Petscii Robots - The FINAL Update

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  • Опубліковано 2 лют 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,6 тис.

  • @Keavon
    @Keavon Рік тому +2169

    Releasing it on Steam (through DOSBox or something) would probably be a way to actually get the game in the hands of a more serious quantity of players who watch these videos casually but don't have the hardware. And that method of sales would have no hardware, logistics, or time costs, while simultaneously having a far larger potential customer base. Consider a Steam release!

    • @frozyre7854
      @frozyre7854 Рік тому +303

      @@MidoseitoAkage
      GOG would be much more fitting, it's a home for old games and 8-Bit guy has made this game for multiple old platforms. I can imagine a bundle of all of the completed versions being sold at GOG.

    • @MidoseitoAkage
      @MidoseitoAkage Рік тому +32

      @@frozyre7854 Yeah and you not need the app itself to make it work.

    • @DogsRNice
      @DogsRNice Рік тому +62

      Or go all the way and make a native pc version lol, could even be used as a base for modern consoles
      Supplant doom as the most ported game ever

    • @thomasrevor7608
      @thomasrevor7608 Рік тому +42

      That'd be one way, but it feels like he's trying to recreate the entire sensations of the old computer games: The box, the inclusion of extras, etc.

    • @AB0BA_69
      @AB0BA_69 Рік тому +4

      @@frozyre7854 He's not going to do more ports so.... this doesn't make sense to do

  • @jgunnink3
    @jgunnink3 Рік тому +503

    David, please know that you need never apologize for anything. You have enriched all of our lives so much with your videos!

    • @mattjames6349
      @mattjames6349 Рік тому +18

      Yeah, It makes me sad that he's apologising and all that...

    • @stinkyham9050
      @stinkyham9050 Рік тому +9

      Agreed, why would he be greedy for selling a game he developed? People online can be so stupid.

  • @gavinthomas214
    @gavinthomas214 Рік тому +1000

    Unfortunately labors of love often don't make much money. Your work is amazing and you've added so much to so many retro PC communities. Thank you for your work.

  • @BanCorporateOwnedHouses
    @BanCorporateOwnedHouses Рік тому +275

    Honestly dude, I would not mind paying $10-15 more per copy if you make a little more. I think the quality and community collaboration you are doing is awesome. You keep this community alive, and I can't thank you enough for it.

    • @UNIRockLIVE
      @UNIRockLIVE Рік тому +7

      ​@@yellowblanka6058 bro, relax he proved hes barely making anything

    • @micky8ball
      @micky8ball Рік тому +2

      I love stuff like this. Fantastic job!

    • @stinkyham9050
      @stinkyham9050 Рік тому +2

      ​@@yellowblanka6058 How would you know how much effort he put in? Do you have indie game you developed? How much effort did you put in?

  • @Scrappydrop
    @Scrappydrop Рік тому +258

    It's honestly sad to hear Scott Robinson passed away. The commodore 128 is one of, if not my favorite 8 bit machine, and he was the one who brought a dedicated version of petscii robots to the system. I will never forget how he fulfilled my dream of seeing petscii robots actually being used in the native commodore 128 mode. God bless him.

    • @danielmantione
      @danielmantione Рік тому +19

      He kind of proved the C128s gaming capabilities and may well have inspired the Eye of the Beholder team to focus on the C128.

    • @Scrappydrop
      @Scrappydrop Рік тому +4

      @@danielmantione Agreed

    • @fuelvolts
      @fuelvolts Рік тому +31

      I know it's hard to write while grieving, but I found his obituary and this struck me: "Finishing his degree inspired him to start collaborating with other programmers with projects such as the Penske Robots Game for the Commodore 360 he was rebuilding." Ouch...

    • @nonstopmaximum2141
      @nonstopmaximum2141 Рік тому +12

      @@fuelvolts I would hope whoever writes my obituary gets the name of my work right!

    • @KairuHakubi
      @KairuHakubi Рік тому +6

      @@nonstopmaximum2141 The end of life procedures have been lagging so far behind how people's lives have changed. There's nothing in place for updating and retiring your online platforms, letting people know, telling all your most obscure friends, even putting a nice cheap online obit up so people can go "what ever happened to ___?" and look it up.

  • @helldog3105
    @helldog3105 Рік тому +45

    I'm impressed that you got your material costs down to 25 dollars. When I was looking into doing something similar, my materials cost not including the cost of shipping or labor was almost 40. Kudos to you.

  • @datashed
    @datashed Рік тому +662

    Thank you for all you do for the retrocomputing community.

    • @nnnnnn3647
      @nnnnnn3647 Рік тому +6

      He complains in every movie, he complains every moment. If something bothers him, he shouldn't do it.

    • @mharding1258
      @mharding1258 Рік тому +36

      @@nnnnnn3647 Its all down to how you look at the situation. See, for me, I didnt see David complaining, I saw him being honest, and frank... something I personally appreciate. Maybe look at things a little different mate and you wont feel so miserable all the time. Just sayin'

    • @nnnnnn3647
      @nnnnnn3647 Рік тому +5

      @@mharding1258 I've been watching his videos for some time now and I see growing frustration. It's like he's complaining that the viewers bother him.

    • @YourMotherSucksCocksInHell
      @YourMotherSucksCocksInHell Рік тому +3

      @@nnnnnn3647 Right. He even has videos where he complains about people sending him stuff for free.

