Grandma's Legacy: A Pioneer in My Gaming Journey

The passing of my grandmother at the age of 95 marks the end of an era filled with warmth, wisdom, and an unexpected love for gaming. Beyond being a mother to seven and a grandmother to countless grandchildren, she was also a trailblazer in introducing me to the world of video games. Her influence began in the early '80s when she gifted me a ZX Spectrum 48K, sparking a lifelong passion for gaming that remains strong to this day.

In the year 1982, the ZX Spectrum became more than just a Christmas present; it was a portal to a new universe of adventure and imagination. Alongside the computer came a collection of games that included classics such as Horace Goes Skiing, Pssst, Cookie, and Jet Pac. This gift transformed not only my holidays but also set the stage for a deep-rooted enthusiasm for electronic entertainment.

Throughout the '80s, her home evolved into a mini arcade. Hidden on shelves and tucked away in drawers were treasures like the Shark Attack Tomytronic handheld and Grandslam’s Firefox F7 electronic tabletop game. Among these, Nintendo’s Donkey Kong and Mario Bros. Game & Watch units held a special place. These weren’t mere toys; they were integral parts of family life. She would dedicate hours to improving her scores, meticulously recording them in a notepad that served as a family leaderboard.

By the early '90s, her gaming interests expanded further with the acquisition of a Nintendo Entertainment System. Our first encounter with Super Mario Bros. is etched in my memory. As Mario approached Word 1-1's lone Koopa Troopa, she confidently instructed me to "Kiss the duck!"—a command that only occurred once before she mastered the controls. Her fascination extended to other titles such as SimCity and Cannon Fodder on the SNES, where she and my honorary grandpa Joe spent countless hours perfecting their skills.

Even as time progressed and her ability to play precise console games diminished, she embraced modern technology by transitioning to tablets and amassing a library of match-three puzzlers. Her curiosity remained unwavering, and her mental acuity was as sharp as ever. Though she has left us, the values she imparted—playfulness, curiosity, and perseverance—will forever remain. She didn't merely provide my first computer; she granted me permission to enjoy life, to dream, and to continuously explore new horizons.

Her departure leaves a void, yet her legacy lives on through the joy and creativity she instilled in me. The appreciation for gaming she cultivated is a testament to her enduring impact, reminding me to cherish every moment and never stop learning. Her light may have dimmed, but her influence continues to shine brightly in my heart.