I feel this. I'm 33 and still feel a little lost. Completely wasted my 20's on things that don't matter and the result is not having any sort of foundation for my life. Ugh. Whatever. Here's to the new year! lol
Johnny, you remind me a lot of my older cousin Jonathan. He was just like you when he he was young, drinking, smoking, rebellious, getting into fights, but he loved video games, comics and drawing. He eventually cleaned up his life you did, but he joined the US Army and was unfortunately killed in Iraq. I really think he would have loved your channel ❤ I think about him a lot when I watch the show.
Ten years behind you Johnny from another fellow Canadian, but I can relate to how video games and anime also made me who I am today. Loved this wholesome vid and looking forward to part 2 of this story 😁
I lost my dad to cancer back at the end of 2011 and while I was living with him as his caregiver Skyrim was coming out and was the game I would play while he slept. Av few years later my mum would be diagnosed with terminal cancer also just as I was playing a game called firewatch both games are now bitter sweet and the music takes me to that time and place in an instant so your story truly resonates with me John. I found your channel as my dear mum was poorly and have found so much comfort from your channel. My mum was from Yorkshire where I believe you once lived and I’ll be a 50 year old gamer myself next year. Keep it up and just know how powerful what you do for us is John ❤
Man, I remember when you made your 40 Year Old Gamer video...I cannot believe it's been almost 10 years already holy crap time flies! Feels like just yesterday.
As a 41 year old lover of anime since 1995 this story was very relatable. In high-school I really got into Dragon Ball, Dbz, Gundam Wing, cowboy bebop, Vampire hunter D, Akira, anything I could get my hands on. In the late 90s anise was considered "nerd material" I was picked on pretty badly sometimes but I wore my dbz and Gundam wing shirts anyway. Your story reminded me of how I never changed myself to be in with what was cool. The people who were my true friends back then were the ones who I found those things in common with back then. I turned one of them on to anime in his 20s. Never change who you are because your life will be so much more rewarding.
That feeling of growing up in the 90's is something that can never be replicated. And even though the 90's is sort of going through Renaissance, the younger generations will never truly understand how great and magical the 90's actually was.
Even stepping outside on the weekends. It always felt fresh and magical. There was no calling friends. I walked to their houses to see if they were home. If not, I would still have fun. Until the sun started to set. Even though I played video games, I spent plenty of time not looking at a screen. Reading. Drawing. Building with Legos and K’nexs. PLAYING BOARDGAMES! I wonder if families still do that. I still see them on shelves, so, I guess so. 🤷🏿♂️
@@spongebob03you didn’t call your friends? It wasn’t a time before telephones lol. The reason the 90s felt so magical is cause you were young at the time. Sure, it had its own flavor and stuff that defined the era, but it was also super tumultuous and cynical and had a lot of war and bombings and wild shit. I try not to make people feel bad about their appreciation for a time and place, but kids today are going to be talking about all the things that were “great” when they were young in 25 years that seems alien and not relatable to gen x/millennials. It’s just the circle of life. I
@@opaljk4835 maybe I romanticized the 90s, too much. I remember Saturday morning cartoons being interrupted by the war. I grew up in the hood. So I still remember all that came with it. I remember thinking, what would I do if somebody approached me and asked, “where you from?” Not being able to wear certain shoes. Wearing certain colors in certain hoods. Not getting certain toys because of what other children were doing with them. As far as me calling friends. Male friends… that was rare. And if I did, it was quick. I usually only talked to girls.
@@spongebob03 I’m not saying it wasn’t a cool time to be young, it certainly was, at least we weren’t expected to work in a factory in horrible conditions like kids in the early 20th century…there was a media revolution going on, independent film renaissance, wild new queer cinema movies coming out by the likes of Greg Araki and Cheryl Dunye….Quentin Tarantino and Spike Lee tearing it up. The home video market from the 80s became even more ubiquitous and cheap until the market imploded, video games made leaps and bounds since the 8 bit days…that’s not to mention all the dope cartoons and toys and means of spending time and finding stuff to identify with. That’s not even to mention the music, and there was a lot. Walkman really made it easy to listen to stuff. Idk, I don’t want to say it wasn’t a special time, it definitely was. But all good things come with caveats, you know? I could go on, but I won’t. it doesn’t mean that we don’t see how special this time is for the kids now, and the kids who grew up in the 2010s and late 2000s.
We’re all getting older Johnny. Hey , let’s enjoy it. I turned 58 this summer , but according to my wife , I went back to where i was before parenthood , 2 years ago , when son #3 moved out. Now it’s all comics , movies , computer/video games , vinyl records , books , D&D and boardgames.
Johnny, it's blowing my mind that you're into anime as well as video games. I'm the same way. Videogames and anime are my favorite things. I always enjoy your videos about your life experiences. Thanks for all the video game recommendations over the years! You've introduced me to many franchises and series I wouldn't know about otherwise. Your channel is honestly one of my favorites.
It is weird how what we use to do in our youth!!! I don’t regret anything because I couldn’t even do half the stuff I did back then!!! The past was full of great memories!!!
I think I really needed to hear this message about leaving the bottle behind for things you can actually be passionate about, whatever form that takes. thanks man.
I just turned 21 the other day, so this video was perfectly timed for me! It really seems like the age where you have to figure out what your priorities are in life, where your passion is.
When I turned 21, was fresh out of college, still living at home…honestly it was kind of a sad time in my life. Similarly was also having some behaviors I wish I didn’t back then. BUT I do have such incredibly fond memories of playing through some of the best games of all time in this phase. The XBox 360 had been out for a year or so, and I just dumped hours and hours into Halo 3, Pac-Man Championship, and others. I don’t think it was until I met my wife that things turned around for me in terms of money, my future, etc.