    • @nnnnnn3647
      @nnnnnn3647 Рік тому +2

      @@YourMotherSucksCocksInHell The guy has a middle-age burnout problem.

  • @larryroyovitz7829
    @larryroyovitz7829 Рік тому +75

    RIP Scott Robison. On his obit, it states "collaborating with other programmers with projects such as the Penske Robots Game for the Commodore 360"

    • @user-yr1uq1qe6y
      @user-yr1uq1qe6y Рік тому +19

      Oh wow, just read that. Someone must have misheard Petscii and just put in a word they knew and mixed up xbox 360 and Commodore.

    • @larryroyovitz7829
      @larryroyovitz7829 Рік тому +15

      @@user-yr1uq1qe6y Yep. I chuckled a bit but then felt bad. But had to share.

    • @oz_jones
      @oz_jones Рік тому +4

      Didn't know Scott personally but I totally would get a chuckle out of that because that's hilarious.

    • @Nbrother1607
      @Nbrother1607 11 місяців тому

      The correct systems would be the C128 and C64 with a REU

    • @joemoorman9103
      @joemoorman9103 13 днів тому

      Penske Robots... You can read all about them in the Penske file.

  • @TechTimeTraveller
    @TechTimeTraveller Рік тому +83

    I always wondered if merch was worthwhile for the bigger UA-camrs. Glad to hear you're reinvesting in your documentaries, which are great and the reason I started watching many years ago.

    • @dingo596
      @dingo596 Рік тому +2

      Regular stuff like t-shirts and other branded items are very lucrative, it's how most big UA-camrs get rich. LTT for example makes the majority of their revenue from their store.

    • @MrMegabart
      @MrMegabart Рік тому +2

      ​@@dingo596 great point! I can also see that David does a lot, if not all of the work himself. LTT has been a FAST growing business, but David chooses to stay small. Also, LTT has about 10x the subscribers of David

    • @henryca03
      @henryca03 Рік тому +2

      Also, Linus used to work for the now-defunct tech retailer NCIX, which allowed him to leverage the company's connections with the major component manufacturers, such as Intel, AMD, ASUS, MSI, Corsair, NZXT, etc., after he parted ways with NCIX.

    • @lucasRem-ku6eb
      @lucasRem-ku6eb Рік тому

      UA-cam is crap community, you need products for your channel ?
      Time traveler ? you took the local train ? What show you run here ?
      reinvesting ??? ITS JUST UA-cam, A CHANNEL !
      Your trash on the Channel, sell that trash ? Just do a normal webshop please ! Get skills ! how to run a channel !!!!!!

  • @JacobLopez-x8z
    @JacobLopez-x8z Рік тому +4

    Unfortunately labors of love often don't make much money. Your work is amazing and you've added so much to so many retro PC communities. Thank you for your work.

  • @retrotv1tech
    @retrotv1tech Рік тому +235

    I completely understand what you’re saying about the merchandise sales. I am really excited to see more historical documentaries in the future!

  • @joehaggard9446
    @joehaggard9446 Рік тому +174

    Having purchased games from you, I knew you were selling them to cheap. I would have gladly paid two times what you sold it for, maybe three. Don't sell your self short. As others have said, thank you for all you do!

    • @lucasRem-ku6eb
      @lucasRem-ku6eb Рік тому

      just copy the roms, why you cry money here?
      donate the money to Google ? WHY UA-cam ?

  • @tommylakindasorta3068
    @tommylakindasorta3068 Рік тому +49

    I'm always impressed with how productive you are and the breadth of your talents. I don't blame you for wanting to refocus your efforts on making videos, which I never miss.

  • @andreasklindt7144
    @andreasklindt7144 Рік тому +4

    I bought the MS-DOS download version last week and I love your game! I started to follow your channel pretty much around the time of your first Petscii Robots video and was really excited when I saw this port finally available on your website. Thank you for all the amazing things you do on your channel, both on and off camera! Greetings from Germany.

  • @ropersonline
    @ropersonline Рік тому +77

    7:34: Treating the CGA colours as semi-greyscale is a REALLY wise choice. It's also what used to happen back in the day. A LOT of CGA owners did not have colour monitors, and you're right: Sometimes greyscale looked better.

    • @RetroPCUser
      @RetroPCUser Рік тому +2

      Agreed. My Compaq Portable 286 looks so good with CGA graphics in green phosphorus. My Portable XT uses an EGA card and it's not that bad, but albeit, the CPU is a bottleneck to a point. If I could OC my Portable XT to 9.16MHz, that would be amazing. I also need to make the internal speaker to work with my Sound Blaster 2.0

    • @lucasRem-ku6eb
      @lucasRem-ku6eb Рік тому

      TV people !!!!!!
      why you cry monitor on Nintendo ??????

    • @TheRenegade...
      @TheRenegade... 23 дні тому +1

      I honestly have no clue why anyone would even try to do a four-color system instead of a four-shade monochrome one

  • @Vikotnick
    @Vikotnick Рік тому +51

    Don't let this make you fed up, mate. I've been in the gaming business for years and it is a hard one. You are amazingly talented and driven and your channel is VERY loved!

