc)  where you contact a dev 
or group of devs and they tell what happened during development.
-Revamp the many incarnations and do it more like Retrogaming Times 
Monthly
-Howto topics which go more in depth on certain parts of restoration, 
fixing things etc.
-Tips from the pros - where you contact the record hold or someone 
very good at a particular vid, pin, etc and they give some insight on 
the game
 
I've got more, but need to finish reading the February issue.

[CheffoJeffo]

Printer and postal service willing, it should be arriving in subscriber's mailboxes in two weeks or so, and will be on sale at the GameRoom web site on March 1st.

(Now I can enjoy the weekend!  )

Really?  I just got February's on Tuesday (2/17)...

The March issue just rolled into my mailbox ... 

[KevSteele]

Printer and postal service willing, it should be arriving in subscriber's mailboxes in two weeks or so, and will be on sale at the GameRoom web site on March 1st.

(Now I can enjoy the weekend!  )

Really?  I just got February's on Tuesday (2/17)...

The March issue just rolled into my mailbox ... 

One of the (few) advantages of having to pay for 1st class international postage. You lucky Canuck!

[ChadTower]

A DVD of all of the past issues?  I'm not a subscriber but that I will buy for sure.     

[CheffoJeffo]

The March issue just rolled into my mailbox ... 

One of the (few) advantages of having to pay for 1st class international postage. You lucky Canuck!

And here I thought it was clean living and good karma ... 

[KevSteele]

A DVD of all of the past issues?  I'm not a subscriber but that I will buy for sure.     

I'm hoping to have it ready in a week or two -- I've had a world of problems with getting it finished (I'm on my third printer for the included booklet, if that gives you a clue as to how messed up things have been! Who knew getting a simple DVD booklet produced could be such an adventure?)

[KevSteele]

The March issue of GameRoom has come in like a lion!

March 2009
Issue Contents:

■ Ritchie Knucklez: Keeping the Arcade Dream Alive
■ The Real Fireball Classic, by Jim Copeland
■ The Mod Squad: Eddie Cramer's Revenge from Mars
■ Coinocopia by Jimmy Rosen: Revisiting the Nevada Trip
■ The Many Incarnations of... Asteroids
■ The Wayback Machine: Gone Forever?
■ Tales of the Sliverball: CSI interview with John Borg
■ I Remember Them Well... Gottlieb's Lite-A-Card
■ GameRoom of the Month: Adam Fowler
■ GameRoom Reviews: Bling Pinballs and Mill Wipes
■ The Last Word: Absence Makes the Game Grow Stronger
■ Auction Watch, Puzzle Page, Twin Galaxies' Scoreboards, News, and More!

Some great photos of Clay Cowgill's Ground Kontrol Arcade, btw...

[KevSteele]

A teaser for the upcoming April issue -- some MAME! (no joke!)

[Visitor Q]

Looking Good!