As a game developer, it is fascinating to know the origins of video games. Knowing that you are part of a long and rich history that dates back to the 1950s can be both inspiring and humbling. In this article, we will explore the first video game ever made and the journey that led to its creation.
The First Video Game Ever Made: Tennis for Two
The first video game ever created was called “Tennis for Two,” which was invented by William Higinbotham in 1952. The game was a simple simulation of tennis, with two paddles representing the players and a ball that could be hit back and forth across the screen. Tennis for Two was originally designed to be used as an entertainment device at Brookhaven National Laboratory, a research facility located on Long Island in New York.
Higinbotham’s creation was not only the first video game ever made but also the first interactive electronic game to be publicly displayed. It was set up in an exhibit hall at the 1952 Brooklyn International Exhibition and attracted thousands of visitors who played the game. The success of Tennis for Two paved the way for other early video games, such as Computer Space (1961) and OXO (also known as Noughts and Crosses, 1958).
The Evolution of Video Games
From the early days of Tennis for Two to today’s modern gaming industry, video games have come a long way. The evolution of video games can be divided into several stages, each with its unique characteristics and innovations.
The first stage of video game history is often referred to as the “golden age” of arcade games (1970-1980). This era saw the development of popular games such as Spacewar! (1962), Pong (1972), and Asteroids (1979). These games were often played in public arcades, where players would pay to play for a limited amount of time.
The second stage of video game history is often referred to as the “home console era” (1980-present). This era saw the development of home consoles such as the Atari 2600 (1977), Nintendo Entertainment System (NES, 1985), and Sega Genesis (1989). These consoles allowed players to play games from the comfort of their own homes, leading to a surge in popularity.
The third stage of video game history is often referred to as the “online gaming era” (2000-present). This era saw the development of online