1978's Frogs is a stretch as the first platformer - the only real mechanic is the jumping. I'd still say 1981's Space Panic, even without the jumping is definitely the first platformer in the traditionally defined sense. With that said, it's important to mention Frogs for having one of the earliest jumping mechanics. In fact, it would make a nice bonus image for the Super Mario Bros. chapter.
Mattel's Frog Bog, and Frogs and Flies, both 1982, are unofficial conversions of Frogs, and Frog Feast is a modern day attempt at a "universal" videogame, with homebrew versions for an impressively wide range of classic and newer platforms: http://frogfeast.rastersoft.net/ (it's more a direct "port" of Mattel's game)
1978's Frogs is a stretch as the first platformer - the only real mechanic is the jumping. I'd still say 1981's Space Panic, even without the jumping is definitely the first platformer in the traditionally defined sense. With that said, it's important to mention Frogs for having one of the earliest jumping mechanics. In fact, it would make a nice bonus image for the Super Mario Bros. chapter.
Mattel's Frog Bog, and Frogs and Flies, both 1982, are unofficial conversions of Frogs, and Frog Feast is a modern day attempt at a "universal" videogame, with homebrew versions for an impressively wide range of classic and newer platforms: http://frogfeast.rastersoft.net/ (it's more a direct "port" of Mattel's game)
Books!
Bill Loguidice, Managing Director | Armchair Arcade, Inc.
***************************
Bill Loguidice, Managing Director
Armchair Arcade, Inc.