December 25th, 1997. It's 6:48 AM. There's a big box beneath the Christmas tree. Santa must've received your letter. You wait anxiously for mom and dad to wake up so you can rip open the present and see what's inside. What if it's nothing but clothes? The air of anticipation is thick as you pace back and forth across the living room. After what seems like an eternity, your mom comes downstairs and starts a pot of coffee. Your dad's not far behind. They take their places on the sofa and watch joyfully as you tear into the wrapping paper. You can't believe it: your very own Nintendo 64. It's the exact color you wanted. You run to the kitchen phone and dial up your buddies Steven and Jacob. They're coming over to play Goldeneye tomorrow. You've never felt so thankful to be alive.

December 23rd, 2024. It's 2:18 PM. You're doing some online shopping. A company called "dbrand" is selling Retro Darkplates for your PlayStation 5. Their translucent colors remind you of your old N64. As you read the page, your mind drifts back to happier times. You remember your friend Steven. You haven't spoken to him since Jacob’s funeral, back in 2019. As you consider shooting him a text, your wistful recollections give way to the crushing concerns of the present. The dishes in the sink, the troubles at work, the rent payment coming up. Your phone beeps. It's Mom - she's making you the executor of her will once the divorce goes through. You sigh and add some Darkplates to your cart.