Watch The Bits of Yesterday

The Bits of Yesterday is a nostalgic documentary that will take viewers back to the golden days of video games, when 8-bit graphics and side-scrolling adventures ruled the gaming world. The film is directed by Dain Anderson and features James Rolfe, best known for his alter ego "The Angry Video Game Nerd," as one of the main interviewees.

The movie starts by painting a picture of the gaming industry in the 1980s and 1990s, when consoles such as the Atari 2600, Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), and Sega Genesis were in the hands of millions of children and adults alike. The Bits of Yesterday then delves into the experiences of gamers who grew up during that time, and how video games influenced and shaped their lives.

Throughout the film, the interviews with James Rolfe and other gamers reveal a deep love and appreciation for classic video games. They reminisce about game titles that captured their imaginations and offered unique challenges and experiences. The documentary explores a range of topics including game collecting, game preservation, video game music, arcade culture, and more.

One of the standout features of The Bits of Yesterday is its use of recreations and animation to bring the stories of the interview subjects to life. These sequences are played out in a charming, pixelated style that perfectly complements the film's focus on retro gaming.

The documentary also touches on the impact that the rise of 3D gaming had on those who grew up playing 2D games. While the transition may have been difficult for some, the movie also highlights how modern game developers have found ways to incorporate the best of both worlds.

Another interesting aspect of the film is its exploration of how games can serve as a means of bringing people together. Whether via local multiplayer or online gaming, video games have the power to forge friendships and connect people from different parts of the world.

The Bits of Yesterday does not shy away from some of the controversies and criticisms that have been leveled at the gaming industry over the years. The documentary examines the influence of violence in gaming, as well as the issue of gender representation in video games. However, it does so with a fair and balanced approach, presenting multiple viewpoints and allowing viewers to form their own opinions.

Overall, The Bits of Yesterday is a loving tribute to the games of yesteryear, and a celebration of the way in which they have impacted the lives of so many. It is a film that will appeal not just to hardcore gamers, but to anyone who remembers the thrill of finding that secret passage in Super Mario Bros., or struggling to beat the final boss in Sonic the Hedgehog.