The 1970s were a magical time for video games, with arcade machines taking over the world. With a new generation of players eager to try their hand at the latest games, the 1970s saw the rise of some of the most iconic arcade games of all time. From classics like Space Invaders and Pac-Man to lesser-known gems like Berzerk and Asteroids, the 1970s were a golden age for arcade gaming. In this article, we’ll take a look back at the best arcade games of the 1970s, exploring what made them so special and why they continue to captivate gamers to this day. So, grab a quarter and let’s blast off into the past to relive the golden age of arcade gaming!
The Rise of Arcade Gaming in the 1970s
The Influence of Pong
The 1970s marked a significant turning point in the history of video games, as the first arcade games were introduced to the public. One of the most influential games of this era was Pong, which was released in 1972 by Atari. Pong was a simple game that involved players controlling a paddle to hit a ball back and forth across the screen. Despite its simplicity, Pong was a huge success and helped to popularize the concept of video games in the United States.
Pong’s influence on the arcade gaming industry was profound. It was one of the first games to use a video display to show gameplay, and it was also one of the first games to use a computer controller to track the player’s movements. Pong’s success inspired other game developers to create similar games, which helped to establish the arcade gaming industry as a viable form of entertainment.
One of the reasons why Pong was so successful was because it was easy to play and understand. Players could pick up the game quickly and start playing without needing any prior experience or knowledge of video games. This accessibility helped to make Pong a hit with a wide range of players, from casual gamers to dedicated enthusiasts.
In addition to its accessibility, Pong was also notable for its innovative use of technology. The game used a custom hardware device called an oscilloscope to generate the game’s visuals, which was a cutting-edge technology at the time. The use of this technology helped to make Pong’s graphics look more realistic and engaging than previous video games, which were often simple text-based games or crude vector graphics.
Overall, the influence of Pong on the arcade gaming industry cannot be overstated. The game helped to establish the concept of video games as a form of entertainment, and its innovative use of technology and accessibility helped to pave the way for the development of future arcade games. As such, Pong remains an important milestone in the history of video games and a testament to the enduring appeal of arcade gaming.
The Evolution of Arcade Machines
In the early 1970s, arcade games were primarily simple games such as Space Invaders and Asteroids, which used simple graphics and gameplay mechanics. However, as technology improved, arcade machines began to evolve into more complex and sophisticated systems.
One of the most significant advancements in arcade machine technology was the introduction of the microprocessor. This allowed for more complex games with greater depth and variety, as well as the ability to save player progress and settings.
Another key development was the introduction of color monitors, which greatly enhanced the visual experience of arcade games. This allowed for more vibrant and detailed graphics, as well as more realistic animations and environments.
In addition to these technological advancements, arcade machines also began to feature more complex and intricate controls, such as joysticks, buttons, and trackballs. This allowed for more nuanced and precise control over gameplay, as well as more varied and complex gameplay mechanics.
As a result of these advancements, arcade games in the 1970s became more immersive, engaging, and sophisticated, offering players a unique and exciting gaming experience that continues to be popular today.
The Impact of Coin-Operated Games
The 1970s marked a significant turning point in the history of video games, as the introduction of coin-operated arcade games revolutionized the gaming industry. These games were designed to be played in public venues, such as arcades, amusement parks, and shopping malls, and their widespread popularity transformed the way people interacted with video games.
One of the main reasons for the success of coin-operated games was their accessibility. Unlike early home consoles, which were expensive and required a significant investment in technology, arcade games were cheap and convenient. Players simply needed to insert a coin, and they could play the game for as long as they liked. This made video games accessible to a much wider audience, and it helped to create a new culture of gaming that would continue to grow throughout the 1980s and beyond.
Another important factor in the success of coin-operated games was their social nature. Unlike home consoles, which were typically played alone or with a small group of friends, arcade games were designed to be played in public spaces, where players could compete against each other and show off their skills. This created a sense of community around video games, as players would gather in arcades to play their favorite games and compete against each other.