    • @Slane583
      @Slane583 Рік тому +5

      It sounds like he has a case of burn-out from being overwhelmed with so many requests for various ports. Also add in his Commander X16 project that's been occupying his time as well. I don't even work in a demanding field such as game development and I am all too familiar with burn--out when it comes to doing the same task all day everyday. It gets very tiring and you want to do something else to break up the tedium of it all.
      It also doesn't help that he doesn't get to turn a profit from all of his hard work. So his frustration understandable. I hope he's able to profit from his Commander X16 when he has a few of them ready for sale. :)

  • @sworddemonboggle1491
    @sworddemonboggle1491 Рік тому +51

    I definitely appreciate being open about not having interest in physical asset sales and the PETSCII series as a whole anymore. Seeing how much stuff you do behind the scenes as shown in your videos, I was worried that your time is essentially split between videos, programming, getting purchases together and sleep. I’m glad you’re making this announcement/change to help make your life a bit easier and focus more on things you have an active passion for. Keep it up iBookGuy!

  • @mrmostlyharmless
    @mrmostlyharmless Рік тому +2

    I took a break from retro games for 2 years and it is amazing to come back to your channel. Now I must buy your games!

  • @leek4994
    @leek4994 Рік тому +65

    LOVE to hear that more documentaries on the way! Don't forget about the Solar and Home Networking stuff as well, those are really fun projects to see you update us on. Glad to see you refocus your passions rather than completely burning out completely like other UA-camrs. I always consider my patreon money well spent on your channel.

    • @johnnylongfeather3086
      @johnnylongfeather3086 Рік тому +1

      Why are you commenting 2 days before it’s posted?

    • @petegaming8901
      @petegaming8901 Рік тому +1

      @@johnnylongfeather3086 he releases his videos 2 or 3 days early for patrons, idk why it says the vid was released 50 minutes tho it’s weird i saw this like 3 days ago

    • @oz_jones
      @oz_jones Рік тому

      @@petegaming8901 That's how UA-cam works. If you upload a video and set it as unlisted, the moment you (re)list the video, the "upload date" is the moment you set it to listed. EDIT: Added the word you to the second sentence.

  • @2009dudeman
    @2009dudeman Рік тому +8

    What you have done for the community (speaking for retro gaming in general) has been absolutely astounding. There is nothing but achievements to look at there, and you'll be there awhile doing just that. It's ok to admit you enjoyed the journey but are now ready to close this chapter and move on to the next. Nothing lasts forever and the impact you have created more than speaks for itself. Just look at all the inspiration and enthusiasm you have generated over the years, even from people who don't even own any of this stuff but just enjoy your videos.
    It's sad to see this era of Retro gaming end, but look at how many times it ended before only to pop up again. No one thought there would be games released for ANY of these machines in 2023, you have defied all odds and should no guilt about whatever decisions you need to make now. You've give me years of enjoyment just watching your videos and the progression of the passion this community has.

  • @guyguy467
    @guyguy467 Рік тому +130

    Thanks for all the hard work and effort you put into this project

    • @johnnylongfeather3086
      @johnnylongfeather3086 Рік тому +1

      Why are you commenting 5 days before it’s posted?

    • @cheeseydoodoo
      @cheeseydoodoo Рік тому +7

      ​@@johnnylongfeather3086patrons get early access

    • @nnnnnn3647
      @nnnnnn3647 Рік тому

      He complains in every movie, he complains every moment. If something bothers him, he shouldn't do it.

    • @cheeseydoodoo
      @cheeseydoodoo Рік тому +1

      @@nnnnnn3647 what?

    • @poble
      @poble Рік тому +1

      @@nnnnnn3647 the heck are you talking about

  • @Delekhan
    @Delekhan Рік тому +3

    Dude, a showcase of your genius and the skills and passion of the retro gaming community. With multiple Slurm's McKenzie references and a clip?! What could be better?? Thanks for the great video! Hats off to you sir!

  • @FightingForceSoulless
    @FightingForceSoulless Рік тому +12

    I think it only makes sense now to move on from the Planets and the Petsciis and focus solely on the Commander X16 so that it can thrive.
    You've done an amazing job for the community.

  • @demagmusic
    @demagmusic Рік тому +5

    I 100% love you being totally serious about the financials.
    It brings your whole project to a new light. I very much respect all of your hard work that is not financially bringing a return

  • @casstelles
    @casstelles Рік тому +6

    Even though I haven't purchased the game, I see this whole game series as a win in the modern times for retro computers and gaming systems. Also, it's regrettable to hear that Scott passed away, but I hope his work lives on, and it inspires others to pursue the passion.

  • @robmusial
    @robmusial Рік тому +2

    Great job as always. And you deserve all the kudos in the world for open sourcing things and allowing others to run with it (like producing NES cartridges). It really shows how much you care about the community

  • @TheMamosians
    @TheMamosians Рік тому +3

    When the 8bit guy says its going to be a long video, i get excited and prepare a pot of tea

  • @Galaga7800
    @Galaga7800 Рік тому +28

    Long time viewer, first time commenter here. I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for everything you do, David. Your videos have helped me get through a lot of difficult spots. I don't know how many times I have watched the entire Commodore history series to calm me down after a difficult workday. Your creations have enriched my life, and I'm sure the lives of countless others. Don't let the negativity so common here online get you down. If these changes will help you live a better life, then that's what is really important. And while it saddens me that your merch sales are ending, the prospect that it means more videos sounds like a win-win for everyone. All glory to the -Hypnotoad- 8-Bit Guy!

  • @Roobar_Plays
    @Roobar_Plays Рік тому +15

    You could also add a UA-cam thanks button. That way we could support you in a very easy way as well.

