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Jeff Fulton & Steve Fulton

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Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank133: Beautiful Disaster: An Ode to Fry's ElectronicsBeautiful Disaster: An Ode to Fry's ElectronicsA story about technology change from generation to generation and the importance of feeling useful with DIYSee video version here:https://youtu.be/r78tcGiIzP4 #diy #atari #motorcycles #pcgames #fryselectronics #southbay #memoir Music licenses:SoundstripeFull Throttle: Code: UKYZGYCBOZ5E6MSB1 Up: Code: FPQITALX8O3ERBZV Written and Created By Steve FultonThanks to @JarrodsTech for the video lesson End song "Out Of The Vertical Blank" by Tony LongworthThanks to our supporters:...
2025-03-3119 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank132: Finding Our Story at Vintage Computer Fest So. Cal. 2025  There were as many stories as there were people at Vintage Computer Fest So. Cal. 2025. This is OursVideo version of the main story here:Finding Our Story at Vintage Computer Fest So. Cal. 2025 #retrogaming #vintacomouting Links, etc. Panel Attendees:→ David from Usagi Electric - youtube.com/@UsagiElectric→ Jeri from Tilt Five - tiltfive.com→ Sean from Advent of Computing - adventofcomputing.libsyn.com→ Evie from Evie's Revue - youtube.com/@EviesRevue→ Alex from That Electronics Fool - youtube.com/@ThatElectro...
2025-03-0843 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank129: The Best *#@! Christmas Ever: An Atari 8-bit Journey Into The Vertical BlankThe final, definitive version of the story we've been trying to tell for the past 6 years. Christmas 1983, the Atari 8-bit computer Christmas was, for many reasons, the best *#@! Christmas ever. This new version gives a rounder picture, explains The Vertical Blank, obsesses over Star Wars, and tries to explain the actual result of Christmas 1983, once and for all. #atari #atari8bit #atari800 #starwars #blankgeneration #genx You can watch a movie version here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9YfsN51kO0&feature=youtu.be Extra soundtrack music "Tinsel and Fire" by Tony Longwort
2024-12-181h 10Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank127: The Essential: Atari ST Michtron’s Time Bandit from 1986.Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank   On the Into The Vertical Blank’s The Essential #atari ST, we investigate, discuss and evaluate #atarist Computers games and try to uncover titles worthy of play by all who are interested in the platform. I will be giving you a history of #timebandit , a personal review and I will also be inserting video and audio with my brother Steve, fultonbot, as we further discuss the gameplay, legacy and it’s metrics as an essential Atari ST title Thanks for suppo...
2024-11-2643 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#126 : RANT: The Incident At The Retro Game StoreIn this 20 minute rant, we loudly discuss an incident we recently had at a retro game store, and then talk about how the retro game store experience could be improved for all. https://retrogamesplus.com/ Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank Thanks for support from:BCB, Atari Legend, Atari Crypt,ED Possible, Tony LongworthDaniel Beasley, Barry BurkeyDavid Schmidt, Jolt7800Dave theVelociraptor All music, audio / video production. writing and game play by #JeffFulton and or #SteveFulton unless otherwise...
2024-11-0621 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#125: 10 Good “Euro” Action Platformers for the Atari ST(Including Sun Su Si and First Samurai)   Join us as we take a look at 10 good #actionplatformer games for the #atarist we also briefly discuss them for the #amiga and otjer 80s computers such as the #c64 and #pc I have chosen the #Atari ST as my platform because it was what I had from 1987 until 1992 and also because these games have most likely been explored in detail for other systems multiple times already, whereas the ST versions probably have not been explored as much as they deserve outside of the few good ST youtube c...
2024-10-1417 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#123: Atari I.P List Found! 23 Atari ST Games They Own!#123: Atari I.P List Found! 23 Atari ST Games They Own! We scour Atari's 2024 IP list (we were altered to it last week by BCB Coffee Boy last week) and discover 23 Atari ST games Atari (probably) owns that could be put into a game pack, DLC for Atari 50, an Atari ST mini, etc. We played (almost) all of them (game play video included). Note: list was first published by PowerDubs on atariage.com who found it on Atari's home page:https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1e-tl9Oqwnr78879Lnne_uhlsGkPWFK_z428ZmUaJjog/edit#slide=id...
2024-09-2547 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#122: Worse Than E.T.? Pac-Man And The Day Atari Lost The Video Game WarIs Atari 2600 Pac-Man worse than E.T. for The Atari 2600?Or does it go deeper than that? Did the timing, release, and quality of the 2600 Pac-Man game combine together to make it worse than the sum of its parts? We explore that in this video. Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank Thanks for support from:BCB, Atari Legend, Atari Crypt,ED Possible, Tony LongworthDaniel Beasley, Barry BurkeyDavid Schmidt, Jolt7800Dave theVelociraptor All music, audio / video production. writing...
2024-09-0636 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#121 : Worse Than E.T.? Marauder For the Atari 2600Why do people subjectively choose one game or another to top their "worst" list? It's rarely actually the "worst" game objectively. In this episode I explore why one particular game has topped my own "worst" list for 4 decades, and if that is still the case in 2024. See Video Version:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWIc1R8Fg24&feature=youtu.be Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank Includes music from Tony Longworth's song "Whisper's From The Drowned City" Find him here on bandcamp: https...
2024-09-0310 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#120 : Worse Than E.T.? Mr. Postman and the games from Bit CorpMr. Postman is another game from Bit Corp., the people who brought us Bobby Is Going Home. It's a doozy of game for the 2600, but is it worse than E.T.?Video Version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toxJOrAOklw&feature=youtu.be Dr. Spuds Game Reviews: https://doctorspudsreviewsthings.wordpress.com/2018/12/12/mr-postman-bit-corp-atari-2600-game-review/ Ric Pryor on Old School Gamer Magazine:https://www.oldschoolgamermagazine.com/mr-postman-for-the-atari-2600/ Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank All music, audio / video production. writing and game play by...
2024-08-1417 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#119 : Overscan: Cracking Seals and Proving LifeOverscan: Cracking Seals and Proving Life In this over scan we discuss a few new home brew games we have obtained for the #Atari2600 and #NES. #ChampGames https://champ.games/ #AtariAgeStore https://atariage.com/store/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1045 #MurderintheMaze https://t1lt.itch.io/mitm #mrrunandjump https://atari.com/products/mr-run-and-jump-2600 Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank Thanks for support from: BCB, Atari Legend, Atari Crypt, ED...
2024-08-0715 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#118 : Worserer than E.T.? : The Games Of MythiconWorserer than E.T.? : The Games Of Mythicon In our continuing quest to find games that are "Worse Than E.T?" we have arrived at the bottom of the stinkiest barrel imaginable, and there rests the games of Mythicon.Enjoy! Video version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufSlqW9MjU4 Links: DP Royal Archives - The Worst of the Atari 2600 (digitpress.com)https://www.digitpress.com/archives/arc00135.htm The Story of Mythicon.. How cool is this.https://forums.atariage.com/topic/55115-the-story-of-mythicon-how-cool-is-this/ Late...
2024-07-3121 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#117: Worse Than E.T.? #3: AirlockAirlock A game that takes "worse Than E.T." to a whole new level.Did Data Age make games worse than the supposed worst game ever, E.T. for the Atari VCS? Were they also one of the culprits responsible for the North American Video Game Crash? Have we found the worst Atari VCS game ever made? Watch and find out. Plus: Embarrassed by my poor play of Airlock, I went back and tried to figure out what I was doing wrong. What I found was a combination of user error, RTFM and a flaw...
