The Angry Video Game Nerd, originally known as The Angry Nintendo Nerd, is an American retrogaming review comedy web series created by and starring James Rolfe. The series centers on Rolfe's titular skit character, often simply shortened to "the Nerd", a short-tempered and foul-mouthed gamer who delivers commentary on retro games of poor quality. While the series began with Rolfe simply playing games while providing retrospective commentary, the show has grown in scope to encompass sketches featuring guest characters, reviews of gaming consoles and peripherals, and short lectures about video game history and culture.
James Rolfe in-character as the Nerd in 2008
Rolfe's longtime friend Mike Matei helped in producing the series until leaving Cinemassacre in 2020.
James D. Rolfe is an American YouTuber, filmmaker, and actor. He is best known for creating and starring in the comedic retrogaming web series The Angry Video Game Nerd (2004–present). His spin-off projects include reviews of retro films, television series, and board games. He is considered a pioneer of internet gaming videos, and is noted for his widespread influence on YouTube content after the series premiered on the site in 2006.
Rolfe in character as the Nerd in 2021
Rolfe in 2008 as the Angry Video Game Nerd at The Digital Press video game store in Clifton, New Jersey
The Nerd accepts a challenge from the Nostalgia Critic, 2008.
Rolfe (left) at the Chiller Theatre Expo 2014
