Lucky Wander Boy by D.B. Weiss

Set against the backdrop of the burgeoning video game culture of the early 2000s, this novel follows the journey of Adam Pennyman, a disenchanted writer who becomes obsessed with a mysterious and elusive arcade game. As he delves deeper into the world of retro gaming, Adam's quest for the game becomes a metaphor for his search for meaning and purpose in a world increasingly dominated by technology. His journey is filled with quirky characters, existential musings, and a nostalgic exploration of the intersection between reality and virtual escapism, ultimately leading him to confront his own personal demons.