  • @Daniel-Strain
    @Daniel-Strain Рік тому

    This video scared the CRAP out of me. From 12:20 to 12:26 there is a shadow over the image that moves across the screen. I'm watching at home alone at night, and it looked just like it was a shadow on my OWN monitor of someone moving behind me LOL. On a more serious note - what a great service you have provided to the community with your wonderful talents. Great job with all of it, congrats, and best wishes.

  • @jamesdecross1035
    @jamesdecross1035 Рік тому +133

    David, please let me be honest with you. I think 'burn-out' is a common feeling right now. Don't apologise. Move on to the next project, by all means.

    • @KairuHakubi
      @KairuHakubi Рік тому +3

      plus it's annoying when you're making enough money and so adding new work to your pile just isn't worth it. even IF you get it to a place of being profitable, you start going "do I really need more money? It won't be enough to retire on anyway, it'll make no difference in my life."

    • @JamesHalfHorse
      @JamesHalfHorse Рік тому +7

      I second this. Can hear/feel the burnout and weariness over it all. That never leads to good places trust me. Sometimes you got to walk away for your own wellbeing.

    • @paxhumana2015
      @paxhumana2015 Рік тому

      @@KairuHakubi , why be ashamed of having another skill, let alone one that you are also good at in your life?

    • @KairuHakubi
      @KairuHakubi Рік тому +1

      @@paxhumana2015 I think you misunderstood, we're talking about when you're burned out on work, to the point that it doesn't matter if people are giving you money, if they're _giving you more work to do_ it feels like a net loss. Even IF you're making a decent hourly rate, which it sounds like here he isn't.

  • @gildardorivasvalles6368
    @gildardorivasvalles6368 Рік тому +1

    I am so sorry to hear about your friend. And your videos have been both entertaining and informative, and I've learned quite a bit from them --- they certainly filled in a gap about something I wanted to learn about when I was a teenager and a young adult when I saw all those computers from the late 70s through the whole 80s, but I never really could because my family (and later on I) couldn't afford a computer back then. So I thank you for all the work you've put into making them.

  • @j1000a
    @j1000a Рік тому +11

    I think the correct move is to make sure whatever you're doing remains fun. Enjoyment is the wellspring from which all this content flows. So props for making some tough choices!

  • @drumcorpsmediaarchive
    @drumcorpsmediaarchive Рік тому +2

    Ive been watching and following your projects for years David, I know how hard it is to devote so much time to not only programming these games, but the logistics of actually making them a reality. I for one sincerely appreciate what youve done for the retro computing community and look forward to the Commander X16 launch and all other future endeavors.

  • @Matticitt
    @Matticitt Рік тому +3

    Maybe instead of removing physical sales just raise prices to the level you're going to be happy with. I'd rather the option be available but expensive than not available at all. Having physical copies is such a cool thing.

    • @markstrickland438
      @markstrickland438 Рік тому

      It is very cool. And...he is making more $ than he hints at. Me, and more than 3,000 others support him on Patreon to make stuff. That has to be accounted for when talks about $

  • @staudinga
    @staudinga Рік тому +1

    This was an extremely interesting series of videos, to see the process behind such a project. Even when sales are stopped the value provided by this UA-cam series remains. Thanks!

  • @jeremiefaucher-goulet3365
    @jeremiefaucher-goulet3365 Рік тому +24

    Might be selfish of me to say, but if that means you'll be making more videos again, I'm happy to hear this.

  • @RisteSekuloski
    @RisteSekuloski Рік тому +2

    Petscii Robots was a great project. Hope to see new games from you in the future. However, an idea of you making more videos makes me even happier. Keep it up!

  • @MrVinicius5000
    @MrVinicius5000 Рік тому +22

    The work that you have done with your projects are insane David. The amount of dedication and love are noticible. The comunity owe you a lot !

  • @Xsiondu
    @Xsiondu Рік тому +2

    Thank you for the in depth update. Enjoy your time refocusing on what you love. We appreciate you

  • @Technokrat1981
    @Technokrat1981 Рік тому +24

    If I buy the game and also want to donate your work fairly, how much would I have to pay? I live in Germany. I couldn't live with the fact that you are taking a loss for your great work. People like you are infinitely important to the retro computing scene.
    Keep it up and may the 8-bit gods be with you!

    • @Cantimule
      @Cantimule Рік тому +8

      I just checked and the shipping prices (Europe) have increased to $25 so you can feel less guilty.

    • @bland9876
      @bland9876 Рік тому +2

      I'm guessing there's a way to do a one-time donation on Patreon? And I'm pretty sure he has a patreon I'd be shocked if he didn't.

    • @CybAtSteam
      @CybAtSteam Рік тому +2

      I paid extra for the signed version. I figured that money goes straight to him.

    • @18joza
      @18joza Рік тому

      I'm in the same boat. I just bought the Amiga and SNES versions as downloads to run on my Gotek-powered A500 and in an emulator, respectively. I figured that'd make up for it.

  • @ItsHyomoto
    @ItsHyomoto Рік тому +1

    I love the honesty, and the peek behind the curtain is a really valuable resource for people who might choose a similar path. But it's also a nice human reminder that it's a job that required work, someone has to do it, and it wasn't free. I'm glad you updated your shipping though!

