Hey everyone, it’s SuperAsurada77.

Standing in the “subway from hell” on my way to work, wearing my backpack on my front to make space, I naturally reach into my bag and pull out my retro handheld console.

That commute, which takes over an hour, turns into precious healing time—a chance to bring out those childhood vibes, the tactile feel of the buttons, and memories from back in the day.

The moment I step into the office and say “Good morning,” that retro vibe instantly shuts down. I have to tuck the game away deep in my heart for now.

For now, the console goes into charging mode.

The commute home is another ride on the subway from hell, squeezing in some retro gaming where I can. But the moment I arrive home, the “Infinite Loop Quest” begins.

Dishes. Recycling. Taking out the food waste. Bathing the kids. Playing with them. Putting them to bed.

Once this endless loop of quests is finally over, my own personal “Side Quest” awaits.

Finally… is it my time? The wife and kids are asleep. I turn on the PlayStation to start my quest, but then…

⚠️ System Update Required

The popup floats mercilessly on the screen. “Update 12%… 43%… 67%…”

As I stare at the progress bar, my eyelids get heavier and heavier.

My mind is already halfway to dreamland. Eventually, I fall asleep… and when I open my eyes, it’s time to head to work again.

This is the cold, hard reality for retro gamers in their 30s and 40s.

But still, to all the middle-aged retro gamers out there—hang in there! We’ve got this!

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Original article in Korean: [link]