Johnny, you are a great steward of video games and anime! I'm 51 and going through a lot of the feelings and emotions you're expressing. Love seeing your honest passion!
Never thought I would hear Johnny Millennium talk about watching Coronation Street and Eastenders! Johnny, tell me you watched Neighbours when you were living in the UK? (An Australian soap, not British, but it used to be a big deal over here in these British Isles). I await a British soap operas DVD pick up video from you!
I absolutely loved this video. Painted such a good picture in my head of what it was like back then. I was only 6 then but I have an older brother that unfortunately took to the drinking. His life turned out very differently. He is an artist too. He's doing fine now, but he got addicted to some pretty bad stuff for a long time.
This was one of the best pieces of entertainment I’ve ever seen on TH-cam, full-stop! I loved it so much that I watched it twice! Excellent, man! So fun, enthusiastic and inspiring!
Johnny do you remember Macross "Do you remember love?" on the PS1 and Saturn!! I saved for a year to get the Japanese Version on PS1 back then in 1999 when I was in college....you got me reminiscing. LOL
I’ve been watching you since you were 42 I believe. 2014 you went to TooManyGames in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. I remember meeting you. After watching you for only 6 months. You were better than wanting to ever meet a celebrity like a musician, actor or anyone from Hollywood. It was a dream to meet you. It is hard to describe with words even as I’m typing this in what you mean to me and many others. I wish I could have known you in another life as a friend. Can talk about games and anime and just have a good friendship. You are lucky with the life you have and the people around you. I love who you are Johnny. You are a brother, a friend to all of us. I’m happy I got to meet you once. I will always watch your videos and embrace the memories of the HappyConsoleGamer.
THANK YOU SO MUCHHHHHH for sharing your life with us. It helps all of us to be more introspective about our choices and our life and hopefully it helps you as well!
Great memories! I too went through a one-two year phase when I was around 18 where drinking and going out to clubs was super fun for me…then it got old pretty fast haha and now I don’t even drink! LOL
I am 28 and have been watching your channel for over 10 years, you inspired me to start collecting and become a more passionate happy person. You are one of my role models. Amazing episode!
Same here, im 30 and Johny brings out the best of us, the passionate person inside of us, the caring person, while also makes us apreciate what we do already have, the small things in life, the people in our lives... These videos are the best, they speak to my soul.
Class story to hear considering I’m a Geordie lad only 20 getting drunk and rowdy all the time it’s refreshing to hear this makes me kind of feel less lost so thanks for that man.
It can't be understated how impactful it was back then picking up a fresh new hobby or video game magazine and seeing something totally new. My moment was picking up a Nintendo Power at a yard sale on a summer vacation... turns out it was the Dragon Warrior 1 special edition with the strategy guide and I was enamored with it. I had never heard of DW before and soon after bought it and fell in love.
Hey Johnny, i know you said some time ago, that your subscribers, want more games than anime episodes. But i for one love you talking passionately about anime. Keep up the good work
As someone that's about the same age (-1 year), I totally TOTALLY understand what you're talking about (minus the trip overseas to get away from the party people). In my group of friends, I was the gaming and anime otaku, and they were the drinkers and party people. Being half Japanese, I was able to go overseas to visit family, and there I would be exposed to the latest and craziest new anime and games, and I had maybe one friend to share that kind of stuff with. I remember being in Osaka the day Street Fighter II dropped on Super Famicom, so I bought it, and went to my cousin's house since they had the console and played it to the point where my Mom was like "you need to get off the TV so Miyuki can watch Chibi Maruko-chan." And Macross Plus, my god, what an OAV! What a soundtrack!!!
Man, this video was so inspirational. At 36 I feel like lost myself a bit, I've got a nice life but I'm not wuite happy with anything. But this inspired me to look more into what I really like, what I really want, who I really am. And videogames are still a huge passion for me.
Johnny thanks for going bold honest in these videos. I'm 27 and kinda jaded of partying, weed... you know what I mean right... and seeing you stand for your natural passions definitely inspires me. Wish you the very best always here from Costa Rica :) Pura vida!!
17:01 You can see the joy just looking at the game brings him. His journey sounds similar to mine, but instead of Anime it was Horror movies for me. (And of course video games) I get the same look on my face when I look over my horror collection.
Wonderful recollections from a fellow Yorkshireman! I was born in Sheffield, but went to Canada as a baby, and came back when older. We may have even walked past each other in the early 90s, or stood next to eachin the Space Centre.
I especially love these self-reflective/discussion episodes because it's all of these experiences you've had that have lead to the incredible Johnny you are today. Thank you for another really great episode. When I turned 21, I had just discovered what I believed was my life calling. I had one more year of undergraduate schooling ahead of me, and because of this calling, I decided I would finish the last year of school but leave without a degree and begin pursuing this journey I felt inside me. I moved back home and went from becoming more and more independent to having to relearn how to be dependent on those I love and be willing to accept help from others. That was 7 years ago. I'm still struggling a lot, especially financially, but I'm incredibly grateful for not giving up. You inspire me so much, Johnny, thanks for inviting us to share.
I replied to an older video earlier asking for a video like this again! What a manifestation 😂 Never thought I'd see Coronation Street on this channel! That was such a fun feel good video.
Man, that was one of your best videos! Life is the environment you live, people around you, things you love and the passage of time. It was great to watch you share a piece of yours with us. Excited for the part 2 you mentioned 😬
Man you have no idea how i love all of those retrospective videos of yours 😊. I guess you are probably the only TH-camr's gamer who i have seen doing it up to date
I worked on the Otaku no Video Kickstarter! Glad you love that anime! I did the bonus music videos on that release when I was in college for AnimEigo, I still do work for them now.
