RetroGamesCON in Soltau

We had been thinking about this retro market for some time. Now we had the opportunity to make a trip to the region to take part in the colourful retro hustle and bustle in the historic Reithalle. Surprisingly, Microzeit was the only publisher represented and managed to secure a central spot.

Alte Reithalle, Soltau. Sometimes you just stand there and watch the scene – how beautiful this can be in such a wonderful atmosphere. 

The video game-dominated event lasted just five hours on a hot and humid day and was only heavily attended for the first two hours. Here, Nintendo and Sega hunters mingled with comic and retro game freaks. Those who collect superhero figures and “Masters of The Universe” were just as likely to find what they were looking for here as the odd home computer enthusiast. 

I was especially delighted to meet fellow editor Stefan Freundorfer (formerly of Power Play and MAN!AC) at the event. In addition to lots of well-preserved PC and Amiga big box games, he presented his German-language edition of Jordan Mechner: The Creation of Prince of Persia. A great project, if you ask me. Freundorfer has translated and expanded the beautifully designed 360-page diary volume. Available at Gameplan.de or directly at his stand on numerous retro markets.

We always try to welcome you in a cheerful mood. Signed copies are available on request with each purchase at the markets only. 

My wife is a marketing specialist and will now accompany and support me at the markets, as she did at the last event in Duisburg. In Soltau we particularly liked the organisation, the catering and the museum installation consisting of various video consoles and computers. Here you could not only play to your heart's content, but also learn a little about the year of production and the significance of the devices.

From 1972. Odyssey by German-American developer Ralph Baer was initially only offered in the USA by Magnavox for $99.95 and heralded the era of electronic games.

Rare gaming perspective: The German console Interton VC4000 was part of the successful museum installation on stage. 

After an in-depth conversation with the friendly organiser, we found out that more retro education is planned. Among other things, interactive elements are to be placed and a permanent reading corner set up. Microzeit will contribute suitable literature and visit the CONs more frequently in the future.