Petscii Robots - The FINAL Update

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  • Опубліковано 17 тра 2024
  • Support The 8-Bit Guy on Patreon:
    / 8bitguy1
    Visit my website:
    www.the8bitguy.com/
    Win Prizes for playing Petscii Robots here:
    www.twingalaxies.com/bounty/f...
    • I Built a Petscii Robo... - Print and Play video (mini arcade construction)
    www.vcfsw.org/ - VCF Southwest
    github.com/zeropolis79 -source code
    0:00-Intro
    1:12-Invitation to VCF Southwest
    1:56-The Oric Atmos
    3:52-The Enterprise 128
    5:00-Print N Play mini arcade
    5:24-MS-DOS Version
    14:30-Atari 7800
    16:33-Super Nintendo
    18:07- Game Profits
    21:19-Sales for each version
    22:52-Tired of doing ports
    24:04-Open Source
    25:18-Phasing out merchandise sales
    26:18-Abandoned ports
    28:00-Winning prizes on Twin Galaxies
    28:44-Sequel to Petscii Robots
    29:47-Sneak preview of X16 manufacturing

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,6 тис.

  • @Keavon
    @Keavon 11 місяців тому +2073

    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 11 місяців тому +286

      @@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 11 місяців тому +28

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

    • @DogsRNice
      @DogsRNice 11 місяців тому +59

      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 11 місяців тому +40

      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 11 місяців тому +4

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

  • @gavinthomas214
    @gavinthomas214 11 місяців тому +972

    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.

    • @boomfloppatherealone5062
      @boomfloppatherealone5062 11 місяців тому +10

      How did you reply 4 days ago?

    • @johnnylongfeather3086
      @johnnylongfeather3086 11 місяців тому +4

      Why are you commenting 4 days before it’s posted? And why the spoiler?

    • @edamnaf9265
      @edamnaf9265 11 місяців тому +30

      @@boomfloppatherealone5062 This was probably put up on his Patreon first.

    • @boomfloppatherealone5062
      @boomfloppatherealone5062 11 місяців тому +8

      @@EndOfForever i have no money

    • @jason_a_smith_gb
      @jason_a_smith_gb 11 місяців тому +8

      My ideas never seem to make much money either.

  • @jgunnink3
    @jgunnink3 11 місяців тому +489

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

    • @mattjames6349
      @mattjames6349 11 місяців тому +18

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

    • @stinkyham9050
      @stinkyham9050 11 місяців тому +9

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

  • @brandonpetroski6663
    @brandonpetroski6663 11 місяців тому +263

    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 11 місяців тому +7

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

    • @micky8ball
      @micky8ball 11 місяців тому +2

      I love stuff like this. Fantastic job!

    • @stinkyham9050
      @stinkyham9050 11 місяців 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?

  • @datashed
    @datashed 11 місяців тому +659

    Thank you for all you do for the retrocomputing community.

    • @nnnnnn3647
      @nnnnnn3647 11 місяців тому +6

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

    • @mharding1258
      @mharding1258 11 місяців тому +34

      @@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 11 місяців 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.

    • @Okurka.
      @Okurka. 11 місяців тому +3

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

    • @nnnnnn3647
      @nnnnnn3647 11 місяців тому +2

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

  • @Slendytubbies-Fanboy
    @Slendytubbies-Fanboy 11 місяців тому +249

    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 11 місяців 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.

    • @Slendytubbies-Fanboy
      @Slendytubbies-Fanboy 11 місяців тому +4

      @@danielmantione Agreed

    • @fuelvolts
      @fuelvolts 11 місяців тому +29

      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 11 місяців тому +11

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

    • @KairuHakubi
      @KairuHakubi 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому +38

    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.

  • @larryroyovitz7829
    @larryroyovitz7829 11 місяців тому +61

    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 11 місяців тому +15

      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 11 місяців тому +11

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

    • @oz_jones
      @oz_jones 8 місяців тому +3

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

    • @Nbrother1607
      @Nbrother1607 2 місяці тому

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

  • @retrotv1tech
    @retrotv1tech 11 місяців тому +236

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

    • @ryuketsuekiofficial
      @ryuketsuekiofficial 11 місяців тому +4

      Me too!

    • @volvo09
      @volvo09 11 місяців тому +4

      My favorite segments, and you can tell he enjoys doing them too.

