I write code, hoard retro games, and tinker with old computers.
01About
I'm a UK-based software engineer specialising in PHP, JavaScript, React, and WordPress. I work at Automattic on open source projects.
I'm big into retro gaming and collecting, and I love to tinker with old computers, CRT monitors, and other vintage hardware. This is my website where I occasionally write about work stuff, what I'm playing, and anything else I fancy, really!
My name is Mike (he/him). Well actually it's Michael, but only family use that.
I'm originally from Norfolk in the UK if you're wondering about my accent!
Proud father to two boys who keep me busy when I'm not online!
I first started building websites in the early 2000s as a freelance web designer, and then went on to develop plugins and themes for WordPress.
I'm currently working as a Senior Software Engineer at Automattic, where I've been for the past 10 years working on open source projects.
Fun fact: before I went all in on web development I dabbled with game development as a teen. Penguin Panic was my most popular creation!
I'm an avid gamer and collector of retro games and hardware. My first computer was a ZX Spectrum, and my first (and favourite) console was the NES.
I stream retro games twice a week on Twitch for fun. Anything from NES to PlayStation. Come say hi!
I have around 3000 games in my collection, including the full PAL set of NES, Master System, and Atari Jaguar games. I share my collection on YouTube and TikTok.
I love fixing old things like toys, consoles, and other vintage hardware. I'm dangerously confident when it comes to electronics, but still learning.
We love animals and currently have three guinea pigs, Spyro the Crested Gecko, and Hudson the dog.
My other interests include Astrophotography, Dungeons & Dragons, electronics, movies, and board games. I'm also a Ghostbusters super fan.
02Status
Working onNothing! I'm on sabbatical until end of September.
PlayingSheep, Dog, and Wolf on PS1, and offline I've started the Rayman 30th anniversary edition.
WatchingSpider-noire (Cage is fun to watch as always), and House of the Dragon.
Up nextVarious household projects, vacations, and the big 40 :(
03Streams
RetroMegaMuffin streams
I stream retro games twice a week for fun. I love 8-bit and 16-bit video games, NES and Mega Drive being my favourite systems of all time.
I usually stream Monday and Wednesday evenings from 8pm GMT on Twitch. Come say hi!
Latest VOD
05Contact
You can reach me via email hi@mikejolley.com or on social media. Subscribe via RSS if you'd like the occasional post.