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TCW Podcast Episode 164 - Fallout
History. History is always changing. Greek historians recorded tales in scrolls, and simple books. Historians of the modern era use interviews, micro-film, and court documents to decipher history. In this episode Alex and Jeffrey look at the Fallout of all that historical work. How they can shape and mold it into the continuing narrative of the video game industry. Fallout almost was not a thing and possibly could not be made today. The game faced many challenges in its creation, but ended up being a very influential work affecting not j...2022-06-151h 42They Create WorldsThe Whole Video Game Industry Part 4TCW Podcast Episode 121 - The Whole Video Game Industry Part 4
In this, our conclusion of the whole video game industry, we start with a look at Xerox Park, and the technologies that came from their endeavors. We see the true formation, merging, and maturation of videogames as an entertainment fixture! This of course is not without the challenges that stand before any new industry, including infighting, a congressional hearing, and espionage! Enjoy our conclusion and look at the whole video game industry!
Livestream Recording Part 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApvgG...2020-09-011h 34They Create WorldsThe Whole Video Game Industry Part 3TCW Podcast Episode 120 - The Whole Video Game Industry Part 3
This is our third part looking at the entire video game industry. We start with looking at the European PC industry, and then transitioning into the Arcade industry. We look at the arcades from both the United States, and Japanese standpoints. We then see the creation of the Famicom, and its debut in the west as the Nintendo Entertainment System. Next episode we will conclude our epic look at the whole industry!
Live Recording Part 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdAC0_F...2020-08-151h 25They Create WorldsThe Whole Video Game Industry Part 2TCW Podcast Episode 119 -The Whole Video Game Industry Part 2
We continue our look at the entire video game industry! In the second part we start looking at the industry leading up to the crash! We continue the story where part 1 left off. We see the evolution of the industry along the three lines of arcade, home console, and PC. We see the pervasive influence of Dungeons and Dragons on the industry. Particularly the PC scene. A lot of crazy, and a lot of fun! Check out the companion video is you want to know how the orig...2020-08-011h 32They Create WorldsThe Whole Video Game Industry Part 1TCW Podcast Episode 118 - The Whole Video Game Industry Part 1
This is part one of our four part series looking at the entire video game industry at a very macro level. We look at the start of computers all the way through to the early video arcades and beyond! We see the evolution of games on PC, the arcade, and the initial forays into the home. We even see a hybrid of sorts with games like Seawolf combining electro-mechanical and video elements. We did a live recording of four episodes, including this one, on June 28th, 2...2020-07-151h 40They Create WorldsWing CommanderTCW Podcast Episode 117 - Wing Commander
We look at one of the great space flight simulators of the 90's! Wing Commander is largely attributed to Chris Roberts. However we find out in this episode the many other people who were instrumental in not just the story, but gameplay of Wing Commander. We can see the true potential of the Siliwood era with the live action cut scenes used in both Wing Commander III and IV. We of course look at the inspirations for Wing Commander, and take a look at the history of the people involv...2020-07-011h 43They Create WorldsThe Atari Games You Are Looking ForTCW Podcast Episode 116 - The Atari Games You Are Looking For
In this episode we continue our tradition of looking at Atari! This time a deep look at Atari Games. We look at the company starting with it's acquisition by Namco. We look at its progression through the 80's and 90's with many notable games. Unfortunately during the Siliwood era Atari was reacquired by Time Warner. After limited success the remnants of the company were sold off to Williams' where the name of Atari was given up in a legal dispute with Hasbro.
TC...2020-06-151h 48They Create WorldsThe Return of the Sdraziw of Sir-TechTCW Podcast Episode 115 - The Return of the Sdraziw of Sir-Tech
Our second part look at Sir-Tech Software! The company continues to struggle with the release of wizardry V, but makes the transition away from the Apple II with the release of Wizardry VI. The Wizardry franchise is a major hit in the Japanese PC space. This leads to Wizardry anime, manga, and Japanese only games. Sir-Tech still continued to struggle to maintain a presence as the US PC industry continued to consolidate. Despite some success bringing foreign software to the states, Sir-Tech closed operations in the...2020-06-011h 22They Create WorldsThe Wizards of Sir-TechTCW Podcast Episode 114 - The Wizards of Sir-Tech
We look at the company Sir-Tech. Known as "the Wizardry company", and founded by Norman Sirotek and Robert Woodhead. The company was originally founded to market Info Tree, a database program. The shift was made into video games starting with the release of Galactic Attack. With the heavy influences of the games on the PLATO system. Andrew Greenberg and Woodhead would meet, and would start collaboration on what would eventually be Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord. One of the best produced games at the time, it was...2020-05-151h 25They Create WorldsPrimordial Computer Game IndustryTCW Podcast Episode 113 - Primordial Computer Game Industry
A big episode looking at two major companies that bridged the gap between the mainframe time sharing age, and the trinity of home computers. We also look at the lead up to those companies with type in listings in books, and magazines. We look at the evolution of early PCs, and the eventual development of video display cards designed to hook up computers to television sets. An almost forgotten era of PC development, pioneering magazines, and games that would have influence on the home PC market yet to c...2020-05-011h 53They Create WorldsAnd Landing on it!TCW Podcast Episode 112 - And Landing on it!
We continue our dive into platforming games. We look at the three main "schools" of thought brought about in the 2-D era. We start with the fast platforming pioneered by Sonic with Crash Bandicoot. The cinematic platformer of Prince of Persia is continued with Tomb Raider. Nintendo, makes its shift into 3-D with Starfox, and the development of the N64. This culminates with the release of Super Mario 64. These early transitions continue to evolve into the modern action platformers of Uncharted, and Super Mario Sunshine.
Ho...2020-04-151h 20They Create WorldsJumping to It!TCW Podcast Episode 111 - Jumping to It!
We leap around to the myriad of games that were influential in the development of platformer genre. Starting with an evolution from Space Invaders into Heiankyo Alien; the concept was thrown onto its side with Space Panic. Further refinement brought in jumping with Donkey Kong. Platformers were not as suited for the arcade scene, and ended up truly finding a place in the home on consoles and computers.
