Michael Tomczyk Review The TPUG Lounge – Legends of Commodore Dr. Obsoleto 1980s

Man Behind The Machine

**Event Review: TPUG Holiday Meeting with Dr. Obsoleto and Michael Tomczyk**

*December 12, 2024*

Last night’s TPUG Holiday Meeting was a nostalgic yet forward-looking celebration of innovation, hosted by the enigmatic Dr. Obsoleto. The event brought together retro computing enthusiasts and futurists for a conversation with none other than Michael Tomczyk, the "VIC-20 Czar," who played a pivotal role in shaping the personal computing revolution at Commodore.

From the moment Dr. Obsoleto took the stage—adorned in his trademark blend of retro-chic and modern techwear—it was clear this was not your average tech talk. His charismatic introduction of Tomczyk as "a man who turned 8-bit dreams into reality" set the tone for the evening: a mix of reverence, curiosity, and humor.

Tomczyk delivered on all fronts. Sharing vivid anecdotes from his Commodore days, he recounted the VIC-20's rise to fame as the first computer to sell over a million units. Attendees were captivated by his behind-the-scenes stories of design challenges, marketing triumphs, and the bold vision that made the VIC-20 an affordable gateway to computing for the masses.

The conversation then transitioned to Tomczyk’s latest book, *Neo-Innovation: Ideas, Insights, and Tools to Compete in a New Era*. Dr. Obsoleto skillfully steered the discussion from retro innovation to modern challenges, diving into how the post-pandemic world demands a new approach to innovation. Tomczyk’s insights into neomedicine, SpaceX, and Elon Musk's ventures sparked lively debates among the audience, as he emphasized the importance of adaptability and cross-disciplinary thinking in today’s rapidly changing landscape.

The audience Q&A session was a highlight, with attendees asking everything from "What was Jack Tramiel really like?" to "How do you see AI shaping innovation in the next decade?" Tomczyk’s thoughtful responses showcased both his deep knowledge and his approachable demeanor, while Dr. Obsoleto added his own witty commentary, much to the crowd’s delight.

By the end of the night, it was clear that this event wasn’t just about celebrating the past—it was a call to action for innovators of all ages. The mix of nostalgia and forward-thinking ideas left attendees feeling inspired to tackle the challenges of the "Neoworld" with the same boldness that defined the VIC-20 era.

For those who couldn’t attend, *Neo-Innovation* is a must-read, offering a blueprint for navigating the complexities of today’s tech-driven world. And for those who were there, it was a reminder that the spirit of innovation—whether in 8-bit computing or space exploration—never grows obsolete.

**Verdict:** An insightful and engaging event that bridged the past and future of tech with humor, heart, and inspiration. Dr. Obsoleto and Michael Tomczyk made an unforgettable team, proving once again that innovation is timeless.