A wave of retro gaming nostalgia is driving a growing industry in the UK, where old consoles and classic games are making a major comeback. In Stoke-on-Trent, Luke Malpass’s home workshop, RetroSix, has become a global destination for gamers looking to revive their vintage gear.
A Treasure Trove of the Past
Malpass’s workshop resembles a museum of gaming history. Shelves overflow with parts of Game Boys, Sega Mega Drives, and classic Nintendo systems. Parcels from across the globe arrive daily, filled with aging consoles in need of repair.
At any given time, Malpass works on 50 to 150 machines. Repair costs range from £60 to several hundred pounds. His passion for gaming has grown into a full-time profession, helping fellow enthusiasts bring their childhood devices back to life.
More Than Nostalgia
While fond memories play a big role, Malpass believes the appeal runs deeper. He highlights the physical experience of retro gaming—the tactile act of loading a cartridge, switching on the console, and immersing in a world that doesn’t demand online competition or constant updates.
“It’s instant, it’s there, and it’s pleasurable,” he says. “There’s no frustration, no need to grind levels or compete online. You just play and enjoy.”
Malpass even collects old CRT televisions to recreate the full retro experience. For him, games like Resident Evil and Jurassic Park still offer unmatched charm and simplicity.
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A Growing Fanbase
His YouTube channel, where he shares gameplay footage and restoration tips, has attracted tens of thousands of followers. He believes that the emotional link to childhood memories ensures the continued demand for vintage console repair.
“People will always have a natural passion for what they grew up with,” he explains. “It might not always be Game Boys, but there’ll always be something retro.”
Gaming Culture on the Rise
Across the UK, interest in classic gaming is surging. The London Gaming Market, which focuses on vintage games and hardware, continues to draw larger crowds with every event. Fans like Adrian, a self-proclaimed Sonic the Hedgehog lover, scour booths for rare finds and childhood favorites.
“Every visit is like a treasure hunt,” Adrian says, proudly wearing a Sonic-themed shirt.
Replay Events managing director Andy Brown credits the pandemic for the retro boom. “During Covid, people turned to games that reminded them of better times,” he said. The wave of nostalgia offered comfort amid uncertainty.
Vintage Games Still in the Spotlight
Even as new technology emerges, the influence of retro titles remains strong. A recent BAFTA survey crowned Shenmue (1999) as the most influential video game ever, followed by Doom (1993) and Super Mario Bros. (1985).
Meanwhile, Nintendo recently unveiled the long-awaited Switch 2, featuring fresh versions of iconic hits like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bonanza. The blend of innovation and nostalgia continues to captivate both longtime fans and new players.
And just last year, Italian authorities seized 12,000 counterfeit vintage gaming devices in a major bust—proof that the retro market’s value is only increasing.
For enthusiasts like Malpass and the growing retro gaming community, the past isn’t just alive—it’s thriving.
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