  • @GuigEspritDuSage
    @GuigEspritDuSage Рік тому +22

    Don't go to the burn out, David!
    You're not the 8 bit guy, you're the Amazing 8 bit guy! All the creation stuff you've done and doing is simply incredible!

    • @JohnDlugosz
      @JohnDlugosz Рік тому +2

      Secret it, he's actually 7 bits plus pairity.

  • @Paul_Lane
    @Paul_Lane Рік тому +1

    Thanks for the update video. I makes sense to reduce stress and refocus on what you enjoy. You have done a lot for the retro gaming and computing community.

  • @Drebin2293
    @Drebin2293 Рік тому +50

    Glad to see you're not going to bother with all of the physical sales and ports anymore if they were dragging you down. I came to your channel originally for the documentaries so I'd love to see more of those. I'm interested to see where the commander x16 goes as well.

  • @MisterMoncivais
    @MisterMoncivais Рік тому +1

    Thank you for all your work, and I'm glad you're gonna be back to making more videos, that's what most of us enjoy from your content.

  • @ZetaPrime77
    @ZetaPrime77 Рік тому +3

    Your efforts were monumental and your passion is awe inspiring. Keep on keeping on however you see fit 👍

  • @neojudasiscariot
    @neojudasiscariot Рік тому

    Seeing how passionate you are with your work is inspiring and keeps pushing me through all the self-defeating thoughts hindering my personal goals in vintage hardware enthusiasm/revitalization! Thank you for your quality content, man!

  • @just-mees
    @just-mees Рік тому +7

    Watched this video with a smile on my face. I'm probably never going to play it but hearing your dorky ramblings on it, and seeing that random people would just take your game and lovingly ported it is heartwarming. I loved this saga.

  • @CoffeeStreetWC
    @CoffeeStreetWC Рік тому

    Greetings from Plano! Seeing your videos always reminds me of the first computer I ever used, which was a Tandy CoCo 2 that I found in my grandmother's storage room. Tried programming BASIC on it for hours with a black and white TV at the age of 8. Such fun times. If only I had games for it or knew more. Thank you for continuing to provide amazing content on the early computers!

  • @robotonwheels2551
    @robotonwheels2551 Рік тому +18

    Good call prioritizing your mental health and time by phasing out merchandise. Box sets are incredibly time-consuming and I’m amazed you’ve been able to do as many releases as you have!

  • @johnnyrico3637
    @johnnyrico3637 Рік тому +2

    Awesome! I really enjoy playing Planet X3 on my DOS machine. Look forward to playing Petscii Robots! Surprising to learn of your margins. You could sell this for much more. Most of us in the retro game scene are willing to spend some dough on this hobby.

  • @JoePCool14
    @JoePCool14 Рік тому +38

    Sorry to hear you weren't reaping the rewards of your hard work. I would've happily paid more if I knew this was the case, though I know some others would be unable to.

  • @GYTCommnts
    @GYTCommnts Рік тому

    Hey! We love what you do for the retro gaming community! It's understandable being overwhelmed at some point. Some ups and downs on this episode. However it's always awesome to witness what you achieved and that you are straightforward about stuff. Thank you for all your work!

  • @garthhowe297
    @garthhowe297 Рік тому +3

    I will just add my voice to the chorus of people thanking you for everything you do.

  • @petermoeller5901
    @petermoeller5901 Рік тому

    You may not believe it 8-bit guy but you are an inspiration for many people. Of course there are the big corporates developing games and hardware, but that you and essentially a group of friends pull this is off is fantastic.

  • @vcv6560
    @vcv6560 Рік тому +12

    There's no shame in ending a project; you accomplished much and gave the retro community something new to stare and click on. Cheers.

  • @l3lue7hunder12
    @l3lue7hunder12 Рік тому +1

    It seems there were quite a few things that needed being said, and I certainly like the idea of you refocusing on your channel and projects like the X16.
    Thank you ! 🙂

  • @sitaroartworks
    @sitaroartworks Рік тому +7

    SNES version is stunning! Great work man, great work.

  • @vlg_bcn2812
    @vlg_bcn2812 Рік тому

    Hey David, I have been following your channel for some time and I enjoyed almost every video about retro computers and of course the petscii robots game development. I totally agree with you and the phasing out of the merchandising. You have accomplished design, development, and porting to different systems.. this is really an unique experience and I would like to thank you for sharing the secrets behind the scenes from the hard work and dedication of doing it. Cheer up and move on to something that motivates you.

  • @smugshrug
    @smugshrug Рік тому +6

    I had a Gravis Gamepad as a kid. It came with a little arcade stick you could screw in to the D-pad. Not a bad PC gamepad for that time.

  • @OldManTheseDays
    @OldManTheseDays 7 днів тому

    I absolutely stunned by the sheer amount of support for the multitude of graphic modes and different platforms. I halfway expect to see a port for Casio graphing calculators at this point. Major props.

  • @eamonia
    @eamonia Рік тому +16

    For what you're actually getting, $35 is peanuts for such an awesome package. Good on you, man. You rule.

  • @brightquark
    @brightquark Рік тому

    Happy to support your efforts, great to see there's a market for creators and hobbyists in this sector. Can definitely see the care and effort that goes into these products

  • @AJOrpheo
    @AJOrpheo Рік тому +6

    Super excited for the X16 video!!! honestly I think Petscii Robots has been quite unfairly criticized from the community. From complaints about it being brought up to much in videos to people just being rude. I think you did the best job that could be asked and since burnout didn't seem to strike real hard until years later, its obvious how much love has been put into it. I don't own any of the systems it can be played on but I love the videos of development. Makes me feel like I witnessed a game development cycle that hasn't been done since the 80's, like witnessing a bit of history which is super cool. Good luck with these endeavors fellow Texan!