  • @ropersonline
    @ropersonline 11 місяців тому +76

    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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому

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

  • @joehaggard9446
    @joehaggard9446 11 місяців тому +171

    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 11 місяців тому

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

  • @themamosians62
    @themamosians62 10 місяців тому +3

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

  • @TechTimeTraveller
    @TechTimeTraveller 11 місяців тому +81

    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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців 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 !!!!!!

  • @tommylakindasorta3068
    @tommylakindasorta3068 11 місяців 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.

  • @Roobar_Plays
    @Roobar_Plays 11 місяців тому +15

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

  • @sworddemonboggle1491
    @sworddemonboggle1491 11 місяців 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!

  • @jamesdecross1035
    @jamesdecross1035 11 місяців тому +131

    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 11 місяців тому +4

      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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому

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

    • @KairuHakubi
      @KairuHakubi 11 місяців 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.

  • @Galaga7800
    @Galaga7800 11 місяців 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!

    • @rolands50
      @rolands50 11 місяців тому +2

      Well said!

  • @dynatroniX86
    @dynatroniX86 8 місяців 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!

  • @guyguy467
    @guyguy467 11 місяців тому +130

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

    • @johnnylongfeather3086
      @johnnylongfeather3086 11 місяців тому +1

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

    • @cheeseydoodoo
      @cheeseydoodoo 11 місяців тому +7

      ​@@johnnylongfeather3086patrons get early access

    • @nnnnnn3647
      @nnnnnn3647 11 місяців тому

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

    • @cheeseydoodoo
      @cheeseydoodoo 11 місяців тому +1

      @@nnnnnn3647 what?

    • @rustyrobinson8027
      @rustyrobinson8027 11 місяців тому +2

      I appreciate all you do on this channel thanks for the upload 👍

  • @leek4994
    @leek4994 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому +1

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

    • @petegaming8901
      @petegaming8901 11 місяців 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 8 місяців 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.

  • @casstelles
    @casstelles 11 місяців 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.

  • @2009dudeman
    @2009dudeman 11 місяців тому +7

    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.

  • @FightingForceSoulless
    @FightingForceSoulless 11 місяців тому +11

    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.

  • @Drebin2293
    @Drebin2293 11 місяців 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.

  • @Vikotnick
    @Vikotnick 11 місяців тому +50

    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 11 місяців 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. :)

  • @Zenas521
    @Zenas521 11 місяців тому +1

    RIP Scot
    David, you need a vacation or staycation. Do what is needed to heal the burn out. I am glad to see you are walking away from the burn out, but seriously, you need healing.

  • @jeremiefaucher-goulet3365
    @jeremiefaucher-goulet3365 11 місяців 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.

  • @robotonwheels2551
    @robotonwheels2551 11 місяців 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!

  • @andreasklindt7144
    @andreasklindt7144 11 місяців 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.

  • @joshuaabe4832
    @joshuaabe4832 11 місяців тому +79

    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 11 місяців тому +4

      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 11 місяців 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

  • @Technokrat1981
    @Technokrat1981 11 місяців тому +23

    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 11 місяців тому +8

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

    • @bland9876
      @bland9876 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому +2

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

    • @18joza
      @18joza 11 місяців 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.

  • @demagmusic
    @demagmusic 11 місяців 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

  • @JoePCool14
    @JoePCool14 11 місяців 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.

  • @Delekhan
    @Delekhan 11 місяців 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!

  • @eamonia
    @eamonia 11 місяців тому +16

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

  • @BrendanWeibrecht
    @BrendanWeibrecht 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому

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

    • @EndOfForever
      @EndOfForever 11 місяців 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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому +1

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

  • @robmusial
    @robmusial 11 місяців 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

  • @staudinga
    @staudinga 11 місяців 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!

  • @j1000a
    @j1000a 11 місяців 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!

  • @GuigEspritDuSage
    @GuigEspritDuSage 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому +2

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

  • @gildardorivasvalles6368
    @gildardorivasvalles6368 11 місяців 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.

  • @vcv6560
    @vcv6560 11 місяців 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.

  • @nicholastotoro7721
    @nicholastotoro7721 11 місяців тому +5

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

  • @charlesswansonii9319
    @charlesswansonii9319 11 місяців тому +11

    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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому

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

  • @RisteSekuloski
    @RisteSekuloski 11 місяців 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!