Hi Johnny! I'm only 25 but this video HIT HARD! Currently i'm working and trying to refind myself after alot of things in my life and this was what i needed! Anime and Video Games are my life! Hell they helped me complete my degree in University, being the first person in my family to do so! I remember when i was 14 being obsessed with Initial D and the friendships i made through that anime! I'll always remember this moment, it was during December 2013 coming home from math lessons and i was like wait, i'm getting older, i'm doing more things for myself and i have a group of great friends! I felt like the main character and that night was rather chilly, coming home and watching Initial D after having that experience really made feel special. Thanks Johnny sharing these memories!
Glad to hear about your art youth it's a huge part of who you were add a part of how it molded you man! Thanks for sharing. Never been overseas but it's interesting to hear about your life experiences man!
THIS is the video I needed Johnny! Thank you pal. I'm 32 years young (born in 1991) and I am barely one month into being married to the woman of my dreams. I've walked my own unique path through life, definitely a lot of unnescessary L's, but it has hardened me and I feel that I'm better for it. I'm of the generation of gamers from the GCN/PS2/Xbox era as a youngling that evolved into the 360/PS3-era and onwards into my college years. Anime was definitely something I leaned into post-college and has been enjoyable release for me (I won't front by saying I was ever Otaku-levels or outwardly showed it). Seeing you as the successful & loving father and husband to indcredibly beautiful women in your life warms my heart. Props to you Johnny and an early-birthday well wishes turning 50.
Your channel is the best. So wholesome and full of passion and excitement, its completely contagious. As an Englishman i love hearing about your time in England too. All the best Johnny.
Love this vid John. 21 myself and still in a "finding myself" phase. Always trying to work but this vid has got me realizing I should never forget my inner nerd. Might try hooking up the SNES & Dreamcast soon!
Johnny I've gotta say this vid has helped me a lot with my current situation. I feel like I could write an essay about the topics you covered here. Hearing about the things you regret and how you turned them around is giving me some very important insight right now. I think I'm gonna get offline. Maybe try and travel a bit. Thanks so much for sharing man. P.S. Geese Howard's theme is still the most goated boss battle music of all time.
Thank you for this. I'm 40 and feel like I've just begun to get my life together finally lol. I was at the end of my rope and that's when things began to happen. Anyway this was very inspiring. You're work on this channel always lifts me up and reminds me that if you don't give up and put your best foot forward so much good can happen. Cheers!
You made me realize that I really do feel nostalgic for a pre-fast internet/pre-social media life. Everything felt so much more magical when you found another person with the same favorite game/anime/movie as you. It's hard to capture that magic in 2023. Although conventions are a great place to start now that I think about it.
The non-Internet days where time were slower and face-to-face meetups were golden. Now everybody want a response in seconds. I am glad that anime changed your life. It actually did something similar for me. There was a guy who I met that owns a video shop that would have a ton of anime, movies, games coming from Hong Kong every week. I got to know him really well and he would always offer me first pick for new anime like Dragon Ball GT, Street Fighter V, etc. when he first get his hands on them. Now one of my sons are very big into anime and Gundams and Dragon Ball and I can relate that these are good for kids to pick up and brings a lot of joy to their life.
One of your best videos dude. As a die hard Macross fan and someone who also turned 50 this year, I can definitely relate to where you're coming from John. Those, indeed, were the good old days! There's not many people that are much younger than us who can really appreciate how special anime and import games were during that era. It was magical. By the way, I went to Anime Expo several times and got to meet the Japanese VAs behind Macross Plus(Isamu and Myung). Also got to meet Yoko Kanno, Shoji Kawamori, Mikimoto, and Mari ijima. Great times :)
The honesty of this man is what makes his channel such a joy. A genuine guy who has figured it out and is now living his best life. No wonder he is the HappyConsoleGamer!
This is a gem of a video. I hope you realize that these kinds of things come full circle; you're pretty much the person who inspired me to get back into games and have my own renaissance at 30! Videos like this help people.
You learn something new that Johnny is a Corrie fan! Well, from one Yorkshire man to another I enjoyed this episode. God bless your nan. If you’re ever back here let us know! The Yorkshire Moors is beautiful, and having two national parks we really are the best place in the UK!
Man, what an amazing video. Love your story, made me remind years back then, living with my parents and spending days and days just drawing and leting my imagination fly, dreaming of the animes and games that I was seeing in magazines. Time flies fast, these are cherished memories that you activated and brought from dust corners of my mind. Thank you.
Great episode. Recently life has been extremely stressful for me and the video games I am playing (finally getting around to Ys 8 thanks to your recommendation - amazing game plus other modern and retro games) and watching anime like JJK and Robotech has been a huge escape and a good one. An escape that makes me feel happy that is not destructive. Just this weekend I went back as a 31 year old man and watched 3 ninjas and surf ninjas and had a smile on my face the entire time. Your statement about enjoying what makes us who we are is something more people need to hear. Great video!
No one tells a story like you mate. It would be awesome if you can back too the UK. Love your passion for everything you do. I’d love too Check out your comics, you should reprint them if you can. I was like this at 18-23. All I cared about was drinking at the weekend and it was awesome but I left behind video games. I’m so glad I picked it back up.
As a Brit and a long (long) time watcher I would be so curious to hear you with a Yorkshire accent 🤣 great video mate I always look forward to a Sunday evening to watch your uploads!
21 was rough for me, although more than two decades have passed since then so... I was doing my mandatory military service, I was supposed to go at 18 but I got 3 years to study. I was into music, i was a dj at rave parties and all that, and all of this suddenly disappeared for almost 2 years, can't say it wasn't an experience since I got to serve on remote islands and stuff, but my previous life just...paused for 2 yrs. Happy to say I carried on my normal life after that, but got to experience some rough events that, well, I could live without and I leave it at that.
