I have often mentioned how great I think Social Media is at connecting like-minded people from around the globe and here is a great example of just why. I have been following Jason Payne’s (@UltimusPrime) posts on Instagram with some interest for a while now and thought it a great idea that he show his spectacular collection right here on RGC. He kindly said yes, and the rest is history. Enjoy the collection pics and be sure to scroll down and read our interview with Jason.

Q and A with UltimusPrime

When did you become interested in video games and what was the first video game you played?

UP: I became interested in video games when my neighbor and best friend got a Nintendo Entertainment System. It came with Super Mario Brothers/Duck Hunt. It changed my life forever, I was hooked from then on.

What was the first games console or computer you owned and how old were you?

UP: After my parents rented a NES every new year’s eve, they finally gave in and bought me my very own when I was 6 (1988)

What got you into collecting videogames, computers and consoles?

UP: It has always been a part of me. I’m a collector at heart, but video games have always been my favorite. I kept my old systems my whole life and really started hunting about 9 years ago.

Where do you source most of your retro purchases from (ebay, flea markets, yard sales etc) ?

UP: Mostly flea markets and thrift stores. I don’t have a ton of luck at yard sales, but every once in a while I find something good. Lately I’ve been hitting up retro game stores and sometimes find some good deals.

What is your most prized retrogaming possession and how much did it cost you?

UP: I have two that are my favorite. First my complete in box Power Glove for the NES. I can’t remember how much I paid for it, but it wasn’t very expensive. And second is my VirtualBoy in the Blockbuster rental case I got for free from a friend.

What is your favourite hardware manufacturer (Sega, Nintendo, Atari Commodore etc.) ?

UP: Nintendo all the way!

What is your favourite console or computer?

UP: The NES has always been my favorite console and always will be.

The burning house scenario: which collection would you save first?

UP: My Ogre Battle collection.

The Desert Island scenario: which one console and game would you take?

UP: This is a crazy hard one. I would either take my NES and Final Fantasy. Or SNES and Ogre Battle: March of the Black Queen.

Where do you want to go now with the collection?

UP: I want to own every NES game ever made and complete my Ogre Battle collection.

Have you any tips for budding retro games collectors?

UP: Check every thrift store, yard sale, and flea market you can. Also tell everyone and their grandma that you collect old video games, because sometimes they have some sitting in an attic or basement and will just give them to you.