I've a slight confession to make. I've no idea if Archie knows of this place , but a good few years ago this shop , the
"Jolly Rodger" managed to break about every piracy law ever. The guy literally just bought games , bypassed their security systems , and then sold them for a much lower price.
My confession is that this is how I acquired my first copy of Half-Life , along with opposing force and a shit ton of maps. At the time I was only about 8 so I didn't give a shit , but then some time ago - when Steam started to become prevalent - I decided I'd go out and genuinely buy the game. When I activated the game , I'd also managed to get Opposing force and Blue shift with it as well! Rewarding me for being a genuine customer for once!
I just had to give money to Valve for what they've done!
hahahah WIN
...
tomorrow.
The image was taken in 2004
Since than it has been my most favorite game ever.
Then i got the GOTY edition
Doubt I would've gotten anywhere in game dev if it wasn't for flea markets or pirate retailers like that, really. I just wouldn't have had the access to those critical games in my early days that have had such a huge influence on me.
And now thanks to Steam, I'm returning the favour and buying the majority of the stuff I've pirated in the old days.