Load Runner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWwyhymcDxI
Space Invaders: https://www.youtube.com/wa...2020-04-011h 17They Create WorldsBooks of HistoryTCW Podcast Episode 110 - Books of History
We look at the many books dealing with video game history. Starting off with books that were primarily strategy guides, and had tidbits of historical interest woven in. As time progressed journalists, and industry insiders started to write books that included more history and even interviews with the people involved. As time moved on more comprehensive books, written by journalists, tried to capture the entire history in a complete narrative. However because of the near complete reliance on oral accounts, limited ability to fact check, and time of the a...2020-03-151h 15They Create WorldsAdventuring with LucasArts Part 2TCW Podcast Episode 109 - Adventuring with LucasArts Part 2
This our second half looking at LucasArts adventure games. We look at a company that for a time could do no wrong! Innovative storytelling, and gameplay with Monkey Island 2, Day of the Tentacle, and Sam & Max hit the Road being prime examples. However due to retail outlets, competition, and the continuing technological advancement of the computer industry; LucasArts was unsuccessful in transitioning into the 3-D space. The commercial flop of Grim Fandango, and Escape from Monkey island was the last attempts at adventure games using 3-D.
2020-03-011h 27They Create WorldsAdventuring with LucasArts Part 1TCW Podcast Episode 108- Adventuring with LucasArts Part 1
We look at LucasFilm games, AKA LucasArts. Not the company as a whole, but their influence on adventure games. Not only were they instrumental in advancing adventure games, they were able to affect the industry as a whole. We look briefly at the formation of the company, and get into some of their early projects. A young contractor, Ron Gilbert, joined the team by helping to convert some early games to the Commodore 64. Gilbert was later the driving force in creating an adventure game that was not full o...2020-02-151h 06They Create WorldsStorytime with a BookTCW Podcast Episode 107 - Storytime with a Book
We read from chapter 18 of "They Create Worlds: The People and Companies that Shaped the Video Game Industry Vol. 1," which discusses the impact of Breakout on Japan. There are some tangents, other story times, and we bring a lot of things discussed over the years into a more complete perspective. We also learn about the mysteries of magnets.
Steve Wozniak's Blue Box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHZnvN_JCas
Breakout & Super Breakout: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5xo-IzERu0
2020-02-011h 14They Create WorldsThe Small Voice of MagnavoxTCW Podcast Episode 106 - The Small Voice of Magnavox
Magnavox continues to strive for survival as an axillary of Philips. While people close to the video game division continue to be optimistic about their offerings; management at Philips was not so. The company continued to be plagued with production shortfalls with new chips, FCC approval problems, and new competition. They were able to make a few games of note developing some interesting ideas on where to take home consoles. Ultimately Magnavox faded into just a brand name for Philips after the video game crash.
2020-01-151h 21They Create WorldsThe Big Voice of MagnavoxTCW Podcast Episode 105 - The Big Voice of Magnavox
We look at the company of Magnavox. Started around the turn of the century getting into electronics with voice amplification, and eventually radios. Magnavox continued with home electronics in televisions and stereo systems. Unfortunately their visionary leader died unexpectedly, and with the rise of non-American television manufacturers put a lot of pressure on the company. With all this pressure Magnavox is bought by Philips in 1974 to expand the Dutch company's holdings in the United States. The video game division continued to fight for survival and relevance as the d...2020-01-011h 15They Create WorldsA Holistic View of ETTCW Podcast Episode 104- A Holistic View of ET
The game that has become so shrouded in myth and legend is brought to light in this holiday episode! We look at how E.T. was thrust upon Atari by Warner in a bid to bring Stephen Spielberg in to makes movies for Warner. With a massive royalty overhead, a short five week production time, and a massive brain drain at Atari Howard Scott Warshaw stepped up to the challenge. He took the ambitious task of programing E.T. for Atari, having done Raiders of the Lost...2019-12-151h 25They Create WorldsElite SystemsTCW Podcast Episode 103 - Elite Systems
We look at one of the British software companies Elite Systems. The company was originally named Richard Wilcox software, and was founded as a collaboration between two brothers with the encouragement of their father. Owing to Richard still being a teenager, had schooling, and could not make programing a full-time career at the time the decision was made to rebrand the company. Steve renamed the company to Elite Systems in 1984, and hired bedroom coders to produce software for the company. The company continued to be one of the industry leader...2019-12-011h 15They Create WorldsStern ElectronicsTCW Podcast Episode 102 - Stern Electronics
We look at the short history of Stern Electronics. A company that has influenced and been influenced by multiple other companies through its people. We cover the paths of many of these people including the founder Gary Stern. During the transition to video games in the late 70's and early 80's Stern was the American arm for Konami bringing over many of their games. With financial difficulties from having to buy out one of the major investors, once they became mired in legal trouble, and the collapse of the video...2019-11-151h 14They Create WorldsInfocomTCW Podcast Episode 101 - Infocom
We look at the short life of Infocom. A company that fell into the videogame sphere. Best known for their text adventure games, including the renowned game Zork. They started off as a company to keep creative minds together from MIT, and brought forth unique developments including using virtualization for video games. Due to lack of innovation, combined with its acquisition by Activision, the failure of their database Cornerstone, and saturating the market with a niche product; the company was closed down in the late 1980's. With a dedicated fan base in text a...2019-11-011h 28They Create WorldsThe 100 Most Influential Games Part 3TCW Podcast Episode 100 - The 100 Most Influential Games Part 3
And at long last, TCW Episode 100! To celebrate our 100th episode, we finish our countdown of the 100 most influential video games of all time. This time, we look at only 20 games, but these are the games we have deemed the absolutely most essential for shaping the video game industry as it exists today. We present these final twenty games in chronological order by original release date. Now that we have made all our picks, what do you think? Let us know on Twitter!
Games...2019-10-151h 30They Create WorldsThe 100 Most Influential Games Part 2TCW Podcast Episode 099 - The 100 Most Influential Games Part 2
And now, forty more games drawn from our list of the 100 most influential games of all time! Presented in no particular order, this list of hits and obscurities provides an overview of video game history through some of the most important milestone titles. This batch of forty games tend to be of more recent vintage, with RPGs, MMOs, Real-Time strategy, and shooters dominating the list.
Games
Rescue Raiders: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8_XsRYTO-0
Herzog...2019-10-011h 30They Create WorldsThe 100 Most Influential Games Part 1TCW Podcast Episode 098 - The 100 Most Influential Games Part 1
In a completely arbitrary order we look at what we feel are the 100 most influential games. Starting off with the first 40 games! These are 100 games that we consider influential or important to the development of the modern industry. Some are popular, some are obscure, some you will wonder why we were crazy enough to pick them, but here they are. This episode covers largely early video games on time-sharing systems, in the arcade, and on early consoles. They are presented in no particular order.