I just got done with Otaku no Video after learning about it here. It was entertaining! And there are so many things in it that tugs at your heart. Also nice to see an anime made before the internet took off as there's no references it it at all.
Hey Jonny, I really enjoyed this video. I’m 44 this year and remember those times very vividly. What a great time to be in love with video games. I was born in England also I’m from Wisbech. I moved to Australia when I was 5. I remember the Sydney arcades in my teens ,and I was taught how to play street fighter by all the Asian kids. I used to line up my coins so everyone would know you were next. What a time !
You were a lucky guy. I love your stories ! I grew up in a small town of 15k in the 90s. There never was a hangout for comics, games or anime. There was a small comic book section in a local book store but no space to hang out. And if you liked comics, games, and things that used your imagination got you beat up and shunned.
I love these types of videos. You’re such an awesome storyteller. I am a huge anime fan and grew up on these classic anime like this stuff in the 90s, such a cool point in history.
Wow Jonny it sounds like that was a great summer for you, and that you really did find yourself! I love Macross Plus too! Those Laserdiscs are sickkkk! Have you ever played Macross: Do you Remember Love on Sega Saturn? That always pop on eBay searches for me for import Saturn games. Loved hearing about you traveling back to the UK, and the video store!!!!
Hitting 40 next year. My present is the best time as well but I think it's fun to look back every now and then and wince appreciatively at the formative years. Thanks for the video.
This video perfectly encompasses both why I originally started watching your videos over a decade ago now, AND why I continue to. You have perspective on both being deep into games, but also just have a wonderful perspective on life in general. Cheers!
Johnny was the original tiktok eboy! Been watching since I was 13, 28 now and still loving the content man! Can't wait for the xmas gift swap vid! One of my favorite parts of the holidays.
As a individual who’s 21 right now, it’s really inspiring to hear your experiences around anime and video games back then. Times are very different, but the love for both hobbies have only grown from one generation to another. Watching this video also reminded me of the special moments in my childhood. Thank you, Johnny, for these amazing stories!
Sounds like a 1995 bizzare summer to me. Seriously though, keep up these life story videos. They're my absolute favourite ones of mine to watch. It's so much more interesting learning about the experiences that made you who you are, rather than just talking about items you've recently picked up or the the games you've been playing. I hope to see the follow up video to this one sooner than later.
I first thought you were uploading a rerun, I remember your old video. Its weird getting old that certain people helped you along but at the time did not really understand there importance in your future. I have been into video games since 1975, for many years had no one to discuss my passion. My video game addiction actually defined my career and made my computer skills valuable. Keep up the great content and enjoy your hobby and family!!
Love your stories and inspirational words, Johnny. You are so right, you should never let anyone make you feel ashamed of your passion! Whether it's videogames, anime, D&D, collecting toys, or whatever else, do what makes you happy!
Great to hear this story in more detail! Boredom almost seems like a lost art today, with the internet and smartphones, I worry people won’t really have time to think about what they really enjoy. Instead filling any downtime with mindless content :(
Johnny, thank you so much for making this video and sharing your inspirational story. It might sound funny, but I teared up at the end when you talked about not feeling bad about what you like. I've gone through several phases of life during which I either hid my "weird nerd" hobbies or outright quit them to fit in and try to be a normal cool girl. I did make friends that way--lots of going out drinking as well!--but I was also denying who I was and what I loved. Eventually, it caught up with me. I burned out at work and even acquired health problems from all the stress in my life. But the one thing that ended up saving me was going back to what I always loved--games and anime. I'm almost 35 and finally accept that this is who I am and these are the things that I love. People like you are truly role models for me as I enter a new phase in my life. Thank you again :)
I turned 35 this year and it's the first time in my life that I feel like I got it together 😂
'grats. I'm around that age and I still feel like I haven't got it together.
@@ReinMixTapeYou will get there man, trust me.
I feel this. I'm 33 and still feel a little lost. Completely wasted my 20's on things that don't matter and the result is not having any sort of foundation for my life. Ugh. Whatever. Here's to the new year! lol
@@Grant_Bennett 30 here and same....
i felt that way 4 yrs ago also im 38
Johnny, you remind me a lot of my older cousin Jonathan. He was just like you when he he was young, drinking, smoking, rebellious, getting into fights, but he loved video games, comics and drawing. He eventually cleaned up his life you did, but he joined the US Army and was unfortunately killed in Iraq. I really think he would have loved your channel ❤ I think about him a lot when I watch the show.
RIP to Jonathan
Very sorry to hear...
Love when you post these kind of videos. These are the best ones for rewatches! Best TH-camr hands down
Him Victor Lucas and Canadian Gamer are the Canadian lords of gaming content
@@NicLarcherthx i knew about him and Lucas but canadian gamer was a new one. Thx for the tip
Whereabouts in Yorkshire? It's a big county in England, but tiny by Canadian standards thou 😂
@@Fantasitron1 CG is a hidden Gem
I love these nostalgia videos , these are so awesome to listen to
Ten years behind you Johnny from another fellow Canadian, but I can relate to how video games and anime also made me who I am today.
Loved this wholesome vid and looking forward to part 2 of this story 😁
ya - this was quite the manic episode, for sure.
Johnny's lore videos are always a good time.
I lost my dad to cancer back at the end of 2011 and while I was living with him as his caregiver Skyrim was coming out and was the game I would play while he slept. Av few years later my mum would be diagnosed with terminal cancer also just as I was playing a game called firewatch both games are now bitter sweet and the music takes me to that time and place in an instant so your story truly resonates with me John.