Coin-operated games also introduced a new level of sophistication to video games. Early arcade games, such as “Pong” and “Space Invaders,” were simple and straightforward, but they laid the groundwork for more complex and ambitious games that would follow. As game designers experimented with new technologies and gameplay mechanics, they pushed the boundaries of what was possible in video games, and they created a new genre of entertainment that would captivate audiences for decades to come.
Despite their success, coin-operated games also faced challenges, such as piracy and hardware issues. As game designers struggled to protect their intellectual property and maintain their machines, they had to develop new strategies to ensure the long-term viability of their games. This led to the development of new technologies, such as ROM chips and copy protection, which helped to secure the future of arcade gaming.
Overall, the impact of coin-operated games on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. By making video games accessible, social, and sophisticated, they created a new culture of gaming that would continue to evolve and grow throughout the 1980s and beyond. Today, many of the most popular and beloved games of all time are arcade classics, and they continue to inspire new generations of gamers to explore the limitless possibilities of video games.
The Top Arcade Games of the 1970s
Space Invaders
- Space Invaders, created by Japanese game developer Taito in 1978, was one of the first arcade video games and helped establish the shooter genre.
- The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay involved shooting aliens that moved horizontally across the screen, while the player controlled a cannon that could move vertically to dodge their attacks and fire back.
- The game’s popularity led to the creation of numerous imitators and spin-offs, and it became a cultural phenomenon that helped pave the way for the video game industry as we know it today.
- Space Invaders’ impact was also felt in the realm of popular culture, inspiring music, fashion, and even political movements.
- The game’s simple graphics and catchy soundtrack became iconic, and its gameplay mechanics were often imitated in later games.
- Space Invaders’ influence can still be felt today, with modern games continuing to draw inspiration from its pioneering design.
Pac-Man
Pac-Man is considered one of the most iconic and influential arcade games of all time. Developed by Namco and first released in 1980, the game quickly became a global phenomenon and helped to establish the video game industry as a mainstream form of entertainment.
Gameplay
In Pac-Man, the player controls a yellow, round character named Pac-Man, who must navigate a maze while avoiding ghosts. The objective of the game is to eat all of the dots in the maze while also chasing and eating the ghosts. Pac-Man can turn the ghosts into power pellets, which allow him to eat them for points.
Impact on the Industry
Pac-Man was not only a commercial success, but it also had a significant impact on the video game industry as a whole. The game’s innovative gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy music helped to establish the arcade game as a popular form of entertainment. Pac-Man also inspired countless imitators and led to the development of many other iconic arcade games.
Legacy
Even decades after its release, Pac-Man remains a beloved classic and continues to be played by fans around the world. The game’s enduring popularity has led to numerous sequels, adaptations, and even a hit animated television series. Today, Pac-Man is widely regarded as a pioneering game that helped to shape the video game industry as we know it.
Asteroids
Asteroids was one of the most popular arcade games of the 1970s. It was first released in 1979 by Atari and quickly became a hit due to its innovative gameplay and graphics.
Gameplay
The objective of the game is to destroy as many asteroids as possible while avoiding collision with them. The player controls a spaceship that can move in any direction and fire a laser weapon at the asteroids. As the game progresses, the asteroids become faster and larger, making it increasingly difficult for the player to survive.
Graphics
Asteroids was one of the first arcade games to use vector graphics, which allowed for smooth and detailed animations. The game’s visuals were highly detailed and realistic, with the asteroids having a three-dimensional appearance.
Legacy
Asteroids was a groundbreaking game that set the standard for arcade games in the 1970s and 1980s. Its innovative gameplay and graphics have made it a classic of the genre, and it continues to be popular today. Many modern games have been inspired by Asteroids, and it remains a beloved classic among gamers.
Defender
Defender is a classic arcade game that was released in 1978 by the company Williams Electronics. The game was designed by Ed Boon and was one of the first games to use a joystick and button-based controls.
The objective of the game is to control a spaceship and protect a group of humans from waves of alien attackers. The player must fly the spaceship over the humans and shoot the aliens before they reach the humans. The game is divided into levels, and each level becomes progressively more difficult as the waves of aliens become more intense.
