The world of video games is vast and complex, with a rich history that spans decades. From the early days of Pong to the immersive experiences of today’s virtual reality games, the industry has come a long way. But beyond the surface-level excitement of new releases and console wars, there are countless fascinating facts that reveal the intricacies of this beloved hobby. In this post, we’ll delve into the hidden world of video games and uncover 10 surprising facts that will delight both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.
1. The First Video Game Was Created by a Physicist
In 1947, physicist William Higinbotham created a simple tennis-like game called “Tennis for Two” to entertain visitors at the Brookhaven National Laboratory. This pioneering achievement marked the beginning of the video game industry, and Higinbotham’s innovative spirit paved the way for the development of more complex and engaging games.
2. The World’s Best-Selling Video Game of All Time is a Chinese Game
Majesty, a medieval-themed strategy game released in 2000 by Shanda Interactive, has sold over 7 million copies worldwide, making it the best-selling video game of all time. Despite its modest success in the West, the game’s popularity in China propelled it to the top of the global sales chart.
3. The Original Super Mario Bros. Game Was Meant to Be a Failure
When the original Super Mario Bros. game was released in 1985, it was intended to be a failed experiment. Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto had created the game as a way to test the capabilities of the NES console, but it ended up becoming one of the most iconic and influential games in history.
4. The Concept of Health Bars Originated in Space Invaders
In 1978, the creators of Space Invaders, Tomohiro Nishikado and Toshihiro Nishikado, introduced the concept of health bars to track the player’s lives. This innovative mechanic has since become a standard feature in countless games, providing players with a tangible representation of their progress.
5. The Legend of Zelda’s Original Map Was Hand-Drawn on a Piece of Paper
Akira Toriyama, the creator of the Legend of Zelda series, drew the original map for the first game on a piece of paper. The map’s intricate design and hidden secrets have become an integral part of the series’ charm, inspiring countless fans to explore and discover new paths.
6. The First Ever VR Game Was Created in 1962
Morton Heilig, an American inventor, created “Sensorama,” a VR experience that simulated a virtual environment, complete with sensory feedback. Although the technology was primitive compared to modern VR, Heilig’s pioneering work laid the foundation for the immersive experiences we enjoy today.
7. The World’s Longest Video Game Marathon Lasted Over 200 Hours
In 2018, a group of gamers set the Guinness World Record for the longest video game marathon, playing the game “PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds” for 200 hours and 48 minutes. This grueling feat showcases the dedication and passion of gamers worldwide.
8. The First Ever Video Game Console Was Released in 1972
The Magnavox Odyssey, released in 1972, was the first commercially available video game console. This console, priced at $75, came with built-in games, including Ping-Pong and checkers, and was marketed as a toy rather than a gaming device.
9. The Iconic Game Character Pac-Man Was Originally Named “Puck-Man”
When Pac-Man was first released in Japan in 1980, the character was named “Puck-Man” due to the country’s strict censorship laws. The name was later changed to Pac-Man for international releases, but the original name has become a nostalgic reminder of the game’s humble origins.
10. The World’s Most Expensive Video Game Ever Sold is a Rare Copy of Stadium Events
In 2013, a rare copy of the 1989 NES game Stadium Events sold for $25,000, making it the most expensive video game ever sold. This rare find highlights the value and collectibility of vintage games, and the dedication of collectors to preserve gaming history.
There you have it – 10 fascinating facts that reveal the hidden world of video games. From the humble beginnings of Pong to the immersive experiences of today’s VR games, the industry’s evolution is a testament to human creativity and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just discovering the world of video games, there’s always something new to learn and discover.