Thin Is In

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The piece discusses the historical context of “thick” vs. “thin” clients in computing, highlighting a shift towards thin clients re-emerging through AI interactions. In the past, thick clients (like PCs) dominated, but with AI, the focus on networks for processing has made complex local UIs less relevant, as chat-based interfaces allow for easy interaction regardless of device capability. Future AI advancements suggest an increased reliance on cloud computing due to better model performance and lower costs for shared resources. However, rising memory shortages could impact technology availability and prices, as demand surges from AI developments. Overall, the trend leans towards minimal local compute reliance due to enhanced cloud capabilities.

https://stratechery.com/2026/thin-is-in/

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9 Exotic Coding Tricks Used in the C64 Game, Seawolves

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The Commodore 64 game Seawolves uses several unique coding techniques to achieve its effects. These include synchronized NMIs and IRQs for efficient screen management, real-time torpedo rendering using “splits,” and real-time animations for implosions and ocean waves. The game also employs clever sprite manipulation, such as FLD shunting and upward Y-scroll correction, to overcome sprite rendering limitations.

https://kodiak64.co.uk/blog/seawolves-technical-tricks

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The Story of Wall Street Raider

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“Wall Street Raider,” a complex financial simulator, evolved over decades from Michael Jenkins’ original concept at Harvard Law to a nearly abandoned codebase. Multiple attempts to modernize it failed until 2024, when software developer Ben Ward successfully reimagined the game, preserving its depth while updating its interface. Their collaboration revitalizes a legacy that has inspired many in finance. Now, it’s set for a Steam release, ensuring its educational impact continues.

https://www.wallstreetraider.com/story.html

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Flashpoint Archive

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Flashpoint Archive is a community initiative preserving web games and animations, aiming to safeguard internet history as it rapidly evolves. Launched in December 2017, it has preserved over 200,000 games through various plugins and technologies. The project offers flexible software for navigating and playing preserved content, including a launcher and secure playback tools. Started by BlueMaxima to address the loss of web games, Flashpoint is now a major effort involving many contributors, operating as a non-profit to enhance digital preservation and accessibility.

https://flashpointarchive.org/

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Rise of the Triforce

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Sega partnered with Nintendo and Namco to create the Triforce arcade system, leveraging GameCube technology to revitalize the arcade scene in the face of declining interest. The Triforce, featuring unique game storage and innovative save options, aimed to create persistent player engagement through personalized high-quality arcade experiences. Despite the collaboration, Nintendo did not develop games for it, leading to only nine titles being released, including notable arcade adaptations of popular franchises like Mario Kart.

https://dolphin-emu.org/blog/2026/02/16/rise-of-the-triforce/

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Byte Magazine Artist Robert Tinney, Who Illustrated the Birth of PCs, Dies at 78

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Robert Tinney, the artist behind Byte magazine’s iconic covers from 1975 to the late 1980s, passed away at 78. His surrealist-influenced illustrations, created using airbrushed Designers Gouache, helped define the visual language of personal computing for a generation. Tinney’s work, characterized by its non-technical metaphors, made complex computing topics accessible and memorable.

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/02/byte-magazine-artist-robert-tinney-who-illustrated-the-birth-of-pcs-dies-at-78/

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Apple Arcade Just Accidentally Became the Best Place for Normal People to Play Retro Arcade Games

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Apple Arcade now features Retrocade, a top app for playing retro arcade games. It offers classic titles like Pac-Man and Asteroids with excellent controls, daily challenges, and global high scores. However, it lacks certain features like multiplayer and Mac support. Despite its limitations, it signals a shift in Apple’s gaming strategy towards embracing retro gaming without the hassle of emulation. The app costs $6.99/month or as part of Apple One.

https://www.stuff.tv/features/apple-arcade-just-accidentally-became-the-best-place-for-normal-people-to-play-retro-arcade-games/

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Screenshots From Developers & Unix People (2002)

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In 2002, Anders Jensen-Urstad collected desktop screenshots from prominent developers and Unix users for Unix.se. Noteworthy contributors include Dennis Ritchie, Brian Kernighan, and Richard Stallman, showcasing various Unix systems and preferences. Most desktops displayed a preference for command-line interfaces with minimal GUI use. The collection is a nostalgic glimpse into the developers’ environments at the time, with the article revised in 2015 for additional context.

https://anders.unix.se/2015/10/28/screenshots-from-developers–unix-people-2002/

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