...2019-09-152h 03They Create WorldsRevisions and Updates 2TCW Podcast Episode 097 - Revisions and Updates 2
The podcast is four years old! We celebrate by looking back at past episodes, and revising subjects that Alex has found new information on! There is, of course, more and new information in regards to Atari. We also do some speculation into the origin of Scramble, some commentary on what has been going on at Blizzard Entertainment, and some new information in relation to the origins of Galaxian. We make a note of the earliest known commercial ester egg, some new information on the first Japanese original game creat...2019-09-011h 36They Create WorldsHello Big BlueTCW Podcast Episode 096 - Hello Big Blue
We look at Big Blue and their continuing development of computers in both business, and the home. We see how IBM had to deal with the eye of the government still looking at them for monopolistic practices. Eventually IBM found out they needed to enter the micro-computer market. They spun off a group that had a mandate to get a computer together in a year. However because of this it led to the rise of the PC clones. Compaq, for instance, computers started off with a laptop computer clone o...2019-08-151h 45They Create WorldsHello Little BlueTCW Podcast Episode 095 - Hello Little Blue
A sorted history involving scams, monopolies, and acts of petty revenge predate the company the world would see dominate the computer industry in the 70's and 80's. What started as an umbrella company became, under Tom Watson St's leadership, a tabulating company that grew to prominence in the great depression. Later on his son Tom Watson Jr would lead the company forward in the transition from punch card tabulation machines into computers that IBM would become famous for!
Herman Hollerith Punch Card Machine: https://www...2019-08-011h 31They Create WorldsEpyx not EpicTCW Podcast Episode 094 - Epyx not Epic
This is an epic story about Epyx. But don't confuse it with Epic! We look at the computer game company, and the many bits of software that had influences at the dawn of home computing. Everything from the first RPGs to action games that are remembered fondly, especially in Europe. Not to mention the worldwide appeal of the Games series featuring Olympic events. Sadly the company lost sight of its goals with management changes, and was gone by the early 90's. However employees of Epyx continued to influence the vide...2019-07-151h 26They Create WorldsBooks-B-WareTCW Podcast Episode 093 - Books-B-Ware
We look at what was largely a footnote in video game history. However it is notable as an early attempt at the integration of traditional media and the computer revolution. There are parallels between bookware and the Siliwood era that came after. Many of the games were stifled by the limitations in hardware at the time. Still there are some notable collaborations between programmers and writers that provide an interesting take on what was to come.
The Digital Antiquarian - Bookware: https://www.filfre.net/2013/09/bookware/
...2019-07-011h 24They Create WorldsCiting ApologiesTCW Podcast Episode 092 - Citing Apologies
A filler episode, with some updates on upcoming podcast items, and Alex's first book. Due to Alex trying to meet a deadline for the book we were unable to record until a few days before release. Nothing really historical covered, however a few interesting tidbits in this short episode!
Simpsons "Brownest of the brown liquors": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n39897a9hNk
Nokia Snake Game from the 90's: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9Rk4JQwtL4
Overview of Chic...2019-06-1530 minThey Create WorldsBally: The Road to FitnessTCW Podcast Episode 091 - Bally: The Road to Fitness
In our continuing look at Bally we see the shifting landscape ad they evolve and develop gambling machines. This is not to mean that pinball was neglected. Bally, with an eye to innovation and technology, introduced some of the first sold state pinball machines! They were also, through some luck, brought in with licensing deals with The Who, and Elton John. This led to some of the most popular pinball machines in the post WWII era. We did have to see the departure of Bill O'Donnell from Ba...2019-06-011h 43They Create WorldsLion and Bally Manufacturing
TCW Podcast Episode 090 - Lion and Bally Manufacturing
What will they do in '32? Ballyhoo! We examine the origins of the Bally Manufacturing Company, makers of pinball and slot machines and operators of fitness centers. While Bally rarely ever created video games under its own name, the company was a domineering force in the coin-operated amusement and gambling spaces and through its subsidiaries nurtured a diverse array of talent that introduced many video game innovations. In this first part, we chart the early years of the company from its start as a printing company subsidiary t...2019-05-151h 18They Create WorldsThe Dawn of Computers and GamingTCW Podcast Episode 089 - The Dawn of Computers and Gaming
We look at the dawn of computers. Not just people; but analog, electronic, and digital computers! We look at how the early games on the computer were not so much games as demonstration programs or simple AI to play games like tic-tac-toe, NIM, checkers, and, of course, chess. We look at how the work done during WWII around RADAR played a role in how both computers and computer games developed. Next we look at some of the fear in the popular psyche of computers and AI as...2019-05-011h 30They Create WorldsGotta Go Fast!TCW Podcast Episode 088 - Gotta Go Fast!
Since we covered Mario a few episodes ago, it is only fair that we cover his great rival, not Bowser, but Sonic! We go at not quite sonic speed over the creation of the character and franchise. Sonic's interesting inception was brought about through a character submission process. Sonic is the melding of a rabbit, a character called "Mr. Needlemouse," and Michael Jackson! Yes, this is true. Look there is a music video referenced below. Though Sonic suffered from rapid over exposure he is still beloved by many fans. ...2019-04-151h 21They Create WorldsVirtual HistoryTCW Podcast Episode 087 - Virtual History
And now we discuss at the technology that has been just a few months away from revolutionizing video games for the past thirty years, virtual reality. While a hot topic again due to the emergence of the Occulus Rift and the PS4 VR, virtual reality has been a Holy Grail of computer graphics research since the early 1960s. We examine the origins of VR at the University of Utah and its refinement at Atari and VPL Labs before looking at several attempts to bring VR into the mainstream in t...2019-04-011h 36They Create WorldsItsa Me Marioooo!TCW Podcast Episode 086 - Itsa Me Marioooo!
Itsa the most iconic character in video game history: Mario. We explore the origins of Mario and examine how his entire design was born of necessity. We discuss how the character evolved through the Donkey Kong series and Mario Bros. before taking a deep dive into the design of Super Mario Bros. Then it’s a quick tour through the rest of Mario's NES and SNES adventures, setting the stage for his transition into 3D worlds.
