I was very sad too when it finished. But I think it had one of the best runs and ending possible. I wouldnt have wanted it any other way.
One thing I loved about that era of computing is that it was possible to know the whole computer from the bottom up. I dont think it will now ever be possible.
I realize that you might not see my reply, as it's been over a week, but I agree with you. Approaching my mid-40s, I learned about computers through Atari 8-bit systems. Even just working with Atari BASIC back then, there was so much you could do compared to high-level languages now. We may be in trouble eventually when the hackers of old have passed on, and we're left with the need to move away from current computer architectures due to limitations, and the number of people able to invent and work with low-level tech are few and far between.