Innovations
Defender was groundbreaking in its use of a two-dimensional playing field, and it introduced the concept of multi-directional scrolling. The game also featured a unique split-screen view, which allowed two players to play simultaneously. The game’s innovative use of sound and visual effects also contributed to its popularity.
Defender was a commercial success and helped to establish the arcade game industry. The game’s popularity led to numerous sequels and imitators, and it remains a beloved classic to this day. It is often cited as one of the most influential arcade games of all time and is considered a landmark title in the history of video games.
Missile Command
The Creation of Missile Command
In 1972, a young computer programmer named Dave Theurer joined the company behind one of the most iconic arcade games of all time: Missile Command. Theurer was tasked with creating a game that would showcase the capabilities of the newly developed vector graphics technology. He spent months designing and coding the game, drawing inspiration from the Cold War tensions of the time.
Gameplay and Objective
Missile Command is a simple yet addictive game that puts the player in control of a set of anti-aircraft guns. The objective is to defend a set of cities from incoming waves of ballistic missiles. The player must shoot down the missiles before they reach the cities, while also managing their limited supply of ammunition.
Impact and Legacy
Missile Command was an instant hit upon its release in 1980, thanks to its innovative graphics and engaging gameplay. The game’s popularity helped to establish the video game industry as a viable form of entertainment, and it remains a beloved classic to this day.
The game’s influence can be seen in many later games, including the iconic Space Invaders. The game’s creator, Dave Theurer, went on to create another classic game, Tempest, which was also groundbreaking in its use of vector graphics.
Missile Command was not just a game, but a cultural artifact that captured the anxieties and fears of a generation that lived under the constant threat of nuclear war. Today, it remains a testament to the creativity and innovation of the early video game industry.
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong, released in 1981, was one of the most popular arcade games of the 1970s. The game was created by Nintendo and was the first game to feature the character Mario. In the game, the player takes control of Mario as he tries to rescue a princess from a giant ape named Donkey Kong.
The gameplay of Donkey Kong involves navigating through a series of platforms and avoiding obstacles while climbing up to the top of the screen. The game also features a bonus stage where the player can earn extra points by jumping over barrels thrown by Donkey Kong.
One of the most notable features of Donkey Kong is its innovative graphics. The game used a combination of live-action footage and animations to create a more immersive gaming experience. The character design was also groundbreaking, with Donkey Kong being one of the first video game characters to have a distinct personality.
Donkey Kong was a huge success and spawned several sequels and adaptations. The game’s popularity helped to establish Nintendo as a major player in the video game industry and paved the way for the creation of other iconic video game characters like Mario.
Pioneering Game Developers of the 1970s
Nolan Bushnell
Nolan Bushnell, an American engineer and entrepreneur, played a crucial role in the development of the arcade gaming industry during the 1970s. Born in 1943, Bushnell displayed an early interest in electronics and pursued a degree in the field from the University of Utah. Upon graduation, he began his career at the famed defense contractor, General Motors Research Laboratories, where he honed his engineering skills.
Bushnell’s entrepreneurial spirit, however, drew him away from the world of defense and into the burgeoning arena of consumer electronics. In 1966, he co-founded a company called Syzygy Engineering, which aimed to develop an interactive television system that could bring users a variety of multimedia content. Despite its ambitious goals, the project was not successful, and Bushnell soon found himself searching for new opportunities.
In 1971, Bushnell joined the newly formed Atari Corporation, a company founded by Ted Dabney, another early pioneer in the video game industry. As the vice president of engineering, Bushnell’s contributions to Atari were manifold. He oversaw the development of some of the company’s most iconic games, such as “Pong” and “Space Invaders,” which would go on to revolutionize the gaming industry.
Bushnell’s genius lay in his ability to merge engineering and entertainment. He understood that to create a successful video game, it needed to be both engaging and technically feasible. Under his leadership, Atari became one of the most successful gaming companies of the 1970s, and its impact on the industry can still be felt today.
