Seems like the key here is that it was an extremely accessible game; perfect for an era when most people had ZERO experience with videogames or computers. Anything more complicated (such as Computer Space) was just too much for anyone but an engineer or hardcore geek. Also, just the ability to play a game on a screen was a novelty. Plus, it was really competitive and social (at least until the computer-controlled opponents showed up).
Seems like the key here is that it was an extremely accessible game; perfect for an era when most people had ZERO experience with videogames or computers. Anything more complicated (such as Computer Space) was just too much for anyone but an engineer or hardcore geek. Also, just the ability to play a game on a screen was a novelty. Plus, it was really competitive and social (at least until the computer-controlled opponents showed up).
Also, can't forget the whole Bushnell/Baer drama.
Matt Barton, Managing Editor
Location: St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA
Email: matt@armchairarcade.com