  • @smugshrug
    @smugshrug 11 місяців 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.

  • @CantankerousDave
    @CantankerousDave 11 місяців тому +3

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

  • @garthhowe297
    @garthhowe297 11 місяців тому +3

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

  • @Xsiondu
    @Xsiondu 11 місяців тому +1

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

  • @MisterMoncivais
    @MisterMoncivais 11 місяців 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.

  • @Zeal8bit
    @Zeal8bit 11 місяців 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!

  • @MrVinicius5000
    @MrVinicius5000 11 місяців 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 !

  • @Paul_Lane
    @Paul_Lane 11 місяців 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.

  • @drumcorpshistory
    @drumcorpshistory 11 місяців тому +1

    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.

  • @sitaroartworks
    @sitaroartworks 11 місяців тому +7

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

  • @ZetaPrime77
    @ZetaPrime77 11 місяців тому +3

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

  • @neojudasiscariot
    @neojudasiscariot 11 місяців 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!

  • @RockyBMusic
    @RockyBMusic 8 місяців 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).

  • @AJOrpheo
    @AJOrpheo 11 місяців тому +5

    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!

  • @ericsills6484
    @ericsills6484 11 місяців 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.

  • @thewrightone13jack
    @thewrightone13jack 9 місяців тому

    Thanks for all the information and being open 👍

  • @michaellong8812
    @michaellong8812 11 місяців тому

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

  • @ReeseRiverson
    @ReeseRiverson 11 місяців тому +2

    There certainly was a lot unpacked in this video, and you certainly have my respect in how much enthusiasm and dedication you've had for the retro computing/gaming community for years. I understand that there is a point where it gets a bit much, but I am glad you've managed to make such great projects come alive at all. Please do focus on what you feel is most important in your life. :)
    I happily own physical copies of Planet X2 and Planet X3 along with PETSCII Robots for the Sega Genesis. I've literally just placed an order for MS-DOS, Commodore 64, and the Super Nintendo because I think the game is great, I like multiple versions of a game on multiple systems I own, and to help give you my support.
    The NES port would certainly have been awesome, but I get where you're coming from and I certainly wish you the best!

  • @just-mees
    @just-mees 11 місяців 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.

  • @nekochristmas
    @nekochristmas 11 місяців 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 😁

  • @oviedosantiago
    @oviedosantiago 11 місяців тому +2

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

  • @jasonscherer2631
    @jasonscherer2631 11 місяців тому +8

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

  • @boredgrass
    @boredgrass 11 місяців 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!

  • @Dacusx
    @Dacusx 10 місяців тому +2

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

  • @l3lue7hunder12
    @l3lue7hunder12 11 місяців 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 ! 🙂

  • @liveyourdreammedia
    @liveyourdreammedia 11 місяців 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.

  • @NeverlandSystemZor
    @NeverlandSystemZor 11 місяців тому +80

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

    • @MrLind87
      @MrLind87 11 місяців тому +13

      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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому +17

      @@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 11 місяців 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-- 11 місяців 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.

  • @GYTCommnts
    @GYTCommnts 11 місяців 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!

  • @petermoeller5901
    @petermoeller5901 11 місяців 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.

  • @wallypop86
    @wallypop86 11 місяців 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.

  • @thirstly
    @thirstly 11 місяців тому +8

    So sorry to hear about your loss. :(
    Thanks so much for this video. I can’t imagine how difficult it was to make. You’ll always be an inspiration to us and your creations will always offer us hours and hours of enjoyment.
    Much love ❤

  • @ericgillespie4062
    @ericgillespie4062 11 місяців тому +1

    "labor of love"
    David, you are amazing ❤

  • @MScott2273
    @MScott2273 11 місяців 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!

