Retro Gaming Stores
RETRO GAMING SPOTLIGHT: 1Up Games
By Shaun Hatton - February 1st, 2008
1Up Games in Hamilton, ON, offers a great selection of new and retro games and consoles.
Classic gaming (or retro gaming as it’s also called) is something that has been quite popular over the last few years. With services such as Xbox LIVE Arcade and the Wii Virtual Console bringing older games to newer audiences as well as the older crowd, it doesn’t look like it’s going to go away anytime soon.
But for purists and others who want to experience these games the old-fashioned way, there’s no replacement for vintage gaming hardware. And for this reason, there will always be independent video game stores. These non-chain stores often carry more than just the last console generation’s titles. In fact, with a little looking, it’s easy to find these great stores all around the GTA. Some, of course, are better than others.
I do have my favourites, and 1Up Games in Hamilton is definitely one of them. Its two locations are stocked full of retro gaming goodness: games, consoles, peripherals, adverts, and even some funky playable kiosks and arcade cabinets. In fact, on any given visit, you’re almost guaranteed to find something you never knew existed. The atmosphere is very laid-back and it’s amazing how they managed to organize so much inventory so neatly. Toronto Thumbs recently caught up with 1Up Games store owner and entrepreneur Marc Nascimento for a Q&A.
