The Classic Geek: Modern Retro Hardware & Emulation

This is where I will share projects and reviews of all the retro things I enjoy. My idea of retro basically boils down to the computers, games, and devices that I used growing up in the 70’s and 80’s, and even into the 1990’s. These days, I am huge fan of emulation, it’s a lot easier and cheaper than trying to maintain classic original hardware. The Raspberry Pi is often my preferred choice when it comes to classic console and computer emulation, but it’s not my only one.

For me, what matters most is the nostalgia of it all, as long as it looks and feels the part, then I’m happy with it. Dropping a Raspberry Pi or other hardware in a case that looks like a classic console or computer is often more important to me than the hardware itself, as long as it can do the job.

The one area I am most critical is the feel of it all, and that really comes down to the controller for consoles and the keyboard/mouse for computers. You’ll find reviews on here of the modern controllers that I use when playing the classics I enjoy so much. Along with the cases I put the hardware in or modifications I made to them.

When it comes to classic console and arcade emulation on the Raspberry Pi, I use RetroPie. On PC (Windows and Linux) I prefer hardware specific emulators like NEStopia, SNES9X, Gens, Hu-Go, Dolphin, MAME, WinUAE, ScummVM, etc. I also like using source ports when the exist for specific games, like Doom and Roller Coaster Tycoon for example. Both games have excellent source ports allowing you to play them flawlessly on modern hardware.

When it comes to DOS games and software, I use DOSBox like most other people, though I also play around with virtual machines from time to time, but that’s rare since DOSBox is so versatile. I also play modern remakes of the classics via Steam when they’re available.

Eventually, you may see me mess around with some original hardware, but since my time and space is so limited right now, it will be rare. However if I ever come across a cheap TI-99/4A, Commodore 64, Amiga 500, or Tandy Color Computer 2 or 3, it will be a real challenge to just walk away, even if it’s not working since repairing it is half the fun for me!

You will also see me messing around with modern retro inspired and homebrew computers like the Commander X16, Z80-MBC2, RC2014, and things of that nature as well. I prefer full DIY builds or kits over pre-assembled hardware for the same reason I like to repair non-working old hardware, it's fun, relaxing, and rewarding. It's a wonderful feeling after a build or repair to see your work finally power up and come to life!