  • @kaitlyn__L
    @kaitlyn__L 11 місяців 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 11 місяців 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 11 місяців 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

  • @Matticitt
    @Matticitt 7 місяців тому +2

    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 6 місяців 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 $

  • @TaijanDean
    @TaijanDean 11 місяців тому

    I must admit, I always wondered whether there would ever be a port for the Macintosh line of computers (since I only have two Vintage Machines, a 1988 Mac Plus and a 1982 Sharp MZ80 A, and I know which one is more well known, that and the 80A isn't working at the moment... anyway).
    But when it comes to plans and projects, it's always a good idea to know when to stop especially when said project is 3 years down the line and has made very little profit. I have watched your videos for well over 5 years, which makes this 19 year old feel old, and I have seen you pour your heart and soul into every project you've undertaken and video you've posted. What you have done for the retro / vintage computing community is simply beyond words and I speak on behalf of all us computer enthusaists that people like you are what keep the community alive and thriving. Keep it up, know when to take breaks and always do what you feel like doing.

  • @thesmokingcap
    @thesmokingcap 11 місяців 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!

  • @dmulligan
    @dmulligan 11 місяців тому +8

    Honestly? What you've done for the retro PC gaming community is absolutely nothing short of miraculous. Hats off to you, David. I've been a silent watcher of your channel for years now. I never had a big interest in retro computers before I found your videos and I've absolutely loved every one I've watched (most multiple times at this point). Your passion for the topic is infectious. Looking forward to seeing more content from you in the future as you shift focuses! Keep up the amazing work!

  • @LeaoraRanica
    @LeaoraRanica 11 місяців тому +3

    I'm sorry to hear that all the ports took the fun out of the project for you. Thanks for all the work you put in ❤

  • @C-mz1bl
    @C-mz1bl 6 місяців тому +1

    The concept of a mouse-operated version of a "Planet X#" game is very appealing to me. I'd be very interested in playing that on steam, as it would remind me of the early 90's pc gaming i grew up with.

  • @xlar54
    @xlar54 7 місяців тому

    Congrats on everything you have done. Thank you !

  • @forcedfeedbackclassicgamer5499
    @forcedfeedbackclassicgamer5499 11 місяців тому +4

    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!

  • @johnlawrencedeanjd
    @johnlawrencedeanjd 11 місяців тому +54

    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 11 місяців тому

      Truly said, how are you doing?

    • @lucasRem-ku6eb
      @lucasRem-ku6eb 11 місяців тому

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

    • @SMCwasTaken
      @SMCwasTaken 7 місяців тому

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

  • @ItsHyomoto
    @ItsHyomoto 11 місяців 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!

  • @FrugalPrepper2
    @FrugalPrepper2 11 місяців тому

    You are so busy. I thank you for all you have done and the great video you make. It makes my day when I see a new video from you!

  • @davidconnorsands
    @davidconnorsands 11 місяців 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

  • @TheBendixSA
    @TheBendixSA 11 місяців тому +3

    Man don't sweat the haters you should have just sold it at $60 cost is cost. You do a lot for the retro community and we are blessed to have you. Thanks for taking this labour of love as far as you did and beyond you could have stepped back from it long ago and we would STILL have been grateful.

  • @vlg_bcn2812
    @vlg_bcn2812 11 місяців 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.

  • @brightquark
    @brightquark 10 місяців 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

  • @Heike--
    @Heike-- 11 місяців тому +3

    1:54 "I look forward to seeing all of you guys there"
    Your Texan card is revoked for saying you guys instead of y'all

  • @emmettturner9452
    @emmettturner9452 11 місяців тому +37

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

    • @s4ndwichMakeR
      @s4ndwichMakeR 11 місяців 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 11 місяців тому +1

      Never underestimate the completionist mindset
      Gotta collect 'em all!

    • @jason_a_smith_gb
      @jason_a_smith_gb 11 місяців 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 11 місяців 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.

  • @ondrastepnic
    @ondrastepnic 11 місяців тому

    I seem to like this game from its look! Well done, David! Also, I have to admit that I am in love with the PETSCII Robots soundtrack! Well done, Anders!

  • @marclidwill2668
    @marclidwill2668 11 місяців 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.

  • @enderjed2523
    @enderjed2523 11 місяців тому +4

    With the game being made open source, there's a chance that it could be ported to ridiculous devices, like on what happened to DOOM.

    • @turbinegraphics16
      @turbinegraphics16 11 місяців тому +2

      Petscii robots ported to doom would be interesting 😄

    • @enderjed2523
      @enderjed2523 11 місяців тому +2

      @@turbinegraphics16 I was more referring to Petscii robots being ported to fridges, microwaves, iPods, graphic calculators and pregnancy tests, but somehow porting petscii robots into doom would be quite an achivement