Today we’d like to introduce you to Till Paris
Hi Till, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Retiring from the music industry, I’ve embraced my role as a serial entrepreneur with a deep affinity for one of the best decades to grow up in, the 80s. Growing up during that vibrant decade was nothing short of magical. It was the era of the first personal computers, MTV, VCRs, and, my absolute favorite, arcade games.
In 2015, I stumbled upon an original Ms. Pac-Man arcade game from 1982, and it felt like fate. This wasn’t just any game; it was a portal to my cherished memories. I vividly remember playing Ms. Pac-Man at the Alpine Inn restaurant in Alpine, CA. My sister and I would sip on our Roy Rodgers and Shirley Temple sodas, respectively, as we spent countless hours and quarters engrossed in the game. These were special family outings on Sundays, orchestrated by my late father, making those moments even more precious.
That Ms. Pac-Man machine was just the beginning. A spark was ignited, and I began a journey to reclaim the joy of my childhood. One by one, I added Star Wars, Pole Position, Tron, Dragon’s Lair, Galaga, and many more to my collection. Before I knew it, my garage was transformed into a nostalgic arcade with 35 classic games.
But I didn’t stop there. I wanted to create a full 80s experience. So, I designed an 80s retro room, complete with wood paneling, a VCR, Nintendo, Atari 2600, and a treasure trove of games. This space became a time capsule, a place where I could relive the magic of my youth.
Eager to share these fantastic memories with others, I launched BrokeArcade, my Instagram account dedicated to 80s arcade nostalgia. To my delight, it quickly gained a passionate following of fellow 80s enthusiasts. Together, we celebrate the decade that shaped us, reliving the moments that made the 80s an unforgettable time to grow up.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Life is truly a gift, and it’s all about what you make of it. My journey hasn’t always been smooth, and there were times when it felt like the world was stacked against me. But I’ve come to understand that failure is a natural part of the process. In fact, I’ve learned that I will fail more often than I succeed. The key is to maintain a sharp focus and a “glass half full” mindset, knowing that success is always within reach if you want it bad enough.
These days, the challenges I face are what I like to call “quality problems.” My struggles now revolve around hunting down the next nostalgic treasure to add to my collection. Each arcade game, every piece of memorabilia, is a small slice of history. They represent a simpler time, and each find is like a time machine, transporting me back to the carefree days of my youth.
Navigating this path hasn’t been without its hurdles. There have been countless late nights spent scouring online auctions, long drives to pick up games from distant locations, and the inevitable repairs and restorations. Yet, every challenge has only deepened my appreciation for these relics of the past. Each piece I add to my collection is a testament to perseverance and a reminder of the joy that comes from pursuing one’s passion.
Through it all, I’ve learned that the journey is just as important as the destination. Every setback is a lesson, and every success, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In real life, when I’m not collecting 80’s arcade games, I’m known as a technologist at heart and an entrepreneurial venture creator. Currently, I’m laser-focused on a large AI projects, I see a tremendous opportunity to innovate in this rapidly growing space. Before diving into the AI world, I spent years writing music for TV and for various artists. While I still enjoy my time in the recording studio, my music projects have taken a back seat to my digital ventures.
What sets me apart from others is not so much about my successes, but rather my resilience in the face of failure. For every business that has succeeded, several others have ended in total and utter failure. You never know until you try. Many get stuck in this cycle of preparing to prepare. Sometimes, diving in headfirst and learning through trial by fire is the most effective approach.
I am a relentless problem solver with a fanatical work ethic. I’ve noticed this is somewhat unique, as not many people I’ve met embrace life and business with the same intensity and passion.
In the end, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey, the lessons learned from failures, and the triumphs achieved through persistence and teamwork.
Any big plans?
Should I open a museum? Imagine stepping into a time capsule filled with over seventy classic arcade games of the 80’s and iconic gaming consoles like the Atari 2600, ColecoVision, Nintendo Entertainment System, Intellivision, and Vectrex. Add to that a rich collection of toys and gadgets that defined 80’s childhood. This wouldn’t just be a collection; it would be a vibrant, hands-on experience that transports visitors back to a time when life was all about fun and discovery.
This museum experience is more than a nostalgic passion project—it’s an educational opportunity. I’ve seen firsthand the joy it brings when adults relive a slice of their past. Watching their faces light up as they play the arcade games of their youth is incredibly rewarding. Even more heartwarming is seeing them share these experiences with their children, creating a bridge between generations.
My late father introduced me to many innovative technologies of the 80s, and the joy I felt is something I want to share with others. By creating this museum, I hope to provide today’s youth with a unique history lesson, giving them a glimpse into the childhood of the past. It’s a way to honor the legacy of the 80s while inspiring future generations.
As I look to the future, this interactive 80s museum feels like the perfect way to combine my love for technology, history, and the simple joy of play. It’s a project that not only celebrates the past but also brings people together, fostering connections and sparking joy across generations.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brokenarcade/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/brokenarcade