2024-07-2322 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#116: 'Worse Than E.T?" #2 Bobby Is Going HomeIn our 2nd installment we play the notorious Atari 2600 game "Bobby Is Going Home" and decide: Is it worse than E.T.? Video Version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjtcqOVvPA0&feature=youtu.be Ambient music in this video is "GUL-ee-SUCK-uh" by Tony Longworth "Bobby Is Going Home" By Flanders '72:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pc517DXJiSoFlanders 72 on Band Camphttps://flanders72.bandcamp.com/track/lucy-moved-to-london Bobby Is Going Home review from AtariMania.com: https://www.atarimania.com/game-atari-2600-vcs-bobby-is-going-home_18790.html
2024-07-1709 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#115: "Worse Than E.T?" #1: Tax AvoidersIn the first in a series, we play notoriously "bad" games and figure out if they are "worse" than the supposed worst game ever, "E.T. The Extra Terrestrial" for the Atari 2600.  This first episode is a bit rough, but I promise you, they get better.Video version here:Worse Than E.T.? Tax Avoiders for the Atari 2600 (youtube.com) Thanks for support from:BCB, Atari Legend, Atari Crypt,ED Possible, Tony LongworthDaniel Beasley, Barry BurkeyDavid Schmidt, Jolt7800Dave the Velociraptor All music, a...
2024-07-1316 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#114: Overscan: Yep, another One These @#$%!! Podcasts (Plus Atari Hidden Gems)Overscan # 8 #114 Yep. Another of these STUPID @#$%!! Podcasts. Plus...Atari Hidden GemsIn this episode the brothers find a hidden gem for each of Atari’s classic systems and even a few divisions like the Arcade division and APX. As always they decide in the middle if they want to keep going with the podcast and we cut out a lot of infighting and cursing/ Steve edited this episode. #Atari #atarist #atariste #atari8bit #atariarcde #atari2600#atari5200 #atari7800 #atarilynx #atarijaguar #atarisoft #microsoft #ataricrypt 0:00 intro2:01 News in the Bored Ro...
2024-07-0453 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#112 Overscan: Homebrew Showdown! Ports vs OriginalsOverscan: Showdown! Homebrew port vs homebrew originals Yar’s Rising Demo Availablehttps://store.steampowered.com/app/2534370/Yars_Rising/ Paris Dakar Dump for Atari ST!https://www.atarimania.com/game-atari-st-paris-dakar_42936.html AtariCrypt Review -Nano Cave ST!https://ataricrypt.blogspot.com/2024/06/nano-cave.htmlhttps://electric-dreams.itch.io/nano-cave Neosprint is awesome!https://atari.com/products/neosprint?msID=088cfe85-49e7-4a11-9635-0c3f4c6e78e3 Space Battle Jamie Lendino! Book on Intellivision!https://amzn.to/4b4zY6p...
2024-06-1950 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#110: AT Speed: The Day Our Atari 1040 ST Became a 286 PC Clone + News Overscan.AT Speed: The Day Our Atari 1040 ST Became a 286 PC Clone + News Overscan. Into The Vertical Blank podcast episode #110 #atari, #atarist, #dinodini #skald #rollercoastertycoon #stevenlevy #atspeed 00:48 Intro01:28 Atari News 08:56 Atariage.com09:21 Book Club13:18 Excitement Of The Week17:13 Feedback20:49 Creator Spotlight24:59 AT Speed - when an Atari ST could transform into a 286 Roller Coaster Tycoon:https://atari.com/pages/rollercoaster-tycoon Titanhttps://www.atarimania.com/game-atari-400-800-xl-xe-titan_6337.html Hackershttps://www.amazon.com/Hackers-Computer-Revolution-Steven-Levy/dp/1449388396/ Skald...
2024-06-051h 01Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#108: Overscan: Can Retro Save The Video Game Industry?Overscan Weekly Retro Podcast: Into The Vertical Blank #108 This week we cover00:00 Intro:03:29 Atari 50th XP Collection Problems07:24 Epyx Handheld Collection09:42 TimeExtension.com10:38 Atari Video Music13:05 AtariAge.com15:10 Cuckoo's Egg17:35 Silicon Snake Oil27:25 Atari Movie Cart29:23 Our Videos30:28 Jeff's Rant on Crap ST Ports38:16 Feedback41:44 Steve's Glowing Review of Silicon Underground45:51 Bored Room Debate: Can Retro Save The Game Industry? #lynx #atarixp #atari50 #atarivideomusic #atariage #cliffstoll#cookoosegg #siliconsnakeoil #siliconunderground #atarimoviecart Links:-Atari 50th XP Collection Problems:...
2024-05-2259 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#106: Redemption : "Once Upon Atari" By Howard Scott Warshaw, Book ReviewA book review for Howard Scott Warshaw's magnificant tome "Once Upon Atari: How I made Histry By Milling An Industry"See video version of this review:Redemption For a Game Maker: "Once Upon Atari" Book Review. (youtube.com)Once Upon Atari: How I made history by killing an industry: Warshaw, Howard Scott: 9780986218668: Amazon.com: Books Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank All music, audio / video production. writing and game play by #JeffFulton and or #SteveFulton unless otherwise noted. (c)8bitrocket Studios
2024-05-0409 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#105 The Atari 400 Mini Honest First ImpressionsThe Atari 400 Mini. Honest First Impressions from old skool Atari 8bit owning twins The Atari 400 mini arrived for both of us late last week. Here is our very candid first  few discussions  on what we like and dislike about the system.   Support the Podcast 400 Mini https://amzn.to/43Efak6   Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank All music, audio / video production. writing and game play by #JeffFulton and or #SteveFulton unless otherwise noted. (c)8bitrocket Studios
2024-04-0241 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#104: Atari 400 Mini - BLOWOUT!We take a deep dive into the Atari 400 mini, discuss what we know, the features, all the included games, plus many other games we'd like to see.Watch the video version here:Atari 400 Mini -BLOWOUT! All the Games and More. - YouTube Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank All music, audio / video production. writing and game play by #JeffFulton and or #SteveFulton unless otherwise noted. (c)8bitrocket Studios # Atari #IntoTheVerticalBlank #Generation Atari Into The Vertical Theme by Brian Travis Title: Into The...
2024-03-0446 minCalifornia Wine Country
California Wine CountryJeff Mangahas, Director of Winemaking, Williams SelyemJeff Mangahas Jeff Mangahas, winemaker, actually VP Director of Winemaking at Williams Selyem, joins Steve Jaxon in the studio for California Wine Country. Dan Berger is away today. His last time on this show was this episode of October 6, 2021. Williams Selyem is one of the most illustrious wineries in Sonoma County. This year will be their 44th vintage, specializing in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The partners, Burt Williams and Ed Selyem started the winery in a garage in the town of Fulton.* They made a Pinot Noir in 1985 from grapes grown on the...
2024-02-2421 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#103 : A Visit To The 2024 Vintage computer Festival So. Cal.A visit to VCF So Cal. 2024. Groups, Podcasts, Publication Highlighted: - VCF So. Cal: https://www.vcfsocal.com/ -Atari Video Music Garage: https://www.youtube.com/@AtariVideoMusic -Intellivision Blue Sky Rangers: https://www.ebay.com/str/blueskyrangers -Intellivisionaries: http://intellivisionaries.com/ -Old School Gamer Magazine: https://www.oldschoolgamermagazine.com/ -Atari Projects: https://atariprojects.org/ -Antic: https://ataripodcast.libsyn.com/ -Floppy Days: https://floppydays.libsyn.com/ -10 minute Amiga Retrocast : https://www.youtube.com/c/10MinuteAmigaRetroCast -Sarah Jany...