Nintendo Radar Scope: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kb...2019-03-151h 43They Create WorldsComputer Game BASICsTCW Podcast Episode 085 - Computer Game BASICs
Now that we have explained how timesharing works, it's time to discuss games! In the 1960s, students and professional programmers alike created computer games that were played by dozens, if not hundreds of their peers on timeshared computers. In the early 1970s, some of these programs began to spread across the country thanks to the efforts of early pioneers in computer book and magazine publishing like Bob Albrecht and David Ahl. By the time the first microcomputers appeared in the late 1970s, these games were so widespread that t...2019-03-011h 33They Create WorldsTime SharedTCW Podcast Episode 084 - Time Shared
We lay the groundwork of computer development that led to some of the earliest influential games that would shape the industry. We cover how computers were one-program-at-a-time systems, and it was only through experimentation that were computers developed that could handle multiple inputs at once. We see how Sputnik scared the USA into spending a lot more in the sciences in order to keep up with Russian space development, which benefited computer-based education initiatives. We finish up looking at the proliferation of computers with remote terminals in universities, high scho...2019-02-151h 14They Create WorldsThe Silliwood Era now in FMV!TCW Podcast Episode 083 - The Silliwood Era now in FMV!
Now that we have set the stage, it's time for glorious FMV! We examine the critical games released in 1993 that began the interactive movie craze and attracted serious attention from the media companies just beginning to establish "interactive divisions." We analyze how both media companies and existing video game companies approached using FMV in their products and conclude by discussing how the sudden entrance and exit of the media companies transformed the industry going forward.
Micky Mousecapade NES: https://www.youtube.com...2019-02-011h 36They Create WorldsAn Unlikely Pairing of SiliwoodTCW Podcast Episode 082 - An Unlikely Pairing of Siliwood
We take a look at the circumstances and leadup to what become known as the Siliwood Era. We discuss how changing technology and an increased focus by certain video game companies on emulating blockbuster movies attracted the attention of the major media companies and set the stage for an unlikely alliance of Hollywood and Silicon Valley. This pairing led to the interactive movie fad and also led to changes in retail that would alter the course of the video game industry forever.
TCW...2019-01-151h 23They Create WorldsThe Meeting of SpacewarTCW Podcast Episode 081 - The Meeting of Spacewar
We go over the history of Spacewar, and the event at the Smithsonian. We take a close look at the people involved in bringing Spacewar into existence. We also look at some of the systems that were the predecessors to the PDP-1 that was used for Spacewar. We also discuss why games were used to demonstrate the capabilities of computers. In short an interesting look at one of the first video games.
TX-0 Mouse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0QTTYJv0Yw
P...2019-01-011h 21They Create WorldsVector LightsTCW Podcast Episode 080 - Vector Lights
We look at the arcade industry and the circumstances that led to the use of vector monitors in arcade games. While not as well remembered today, and with fewer systems still around, vector played an important role in the development of video games. Vector provided the detail and capabilities that were not yet available in traditional raster-based systems. However in due time Raster met, and then exceeded, the capabilities of vector systems, and with the lower cost of maintenance for raster vector has faded into history.
Slo...2018-12-151h 37They Create WorldsThe Six Children of EATCW Podcast Episode 079 - The Six Children of EA
We take a closer look at the six launch titles from EA. We cover each in more detail going into the background of the creators, as well as the development of each game. We take a look at how the games were received both commercially, and historically. Today Archon, Pinball Construction Set, and M.U.L.E. are the games that are best remembered from the initial six titles. Worms, Axis Assassin, and Hard Hat Mack are not well remembered today.
TCW 006 - The...2018-12-011h 22They Create WorldsInvading Taito Part 2TCW Podcast Episode 078 - Invading Taito Part 2
We go into part two of Taito. We start off looking at Space Invaders which is arguably the highest point of success and fame for the company. The company continued on with many notable hits in the following years. They continued to survive despite not having a succession plan with the death of Michael Kogan. The company was hurt by their delay in transitioning to 3d, and a lack of direction in regards to the home market. Taito still lives today as a wholly owned subsidiary of Square-Enix.
...2018-11-151h 23They Create WorldsInvading Taito Part 1TCW Podcast Episode 077 - Invading Taito Part 1
We look back at the history of the company Taito. Started by a Russian who through unique circumstances in World War II managed to grow up, and become educated in Japanese society. The name Taito means "Far East", and the company went through three iterations before it became the icon we know it today. We wrap up part one just before the release of the iconic Space Invaders in 1978.
Pachi-Slot in Japan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5LIgutUeig
Sky Fighter 2: https://www.youtube.com/wat...2018-11-011h 18They Create WorldsA Fairchild StoryTCW Podcast Episode 076 - A Fairchild Story
We cover the history of the Fairchild company and their console the Fairchild Channel F. It is a fascinating journey of how a company was thrust into a role where they could get in on the ground floor of the new video game industry. Although through bad experiences in other industries, an epic struggle to ger FCC approval, and observations on the turmoil of the video game industry, Fairchild was defeated. Fairchild's exit from the scene was not so much the initial hurdles they faced, but their lack of will to...2018-10-151h 22They Create WorldsGunning For LightTCW Podcast Episode 075 - Gunning for Light
We look at how shooting peripherals entered the gaming scene. We start with their introduction in arcades, and move all the way up to today. We see the technology change, and how different applications were applied to get interesting effects. With the height of light guns in the 80's and 90's, and their decline in the 2000's, light guns are only seen in the few remaining arcade and fun centers still in operation. In the home they really say their popularity in the 8-bit and to a lesser exten...2018-10-011h 23They Create WorldsThe Japanese PC IndustryTCW Podcast Episode 074 - The Japanese PC Industry
We cover the Japanese PC industry from the initial pioneers up to the mid 1980's. The early innovators on the PC, while never having many international successes, laid the groundwork for games that would later be seen on the Famicom, and other platforms. It is further interesting to note the people who got their start in the video game industry through computer clubs in college, and by programing at department stores. With the computer industry coming from two sides, hobbyist and professional, they merged together to create an interesting tak...2018-09-151h 13They Create WorldsAdventuring in the ArcadeTCW Podcast Episode 073 - Adventuring in the Arcade
We look at the British PC Software market, specifically the Arcade Adventure genre. With the popularity of the ZX Spectrum as a home computer, and its hardware limitations lent itself to the development of the Arcade Adventure. With multiple influences the Arcade Adventure enjoyed side scrolling, top down, and isometric gameplay. We also see the start of the career of Tim and Chris Stamper with Sabre Wulf, Knight Lore, and Alien 8. We end looking at the panicle games of the genre with Dizzy, and Head over Heels. Unfort...2018-09-011h 10They Create WorldsThe MYSTeries of Brøderbund!TCW Podcast Episode 072 - The MYSTeries of Brøderbund!