  • @thesmokingcap
    @thesmokingcap Рік тому +2

    As someone that lives in New Zealand and picked up both games to play on my collection of PC hoarders paradise, thanks for selling it internationally! I had no idea that you were selling the products out of your pocket. And hope that some of that comes back to you over time! Also good to hear your going to focus on some other stuff, go and have some fun!

  • @jasonscherer2631
    @jasonscherer2631 Рік тому +8

    Love how transparent you are with everything. Great content like always.

  • @Dacusx
    @Dacusx Рік тому +2

    I am amazed of your patience with selling all this different ports and boxes, even at a loss.

  • @Zeal8bit
    @Zeal8bit Рік тому +5

    Thank you for the video and the game!
    I love these long videos, they are so well made, times goes fast watching them. You did an amazing job with Petscii Robots, the fact that there are that many ports shows how people are attracted and interested by it. I do understand that you can get tired of the project, mainly after spending that much time on it, thank you for releasing it in open-source too!
    Do you plan on releasing the source code for one of the Z80 platform?
    Regarding your will to do historical/documentary videos like before, I admit I really liked them, I would love to see new ones in the future!

  • @jkobain
    @jkobain Рік тому

    You made me a bit happier about me not buying a box version of Planet X3 for MS-DOS, but a digital copy instead.
    You're doing a huge work supporting the retro computers community. Thanks a lot!

  • @joshuaabe4832
    @joshuaabe4832 Рік тому +85

    The sad irony is if these games came out in the era the computers they ran on were popular, they'd have been worth millions. D:

    • @TheHomelessNinja
      @TheHomelessNinja Рік тому +6

      Yeah I dont have a machine that can run this game. But I can tell you as a kid I would have begged my parents to buy this

    • @TheInfamousLegend27
      @TheInfamousLegend27 Рік тому +1

      @@TheHomelessNinja i mean all the ports are open source, all you have to do is pick the version you wanna play, get the right emulator then play it lmao.
      not that difficult

    • @VonMagXL
      @VonMagXL 4 місяці тому

      That's highly doubtful. Most C64 games, for example were pirated in vast numbers, but made few real sales (see MULE). Of course, having only one author helps (modern games are like the MCP, worth millions of their man years....)

  • @elbof6495
    @elbof6495 Рік тому

    I live in the EU and I just got the signed Commodore collection as a birthday present from my kids and wife. What an amazing gift! Stunning presentation: Beautiful sturdy box, shiny stickers on it, all full-color manuals for each version one, all floppy's with custom stickers, the Petscii keychain, GREAT game and.. of course... your autograph ! Love it! It all shows you are a perfectionist with love for this game and these systems. I hope that when your energy returns, you will look back with satisfaction on all your efforts and then truly understand that this is a milestone in your life. Your efforts are GREATLY appreciated not only by me but by a global community. Thank you so much :-)
    Warm regards from the Netherlands!

  • @BrendanWeibrecht
    @BrendanWeibrecht Рік тому +15

    Oh my god, I had no idea you were making so little profit on physical game sales! Your dedication to the craft is admirable. I'll admit I'm an Australian who bought physicals to support you. I absolutely agree with charging us whatever it costs you for shipping, though I'm confused how it costs so much.
    I've said it before, but I reckon you should outsource production & shipping of the physical games. Though with shipping from the US being so expensive, maybe it'd be good to do it in China - shipping from there is ridiculously cheap (I heard the Chinese government subsidises it?), and labour is cheap too.
    I'd also suggest providing a price breakdown on each product listing in the store to show buyers how little of the price is profit and how much labour is required. And add a name your price / extra donation option for those who are buying primarily to support you.

    • @johnnylongfeather3086
      @johnnylongfeather3086 Рік тому

      Why are you commenting before it’s posted? And why the spoiler?

    • @EndOfForever
      @EndOfForever Рік тому +16

      ​@Johnny Longfeather don't read the comments before watching then lol. Besides, this is a UA-cam video, not Avengers Infinity War

    • @highpath4776
      @highpath4776 Рік тому +2

      Postage out of the US is a greater mystery than posting TO US (From Europe I always send surface mail which is cheaper ) It really depends on what postage services can be found for the size/weight combinations. And that is before declaring the international tariff code and dealing with import and sales duties in the arriving country

    • @KairuHakubi
      @KairuHakubi Рік тому +1

      oof, china.. kinda have their fingers in enough pies already yknow

  • @RockyBMusic
    @RockyBMusic Рік тому +2

    after all ... the regular Question is no longer "Does it run Doom?"
    now it will be "Does it run Petscii Robots?"
    With your permision @ 24:06 we will try to port it to the Rapberry Pico.(I just repainted 256 Tiles).

  • @CantankerousDave
    @CantankerousDave Рік тому +4

    1:22 - I can honestly say that I’ve never heard “alumni” pronounced that way before.

  • @eekee6034
    @eekee6034 Рік тому +2

    It's weird seeing computers I heard of when I was a kid, like the Oric, alongside computers I had no idea existed, like the Enterprise. When I was a kid, information flowed in mysterious ways! Or, to be more realistic, what I heard was basically second-hand marketing; I just heard what other kids had read and seen pictures of. I _might_ have heard of a computer with a joystick built in though.