2024-02-2320 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#100: Atari ST LOG Magazine #2 May 1986: An Action RPG Point and Click and MoreThe history of the Atari ST in the USA #1.   Video Version https://youtu.be/xxe4cV1eydY?si=0b6_K1s-Y7sLDf0s We continue taking a look at Atari after the Warner Sale specifically focusing on ST Log magazine which is still an insert into American Atari 8bit Computer Magazine, Analog at this point in history. Our focus is the ST and as entertainment machine, but it was such a great general purpose computer that we will stop along the way to look at some of the more interesting applications especially if th...
2024-01-1413 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#97 : Punker Pacman And The Mindless GenerationIn 1982 I was enthralled with Pac-Man. A Pee-Chee folder I found in box 40 years later remined me of that time: when anything, even growing-up and working for Atari, seemed possible.Watch video version here: (1) Punker Pac-Man and the Mindless Generation - YouTube Original story published in the Easy Reader as "Punker Pac-Man: An ode to the Mindless Generation, and The Guild Drug" - Easy Reader News: https://easyreadernews.com/punker-pac-man-an-ode-to-the-mindless-generation-and-the-guild-drug/?fbclid=IwAR2Q2-1ytOUrMPfa2HQIwfMTABCGzPIuEdV47X84SID6p-zmCm0hHGY-sAo Special thanks to Manhattan Beach Historical Society: https://www.manhattanbeachhistorical.com/  Al...
2023-12-0618 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#94: Lost Credit Full VersionNew, full version, remastered, new content, new edits, full HD presentation.GCC were masters of video game design in the early 1980's. They created Ms. Pac-Man and went on to become a "secret" development house for Atari. They are responsible for many golden age Atari games, but so far, the credits for their games have been incomplete and hard to locate. After working for 5 years, Into The Vertical Blank may have finally "cracked the code" on the credits for GCC Atari games by pestering and annoying ex-GCCers Doug Macrae, Michael Feinstein, Steve Golson and Jonathan Hurd until they...
2023-10-221h 42Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6E10: Jeff Minter, Giles and Zarjaz with Tony Longworth - Heart of Neon Soundtrack Composer S6e10: Jeff Minter, Giles and Zarjaz with  Tony Longworth - Heart of Neon Soundtrack Composer  The full video production of our Mini Jeff Minter retrospective and Interview with Tony Longworth about the Heart of Neon Documentary is also published here: https://youtu.be/k05l2GdNvxMas Jeff Minter, Giles and Zarjaz with  Heart of Neon Soundtrack Composer Tony Longworth.   Notes Poly Play https://www.polyplay.xyz/Memories-of-Infocom-Volume-1_1 Heart of Neon Patreon https://www.patreon.com/heartofneon Heart of Neon Trailer https...
2023-10-151h 00Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E9 Lost Credit (part 2): The Secret Atari Heroes of GCCLost Credit: The Secret Atari Heroes of GCC (part1) Part 2 of the story: GCC were masters of video game design in the early 1980's. They created Ms. Pac-Man and went on to become a "secret" development house for Atari. They are responsible for many golden age Atari games, but so far, the credits for their games have been incomplete and hard to locate. After working for 5 years, Into The Vertical Blank may have finally "cracked the code" on the credits for GCC Atari games by pestering and annoying ex-GCCers Doug Macrae, Michael Feinstein, Steve Golson and Jonathan...
2023-10-0140 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E8:Goth and Leong Atari ST Bedroom Coding HeroesS6:E8:Goth and Leong Atari ST Bedroom Coding Heroes Gary “Goth” Wheaton and Robert Leong are two of the more unsung heroes of the Atari SY Bedroom Game coding Underground. In this episode we take a well deserved if all too brief look at some of their combined and separate efforts.  I started down a rabbit hole a few weeks ago when I wanted to find a Galaga style game to play on my Atari ST.  I knew that most of the best Arcade style translations for the ST were made by bedroom coders...
2023-09-2734 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E7: Lost Credit: The Secret Atari Heroes of GCC (part 1)Lost Credit: The Secret Atari Heroes of GCC (part1) GCC were masters of video game design in the early 1980's. They created Ms. Pac-Man and went on to become a "secret" development house for Atari. They are responsible for many golden age Atari games, but so far, the credits for their games have been incomplete and hard to locate. After working for 5 years, Into The Vertical Blank may have finally "cracked the code" on the credits for GCC Atari games by pestering and annoying ex-GCCers Doug Macrae, Michael Feinstein, Steve Golson and Jonathan Hurd until they finally...
2023-09-171h 04Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E6: The Ubiquitously Requisite Atari 2600+ DiscussionJust like your grandma, your kid brother, your old-man-cringe game-playing uncle, your dental hygienist and that surprisingly personable Uber driver that picked you up this morning, we ALSO now have a podcast episode where we discuss the new Atari 2600+ Hint: We like it, for what it is, but have some reservations...just like everyone else. Late night fuel support appreciated but not demanded : https://www.buymeacoffee.com/intotheverticalblank All music, video production. writing and game play by Jeff Fulton with help from  Steve Fulton unless otherwise noted. Branding by Daryl Litts E...
2023-08-2940 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E5 The Vindication of Desert Falcon. Interview with GCC's Michael FeinsteinS6:E5 The Vindication of Desert Falcon. Interview with GCC's Michael Feinstein This new full video podcast explores the legacy of the first original title for the Atari 7800 and the last title by GCC for the system they created, Desert Falcon. Join us in conversation with GCC's Michael Feinstein (Credits: Atari 2600: Phoenix, Battlezone, Jungle Hunt, Joust, 7800: Desert Falcon) in our new Full Video Podcast Format. Youtube link: https://youtu.be/I8Hsfun0QTc Topics Games Discussed: Atari 7800: Desert Falcon Atari 2600: Phoenix Atari 2600: Jungle Hunt Atari 2600: Joust Atari 2600: Batt;ezone Atari ST STOS
2023-08-081h 39Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E4 Inflection point! Amico v. Atari.S6:E4 Inflection point!  Amico v. Atari. Plus Homebrew with STOS and 7800 Basic   In this episode we have a frank discussion on the state of Amico and Atari.   Notes STOS 1:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQy2ZZjapGE&t=5sSTOS 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXp6XWsbaN4&t=464s7800 1 : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i45aqBviQZI&t=1s 7800 1.5. The Three C’s:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3-C5LRBT9k All music...
2023-06-181h 05Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E3 In Conversation with Mission Ed PossibleIn this episode the brothers interview fellow Atari NUTCASE, Ed Salisbury, of the Atari and Retro / Classic gaming YouTube channel, Mission Ed possible. They discuss everything about growing up in Generation Atari from the 2600 to the Atari 8bit Computers, through the ST and beyond.  We apologize for the echo in the interview section, it was conducted in Jeff’s living room and was uncontrollable. We have “dried” it up as much as we can.  Show Notes: Visit and subscribe to Ed’s Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@MissionEdPossible All music, vid...
2023-04-251h 25Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E2 Found In the Desert - Dads, Guns, Gold, The Atari ST and The Lost Dutchman MineS6:E2  Found In the Desert - Dads, Guns, Gold, The Atari ST and The Lost Dutchman Mine In this episode the brothers Discuss the 1989 World of Atari Show at Disneyland and then we premier the audio version of our Epic Atari ST story and game play-through of the Lost Dutchman Mine.  What compels someone to finish a computer game after more than three decades of first trying?  The Lost Dutchman Mine for the Atari ST is such a game for me.  First played in 1989, this obscure game and its subject matter of a legendary gold...
2023-03-291h 35Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS6:E1: Space Sucker - An 80’s Sitcom Takes on Video GamesS6:e1  Space Sucker - An 80’s Sitcom Takes on Video Games In this episode the brothers dissect the video game themed episode of Diff'rent Strokes from Oct. 2, 1982, partake in some listener feedback, listen to a new Tony Longworth song and more.  Show Notes: Different Strokes S5e1https://www.amazon.com/Diffrent-Strokes-Season-5/dp/B099DBR46Q/ref=atv_pr_sw_sc Ed’s Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MissionEdPossible Brian’s Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@ballistik_coffee_boy   All music...