We cover the later years of Brøderbund looking at their "evergreen" products. Print Shop being the first one to really put them on the map. We then look at the series of successes, and challenges that the company faced throughout the 80's and 90's. We then see how the meteoric success of MYST ultimately dead to the downfall of Brøderbund in 1998. Still Brøderbund was a fascinating company which was willing to take risks on some of the influential games, and software that built the PC in...2018-08-151h 41They Create WorldsA Story of Brøderbund!TCW Podcast Episode 071 -A Story of Brøderbund!
We cover the founding of Brøderbund by the Carlston brothers. We delve into their initial forays into the PC game market. The used a unique business model that supported developers, and creators, but did not bring them on as employees. However they did retain staff to assist in polishing up games that showed potential. Brøderbund even started exploring consoles with a few of their games until they decided to transition to evergreen products.
Galactic Trader: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waxrpG-19jM
Alie...2018-08-011h 22They Create WorldsSega VS Nintendo Round 3TCW Podcast Episode 070 - Sega VS Nintendo Round 3
The fight heats up with the 16 bit era in the United States. Sega being first to market was able to take control, and dominate the market for a few years. However this short lived victory was bought at a price. With the low margins on consoles Sega was unable to sustain the growth once things started to change in Europe. Nintendo meanwhile was always able to turn a tidy profit even without a controlling market share. Nintendo's control of the handheld market, Japan, and the 8-bit consoles allowed them to ha...2018-07-151h 46They Create WorldsSega VS Nintendo Round 2TCW Podcast Episode 069 - Sega VS Nintendo Round 2
We cover Nintendo and Sega entering the US Market with their 8-bit consoles. With the early release, marketing, and connections Nintendo dominated the market. Sega tried to break in with a technologically superior system, but due to lack of third party software, due to Nintendo's exclusivity contracts, they were unable to make a significant impact. Briefly partnering with Tonka, of Tonka trucks, they tried to get a larger penetration onto store shelves. However Tonka overextending themselves, and were unable to properly market the Sega Master System like both companies hopp...2018-07-011h 15They Create WorldsSega VS Nintendo Round 1TCW Podcast Episode 068 - Sega VS Nintendo Round 1
Recorded live in front of fans on YouTube Live! Alex and Jeffrey start the dive into the Sega VS Nintendo rivalry. We lay the groundwork of how Sega came to enter the console market in Japan. We see the first clash with Nintendo, and the reasons that Nintendo won the first round cementing their hold on Japan in a way that would not be broken until the PlayStation era. Sega was able to convert their home computer hardware into a console, and was only able to get the sales numb...2018-06-151h 33They Create WorldsThe Birth of the Japanese ConsolesTCW Podcast Episode 067 - The Birth of Japanese Consoles
We cover the start of Japanese home consoles beginning with the early dedicated systems and working up to the development of the Famicom and the Sega SC-3000. Japan differed from the US in that companies had the opportunity to sell consoles that bridged the gap from dedicated consoles to programable consoles with LSI-cartridge-based consoles. Epoch was the only company that stuck with home consoles during this era. Always remember the Famicom is not the first Nintendo console!
Before Mario Blog: http://blog.beforemario.com/
...2018-06-011h 08They Create WorldsHalf of a LifeTCW Podcast Episode 066 - Half of a Life
We cover the founding of Valve and the development processes that led to Half-Life 1 & 2. Originally made using the Quake II engine, Half-Life was an ambitious project that ran into the same kind of hurdles other companies have experienced. Valve was able to take the needed time to create a truly outstanding product. This was due in no small measure to the founders being Microsoft millionaires. Even today, the sophistication in technology, storytelling, and level design in Half-Life 2 made possible through the development of the Source engine is something that othe...2018-05-151h 26They Create WorldsThe Rise and Fall of Infogrames Part 2TCW Podcast Episode 065 - The Rise and Fall of Infogrames Part 2
We go into the mass consolidation that sprung Infogrames into an international powerhouse. It was due to these quick consolidations that led them to have a high value on the stock market. When the tech bubble burst in the early 2000's the stock value plummeted, and Infrogrames was unable to service the massive debt consolidation has built up. This eventually led to the outer of Bruno Bonnell from Infrogrames. We go over the parade of leadership as the company collapses and sheds all the assets that they...2018-05-011h 14They Create WorldsRise and Fall of Infogrames Part 1TCW Podcast Episode 064 - Rise and Fall of Infogrames Part 1
The rise and fall of a French company founded by Bruno Bonnell. We cover the rocky start of the company and the games that helped them gain notoriety. Through some chance connections through family and fellow employees Infogrames was able to skyrocket onto the international stage with their game Alone in the Dark.
Captain Blood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=od3jvPPugGc
Sim City: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A54blk-ojA4
Tintin on the Moon: https://www.yout...2018-04-1556 minThey Create WorldsLawsuits for NintendoTCW Podcast Episode 063 - Lawsuits for Nintendo
We delve into the legal hurdles that Nintendo faced during its rise to power in the '80s and '90s. We see how they were able with the guidance of Howard Lincoln to weather the first of many lawsuits, and triumph! In their long history they have used the court systems in the United States to their advantage; even wining a case almost everyone thought that they would lose.
Japanese-English Marketing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZ-dBHCHo3E
Zelda CDI Games: https://www...2018-04-011h 14They Create WorldsLawsuits for Everyone!TCW Podcast Episode 062 - Lawsuits for Everyone!
Thanks @MyMac for suggesting this topic! We delve into some of the landmark court cases that helped shape the video game industry. Specifically we looked at the sphere of copyright law. Starting with looking at what constitutes an infringement. How similar can two works be, and where is the line if you modify the game. We wrap up looking at the Game Genie, and how they managed to stay in business because they did not make permeant changes to the games that were modified.
Article linked by @MyM...2018-03-151h 16They Create WorldsWhere in the Game is Carmen Sandiego?TCW Podcast Episode 061 - Where in the Game is Carmen Sandiego?
We go into the development, creation, and surprise smash hit that is the Carmen Sandiego franchise. Starting off as a video game that flopped at launch; it grew into one of the biggest things of the mid 80's through to the 90's spanning not just video games, but also a game show, a cartoon, and other entertainment media.
Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? Apple II: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEB9M_1XOP0
Where in the...2018-03-011h 03They Create WorldsWilliams' Crazy Story Pt 2TCW Podcast Episode 060 - Williams' Crazy Story Pt 2
Part two of our look at Williams' story of how a pinball company grew through a combination of mergers and hit products to become one of the dominate players in the industry during the early to mid-90's. They had many successes in the arcade utilizing the digitization technology that they helped pioneer. Not only were they successful in the video game sphere; they were also successful in the pinball arena as well. Unfortunately, by the end of the 90s the company's video and pinball divisions were spun off or...2018-02-151h 11They Create WorldsWilliams' Crazy Story Pt 1TCW Podcast Episode 059 - Williams' Crazy Story
Part one of a look at the history of Williams Manufacturing Company. Starting with Harry Williams' monumental contributions to the pinball industry with the creation of the tilt mechanism and later on adding electromechanical elements to the machines. We cover the sordid history of the company as it changes hands multiple times, and the pinball/video games that made them a valuable asset to be traded around. We continue with looking at the designers responsible for some of the major hits Williams had in both pinball and video. Finally we note...2018-02-011h 33They Create WorldsEA Sports: It's in the Game!TCW Podcast Episode 058 - EA Sports: It's in the Game!
We revisit EA with a deep dive into EA Sports. Some information that was in our EA: The Teenage Years episode, but with more detail! We start off with some of the early ventures into sports, and how EA evolved into the sports juggernaut it is today. We cover the origins of the EA sports brand, how hats were a deciding factor in getting the name to be accepted by other developers, and how a trademark dispute with ESPN led to the mass market appeal of Madden Foo...2018-01-151h 41They Create WorldsFoundation of the Japanese Video Arcade Game IndustryTCW Podcast Episode 057 - Foundation of the Japanese Video Arcade Game Industry
We go over the games, companies, and events that lead to the foundation of the Japanese Video Arcade Game Industry. We extensively cover breakout, and how the cloning of that game lead to the start of many companies that would come to power during the 90's. With Space Invaders, we see a full blown encouragement of smaller manufactures to make enough games to meet demand. Finally with Galaxian, and Head On we see the introduction of sprite technology that allows each of these smaller companies to...2018-01-011h 08They Create WorldsRevisions and UpdatesTCW Podcast Episode 056 - Revisions and Updates
We go over our past episodes and provide updates, if we have any, on each one. There are a lot of little tidbits, and expansion on a variety of topics. Some of the big ones are Namco, the Nutting Associates, and James Morgan. Happy Holidays everyone!
Episode 1 "All I can do is ask why?": 0:02:54
Episode 2 "You talked to whom?": 0:07:07
Episode 3 "What makes and Industry?": 0:12:49
Episode 4 "A Tale of Cycles": 0:13:54
Episode 5 "The Untold History of Sega": 0:20:03
Episode 6 "The Early His...2017-12-151h 46They Create WorldsBlizzard: Hellfire and The World… Of WarCraftTCW Podcast Episode 055 - Blizzard: Hellfire and The World… of WarCraft
Part two of our look into Blizzard Entertainment. We start in the late 90's with the finishing of Diablo, and the development of StarCraft. We see the evolution and cross influences of the Blizzard cinematics department on the course of Diablo. This is also the same time we learn of how Blizzard is not afraid to kill an essentially finished game if it is not up to their standards, Lord of the Clans, and StarCraft: Ghost being the more famous examples of this. We see how Blizzar...2017-12-011h 39They Create WorldsBlizzard: Vikings and WarCraftTCW Podcast Episode 054 - Blizzard: Vikings and WarCraft
Part one of our dive into one of the most influential computer game companies in existence. We cover the founding of Blizzard, which started as Silicon and Synapse, with their start by being independent contractors for PC and console. With the company wanting to transition into being full developers, they accepted an offer to be acquired by Davidson and Associates. Blizzard's first big hit was WarCraft: Orcs and Humans. The first game saw the start of the Blizzard cinematics department, and the voice studio. With Warcraft II: Tides of Darkn...2017-11-151h 16They Create WorldsThe History and Merger of Enix and SquareTCW Podcast Episode 053 - The History and Merger of Enix and Square
We cover the individual histories of the companies Enix and Square. Everything from early projects to influences that helped shape them into the companies they would become. We delve into the dream teams for each company that created their seminal hits, Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy. We cover how they each had problems getting market penetration in the West until Square was able to with the release of Final Fantasy VII. We cover the massive financial disaster that was Final Fantasy The Spirits Within and how...2017-11-011h 44They Create WorldsThe Many Faces of KonamiTCW Podcast Episode 052 - The Many Faces of Konami
We go over the whole history of Konami at the macro level. The origin, founding, and the initial setup that continues to influence the company to the present day. Though much of the history is shrouded behind a language barrier, or simply lost, there is still plenty of information out there. We cover the hits they had in the video game arena, and show how they are in the middle of another transition to mobile.
Konami Logo: https://vignette4.wikia.nocookie.net/logopedia/images/7/70/Old-Konami-Logo.jpg
...2017-10-151h 41They Create WorldsSons of PongTCW Podcast Episode 051 - Sons of Pong
Starting off with a discussion of the unique setting of the time leading into Pong's debut, we transition over to the various companies that created clones of Pong, and their reasons for doing so. We discover that the company that created the most Pong-style games was not Atari, nor one of the big Chicago companies, but a company based in Florida called Allied Leisure. We then cover the various innovations that occurred to try to keep the fad market alive as long as possible ending with a stop at Big Je...2017-10-011h 34They Create WorldsCivilizing Sid MeierTCW Podcast Episode 050 - Civilizing Sid Meier
We go over Sid's transition into the video game industry. Starting with meeting "Wild Bill" and their break out game HellCat Ace, and the iterations that lead to F-15 Strike Eagle that cemented MicroProse as a company. We cover the how/why of Sid Meier's name being on the boxes particularly for the simulation and 4X games. We wrap it all up with the seminal piece Sid Meier's Civilization, the industry changing concepts it brought to the table, and Sid's leaving to form Firaxis where he works today!
Inte...2017-09-151h 28They Create WorldsOld and EliteTCW Podcast Episode 049 - Old and Elite
We go over a classic from Great Britain! Elite is unique in the ambition and execution of creating a massive open world space, complete with a 3d perspective, on such limited hardware. The game has influenced a variety of others most notably Grand Theft Auto.
Demo of Elite on a BBC B: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owz7XExO-Wk
Elite Comparison of BBC B VS Zx Spectrum: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov4OAteeGWs
Elite Gameplay Starting Out: https://www.youtube.com/watc...2017-09-011h 16They Create WorldsDriving Games and TechnologyTCW Podcast Episode 048 - Driving Games and Technology
We go over the wild ride of driving games. These games were used as a vehicle to demonstrate advances in graphics technology. Starting with electro-mechanical games, and ending up with textured polygons; we cover the whole track of an era where cars were king! There are a lot of examples in this episode drawn from the arcade, consoles, and computer games.
