KLOV: The Evolution of the Coin-Operated Video Game Encyclopedia
For arcade enthusiasts and historians, the KLOV (Killer List of Videogames) stands as a cornerstone of gaming preservation. What began as a simple text list shared among hobbyists has evolved into a comprehensive, web-based encyclopedia that documents the rich history of coin-operated entertainment. This journey from dial-up bulletin boards to a professional digital museum reflects the growing passion for preserving the golden age of arcades.
Key Facts
- Origin: Started in the mid-1980s via dial-up bulletin board systems (BBS).
- Milestone: Reached 2,000 entries by late 1999.
- Domain: KLOV.com was registered on January 13, 2000.
- Affiliation: Now a part of the International Arcade Museum.
- Integration: Linked with the Video Arcade Preservation Society (VAPS) for collector statistics.
The Early Years: From BBS to Databases
The roots of KLOV trace back to the mid-1980s, when arcade enthusiasts began compiling a master list of coin-operated games. These early contributors communicated through Bulletin Board Systems (BBS)—early precursors to the modern internet that allowed users to upload and download data via dial-up modems.
By 1991, this effort coalesced into the "Coin-Ops A Poppin' - Killer List of Videogames," initially maintained by Mike Hughey and later Jeff Hansen. In 1992, Jonathan Deitch took over management and modernized the list by moving it into a structured database using AppleWorks on an Apple II computer. During this era, the list was distributed via BBS and the Usenet group "rec.games.video.arcade," which served as a vital hub for updates.
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The Transition to a Web Encyclopedia
The mid-1990s marked a pivotal shift in how arcade data was consumed. Around 1994 or 1995, Brian Johnson became the "KLOV Keeper." Johnson transformed the project from a static list into a full-scale web encyclopedia. He rewrote content, added images, and created a searchable, user-friendly interface where each game had its own dedicated page.
By late 1999, the database had grown to 2,000 entries. The sheer volume of user submissions began to exceed the capacity of a single maintainer, necessitating a more robust organizational structure.
Modernization and the International Arcade Museum
In January 2000, Greg McLemore assumed the role of KLOV Keeper. His company, WebMagic, registered the domain KLOV.com on January 13, 2000, and provided the financial backing necessary to sustain the site. This era introduced community message forums and a moderated wiki-style system, allowing multiple administrators to screen and track user contributions.
The site also embraced early mobile technology. On May 25, 2001, "KLOV for Palm 7" was released, allowing users with Palm VII wireless PDAs to access game entries on the go. While now obsolete due to modern smartphone browsers, it represented a significant step in accessibility.
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Expanding the Mission
In December 2002, the International Arcade Museum was formed to build upon KLOV's work, and KLOV officially became part of this larger institution. The museum's reach expanded further on January 23, 2006, when it assumed operation of the Video Arcade Preservation Society (VAPS), a leading group for arcade game census and collection.
This integration allowed KLOV to provide dynamic statistics for every game entry, showing real-time collector ownership data provided by VAPS. By 2009, the community forums were upgraded to accommodate a wider range of coin-operated machines beyond just video games.
KLOV Historical Timeline
| Year | Key Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-1980s | BBS List Creation | Initial gathering of arcade game data by enthusiasts. |
| 1992 | AppleWorks Database | First move to a structured database format. |
| 1995 | Web Encyclopedia Launch | Transition from a list to a searchable website. |
| 2000 | KLOV.com Registration | Professional domain launch and financial sponsorship. |
| 2002 | International Arcade Museum | KLOV becomes part of a formal museum entity. |
| 2006 | VAPS Integration | Addition of collector ownership statistics to game entries. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does KLOV stand for?
KLOV stands for the "Killer List of Videogames," a comprehensive encyclopedia of coin-operated arcade games.
Who is the current financial sponsor of KLOV?
WebMagic, the company owned by former KLOV Keeper Greg McLemore, continues to provide substantial financial support as a chief sponsor.
How is VAPS related to KLOV?
The Video Arcade Preservation Society (VAPS) is operated by the International Arcade Museum. It provides the collector ownership statistics that appear dynamically on KLOV game entries.
Was KLOV ever available on mobile devices?
Yes, a free application called "KLOV for Palm 7" was released on May 25, 2001, for Palm VII wireless PDAs.
How has the KLOV community contributed to the site?
Users have contributed through suggested changes, submissions, and active participation in the message forums, which have hosted over 950,000 messages in total.