I recall the first time I encountered a 'Defender' machine. Up until then the machines had basically all been Space Invader or PacMan derivatives. I must have been 11 or 12 years old and it totally blew me away both virtually - it repeatedly kicked my arse as it took 10p after 10p (British btw) and I was only lasting about 20 seconds each game as I grappled with the controls - and also physically - the noise of the thing was epic! Also getting the high score on Phoenix ranks close to the birth of my children as a life moment. (Obviously I'll deny that if they ask).

As a computer nerd the 1980's was a great time to come of age - ignoring the twin threats of imminent nuclear war and AIDS. A generation saw the home computer become a reality. Particularly in the UK where, thanks to people like Sir Clive, Curry, Furber, Wilson, Hauser as well as the good old BBC, for a couple of years it seemed all to be happening on the doorstep. I felt a similar thrill years later at University when I got into BBS's and using fidonet to send electronic messages that got anywhere in the world within 24 hours.

OK, you kids get off my lawn.