Our next Trading Card Spotlight features Wayne Coombs who currently is displayed on card number 2055, from the Superstars of 2015 Collection. Wayne was one of the first referees for Twin Galaxies back in the early 1980’s. Wayne was instrumental in helping Walter with the International Scoreboard, which gave birth to worldwide high scores. You can still see these high scores from the early 1980’s on his website at http://www.videoparadise-sanjose.com/
What are your opinions about today’s generation of video games? How do you compare them to older, classic games?
Only like the classics from the 80s.
When did you first meet Walter Day and where was it at?
In the early 80s but do not remember where. I supported TG and Walter and TG.
If you could describe Walter Day in one word, what would that word be and why?
He had a great idea to start TG and make it a success. Don’t have one word.
Do you prefer PC or Console gaming and why?
Classic arcade games only.
Do you remember your first video game / arcade you played and what do you remember about it?
Video Paradise in San Jose, California. I was the owner. See www.videoparadise-sanjose.com for historic details and Twin Galaxies documents.
If you could own one arcade game or pinball game, what would it be and why?
Pole Position I (wish I could have afforded to keep the game that Mike and Les set the record on).
What does it take to be a video game journalist?
Knowing a lot about video games from all angles.
Do you believe some video games are too violent and lead to violence in America today?
Have not seen them in the last few years but understand that many are quite violent.
Do you prefer playing video games alone, against friends or online against the world and why?
Alone and on classic games only.
Which company makes the best games and why?
Many classic game companies made a number of very good games.
What springs to mind when you hear the term “video games”?
My involvement owning an arcade, working with Walter, ref’d several tournaments, including in Valdosta, Georgia in the late 80s. Attended a video game tournament in central Texas hosted by Dan Nauert in the late 80s.
Of these five elements video games, which is the most important to you and why? Gameplay, Atmosphere, Music, Story, Art style
Gameplay.
What is your favorite single player game and favorite multiplayer game?
Pole Position for single and Pac-Man for multi.
What is next on your list of video game things to do?
I am still interested in classic arcade games. When convenient (and I can afford it) I will attend future classic video game events.
Where do you see video gaming in the next 20 years?
It will always be around and popular.
This is one of an ongoing series of articles based on the Walter Day Collection of e-sports/video gaming trading cards – check out more information at thewalterdaycollection.com.
