Have always heard how this game has apparently one of the friendliest and most mature communities.

This is why I love the fediverse. I would never find this article by myself.

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Yeah I love the fact that in this game, the message was just for the sake of it, while nowadays it would be in order to keep the person playing it addicted to whatever skinner box is integrated into the gameplay loop.

If I may add a different suggestion: have you considered hacking one of the old consoles that you have/can buy used to enable retro gaming? A used Wii or Wii U for instance have great wireless controllers available, especially used Wiis without the games and accessories are dirt cheap. The process is very simple, just do a quick google. Basically, hack an old console, load the ROMs you have, get an appropriate wireless controller (8bitdo makes A LOT of compatible wireless gamepads), and you’re good to go.

Here is an example, for the Wii U, though the Wii is probably even easier (but SD)

https://youtu.be/HRXwzGh-FoY?si=EG6HfJHcOGiJvrEs

You could also get the games using the virtual console offerings for the Switch if you don’t want to mess with ROMs. I know the switch has that adapter thing that holds the nunchucks in a ‘classic controller’ gamepad form. Even very old consoles sometimes have great retro gaming or homebrew options, the classic Xbox to name one example.

All in all I think this would be the fastest and maybe even cheapest option.

Also, kudos for nurturing the love of video games in your son.

This channel is pure solid gold. Love every video he releases.