  • @ericsills6484
    @ericsills6484 Рік тому +4

    I'm excited to hear that there may be more computer history videos coming up. I hope some of those will include restoration videos.

  • @oviedosantiago
    @oviedosantiago Рік тому +2

    you ´re a hero dude, cant belive that you are wre shiping it almost for free. Directly from the heart

  • @charlesswansonii9319
    @charlesswansonii9319 Рік тому +10

    I can't wait to hear more about the Commander X16. It's a crying shame you didn't make as much of a success off of Petscii Robots and its various ports as you did Planet X2 and X3, but I'm reminded that for every success an indie developer has, they're expected to have a failure or two to balance it out. I'm planning by my next paycheck to buy a digital copy of the Robots Genesis port to show my thanks and support, but I do want to thank you for giving such an ambitious game dev project a sporting try. As far as I'm concerned you've succeeded in my heart, dude.

    • @tspawn35
      @tspawn35 Рік тому +1

      That's the one thing I don't get is why he didn't just do digital only from the beginning. It would be all profit without any time or extra expenses

    • @rilian226
      @rilian226 Рік тому

      "I can't wait to hear more about the Commander X16."

  • @lordanthrax2417
    @lordanthrax2417 Рік тому

    Thank you very much for your honesty. You have all my respect for that.
    With your games, your videos and your work in general... You managed to be remembered by many as a massive positive impact. Thank you very much.
    Greetings from germany

  • @boredgrass
    @boredgrass Рік тому +4

    @ James's petsky robot shaped arcade machine: What a lovely example for the dedication of your channel's community! Its a pleasure to behold!

  • @jantestowy123
    @jantestowy123 Рік тому

    You're very important computing community. It's not just retro; it's computation that is possible to understand on a hardware and software level. This is the future- not only the past. Thank you very much.

  • @kaitlyn__L
    @kaitlyn__L Рік тому +10

    This is very minor, but I can’t help but notice a few of the EGA palette assignments were made based on trying to get “close enough” to a colour in isolation, when substituting the overall function may have worked better. That probably needs a bit of application of colour theory though.
    Eg the sky blue could have probably been mapped to one of the turquoises, and darker shades are often less fussed about their specific hue (a dark blue can often be better substituted with a dark grey or even a dark red than a lighter blue). I also find the dark turquoise being “medium grey” looks strange when there’s an unused lighter grey in the diagram, in that context the lack of hue may have been more important than the shade.
    Of course this is all just speculation from the video, there’s always a balance to be struck. And I assume you tested other palette mappings before settling on this one.
    I noticed some of the other ports like the SNES version were slightly more liberal with their palette map to make it work and I did think that looked a bit more cohesive. Eg the guy’s shirt is cyan instead of royal blue, so he’s not the same colour as the floor tiles.
    Anyway, I reiterate my opening sentiment - this is very minor. It’s definitely not worth the extra labour to change given what you said in the rest of the video, but I feel as a colour nerd it’s gotta be said anyway. Depending on how it’s programmed (I’m guessing a 16-value table from palette number x to palette number y) maybe that’s a thing someone can do with the open source if they care.

    • @freeculture
      @freeculture Рік тому +3

      From Wikipedia: "EGA produces a display of up to 16 colors (using a fixed palette, or one selected from a gamut of 64 colors (6-bit RGB), depending on mode)" I think there is still room for improvement...

    • @satan3959
      @satan3959 Рік тому +1

      Truthfully, EGA graphics have aged surprisingly better than first generation VGA graphics. First generation VGA graphics already looked extremely dated by the time the second generation came out

  • @nicholastotoro7721
    @nicholastotoro7721 Рік тому +5

    Waiting for Billy Mitchell to send in speed runs... please don't sue me, Billy...

  • @AK-nb6hz
    @AK-nb6hz Рік тому +1

    I had a feeling it was a bit of a loss making exercise so when I ordered mine, I made sure to pay a bit more and get the signed version and bought a few in the same box. I hope it helped a little bit. Try not to be blown over by the negatives you're experiencing David. You've made some insanely great games for these old systems. I've got X2, X3 and Petscii robots sitting right beside me just now and am planning on having a play this afternoon on my amiga :)

  • @wallypop86
    @wallypop86 Рік тому +11

    Love how much you do for the community. Now that I've got my C64 up and running, I'll be purchasing a copy of Petscii robots and x2 for the c64 (I'm in the US, so hopefully you'll make some money :)) I also can't wait to get an X16! Very interested in the video on the manufacturing process.

  • @nekochristmas
    @nekochristmas Рік тому

    I have been following you for so long now, and have always said you are the most genuine person I've seen online please keep up the good work and I look forward to all your future projects 😁

  • @NeverlandSystemZor
    @NeverlandSystemZor Рік тому +81

    The idea that floppy disks are about to be dead and lost to history... that's sad. Such fond memories.

    • @MrLind87
      @MrLind87 Рік тому +14

      I remember buying floppy disks at my local grocery store to carrying them with me to download cheat codes, anime artwork, small games, etc. that I needed to splice in multiple parts with winrar just to be able to carry them from the Internet café back to home in multiple floppy disks back in the Win2000/XP era untill my father gave us a 1gb Kingstone USB pendrive that was like an adult's index finger in size, it was unbelievable the amount of flash games, videos, music and images that I could carry back then, now my pedestrian 500gb hdd can barely handle the operating system and a few games within its silicon plates, gonna need a better computer though.

