Trading Card Spotlight - Jacob Ashley
Our next Trading Card Spotlight features Jacob Ashley, who currently is displayed on card number 3314 from the Superstars of 2020 Collection. Jacob is an arcade collector, video game developer and artist. He is co-creator of the ‘Kong Klub’. Since 2016, it is the largest forum group of gamers who collect Donkey Kong arcade machines. One of Jacob’s hidden talent is creating wooden video game art that he did from 2009-2019. The group was called ‘The Wooden Arcade’. His personal page, MegaSuperRad keeps him plenty busy as well as a full time Twitch streamer.
Do you remember your first video game / arcade you played and what do you remember about it?
I remember my first arcade was a Ms. Pac-Man and a Centipede at the local laundromat we would go to once a week. My mom would give us some quarters to play it from her quarters used for the laundry. I remember not being just tall enough to see the screen and play.
What are your opinions about today’s genera on of video games? How do you compare them to older, classic games?
I love all video games. From the earliest black and white, to the crazy, insane graphics of today. I think we have an overload of games today, making it much harder to play everything. The great thing about classic games were everyone knew about most of them. And everyone had a favorite.
Did you ever think when you were younger you would be on a video game trading card?
Are you kidding?! No! haha. When Walter reached out to me, I was honored.
Have you ever received any media coverage for your appearance on the Trading Card? If so, where?
Nope! Just the normal sharing of Facebook posts showcasing them!
When did you first meet Walter Day and where was it at?
I mean, I first SAW Walter in King of Kong, along with some other arcade docs. But I was able to meet him at Portland Retro Gaming Expo twice, two years in a row. We had a great conversation! He listens. He doesn’t rush you and move on. He really loves meeting YOU. That’s what felt great.
If you could describe Walter Day in one word, what would that word be and why?
Gentle. He seems centered with the universe. Calm. Caring. Loves what he does. And cares about everyone.
What is your favorite portable gaming device and why?
Game Boy. Period. I remember long car rides with it. My mom always let me carry it everywhere with me. I had a huge collection of games. It was wonderful! So many games, so many adventures! Who doesn’t love that pea green screen, 8-bit graphics, no color and chip tune music!
Do you prefer PC or Console gaming and why?
Console. i did play a lot of PC gaming growing up, but there is something about si ng on the couch, with your friends. having a handheld controller and a big screen TV. Also, I love the content available on consoles!
What games today do you play and what are your favorite genres of games?
Man, I try to play a little of everything these days. I treasure arcade games. Using my collection of 20 real games in my garage and MAME for the rest. I would say besides that, I love platform games and RPGs.
If you could own one arcade game or pinball game, what would it be and why?
Oh boy! I own 20 already! What I don’t own that I still want? Arcade= Gyruss, Pinball= Total Nuclear Annihilafion.
Which console company is your favorite and why? Nintendo, Sony, Sega, or Microsoft?
Nintendo. I grew up always having every one of their systems up until now. It’s built into my blood and heart.
What does it take to be a video game journalist?
Someone that knows all aspects of gaming. From companies, to games, to the community.
How does video game music influence games past and present?
Its catchy! Helps you remember the game for a lifetime. I can we say the original Super Mario Bros. theme.
Are video games aimed mainly at children, adolescents or adults?
Everyone. There is a market for the kid playing Mario bros and Zelda. FPS for the teens and young adults and the pixelated platforms from the 30+ cloud to give them nostalgia. And even then, 30+ year old’s love Mario.
Do you believe some video games are too violent and lead to violence in America today?
No, not at all. I believe violence in America has caused a lot of the pain by mental illness, and how someone might have been raised. Video Games to me are an art form, and if it does do something to some one that causes violence, it’s rare.
Which company makes the best games and why?
Nintendo. DUH! They are great for all ages, and being a Dad, that’s what works for me.
Do you learn anything from playing video games?
For sure! Problem solving is a big one. Also, Hand eye coordination!
Are video games good for relieving stress?
I think so. When you play a game, and get into it, you don’t think about what’s going on in your personal life. Its a way to disconnect.
Do you like it when Hollywood makes a movie from the video game?
Yes, but I still haven’t seen it done right yet, haha!
Who is your favorite video game character and what makes that character special?
Donkey Kong and Mario. The dynamic duo. The ones that started it all for Nintendo. They mean the most because I’ve been playing their games my entire life.
What springs to mind when you hear the term ‘video games’?
Sitting on the floor at a friend’s house when I was 10, trying to beat the newest RPG. Going into a dingy arcade in the mall with my brother. Going out at midnight to get the latest release of a game. Spending time with my son, experiencing a new game.
Of these five elements video games, which is the most important to you and why? Gameplay, Atmosphere, Music, Story, Art style
Story. I love a game you can sink your teeth into. You want to know what happens next the whole fime. The kind that makes you want to play when its dinner time because you just want to keep playing and know what happens!
Do you find boss battles to be the best part of a video game?
No. They are a big part, but the play up to the boss battle I like more.
What is your favorite single player game and favorite multiplayer player game?
Tough one. Right now? Donkey Kong (Arcade, 1981) single player. Splatoon 2 (Nintendo Switch, 2017) multiplayer.
Are you still involved with gaming today, and what role do you play?
Everyday! From 2009 to 2019, I was the artist of The Wooden Arcade, making video game themed wood art. You can see my past artwork on Instagram! Today, I am the co- founder of Kong Klub, Facebook’s largest and only arcade Donkey Kong group with over 1000 members. We are a fight knit family of collectors, players and enthusiasts. I also have a Twitch video game streaming channel called MegaSuperRad. You should follow it! I play video games LIVE every day!
If you can design your own game, what would it be about and who would be the main character?
I’ve weirdly wanted to make a game about a boy that loves to eat. And he has to save the 7 food groups. Each group has a symbol you have to save from the hunger bad guys.etc., etc.
Where do you see Video gaming in the next 20 years?
I see it more virtual. More AR. And the graphics will look real. No more “knowing it’s a video game” type graphics.