2023-02-261h 16Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS5:E11 JohnS5:E11 John   In this episode the brothers discuss “John”, a cousin that recently passed away and how he was a huge part of the Vertical Blank. They also Talk about retro Christmas, opening of sealed games and a new game programming project. Show Notes   Programming Games for Atari 2600https://www.lulu.com/shop/oscar-toledo-gutierrez/programming-games-for-atari-2600/hardcover/product-n8z9r6.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Kinhank Super Console X https://www.amazon.com/Kinhank-Console-Pre-Built-EmuELEC-CoreELEC/dp/B0B393BDQ7/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2118Q25GJH3V6&keywor...
2023-02-031h 06Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS5:E10: Mike Mika Interview + How The “Atari Anniversary Celebration” Saved ChristmasThis time we present a double-long, double-wide, twin-brother-scale episode of all-out Christmas madness!First, we have an audio review of "The Atari 50th Anniversary Celebration", followed by a knock-down-drag-out discussion of international scale of its merits with Tony Longworth from the UK.  Then we pull out all the stops and feature a full hour-long interview with one of the main men behind the stunning Atari 50th Celebration, Mike Mika.   You will laugh, you will cry, and you will never look at the name "Mrs. Cripps" the same again.    Oh, and Merry Christmas from The Vertical Blank. All m...
2022-12-162h 06Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankUSA v. England Anco v. Sensible Association Footie SpecialS5:e9 USA v. England Anco v. Sensible Association Footie Special In this episode the brothers bring on brother from another country and mother, Tony Longworth to discuss Anco Kickoff vs Sensible Soccer on the ST, the World Cup and Welcome to Wrexham.  Kickoff 2 http://www.atarimania.com/game-atari-st-kick-off-ii_37007.html https://www.mobygames.com/game/atari-st/kick-off-2 Sensible http://www.atarimania.com/game-atari-st-sensible-soccer-european-champions-1992-3-season-edition_23549.html https://www.mobygames.com/game/atari-st/sensible-soccer-european-champions-9293-edition All music, video production. writing and game play by J...
2022-11-301h 10Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS5:E8: 75th Episode Free For All: Twin Brothers In ConversationS5:e8 75th Episode Free For All! In this episode, Steve and Jeff catch up on the state of their Arcade 1Up and AtGames systems, and  discuss  their current gaming and media time killers. They also discuss the state of the ST and 7800 ports they are working on and  bring Ballistik Coffee Boy in for a further discussion of the latest additions to his home arcade.    Show notes: AtGames Legends Takes Over My Home office! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcE4LkA874o   Arca...
2022-11-061h 33Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS5:E7: The Ballad of The Arcade1UP Atari Legacy Centipede MachineSteve recently won a small hometown writing contest with a story about Star Wars in 1977.  With the prize money he purchased an item he’s had his eye on for almost 2 years: The Arcade 1Up Atari Legacy Centipede cabinet. In this episode we go deep into the Arcade 1Up product, discuss its strengths and weaknesses and the invite Brian Bolding (AKA Ballistik Coffee Boy) in to talk about the Arcade1Up products, retrocades, gatekeepers, and our shared love for the 80’s.    Watch the video version of the Arcade1Up machine here: Arcade1up Atari Centipede Legacy Overview and Revi...
2022-10-171h 11Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS5:E6: Atari ST Halcyon Days of 1989 Part 3: Atari ST Gaming GemsS5:e6 Atari ST Halcyon Days of 1989 Part 3: Atari ST Gaming Gems Our favorite 1989 Console Style Games for the ST We had an ST when most of the other kids near us had various consoles. We knew our machine could play superior RPGs, Simulations, and Adventure titles, but how did it hold up against the 8 and 16 bit console games of the day?  Some ST console-like games were as good, some were not. We've chosen 20 console style games from 1989 for the ST to highlight and talk a little about, but before we get to t...
2022-09-251h 15Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS5:E5: The Computer Lab and The Horrors of Junior HighThis episode is about  the early 1980's Junior High computer lab. A wonderous place where Bank Street Writer and Sands of Egypt were loaded from 5 1/4 inch floppy disks,  LOGO and BASIC were viable programming options, and where kids like us could find a place of our own.   The story this time is about the computer lab, and also about how sometimes you don't understand the affect teachers have on your life until decades later. All music, video production. writing and game play by Jeff Fulton with help from  Steve Fulton unless otherwise noted. Music : Everything Has E...
2022-09-071h 19Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS5:E4: Atari ST Halcyon Days of 1989 Part 2: Fun Imported From EuropeIn this episode Steve and Jeff turn calendar to 1989 and discuss what it was like gaming on the Atari ST back then. They list and discuss close to 50 games that they purchased and played that year. for the Atari ST Computer. Games Mentioned in this Episode:  Action Fighter (Firebird) - Sega Arcade Port Airborne Ranger (Microprose) - Military Sim Axel’s Magic Hammer (Gremlin) - Multi Screen Platformer BAAL (Psyclapse) -  Arcade Platformer / Shooter Bad Company (Logotron) 3D first person fly / drive and shoot Ballastix (Psyclapse) - Sports Marble game BattleHawks 1942 (Lucasfilm) - Battle / Air sim ...
2022-08-1459 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blanks5:e3 Xenon 2 and the Atari ST Halcyon Days of 1989 Part 1s5:e3  Xenon 2 and the Atari ST Halcyon Days of 1989 Part 1 Steve and Jeff are joined by Tony Longworth to discuss Xenon 2: Megablast for the Atari ST, in the first of a multi-part series on 1989 Atari ST gamesPart 2 will be be a discussion of 50+ games from 1989 that Steve and Jeff purchased in the USA and Part 3 will be a survey of some of the hidden gems of the 1989 Atari ST Library Notes: Tony’s new album - Godless Universe Random Pain  https://tonylongworth.bandcamp.com/album/godless-universe-random-pain  Atari...
2022-07-0449 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS5: E1: Generation AtariS5: E1 - Generation Atari In this opening episode for season 5, after a tumultuous season 4,  inspired by some feedback, we reaffirm just why we are here and what we mean by “The Vertical blank” and “Generation Atari. BCB #36 - "The Atari Generation" (Delving "Into the Vertical Blank.")https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tRdFWpt3L0&t=1180s “Video Games For The ‘Basest Instincts Of Man’”  Jan, 28, 1982 (New York times Subscription required)Opinion | VIDEO GAMES FOR THE 'BASEST INSTINCTS OF MAN' - The New York Times (nytimes.com) Not mentioned in...
2022-04-211h 10Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E14: Atari Pac-Man Day 40th Anniversary DocumentaryClocking in at almost 3 hours, this episode is a remastered super-cut of Into The Vertical Blank Season 3, Episode #1, #4 and #6 (2020) that cover April 3, 1982: Atari Pac-Man Day and it's lasting effects on the company. Yep, this one is all about Atari VCS Pac-Man, but so much more as well. It features a discussion with the late Curt Vendel, in one of his final interviews, speaking very very passionately about what we all believed to be "Atari's Biggest Mistake". All music, video production. writing and game play by Jeff Fulton with help from  Steve Fulton unless otherwise noted.Music b...