I found your channel as my dear mum was poorly and have found so much comfort from your channel. My mum was from Yorkshire where I believe you once lived and I’ll be a 50 year old gamer myself next year.
Keep it up and just know how powerful what you do for us is John ❤
Man, I remember when you made your 40 Year Old Gamer video...I cannot believe it's been almost 10 years already holy crap time flies! Feels like just yesterday.
As a 41 year old lover of anime since 1995 this story was very relatable. In high-school I really got into Dragon Ball, Dbz, Gundam Wing, cowboy bebop, Vampire hunter D, Akira, anything I could get my hands on. In the late 90s anise was considered "nerd material" I was picked on pretty badly sometimes but I wore my dbz and Gundam wing shirts anyway. Your story reminded me of how I never changed myself to be in with what was cool. The people who were my true friends back then were the ones who I found those things in common with back then. I turned one of them on to anime in his 20s. Never change who you are because your life will be so much more rewarding.
That feeling of growing up in the 90's is something that can never be replicated. And even though the 90's is sort of going through Renaissance, the younger generations will never truly understand how great and magical the 90's actually was.
Even stepping outside on the weekends. It always felt fresh and magical. There was no calling friends. I walked to their houses to see if they were home. If not, I would still have fun. Until the sun started to set. Even though I played video games, I spent plenty of time not looking at a screen. Reading. Drawing. Building with Legos and K’nexs. PLAYING BOARDGAMES! I wonder if families still do that. I still see them on shelves, so, I guess so. 🤷🏿♂️
This is true, because to me, the 90's represented stagnation and an awful time.
I mourned the 80's I barely knew ( _born 86_ ).
@@spongebob03you didn’t call your friends? It wasn’t a time before telephones lol. The reason the 90s felt so magical is cause you were young at the time. Sure, it had its own flavor and stuff that defined the era, but it was also super tumultuous and cynical and had a lot of war and bombings and wild shit. I try not to make people feel bad about their appreciation for a time and place, but kids today are going to be talking about all the things that were “great” when they were young in 25 years that seems alien and not relatable to gen x/millennials. It’s just the circle of life. I
@@opaljk4835 maybe I romanticized the 90s, too much. I remember Saturday morning cartoons being interrupted by the war. I grew up in the hood. So I still remember all that came with it. I remember thinking, what would I do if somebody approached me and asked, “where you from?” Not being able to wear certain shoes. Wearing certain colors in certain hoods. Not getting certain toys because of what other children were doing with them. As far as me calling friends. Male friends… that was rare. And if I did, it was quick. I usually only talked to girls.
@@spongebob03 I’m not saying it wasn’t a cool time to be young, it certainly was, at least we weren’t expected to work in a factory in horrible conditions like kids in the early 20th century…there was a media revolution going on, independent film renaissance, wild new queer cinema movies coming out by the likes of Greg Araki and Cheryl Dunye….Quentin Tarantino and Spike Lee tearing it up. The home video market from the 80s became even more ubiquitous and cheap until the market imploded, video games made leaps and bounds since the 8 bit days…that’s not to mention all the dope cartoons and toys and means of spending time and finding stuff to identify with. That’s not even to mention the music, and there was a lot. Walkman really made it easy to listen to stuff. Idk, I don’t want to say it wasn’t a special time, it definitely was. But all good things come with caveats, you know? I could go on, but I won’t. it doesn’t mean that we don’t see how special this time is for the kids now, and the kids who grew up in the 2010s and late 2000s.
We’re all getting older Johnny. Hey , let’s enjoy it. I turned 58 this summer , but according to my wife , I went back to where i was before parenthood , 2 years ago , when son #3 moved out. Now it’s all comics , movies , computer/video games , vinyl records , books , D&D and boardgames.
Nobody tells stories like Johnny. I always appreciate the wonderful nostalgic memories. Thanks, again! God bless and stay safe!
Can’t begin to describe the feeling these nostalgia videos give me. Please never stop giving us these!
From the UK you are more than welcome here ❤️
I love hearing to talk about your life stories, man.
Johnny, it's blowing my mind that you're into anime as well as video games. I'm the same way. Videogames and anime are my favorite things. I always enjoy your videos about your life experiences. Thanks for all the video game recommendations over the years! You've introduced me to many franchises and series I wouldn't know about otherwise. Your channel is honestly one of my favorites.
It is weird how what we use to do in our youth!!!
I don’t regret anything because I couldn’t even do half the stuff I did back then!!!
The past was full of great memories!!!
I think I really needed to hear this message about leaving the bottle behind for things you can actually be passionate about, whatever form that takes. thanks man.
I just turned 21 the other day, so this video was perfectly timed for me! It really seems like the age where you have to figure out what your priorities are in life, where your passion is.
Im from your old stomping grounds of Dewsbury Road/Wakefield Road. Live in Mexico currently but will never forget my Yorkshire roots.
When I turned 21, was fresh out of college, still living at home…honestly it was kind of a sad time in my life. Similarly was also having some behaviors I wish I didn’t back then. BUT I do have such incredibly fond memories of playing through some of the best games of all time in this phase. The XBox 360 had been out for a year or so, and I just dumped hours and hours into Halo 3, Pac-Man Championship, and others. I don’t think it was until I met my wife that things turned around for me in terms of money, my future, etc.
Johnny, you are a great steward of video games and anime! I'm 51 and going through a lot of the feelings and emotions you're expressing. Love seeing your honest passion!
I love these "looking back" videos but this one felt especially heartfelt.
Never thought I would hear Johnny Millennium talk about watching Coronation Street and Eastenders! Johnny, tell me you watched Neighbours when you were living in the UK? (An Australian soap, not British, but it used to be a big deal over here in these British Isles). I await a British soap operas DVD pick up video from you!