Drive Mobile: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aw_N10xuv2Q
Speedway: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97DAio1M1xc
Sup...2017-08-151h 31They Create WorldsVestiges of AtariTCW Podcast Episode 047 - Vestiges of Atari
In our fourth and final episode investigating the rise and fall of the original Atari we delve into the factors that caused the fall of Atari. We cover the lead up to and tipping point of the variety of factors that lead to the crash. No one entity can take the blame for it. The major factors including distribution, overzealous sales forecasts, and Warner interference came to a head by the end of 1982 leading to the fracturing of the company a year and a half later.
P...2017-08-011h 48They Create WorldsAtari, Ray Kassar and Warner TCW Podcast Episode 046 - Atari, Ray Kassar and Warner
We continue on to part three of our four part look into Atari. We delve into Atari under the leadership of Ray Kassar. It becomes apparent that while Ray did make mistakes the leadup to the fall of Atari cannot be entirely placed at his feet. We also explore the role of Warner in the direction Atari took and the difficult decision on whether to concentrate on home console or PC. We also delve into the Arcade side of things and how, while successful, they were not wi...2017-07-151h 46They Create WorldsAtari, Ventures and AcquisitionsTCW Podcast Episode 045 - Atari, Ventures and Acquisitions
In our second of four episodes detailing the rise and fall of the core Atari company we go over the rapid expansion of the company, and its ever increasing need for capital. Atari had to court venture capital, and got the patronage of Don Valentine. Later on to secure the funding needed for the VCS launch they had to be acquired by a larger company; that company was Warner Communications. This acquisition as we start to explore was a blessing and a curse. It ultimately led to the o...2017-07-011h 23They Create WorldsFounding, Syzygy to AtariTCW Podcast Episode 044 - Founding, Syzygy to Atari
Part one of our four-part dive into Syzygy/Atari! We cover the personal histories of the founders, and how the company would not really be a company without the efforts of Nolan Bushnell. We go into the controversy of where he learned of Spacewar. Then off to the debut hit for Atari of PONG. We cover the rocky road Atari had after its initial launch, and how it nearly could have just been a flash in the pan like many companies that came after.
The...2017-06-151h 49They Create WorldsPersonal Gaming HistoriesTCW Podcast Episode 043 - Personal Gaming Histories
We go over some of our early memories of being introduced to video games. Joys, tragedies, and hilarity. Very much in the vein of what inspired us to start doing this podcast. This is a light hearted episode that may help you to reflect on favorite memories from your past. So stay a while and listen as we reminisce!
Gray and Orange Zapper: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQnYsEKzJKw
Necromancer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hg-XP-4LbVo
Archon: https...2017-06-011h 25They Create WorldsLaser CrazeTCW Podcast Episode 042 - Laser Craze
We cover the brief, yearlong, craze that was the laserdisc. We go into great detail on Dragon's Lair the game that really kicked it off in the United States. Though many other companies tried to take advantage of the medium, unfortunately it was unable to sustain itself. There were a few games that did as well, if not better than Dragon's Lair, they all ended up being part of what was just a brief fad in the downward trend of the arcade scene.
Quarter Horse: https...2017-05-151h 13They Create WorldsBeating Them All UpTCW Podcast Episode 41 - Beating Them All Up
We delve into beat 'em ups, and fighters. We cover why they did not take hold until computer technology progressed far enough to allow for human analogs to be animated well. We go into the beat 'em up craze, and then the transition to fighting games that occurred with the release of Street Fighter II. We touch on the fall of fighting games from the mainstream with Tekken and Soul Calibur. The scene is still out there, and has a dedicated following. However fighters are not the system...2017-05-011h 33They Create WorldsSierra On-LineTCW Podcast Episode 40 - Sierra On-Line
We delve into the second half of the story of Sierra. We cover how they managed to regroup, and rebuild from the company being close to a complete collapse. We cover many of the classics of the era. Even though many of them are not as fondly remembered today; they are still important for pushing gaming on the PC to new and impressive heights. Unfortunately we also cover how Sierra was torn apart after its acquisition, and Ken Williams leaving the company shortly thereafter in the late 90's and early 2000's.
2017-04-151h 19They Create WorldsOn-Line SystemsTCW Podcast Episode 039 - On-Line Systems
On-Line systems is the company that eventually becomes Sierra Online. The brainchild of Ken and Roberta Williams. We go over the reasons for the company's founding, and the unique makeup of the company's initial titles. Unfortunately due to backing the proverbial wrong horse multiple times after investment by a venture capital firm they are on the brink of failure during the mid to late 80's.
Shadow of Yserbius: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnJ7BBwKZI0&t=762s
PDP8E Running Adventu...2017-04-011h 13They Create WorldsOrigin StoryTCW Podcast Episode 038 - Origin Story
We cover the rise and fall of Origin Systems. A company that is very much defined by one of its founders Richard Garriott. We cover the company's pre-founding as Richard tried to get his games published, and distributed to the public. We then delve into its founding and growth into one of the great influencers of the video game industry. Ultimately ending up with the company's dissolution by EA in 2004, we see what factors led up to how we see Origin, and EA today.
Escape: https...2017-03-151h 29They Create WorldsNintendo and Gunpei YokoiTCW Podcast Episode 037 - Nintendo and Gunpei Yokoi
We go over the career of Gumpei Yokoi. From his falling into a job at Nintendo until his untimely death. We cover his contributions to Nintendo, and the game industry, and set the record straight on what he did, and did not have influence on. In the end his true legacy is the talent he mentored, philosophy, and vision that still influences Nintendo to this day.
Game and Watch Collection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HZiBtXwyHM
Radar Scope: https...2017-03-011h 16They Create WorldsRaiding EidosTCW Podcast Episode 036 - Raiding Eidos
We go over the rise and fall of Eidos. A company that rose high on the huge success of Tomb Raider, and due to a number of factors ended up being in such dire straits they were ultimately purchased by SquareEnix.
C64 Rick Dangerous: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwBIDlcMU5Y
Sega CD/Mega CD Thunderhawk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPS6ObO7ZdM
Tomb Raider Sega Saturn VS PlayStation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Zz...2017-02-151h 23They Create WorldsEA The Teenage YearsTCW Podcast Episode 035 - EA The Teenage Years
We go over the transition of EA from a small idealistic company where programmers are rock stars; to the start of the company becoming the large enterprise it is today. We cover Trip Hawkins later years at the helm of EA and the rising businessman Larry Probst who would later succeed him as president and CEO in the early 90's. We go over the founding of EA Sports one of the most recognizable franchises in videogame history.