2022-04-022h 45Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankBonus Atari ST Games That Rock: LLamatron ++: Llamatron, Jeff Minter and Heart of Neon In this episode, the brothers discuss recent Christmas, the latest Atari recharged  releases and then bring on their brother from another mother (and father) Tony Longworth to discuss the Jeff Minter Classic, LLamatron for the Atari ST.  They also disuss the Jeff Minter Documentary, Heart of Neon, and play a new Tony track made for the film.  Discussion Video Version: https://youtu.be/D1E45ePl6rU with Music Video by Heart of Neon Film maker, Paul Docherty Notes:  Heart of Neon: https://www.heartofneon.com/ Buy a Jeff Minter Game or swa...
2022-02-041h 18Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E12 Xmas 1984 : BBS: Demented and Sad, But SocialS4:E12 Xmas 1984 : BBS: Demented and Sad, But Social In  this episode, Steve and Jeff discuss Christmas 1984. Tramiel had purchased Atari but the Fulton brothers were oblivious and just wanted a modem to call BBSs and download public domain software. They also discuss Atari Writer, Printers, Gateway to Apshai, and a few magazines from December of 1984. Steve’s story goes over this time in detail and the events surrounding it. The boys discuss what really happened to the Atari 8bits and video games during the USA Video Game crash during this time period by going through ads fro...
2021-12-291h 24Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E11 Sanctuary in Pelnor: The First Atari ST Role-Playing GamesIn this episode Steve and Jeff discuss the Atari ST role-playing games listed in Atarimania.com from 1987, and also briefly go into the 1986 ones they discussed in S4:E10.  They also discuss the latest news that interests them. This all leads into a story by Steve that weaves their home experience growing up with playing a game of Phantasie on the Atari ST.  Show Notes: AtariMania Games List http://www.atarimania.com/pgelstsoft.awp?system=S&type=G&year=1987&genre=4&step=25 Games Discussed in this Episode: AutoDuel (Origin)  Cas...
2021-11-291h 14Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E10: Atari ST Games the Early YearsS4:E10: Atari  ST Games the Early Years In this Episode, we cover the Atari ST, released in 1985 and what we consider to be the best "launch" titles for the system release in 1985 and 86. Of course these are not necessarily Launch Titles as computers rarely have them, but our favorite early years ST games. We have gone  through all of the Atari ST games released before 1987 using the excellent atarimaina.com database. We consider the first 18 months of the ST’s life as the launch period before most of the big games started being developed and huge...
2021-10-271h 21Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E9: Charley Chuck Has Been Found Alive!Charley Chuck has been found!  Atari announced recently that there will be a 21st century new console update for the game Food Fight!  In this episode we track down Interview with Andrew Marsh of Mega Cat to talk about their plans for the game, and also about what it means to make “retro” games in the year 2021   Recorded, Mixed, Edited and Produced by Steve And Jeff Fulton Music : And The Sun Still Shines Above The Clouds - Tony Longworth : Patreon: Tony Longworth is creating free music for everyone | Patreon Theme by Bria...
2021-08-2958 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E8: The Disappearance Of Charlie Chuck - RemasterThere is new information regarding the whereabouts of one Charlie Chuck, the star of Atari's 1984 coin-op, Food Fight.  We will be revealing what we know and have a special interview in the next episode.  But for now, refresh your memories of the full mystery with a remastered version of the classic lead-off episode from Season 2 of "Into The Vertical Blank": The Disappearance Of Charlie Chuck. Recorded, Mixed, Edited and Produced by Steve And Jeff Fulton Branding By Daryl Litts Additional Music by Tony Longworth Theme by Brian TravisTi...
2021-08-141h 07Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E7: A Joyous Noise: Adventures With The Pokey Audio ChipIn the 80's we sold all of our Atari 800 discs and lost all of our youthful programs BASIC programs and creative output forever.  Or so we thought.A few weeks ago we discovered a lost "treasure":   an audio tape from 1984 that we never remembered recording of us using one of our programs.  With the help of musician Tony Longworth, we embarked on quest to plumbs the depths of this computer audio ephemera, the Pokey audio chip and how it was the cornerstone of much of the Atari "Into The Vertical Blank" experience. Features a remix by Tony Longworth.
2021-07-181h 12Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E6: Top-10 Atari 400/800 Games Atari Should Remake For The VCSIn this episode we have a great story about the Atari 8 bit computers from Tony Longworth (and also his song "Star Raiders"...we should have just called this the Tony Longworth episode!), some Atari retro news, and a discussion about the Atari 8bit computers games we feel are ripe to be re-released and/or remade for Atari's new VCS, which had finally seen general release this week. Written, edited, produced by Steve Fulton, Jeff Fulton and Tony Longworth Branding by Daryl Litts Music "Star Raiders" by Tony Longworth Find us here:
2021-06-201h 17Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E5 Discovering the Atari 400, Star Raiders, Caverns Of Mars, Miner 2049erThe Atari 400 was a games machine masked as an entry-level computer computer.  When it was released in 1979, it could play Atari’s killer-app “Star Raiders” just as well as it’s more serious, older brother the Atari 800.   At the same time, the Atari 400 acted as a gateway for many kids to the world of programming.  In this episode we explore how we were first introduced to the Atari 400, the first few amazing games we played on it, and how it sparked dreams of being a computer programmer. The story in this episode was written and produced by Steve Fulton with music...
2021-05-0851 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E4: Rest In Peace MarzThis is not a regular episode.   Today we talk about our sister Mari (Marz) who passed away at her home in early April.   Marz was our older sister, teacher and protector and also our game playing companion. We talk about grief and how sometimes memories of life events are intertwined with games in ways we just don't fully understand.   We also have a very nice story contribution from Tony Longwoth and of course a new Tony Tune and new from the Into The Vertical Blank Scene.  Notes: Atari...
2021-04-281h 20Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E3: An In-Depth Interview With David Crane, Garry Kitchen, Dan Kitchen from Audacity GamesLast week we caught up with David Crane, Garry Kitchen and Dan Kitchen from Audacity Games to chat about the old Atari days, Activision, Absolute, Skyworks, the tragedy of digital obsolescence, their new venture Audacity games and their spectacular new Atari VCS game, Circus Convoy. See full video version of the interview here:(1) Audacity Games Interview: David Crane, Dan Kitchen and Garry Kitchen - YouTube Produced by Jeff and Steve Fulton Branding By Daryl Litts Music " Dance With Me" by Tony Longworth  
2021-04-051h 27Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E2: How The Atari VCS Almost Killed Me. Plus the 9 VCS Launch Games And Circus Convoy An episode  jampacked with Atari VCS goodness! First a story about the allure (and danger) of Atari VCS programming in modern times. Then a playthrough and history of the original 9 VCS  1977 launch titles. Also memories of Combat! from Tony Longworth. and a discussion and reaction of the brand new VCS game Circus Convoy from Audacity games. Features "The Atari VCS Almost Killed Me" by Steve Fulton Written edited, produced by Steve And Jeff Fulton Branding by Daryl Litts Music : Ether and Eyes Turned Skyward by Tony Longworth  
2021-03-131h 13Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS4:E1 Atari Coin Ops Avalanche, Firetruck, Super Bug and Dominos and games you’ll never see. To start off the 4th season, we chose four games to play and discuss : Early Atari Coin-ops, Avalanche, Fire Truck, Super Bug, and Dominos. We also discuss a very early Electronic games magazine article on “Games we hope we’ll never see”. They were mostly wrong. Starting with this episode we will also have a companion video with us live discussing the games and items that need more visual evidence.  Live Game Play and discussion video The video for this episode is: https://youtu.be/1Apns1Bq5IU Written, Edited...
2021-02-141h 09Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E25: 1981 - Atari VCS ChristmasS3:E25;  1981 - Atari VCS Christmas   For the 2020 Christmas episode we go back 39 years to 1981 and talk about how it felt to want, and ultimately, get, an Atari VCS that year.   We have a story from Steve about our twin scheming and planning to get a VCS, and then we have a discussion about our top-10 VCS games available at the end of 1981.   We hope these memories and stories help you have a good holiday in  2020 no matter what you celebrate or what your situation might be.  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Into The Vertic...