I absolutely loved this video. Painted such a good picture in my head of what it was like back then. I was only 6 then but I have an older brother that unfortunately took to the drinking. His life turned out very differently. He is an artist too. He's doing fine now, but he got addicted to some pretty bad stuff for a long time.
This was one of the best pieces of entertainment I’ve ever seen on TH-cam, full-stop! I loved it so much that I watched it twice! Excellent, man! So fun, enthusiastic and inspiring!
Johnny do you remember Macross "Do you remember love?" on the PS1 and Saturn!! I saved for a year to get the Japanese Version on PS1 back then in 1999 when I was in college....you got me reminiscing. LOL
I’ve been watching you since you were 42 I believe. 2014 you went to TooManyGames in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. I remember meeting you. After watching you for only 6 months. You were better than wanting to ever meet a celebrity like a musician, actor or anyone from Hollywood. It was a dream to meet you. It is hard to describe with words even as I’m typing this in what you mean to me and many others. I wish I could have known you in another life as a friend. Can talk about games and anime and just have a good friendship. You are lucky with the life you have and the people around you. I love who you are Johnny. You are a brother, a friend to all of us. I’m happy I got to meet you once. I will always watch your videos and embrace the memories of the HappyConsoleGamer.
THANK YOU SO MUCHHHHHH for sharing your life with us. It helps all of us to be more introspective about our choices and our life and hopefully it helps you as well!
Great memories! I too went through a one-two year phase when I was around 18 where drinking and going out to clubs was super fun for me…then it got old pretty fast haha and now I don’t even drink! LOL
I am 28 and have been watching your channel for over 10 years, you inspired me to start collecting and become a more passionate happy person. You are one of my role models. Amazing episode!
Same here, im 30 and Johny brings out the best of us, the passionate person inside of us, the caring person, while also makes us apreciate what we do already have, the small things in life, the people in our lives...
These videos are the best, they speak to my soul.
Dude I'm 28 and have the same experience with this channel! Been watching Johnny since 2011.
Class story to hear considering I’m a Geordie lad only 20 getting drunk and rowdy all the time it’s refreshing to hear this makes me kind of feel less lost so thanks for that man.
It can't be understated how impactful it was back then picking up a fresh new hobby or video game magazine and seeing something totally new. My moment was picking up a Nintendo Power at a yard sale on a summer vacation... turns out it was the Dragon Warrior 1 special edition with the strategy guide and I was enamored with it. I had never heard of DW before and soon after bought it and fell in love.
Hey Johnny, i know you said some time ago, that your subscribers, want more games than anime episodes. But i for one love you talking passionately about anime. Keep up the good work
You’re looking good for 49 Jonny! Very inspiring video
As someone that's about the same age (-1 year), I totally TOTALLY understand what you're talking about (minus the trip overseas to get away from the party people). In my group of friends, I was the gaming and anime otaku, and they were the drinkers and party people. Being half Japanese, I was able to go overseas to visit family, and there I would be exposed to the latest and craziest new anime and games, and I had maybe one friend to share that kind of stuff with. I remember being in Osaka the day Street Fighter II dropped on Super Famicom, so I bought it, and went to my cousin's house since they had the console and played it to the point where my Mom was like "you need to get off the TV so Miyuki can watch Chibi Maruko-chan."
And Macross Plus, my god, what an OAV! What a soundtrack!!!
Great video, as someone who has never left Yorkshire myself its always interesting listening to any stories you have about the place
This was an awesome episode Johnny. Great to watch. Thanks for sharing!
Man, this video was so inspirational. At 36 I feel like lost myself a bit, I've got a nice life but I'm not wuite happy with anything. But this inspired me to look more into what I really like, what I really want, who I really am. And videogames are still a huge passion for me.
Johnny thanks for going bold honest in these videos. I'm 27 and kinda jaded of partying, weed... you know what I mean right... and seeing you stand for your natural passions definitely inspires me.
Wish you the very best always here from Costa Rica :) Pura vida!!
17:01 You can see the joy just looking at the game brings him. His journey sounds similar to mine, but instead of Anime it was Horror movies for me. (And of course video games) I get the same look on my face when I look over my horror collection.
Have you played outlast
Wonderful recollections from a fellow Yorkshireman! I was born in Sheffield, but went to Canada as a baby, and came back when older. We may have even walked past each other in the early 90s, or stood next to eachin the Space Centre.
I especially love these self-reflective/discussion episodes because it's all of these experiences you've had that have lead to the incredible Johnny you are today. Thank you for another really great episode.
When I turned 21, I had just discovered what I believed was my life calling. I had one more year of undergraduate schooling ahead of me, and because of this calling, I decided I would finish the last year of school but leave without a degree and begin pursuing this journey I felt inside me. I moved back home and went from becoming more and more independent to having to relearn how to be dependent on those I love and be willing to accept help from others. That was 7 years ago. I'm still struggling a lot, especially financially, but I'm incredibly grateful for not giving up. You inspire me so much, Johnny, thanks for inviting us to share.
Love these story videos, we get an inside look at the Johnny we grown to Love…
Your enthusiasm is always amazing to me. I aspire to find that for myself. Thanks for the videos. I’m a fan. ✌️💕
Amazing to think that slowing down and being unplugged changed your life. An amazing Summer!
I replied to an older video earlier asking for a video like this again! What a manifestation 😂 Never thought I'd see Coronation Street on this channel! That was such a fun feel good video.
Man, that was one of your best videos! Life is the environment you live, people around you, things you love and the passage of time. It was great to watch you share a piece of yours with us. Excited for the part 2 you mentioned 😬
Man you have no idea how i love all of those retrospective videos of yours 😊. I guess you are probably the only TH-camr's gamer who i have seen doing it up to date
I worked on the Otaku no Video Kickstarter! Glad you love that anime! I did the bonus music videos on that release when I was in college for AnimEigo, I still do work for them now.