    • @zombi1034
      @zombi1034 Рік тому +1

      Couldn’t someone start a company that produces them and sells them at 2x the „normal“ price? Or is there no demand anymore for floppy disks to make it profitable?

    • @smushy64
      @smushy64 Рік тому +18

      @@zombi1034 manufacturing them at scale is not trivial. it's the same with cassette tapes, the only ones that are still around are surplus stock. manufacturing more would require such a massive upfront investment that whatever niche interest there is can't justify the cost

    • @the_kombinator
      @the_kombinator Рік тому +4

      How are they about to be dead, let alone lost to history? 90% of the 1,000 or so diskettes I've got around here work just fine. Floppy drives are still cheap and abundant...

    • @Heike--
      @Heike-- Рік тому +2

      The 720k ones.
      Which were crap even back in the day. We couldn't get rid of our 720k drives fast enough for 1.44Mb ones.

  • @marclidwill2668
    @marclidwill2668 Рік тому +1

    I subscribe to roughly 50 or so different channels and this is by far my favorite one. While I understand there is a lot of work that goes into these videos, I wish you could release them more often than you do today.

  • @johnlawrencedeanjd
    @johnlawrencedeanjd Рік тому +53

    Never feel embarrassed about making money on something, that you deserve to do! You definitely deserve to get a paycheck for all you have done! ❤

    • @SherryBaldwin
      @SherryBaldwin Рік тому

      Truly said, how are you doing?

    • @lucasRem-ku6eb
      @lucasRem-ku6eb Рік тому

      just copy the roms, why you cry money on UA-cam ?
      donate it to UA-cam ??????

    • @SMCwasTaken
      @SMCwasTaken Рік тому

      I hope he makes a version for handhelds such as GB/GBC, Sega Game Gear, Wonderswan, Lynx, Gameboy Advance and even Nintendo DS

  • @zenaanharkness7628
    @zenaanharkness7628 Рік тому +1

    What an inspiring journey and giving so much insight to us who have such fond memories from our childhood. I am so grateful.

  • @liveyourdreammedia
    @liveyourdreammedia Рік тому +5

    I appreciate your honesty, you work you butt off and are really fair considering you're chipping in to send happiness to people.

  • @allluckyseven
    @allluckyseven Рік тому

    David, you've done a fantastic job with Petscii Robots, and I'm happy to be able to follow the development along through these videos that you have released, AND I must say I very much look forward for Planet X16 which looks absolutely amazing. And to the X16 computer as well, can't wait to see more about that.

  • @forcedfeedbackclassicgamer5499

    Knowing when to say "when" with labors of love can be the most challenging part. I know the numbers might not feel the part, but as a game developer I totally feel ya and salute you for what you and the various contributors you've worked with have accomplished on the game. Love my Genesis copy, and I guess I'm all the more glad I was privileged enough to purchase it directly from you in person!

  • @Fbiman93
    @Fbiman93 Рік тому

    David, thank you so much for all your videos. I think it’s awesome All the work that you’ve put into your video games. Sounds like you’re making the right decision focusing your attention on more history UA-cam videos. It’s not an overstatement to say is it your UA-cam channel has contributed to a spark of a revolution in the retro video gaming community. you’ve inspired me to take on computer projects of my own, I can confidently say yours is my favorite UA-cam channel. Please keep up the good work and high quality videos.😊👍

  • @davidconnorsands
    @davidconnorsands Рік тому +7

    David, your Slurms Mckenzie analogy is spot on for describing being tired on too much of a good thing.. 😅
    Would have also accepted having too much Snoo Snoo

  • @DrRChandra
    @DrRChandra Рік тому +1

    No issues, Mr. Murray. Thank you for bringing them as far along as you have.

  • @emmettturner9452
    @emmettturner9452 Рік тому +37

    I think you’d be surprised how popular the NES cartridge version would be with NES collectors.

    • @s4ndwichMakeR
      @s4ndwichMakeR Рік тому +6

      But imagine how valuable it would be if it never gets released and only a few rare prototype cartridges would eventually circulate in the wild and show up from time to time. :)

    • @dynagoat7374
      @dynagoat7374 Рік тому +1

      Never underestimate the completionist mindset
      Gotta collect 'em all!

    • @jason_a_smith_gb
      @jason_a_smith_gb Рік тому +2

      @@dynagoat7374 This is true. I used to collect records like that and then I changed it so I collect all the tracks in the best format. I avoid tape and vinyl. Vinyl if no other way…

    • @offscreen6578
      @offscreen6578 Рік тому +1

      Very true. The only computer/console in the 8-Bit Guy's list I have is the NES, and I don't really have that much enthusiasm for the Genesis and SNES (or the space for a whole new retro PC just for one game). So, I've been waiting for the NES port since it was first talked about on this channel. Disappointing that it may not continue, but I hope someone picks this project up in the future.

  • @michaellong8812
    @michaellong8812 Рік тому

    This is such a great video David! I loved the commentary about your operating / manufacturing costs at the end.

  • @UNIRockLIVE
    @UNIRockLIVE Рік тому +4

    U shouldn't feel bad for making money, raise the price and make some cash