2020-12-231h 42Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3: E23. Why We Are Thankful for STOS: The Game CreatorS3: E23. Why we are Thankful for STOS: The Game Creator In this episode the brothers talk about the creation of their one and only completed Atari ST game (“Zamboozal Poker Dice”) and the tools that helped them complete it:  the Mandarin / JawX Software products under the STOS banner.  Come along for the ride as they discuss the old days of making games on their favorite 16 bit computer.    Written, Edited, Produced by Steve Fulton and Jeff Fulton Branding by Daryl Litts Additional music - “Outside The Universe” By Tony Longworth
2020-11-211h 10Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E22: Haunted House and the top 27 Scary Things For Atari FansIn this episode Steve and Jeff cover the Wii Haunted House port from 2010, and also make their list of the top 27 things that scare Atari Fans (or at least scare Steve and Jeff).  They also feature an Easter egg from their past and a fantastic Tony Longworth tune.  Listen here or on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify.  Steam Store Haunted House: https://store.steampowered.com/app/9960/Haunted_House/   Credits Written, Edited, Produced by Steve Fulton and Jeff Fulton Branding by Daryl Litts Tony Longworth:  Prima...
2020-10-301h 06Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E20: The Ballad Of Castle Park ArcadeIn this episodes we take you back to an era when arcades in the shape of rockets and castles ruled the land, and TV shows like CHiPs ruled the airwaves.Most every kid who grew-up in the Golden Age of video games had a favorite place to play games.  For us, it was Castle Park in Redondo Beach, CA.   In this episode we have a story about Castle Park named "Ode To Castle Park", and we do something brand new: We recap an entire episode of the TV show CHiPs.  Season 6, episode 13 of the show CHiPs was filmed at C...
2020-10-041h 28Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E19 Interview with Thomas Cherryhomes. How Fujinet and IrataOnline Give Plato New LifeInto The Vertical Blank: Generation Atari S3:E19 Interview with Thomas Cherryhomes. How Fujinet and Irata-Online Give Plato New Life Fujinet is an exciting new creation for Atari 8bit computers that, among other things, allows them to connect up to the internet and load disk images straight off of FTP sites. It is the brainchild of the genius Thomas Cherryhomes who would like to have this type of device built for all home computers.  Thomas started out by building IrataOnline, a version of the Plato Learning system and drivers for every popular computer s...
2020-09-241h 28Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E18: News Updates and Musing On The Amazing "Karateka"In this episode we have updates on news from around the world of Atari, including the very sad and depressing passing of Curt Vendel, who we only just interviewed this season.  We also have a discussion about the game "Karateka" along with a book review of Jordan Mechner's "The Making Of Karateka"Recorded, Engineered and Produced by Steve And Jeff Fulton Branding by Daryl Litts Additional Music : 8bit Wonderland by Tony Longworth Visit Us http://www.intotheverticalblank.com https://twitter.com/Atari_VB_Pod https://www.f...
2020-09-091h 02Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3 E17: Our Top 50 Favorite Games from AtariInto the Vertical Blank: Generation Atari - Episode 50!  In this Episode we both ranked out top 50 games released by Atari across all platforms and came up with our combined top 50 + about 30 honorable mentions. Systems - Atari 2600, 5200, 400/800/XL/XE, ST, Lynx Jaguar and even more. Written, Edited, Produced by Steve Fulton and Jeff Fulton Branding by Daryl Litts Additional music - “8 Bit Wonderland” By Tony Longworth Mentioned:: https://www.dankitchengames.com/ https://www.netflix.com/title/81019087 http://atariteca.blogspot.com/ Yamo’s Revenge...
2020-08-111h 46Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E16: GCC  Part 2: Ms. Pac-Man  and the Sad Fate of the The  Atari 7800In part 2 of our discussion with Steve Golson, we cover the glory of the Ms. Pac-Man, arcade game, and fate the lay ahead for GCC as Atari's silent but productive game  and hardware producing secret weapon.Betty Ryan bio: http://www.atariwomen.org/stories/betty-ryan-tylko/Electronic Games June 1982 :http://www.digitpress.com/library/magazines/electronic_games/electronic_games_jun82.pdf Electronic Games September 1984: http://www.digitpress.com/library/magazines/electronic_games/electronic_games_sep84.pdf Steve Golson's Web Site: https://trilobyte.com/about/ Branding by Daryl Litts
2020-07-101h 19Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E15: Steve Golson Interview Part 1: How GCC Atari’s Secret Weapon In this episode we talk to Steve Golson, hacker/engineer for GCC and creator of the hardware that converted Pac-Man into Ms. Pac Man.   In part one of a two part conversation, we chat about the era of coin-op “speed-up kits” and how GCC's revolutionary ideas for converting "Missile Command " into “Super Missile Attack” led to the upstart company becoming  Atari’s Secret Weapon.    Don't miss this one!  Golson is an amazing story teller! Written, Edited, Produced by Steve Fulton and Jeff Fulton Branding by Daryl Litts ...
2020-07-031h 07Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E14 - Tempest, Yars’ Revenge And The Advent Of Hardcore Games  S3:E14 Tempest, Yars’ Revenge And The Advent Of Hardcore Games In this episode Steve and I discuss the games Tempest and Yars' Revenge and how they represented a change, at least to us, in the home and arcade gaming experience. We also have some home brew news, and a new song from Tony Longworth Written, Edited, Produced by Steve Fulton and Jeff Fulton Branding by Daryl Litts Additional music - “Spineless Wannabe Tinpot Dictator” By Tony Longworth Visit us: http://www.intotheverticalblank.com https://twitter.com/Ata...
2020-06-251h 10Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E13: Common Off The Shelf Dad : A Father's Day Story A father's day story about being the "right-kind" of obsolete.Written, Recorded, Edited, Produced by Jeff And Steve FultonBranding by Daryl LittleSome music created with 8-bit Weapon Loop Library
2020-06-2014 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E12 :Atari News In A Time When You Probably Shouldn't Care About Such ThingsInto the Vertical Blank: Generation Atari: S3:E12 :Atari News In A time When You Probably Shouldn;t Care About Such Things In this episode we cover news from around the internet and the globe about all things Atari, New and old.  Written, Edited, Produced by Steve Fulton and Jeff Fulton Branding by Daryl Litts Additional music - “Beyond The Realms Of Possibility” By Tony Longworth   Interviews Mentioned:: Johnny Wilson: https://intotheverticalblank.com/2011/12/28/my-interview-with-johnny-wilson-cgw-live-on-gamecareerguide-com/ Michaal Schrage: https://intotheverticalblank.com/2008/11/28/atari-nerd-interviews-the-first-mainstream-game-journalist-michael-schrage-of-rolling-stone/ Arnie Katz: https://www.gamasutra.com/view/f...
2020-06-0454 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E10 : May 2020 News And Notes For Those Who Grew-Up AtariIn this episode we cover Evercade Lynx 2, Pong Quest, Atari 2600 Game By Game Podcast, Atari Bytes Podcast, Antic The Atari Podcast, Atari Party East, Champ Games VCS Robotron, Atari 7800 Dragon's Havoc, and more!-Written, edited, produced by Steve Fulton and Jeff Fulton -Additional Music - "Sense Delete" by Tony Longworth - -Branding By Tony Litts
2020-05-2054 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E9: One Left Turn: Discovering the Atari 8bit Computers In 1981A story about the day in 1981 when our mom made a split decision that helped us discover Atari computers. Written, engineeerd, and produced by Steve Fulton and Jeff Fulton Additional music from Tony Longworth Branding by Daryl Litts
2020-05-1333 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS3:E2 Dan Kitchen Interview Part One: The Rise Of The Kitchen Brothers  In our quest to discover the secrets of programming 8 and 16 bit computers this season, we caught up with Dan Kitchen, a true survivor of the 80's video game crash, still making games today.   In fact, he's on a quest to build and publish a brand new set of games for the Atari VCS  n the spirit of Activision, the company he and his brothers Garry and Steve once worked for and ran the east coast branch We Catch Steve and Dan Talking about Dan’s new game and then start to dig into the Hi...