C64 one on one Dr. J VS L...2017-02-011h 51They Create WorldsThe Nutting AssociatesTCW Podcast Episode 034 -The Nutting Associates
We go into the murky history of Nutting Associates. This company's founding, and a large part of its history is still unclear due to the lack of proper documentation along with contradictory evidence and testimony. We look at how Nutting is more than just Computer Space, and by association Nolan Bushnell. Though Nutting Associates did not survive past the 70's it still had some influence in the arcade industry and paved the way for advancements that came later on.
IQ Computer: https://www.youtube.com/watch...2017-01-151h 19They Create WorldsThe Saga of SegaTCW Podcast Episode 033 - The Saga of Sega
A brief Namco Update, and then we delve into Sega. We covered them before in episode 5, this time we go into detail of the company's middle and later years. We cover how Sega changed hands from an American to Japanese company, and look at some of the products they produced during this era.
Wild Gunman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzxcsaIxaZg
Electro Dart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7EgQ0b8Q-Y
Blockade: https...2017-01-011h 30They Create WorldsThe History of the Atari BrandTCW Podcast Episode 032 - History of the Atari Brand
We go over the history of the Atari brand. We go from its inception all the way to modern times with the only Atari name being owned by a company in France. The brand changes many hands throughout the years. The initial name split occurring under Warner Communications. The Atari name has a bit of an allure and curse. Many companies see the value in the properties, but almost every company that buys the properties enters into financial troubles.
The Atari History Timelin...2016-12-151h 34They Create WorldsAn Epic GameTCW Podcast Episode 031 - An Epic Game
We cover the history of EPIC as one of the few remaining independent developers left. They are most known for the creation of the Unreal Engine, and Gears of War. They have an interesting history of having a distributed business that includes developers from around the world. Love the unreal engine or hate it. Epic's influence on middleware, and the game industry continues to this day.
ZZT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pccbymHpZnU
Kingdom of Kroz: https://www.youtube.com/wat...2016-12-011h 11They Create WorldsDOOM!TCW Podcast Episode 030 - DOOM
We discuss ID Software, and the lasting effects of the company on the video game industry, and society as a whole. We delve into the ramifications of the tech industry in general, and coders specifically with perpetual crunch time. We go into a lot of different subjects tangential to the ID story. Ultimately realizing the lasting effect a group of guys taking advantage of potentially one of the last times an independent developer could make it alone in the AAA space.
Catacomb 3D: https://www.youtube.com...2016-11-151h 29They Create Worlds50 Years of Namco
TCW
Podcast Episode 029 - 50 Years of Namco
We delve
in the fifty year history of Namco.
Starting with its cloudy beginnings all the way to its acquisition by
Ban-Dai. Namco is responsible for many
classics including Pac-Man, Galaga, and a slew of racing games. Though they did not always have a visible
presence in the US Arcade scene, they still had a presence in the arcade and
console arenas.
Periscope
Namco: https://twitter.com/onionsoftware/status/604651887128805377
Periscope Sega: http://segaretro.org/File:Periscope_EM_US_Flyer_2.pdf?page=2...2016-11-011h 29They Create WorldsPicking up the Pieces: The US Arcade Industry After the Crash
TCW Podcast Episode 028 - Picking up the Pieces: The US
Arcade Industry After the Crash
We go
over the arcade industry after the crash.
It has a surge in popularity with kits breathing new life into old
cabinets. The JAMMA system standardization allowed for video arcade cabinets to
penetrate into many locations. These two
things along with other technologies allowed arcades to thrive until home
consoles surpassed them in nearly every respect.
Mr. Do: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKnWXn02Tpw
Punch Out Arcade: https://www.youtu...2016-10-151h 24They Create WorldsThe Magnavox Patent Lawsuits
TCWPodcast Episode 027 - Magnavox Patent Lawsuits
We coverthe lawsuits levied by Magnavox against other companies for patentinfringement. There were three majorcases expanding the scope of the patent over its seventeen year lifespan. The fascinating aspect of the lawsuits is howmany people thought they could challenge it and win. However all of the lawsuits resolved inMagnavox's favor. Even Nintendo had topay royalties and license fees.
Ralph Baer on hispatents: http://www.ipmall.info/sites/default/files/hosted_resources/Activision_Readings/VIDEOGAME_HISTORY_Aittlematter_record_keeping.pdf
Early games in court...2016-10-011h 28They Create WorldsThe Magnavox Odyssey
TCW
Podcast Episode 026 The Magnavox Odyssey
We delve
into the Magnavox Odyssey the first home console video game system created by
Ralph Bear.
Alex's Blog Post: https://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com/2015/11/16/1tl200-a-magnavox-odyssey/
Ralph Bear's
Website: http://www.ralphbaer.com/
Magnavox Odyssey
Manuals: https://archive.org/details/magnavoxodysseymanuals
Elliott Avedon
Virtual Museum of Games - Odyssey Home Entertainment System: http://gamesmuseum.uwaterloo.ca/VirtualExhibits/electronic/console/odyssey/index.html
Magavox Odyssey on
'What's my line?': https...2016-09-151h 27They Create WorldsMattel Electronics?
TCW Podcast Episode 025 - Mattel Electronics?
We go into the mysteries of Mattel's venture into the videogame industry. We cover its inception and development into a very advanced system that was hampered by lack of big arcade titles. Ultimately failing and nearly taking Mattel with it in the great video game crash the that worked there people went on to spread their influenced throughout the video game industry.
Gendered Marketing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JDmb_f3E2c
Matel LED Auto Race: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIc3AFRlewY
Matel LED Football: https://www...2016-09-011h 26They Create WorldsThe Project and Others in the Field
TCW
Podcast Episode 024 - The Project and Others in the Field
We cover
the developments in Alex's work, and others doing research into video game
history. We delve into history in general and question how accurate can it
really be? Even though the work done now will be superseded by work done in the
future it is still valuable, and we are in a unique time of being able to
record historical figures give accounts in their own words.
Ethan AKA George Henson : http://bit.ly/2aLUMGk
The...2016-08-151h 06They Create WorldsThe Complete Tetris Story
TCW
Podcast Episode 023 - The Complete Tetris Story
We tell
the complete story of Tetris! Created by a computer scientist in Russia by the
name of Alexey Pajitnov. We go over the twists and turns of licensing and
comedy of errors that was brining Tetris to the market.
Tetris God - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Alw5hs0chj0
Atari Tetris Arcade - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emy1D4P0XPo
Tengen Tetris - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLTj...2016-08-011h 26