Hi Johnny! I'm only 25 but this video HIT HARD! Currently i'm working and trying to refind myself after alot of things in my life and this was what i needed! Anime and Video Games are my life! Hell they helped me complete my degree in University, being the first person in my family to do so! I remember when i was 14 being obsessed with Initial D and the friendships i made through that anime! I'll always remember this moment, it was during December 2013 coming home from math lessons and i was like wait, i'm getting older, i'm doing more things for myself and i have a group of great friends! I felt like the main character and that night was rather chilly, coming home and watching Initial D after having that experience really made feel special. Thanks Johnny sharing these memories!
Glad to hear about your art youth it's a huge part of who you were add a part of how it molded you man! Thanks for sharing. Never been overseas but it's interesting to hear about your life experiences man!
THIS is the video I needed Johnny! Thank you pal. I'm 32 years young (born in 1991) and I am barely one month into being married to the woman of my dreams. I've walked my own unique path through life, definitely a lot of unnescessary L's, but it has hardened me and I feel that I'm better for it. I'm of the generation of gamers from the GCN/PS2/Xbox era as a youngling that evolved into the 360/PS3-era and onwards into my college years. Anime was definitely something I leaned into post-college and has been enjoyable release for me (I won't front by saying I was ever Otaku-levels or outwardly showed it). Seeing you as the successful & loving father and husband to indcredibly beautiful women in your life warms my heart. Props to you Johnny and an early-birthday well wishes turning 50.
Your channel is the best. So wholesome and full of passion and excitement, its completely contagious. As an Englishman i love hearing about your time in England too. All the best Johnny.
Has he ever visited Japan? I would love to see him take a vacation there and film the trip
I would love to watch it
Same here. Would love to know.
Love this vid John. 21 myself and still in a "finding myself" phase. Always trying to work but this vid has got me realizing I should never forget my inner nerd. Might try hooking up the SNES & Dreamcast soon!
This is such a heart warming story… love hearing bout you watching Corrie and Eastenders! 🤣 gave me good laugh on way to work… nice one fella 😎
Johnny I've gotta say this vid has helped me a lot with my current situation. I feel like I could write an essay about the topics you covered here. Hearing about the things you regret and how you turned them around is giving me some very important insight right now. I think I'm gonna get offline. Maybe try and travel a bit.
Thanks so much for sharing man.
P.S. Geese Howard's theme is still the most goated boss battle music of all time.
Thank you for this. I'm 40 and feel like I've just begun to get my life together finally lol. I was at the end of my rope and that's when things began to happen. Anyway this was very inspiring. You're work on this channel always lifts me up and reminds me that if you don't give up and put your best foot forward so much good can happen. Cheers!
You made me realize that I really do feel nostalgic for a pre-fast internet/pre-social media life. Everything felt so much more magical when you found another person with the same favorite game/anime/movie as you. It's hard to capture that magic in 2023. Although conventions are a great place to start now that I think about it.
This is my favorite video you've ever done, just want to say I really appreciate this, it means a lot!
The non-Internet days where time were slower and face-to-face meetups were golden. Now everybody want a response in seconds. I am glad that anime changed your life.
It actually did something similar for me. There was a guy who I met that owns a video shop that would have a ton of anime, movies, games coming from Hong Kong every week. I got to know him really well and he would always offer me first pick for new anime like Dragon Ball GT, Street Fighter V, etc. when he first get his hands on them.
Now one of my sons are very big into anime and Gundams and Dragon Ball and I can relate that these are good for kids to pick up and brings a lot of joy to their life.
One of your best videos dude. As a die hard Macross fan and someone who also turned 50 this year, I can definitely relate to where you're coming from John. Those, indeed, were the good old days! There's not many people that are much younger than us who can really appreciate how special anime and import games were during that era. It was magical.
By the way, I went to Anime Expo several times and got to meet the Japanese VAs behind Macross Plus(Isamu and Myung). Also got to meet Yoko Kanno, Shoji Kawamori, Mikimoto, and Mari ijima. Great times :)
I'm 43, have 2 daughters, fan of your show for years, and I can relate to almost all of this !
Great video! Gundam Wing and DBZ were my gateway shows back in the day. Good times
Been watching for way over a decade. Really cool to hear Johnny Millenium’s origin story. God Bless you and your family, Johnny.
Anime and video games can’t be all that bad to make someone great like Johnny.
Wait a minute, you're from Yorkshire?!!??? I always thought you were cool but now I know why. Proud to know Johnny is a fellow Yorkshire lad.
The honesty of this man is what makes his channel such a joy. A genuine guy who has figured it out and is now living his best life. No wonder he is the HappyConsoleGamer!
I love those old photos of the King of Smut 95. Absolute legend.
This is a gem of a video. I hope you realize that these kinds of things come full circle; you're pretty much the person who inspired me to get back into games and have my own renaissance at 30! Videos like this help people.
You learn something new that Johnny is a Corrie fan! Well, from one Yorkshire man to another I enjoyed this episode. God bless your nan. If you’re ever back here let us know! The Yorkshire Moors is beautiful, and having two national parks we really are the best place in the UK!
Man, what an amazing video. Love your story, made me remind years back then, living with my parents and spending days and days just drawing and leting my imagination fly, dreaming of the animes and games that I was seeing in magazines. Time flies fast, these are cherished memories that you activated and brought from dust corners of my mind. Thank you.
It is so important to remember who we were, are, and want to be. Thank you for the gracious storytelling!
I must say that I love the look of your comic illustrations! I don't know if you've showcased them before, but I'd enjoy seeing more!