2020-03-2340 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2: E15: The Atari 7800 and ST. Our Next Gen Super SystemsIn this episode we dig into American Thanksgiving 1986 and discuss our transition from the Atari 800 to the Atari ST with the Atari 7800 squeezed in between. Tony Longworth:https://patreon.com/tonylongworth Some of the music in this Episode was created using an 8bitweapon Loop Library:https://8bitweapon.com/ The original Atari playfield From 8bitrocket.comhttp://www.8bitrocket.com/2018/07/28/atari-play-field-atari-st-games-1-michtron/ All other audio content, production and engineering by Jeff and Steve Fulton (c) 2019 8bitrocket Studios
2019-11-291h 14Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2:E13: Mind Games and The Haunting of the Vertical Blank Into the vertical Blank: Generation Atari Season 2 Episode 13 : The Haunting of the Vertical Blank See some photos of the actual ESP tests here:http://www.8bitrocket.com/2019/10/20/s2e13-the-haunting-of-the-vertical-blank/ This time the guys discuss “scary” Atari games (mostly *not* scary all), some real-world experiences that beg the question “Was Jeff and Steve’s 520 Atari ST haunted?”, a story about a creepy pen and paper “game” that had a profound effect on the pair growing up, and finally, a look into the very scary world viral indie games circa 2007-2008. Games Mentioned: At...
2019-10-201h 08Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2:E12: Star Wars and Atari In The Vertical Blank : Part 2In the follow-up episode to the Season 2, Episode 12, Steve and Jeff continue their discussion of the impact that Star Wars on their video game experience and video games in general.   They also add in a story by Steve and have a game play session of the Arcade, Atari 2600, and Atari 400/800/XL/XE version(s) of Star Wars Death Star Battle. Twitter: https://twitter.com/Atari_VB_Pod FaceBook:  https://www.facebook.com/intotheverticalblank/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/into_the_vertical_blank/  
2019-10-041h 16Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2:E9: DragonStomper And The Birth Of Console RPGsInto the vertical blank: Generation Atari: Season 2, Episode 9 DragonStomper In the episode, Steve and Jeff take a deep look at the Atari 2600 game Dragon Stomper, what it meant to them in the grand scheme of gaming, and also how it had an effect on early 80’s video and computer games as a whole.  AtariProtos.com Dragon Stomper Page http://www.atariprotos.com/2600/software/dragonstomper/dragonstomper.htm Halcyon Days Interview with Steve Hales https://dadgum.com/halcyon/BOOK/HALES.HTM Forbes magazine comparing the 2600 and the xbox 360 – with a dis...
2019-08-2355 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2: E7.5 Pele's Soccer, Atari, and A Summer StoryInto the Vertical Blank: Generation Atari - Season 2 Episode 7 : Emits a shower of sparks: How we stopped playing  soccer and started playing Atari (along with Pele) In this episode, Steve and Jeff cover Pele’s Soccer for the Atari 2600, and the cultural as well as business atmosphere surrounding the game. This game fit perfectly into the summer episode slot as Soccer in the USA is mostly a summer sport, but also because Pele’s Soccer for the Atari 2600 was one of the first games to include a fireworks show when a goal is scored. They also...
2019-07-0354 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2:E6: Why We Collect AtariIn this episode, Steve and Jeff have a frank discussion about what they collect and why they collect Atari.  Also includes a couple segments from Steve's "Fultonbot's Atari Quest" blog series, as well as an impromptu live remote visit to their favorite retro game store. 
2019-06-091h 09Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2:E5: Electronic Games MagazineIn this epiosde of Into The Vertical Blank: Generation Atari, Steve and Jeff celebrate the magazine that started it all. The first publicaion in the USA that was strictly devoted to video and electronic games.  The brothers bring you two stories of thos glories magazine, each featuring a different issue of that impacted their childhood in a remarkable way.  Digital Press Landing pages for Electonic Games Magazine Scanned Issueshttp://www.digitpress.com/library/magazines/electronic_games/electronic_games.htm All audio content, production and enginnereing by Jeff and Steve Fulton (c) 2019 8bi...
2019-05-161h 01Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2: E3. We Always Wanted To Work for AtariSteve and Jeff provide two new stories about wanting to work for, with, or somehow adjacent to classic Atari. The pair also answer feedback, to explain recent Irata, and give some responses to their favorite podcasts.  Tony Longworth’s incredibly melodic industrial grunge track “Into the Vertical Blank” again accompanies this episode, along with original music and audio  productions from the Fulton Brothers.   Tony Longworth’s Music: https://store.cdbaby.com/Artist/TonyLongworth The Atari 2600 Game by Game Podcast: http://2600gamebygamepodcast.libsyn.com/ The Atari Bytes Podcast: https://ata...
2019-04-061h 01Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS2:E2: Going,Going,Gone (Fun Factory, Sears, Pizza Parlours)This week we are inspired by  one of our all-time a favorite podcasts This American Life.  Taking a cue from Ira Glass’s often copied, but never duplicated style, we have collected three new stories on single topic: Going Going, Gone. Our first “Going” story from myself, Steve, called “Surprise Box” is about a seaside arcade that is destined to close forever.  Our next “going” story S from Jeff called “The Magic Basement” is about a certain retail establishment that is now on its last legs, but still fighting to stay alive.The final piece,   “Gone” story, named “Terms Not Disclosed” from  Steve,  t...
2019-03-2249 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS1:E9: Laser Blast And The Weird Family Thanksgiving (remaster)S1:E9: The Weird Family Thanksgiving In the Vertical Blank In the penultimate episode of season one of Into The Vertical Blank, travel back to Thanksgiving holidays of the past to find out how pop culture,  games and Atari fit into The Vertical Blank.    This episode features a story by Steve Fulton named "The Weird Family" and Story by Jeff Fulton named "4 Days In November" Notes: See images mentiiend inpodcast here:http://www.8bitrocket.com/2018/11/21/s1e9-the-weird-family-thanksgiving-in-the-vertical-blank/ Of Dice And Men: by David M. Ewalt : https://www.amazon.com/Dice-Men-Dungeons-Dragons-People/dp/145164051X/ref=sr_1...
2018-11-221h 07Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS1:E8: Wild Gunman and The Bronze Age Of Arcade Games (remaster)S1:E8:  The Bronze Age  of Arcade Video Games In this episode Steve and Jeff discuss their favorite games and memories of the Bronze Age of arcade video games, a period that spans 1971 (pong) to 1978 (Space Invaders).  The pair talk about what was special about those games, and why they matter today. Also included: new music by Jeff, Atari Haiku, a remix by Jeff, and brand-new story by Steve named “Sharpshooter”. Games Mentioned Pac-Man 256:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F86_pplPreo Bard’s Tale 4: https://store.steampowered.com/app/566090/The_Bards_Tale_IV_Barrows_De...
