New to this sub but I can see both sides. Some channels I dunno why people miss em, but others definitely had unique stuff. Still, I'd never go back to paying for a ton of channels I never watch. Modern streaming spoils us.

I can't help but miss channels like The N or classic Nick...they had shows that influenced a whole generation and helped shape today's culture. It's not just nostalgia; it’s about recognizing the impact of these channels and how they contributed to our entertainment landscape. Plus, not everything's on Netflix, dude.

Hey, I see your point on the convenience of streaming, but don't forget that some folks are collectors and enthusiasts of retro tech and media. For them, defunct channels represent an era of television history that is worth preserving. The quirks of the old broadcasting tech, the aesthetics of the channel idents, even the layout of the EPG (Electronic Program Guide). It ain't merely about the content—it's about the entire experience that collectively made up a piece of the cultural zeitgeist of the time.

Ain't just about the channels themselves, but the shows and the memories attached to them. Used to come home from school, hit the couch, and flip to my fav cartoons. Can't just 'stream' the feeling of those simpler times. And those theme songs! They don't make 'em like they used to!

lol everyone's always on about 'the golden days' of tv. revisionist history much? half the channels had infomercials 24/7. we're not missing out on much.

streaming is definitely the way to go these days. but some dead channels were like deep cuts on a good vinyl record. hidden gems that once they're gone, it's just not the same anywhere else.

I think you're missing the point of why some people mourn the loss of these channels. Sure, streaming has largely made the conventional cable model obsolete, but there's a cultural cache and nostalgia factor to these defunct channels that streaming services can't replicate. Take for instance channels like G4TV which had a unique programming style geared towards a certain demographic—tech and game enthusiasts. Streaming services are into mass appeal and often lack this kind of niche content. Moreover, streaming algorithms can sometimes create an echo chamber, whereas stumbling upon a new show on a TV channel used to be a common experience. It's that serendipity factor along with the loss of community and shared viewing experiences that people probably miss the most.

idk man i get where ur coming from but theres something bout those old channels. like, they had a vibe ya know? some original shows you cant find anywhere else, not even on streaming. streaming's cool and all but it doesnt replace everything.