Great episode. Recently life has been extremely stressful for me and the video games I am playing (finally getting around to Ys 8 thanks to your recommendation - amazing game plus other modern and retro games) and watching anime like JJK and Robotech has been a huge escape and a good one. An escape that makes me feel happy that is not destructive. Just this weekend I went back as a 31 year old man and watched 3 ninjas and surf ninjas and had a smile on my face the entire time. Your statement about enjoying what makes us who we are is something more people need to hear. Great video!
No one tells a story like you mate. It would be awesome if you can back too the UK. Love your passion for everything you do. I’d love too Check out your comics, you should reprint them if you can.
I was like this at 18-23. All I cared about was drinking at the weekend and it was awesome but I left behind video games. I’m so glad I picked it back up.
Great video. You're one of the content creators I wish I had more content from. Always like your videos.
Loved this video, what a great trip down memory lane this was. I was obsessed with Anime and Hong Kong movies in the 90's. Good times indeed 🤗
As a Brit and a long (long) time watcher I would be so curious to hear you with a Yorkshire accent 🤣 great video mate I always look forward to a Sunday evening to watch your uploads!
21 was rough for me, although more than two decades have passed since then so... I was doing my mandatory military service, I was supposed to go at 18 but I got 3 years to study. I was into music, i was a dj at rave parties and all that, and all of this suddenly disappeared for almost 2 years, can't say it wasn't an experience since I got to serve on remote islands and stuff, but my previous life just...paused for 2 yrs. Happy to say I carried on my normal life after that, but got to experience some rough events that, well, I could live without and I leave it at that.
I just got done with Otaku no Video after learning about it here. It was entertaining! And there are so many things in it that tugs at your heart. Also nice to see an anime made before the internet took off as there's no references it it at all.
Hey Jonny,
I really enjoyed this video.
I’m 44 this year and remember those times very vividly.
What a great time to be in love with video games.
I was born in England also I’m from Wisbech.
I moved to Australia when I was 5.
I remember the Sydney arcades in my teens ,and I was taught how to play street fighter by all the Asian kids.
I used to line up my coins so everyone would know you were next.
What a time !
Everytime you go to these flashbacks, I LOVE so much of all the photos you showcase. It's so cool to see the times.
You were a lucky guy. I love your stories ! I grew up in a small town of 15k in the 90s. There never was a hangout for comics, games or anime. There was a small comic book section in a local book store but no space to hang out. And if you liked comics, games, and things that used your imagination got you beat up and shunned.
I love these videos and hearing about your life and what inspired you!
I love these types of videos. You’re such an awesome storyteller. I am a huge anime fan and grew up on these classic anime like this stuff in the 90s, such a cool point in history.
Wow Jonny it sounds like that was a great summer for you, and that you really did find yourself! I love Macross Plus too! Those Laserdiscs are sickkkk! Have you ever played Macross: Do you Remember Love on Sega Saturn? That always pop on eBay searches for me for import Saturn games. Loved hearing about you traveling back to the UK, and the video store!!!!
Hitting 40 next year. My present is the best time as well but I think it's fun to look back every now and then and wince appreciatively at the formative years. Thanks for the video.
Man I really need to get my life together. I’m 23 and a lot of what you said resonates with me still
Whow. This was very, very inspirational. Thank you for making this video!
This video perfectly encompasses both why I originally started watching your videos over a decade ago now, AND why I continue to. You have perspective on both being deep into games, but also just have a wonderful perspective on life in general. Cheers!
Johnny was the original tiktok eboy!
Been watching since I was 13, 28 now and still loving the content man!
Can't wait for the xmas gift swap vid! One of my favorite parts of the holidays.
As a individual who’s 21 right now, it’s really inspiring to hear your experiences around anime and video games back then. Times are very different, but the love for both hobbies have only grown from one generation to another. Watching this video also reminded me of the special moments in my childhood. Thank you, Johnny, for these amazing stories!
Sounds like a 1995 bizzare summer to me.
Seriously though, keep up these life story videos. They're my absolute favourite ones of mine to watch. It's so much more interesting learning about the experiences that made you who you are, rather than just talking about items you've recently picked up or the the games you've been playing. I hope to see the follow up video to this one sooner than later.
I first thought you were uploading a rerun, I remember your old video. Its weird getting old that certain people helped you along but at the time did not really understand there importance in your future. I have been into video games since 1975, for many years had no one to discuss my passion. My video game addiction actually defined my career and made my computer skills valuable. Keep up the great content and enjoy your hobby and family!!
Love your stories and inspirational words, Johnny. You are so right, you should never let anyone make you feel ashamed of your passion! Whether it's videogames, anime, D&D, collecting toys, or whatever else, do what makes you happy!
Great to hear this story in more detail! Boredom almost seems like a lost art today, with the internet and smartphones, I worry people won’t really have time to think about what they really enjoy. Instead filling any downtime with mindless content :(
I can relate so much to this, one of my favorite videos you've done.
I enjoy these stories the most bc it feels immersive HCG is the best story teller in all of retro
Johnny, thank you so much for making this video and sharing your inspirational story. It might sound funny, but I teared up at the end when you talked about not feeling bad about what you like. I've gone through several phases of life during which I either hid my "weird nerd" hobbies or outright quit them to fit in and try to be a normal cool girl. I did make friends that way--lots of going out drinking as well!--but I was also denying who I was and what I loved. Eventually, it caught up with me. I burned out at work and even acquired health problems from all the stress in my life. But the one thing that ended up saving me was going back to what I always loved--games and anime. I'm almost 35 and finally accept that this is who I am and these are the things that I love. People like you are truly role models for me as I enter a new phase in my life. Thank you again :)