2018-10-261h 08Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS1:E7: Playing The VCS Together, Interview with Jamie Lendino (Remaster)This episode takes a slightly more personal turn as twin brother hosts Jeff and Steve Fulton tell stories and relive memories of playing together in both analog and digital ways  in the 1970’s. The episode includes an original non-fiction story by Steve Fulton titled “Big Mouse And Little Mouse 1.0”.  (Remaster adds a section to this story).  This episode also features an interview with Jamie Lendino about his book “Adventure: The Atari VCS At The Dawn Of Console Gaming”.   Show Notes   Extreme Tech Website edited by Jamie Lendino:  https://www.extremetech.com/ Adventure...
2018-09-191h 23Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS1:E5: All Appointments Life (Asteroids Part 2) (Remaster)Into the Vertical Blank - Generation Atari: Season 1, Episode 5.  All Appointments Life (Asteroids Part 2 ) This is the second episode where we will be covering the game Asteroids in story and discussion form. We have a story from 8bitjeff, and also very nice contributions Shinto, and Jim Fullerton. The discussion dives into versions of Asteroids (and clones) after the arcade 2600, 5200 and Vectrex. These the Atari 7800, ST, Lynx, and various versions released for more modern hardware. All music, sound FX and production on the Episode By Jeff and Steve Fulton. Links:Download a...
2018-07-221h 28Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS1:E4: Escape To The Asteroids Zone (Asteroids Part 1) (Remaster)Into The Vertical Blank: Generation Atari Season 1, Episode 4: Escape To The Asteroids Zone Part 1. In Part One of our two-part extravaganza,  we delve into the that game forms the backdrop of The Vertical Blank: Asteroids. We discuss our experiences with  Atari’s best selling coin-op and discover why this game, in particular, means so much to us. This episode includes a story written by Steve Fulton named, appropriately enough, “Escape To The Asteroids Zone” Show Notes The intro music and many, but not all, of the ambient 8-bit sounds you hear through out the podcast...
2018-06-211h 23Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS1:E3: Atari Nerd (Was this the first ever Atari podcast?) (Remaster)Into The Vertical Blank: Generation Atari Season 1, Episode 3:  Atari Nerd In this episode we dig up one of our first podcasts from December 2008, which is one of the first Atari dedicated podcasts ever recorded.  This low-fi descent into the aughties, complete with bad mics, driving noise, and half-baked ideas is where we began. It’s also a bit prophetic about Atari in 2018.   We also have a couple short nonfiction pieces by Steve Fulton,  a collection update from Jeff, and more. Our next episode will be about the game Asteroids in all forms including sequels and inspire...
2018-06-0137 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS1:E2: Toys 'R Us, The Atari 7800 and Claw Hammer, a true story. (Remaster)Into the Vertical Blank: Growing Up Atari. Season 1 Episode 2: “A hole burned In my Pocket: Toys R Us And The Atari 7800". What was the “game cage”? What does it mean to “disconnect” while being “connected”? “Can a hole really be burned in your pocket?” In this episode, the brothers focus on the now closing Toys R Us, not with a history, but with some personal stories, a visit to a closing store, a play session of 7800 games, and a discussion of what the Vertical Blank generation or Generation Atari really is.   Includes the non-fiction story “Claw Hammer” written by Steve Fulton...
2018-05-171h 19Into The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical BlankS1:E1: All The Scan Lines Have Been Written: Welcome Into The Vertical Blank (Remaster)Into The Vertical Blank: Growing Up Atari Season 1 Episode 1 – All The Scan Lines Have Been Written In this, the real premiere episode, the boys pull out all the production stops to bring some much needed levity and interludes to a game playing session and discussion on modern releases for the Atari 8-bit computers.  Games discussed and Played: Stunt Car Racer, Bosconian, Time Pilot, X:8, Crazy cat and more. Show notes and links: Also, be sure to check out the Inverse ATASCII Atari 8bit and now ST Podcast. We did not realize that on his...
2018-05-0349 minInto The Vertical Blank
Into The Vertical Blank#1: Newbie (Jeff's Original Test Episode) (Remaster)8bitrocket’s Into The Vertical Blank, Growing Up Atari  Ep: 0 This is the test episode of the Into The Vertical Blank, Growing Up Atari. In it, 8bit Jeff (Jeff Fulton from 8bitrocket.com) tries out and reviews 5 Atari XL/XE Cartridges (probably won’t work on a 400 or 800) that he recently purchased from Video 61. This is a very extended version of what was originally going to be a short user submitted addition to the Antic Atari 8bit Podcast. Extra Show notes for 8bitrocket.com’s New Podcast section: (use above and this) We ha...
2018-04-2636 minNever Let The Fires Die: The Alarm Podcast
Never Let The Fires Die: The Alarm PodcastE15 : The UnexplainedThe Never Let The fires Die Podcast returns from a long hiatus to continue season 2!  In this episode Steve And Jeff Fulton attempt to review the new Declaration album reissue, but are thwarted (somewhat) by some unexplained occurrences.    Will they get it back on track to finish their review?  Also included for absolutely no extra charge: A lesson on how to pronounce a rarely used English word.
2018-03-2035 minNever Let The Fires Die: The Alarm Podcast
Never Let The Fires Die: The Alarm PodcastE14: Viral Black Album ReviewIn this episode Steve and Jeff Fulton review the brand new Viral Black album.   Is it is merely a "great" album or "the Greatest" album.   Also, a Harmonica contest update and another chance to enter before November 1st, 2017.
2017-10-2044 minNever Let The Fires Die: The Alarm Podcast
Never Let The Fires Die: The Alarm PodcastE12: A Family Visit To The Van's Warped TourOn August 6th, 2017 I took my family to The Van's Warped Tour stop in Pomona, CA.   Obviously, we went to see The Alarm, but I also wanted my kids to experience a modern "punk" show and get their reaction.  This is the story of our day. Features: Mike Peters Warped Tour Harmonica Lesson Mike Peters Interview The final few songs of the final show of The Alarm on the 2017 Van's Warped Tour Lot's of family commentary about the whole day Steve Fulton's review of The Van's Warped Tour and The Alarm's performance.
2017-08-1146 minNever Let The Fires Die: The Alarm Podcast
Never Let The Fires Die: The Alarm PodcastE9:; Alarm AlarmThis week Jeff and Steve Fulton discuss the legendary "lost" Alarm song, "Alarm Alarm".  What will they find as they excavate 40 years of Alarm history, looking for what could be, the quintessential Alarm track?    Featuring a brand new interview with Mike Peters. Cast Steve Fulton (Host) Jeff Fulton (Host) Mike Peters Crew Jeff Fulton: Audio wrangler Steve Fulton: Engineer, production
2017-06-1236 minNever Let The Fires Die: The Alarm Podcast
Never Let The Fires Die: The Alarm PodcastE8 : Blood Red Album ReviewIn this episode, hosts Jeff and Steve Fulton completely geek out while reviewing the new album from Mike Peters And The Alarm, Blood+Red. "I may be completely off base here, but I believe this whole record and everything about it was a direct, calculated move by Mike Peters to try to save his wife’s life.    From themes and words of the songs, to structure of the song themselves, from the instrumentation, to make-up of the band, I think Mike designed it all to make sure that Jules received the same kind of drive and push and e...
2017-05-291h 03Never Let The Fires Die: The Alarm Podcast
Never Let The Fires Die: The Alarm PodcastE7 : Of Miracles And ManchesterUK Roving Reporters Steve and Amanda Varty take us into a fan's eye view of the 2017 Manchester Alarm Show May 11th at the O2 Ritz.   Hear the Steve and Amanda's expert opinions on The Alarm, and Marvel at the Amazing Story of Amanda Varty's illness and recovery Notes: Never mind the Buzzsocks Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtlFkdJpAPQ Full Story of Amanda and Steve Varty : Dance Again : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSfRRUYoe7E Cast: Steve Fulton : Host Steve Varty: Roving UK Reporter Amanda Varty: roving UK Reporter Cre...
2017-05-2232 min