Even after leaving Atari, Bushnell continued to be involved in various projects in the tech and entertainment sectors. He founded a company called Androbot, which focused on creating robots for educational purposes, and also served as CEO of Chuck E. Cheese’s, a popular chain of family entertainment centers.
Bushnell’s legacy in the gaming industry is undeniable. His work in the 1970s helped to shape the landscape of arcade gaming, and his vision and creativity continue to inspire game developers and gamers alike.
Toru Iwatani
Toru Iwatani is a prominent figure in the history of video game development, specifically in the 1970s. He was a key player in the creation of some of the most iconic arcade games of the era, which have since become classics in the gaming world. Iwatani’s innovative approach to game design and his ability to capture the essence of popular culture made him a sought-after game developer during the golden age of arcade gaming.
In the early 1970s, Iwatani joined the company that would later become the famous video game developer, Namco. It was during this time that he began working on one of his most famous creations, the game “George Glass,” which was released in 1978. The game featured a unique design, with a light gun and a set of targets, making it one of the first games to incorporate a light gun into its gameplay.
Iwatani’s next big project was the game “Pac-Man,” which was released in 1980. The game was an instant hit and became one of the most successful arcade games of all time. Iwatani’s innovative approach to game design was evident in “Pac-Man,” which combined elements of traditional games like “eating” and “avoiding” with new, unique mechanics that had never been seen before in the gaming world.
In addition to his work on “George Glass” and “Pac-Man,” Iwatani also worked on several other notable games during the 1970s, including “Golf” and “Rally-X.” His contributions to the world of video game development during this time period were significant, and his influence can still be felt today.
Dave Nutting
Dave Nutting was a prominent figure in the early years of arcade game development. He founded his own company, Nutting Associates, in 1970, and went on to create several groundbreaking arcade games throughout the decade. One of his most notable creations was the 1976 game, Speedway, which was the first racing game to use a track-shaped layout instead of a simple maze or open road.
Nutting’s company also produced several other classic arcade games in the 1970s, including Time Pilot, a sci-fi themed game that allowed players to pilot a spaceship through different time periods, and Gottlieb’s Pinball, a pinball machine that featured advanced sound and lighting effects for its time.
Nutting’s innovative designs and dedication to creating unique and engaging arcade experiences helped shape the industry during its formative years.
Norman J. Azima
Norman J. Azima, an electrical engineer and computer programmer, played a crucial role in the development of arcade games during the 1970s. He worked at the pioneering video game company, Syzygy Engineering, which was founded by Nolan Bushnell and a group of other engineers. Syzygy Engineering later became a part of the larger company, Atari.
During his time at Syzygy Engineering, Azima contributed to the development of several groundbreaking arcade games, including:
- Pong: Azima worked on the hardware and software of the original Pong game, which was released in 1972. He was responsible for implementing the ball bouncing algorithm, which made the game more realistic and engaging for players.
- Tank: In 1974, Azima helped develop the game Tank, which was one of the first arcade games to use a joystick and allowed two players to control tanks on a screen, firing at each other.
- Syzygy Sars: In 1975, Azima worked on the development of Syzygy Sars, an early arcade game that combined elements of shooting and racing genres. The game featured two players controlling vehicles on a scrolling track, shooting at targets and avoiding obstacles.
Azima’s contributions to the early arcade game industry were significant, and his work helped pave the way for the development of more complex and engaging games in the following decades.
Al Alcorn
Al Alcorn was one of the earliest pioneers of the video game industry. He began his career in the late 1960s as an engineer at a company called Syzygy, which was later acquired by Fairchild Semiconductor. There, he worked on developing one of the first home video game consoles, the Fairchild Channel F.
After leaving Fairchild, Alcorn went on to co-found a company called Precision Industries with another former Fairchild employee, Joe Keenan. The company was contracted by Atari to develop a new game for their coin-operated arcade machines. This game, called “Pong,” would go on to become one of the most iconic and influential video games of all time.
Alcorn’s contribution to the development of “Pong” was significant. He was responsible for designing the game’s circuitry and programming the game’s software. He also worked on refining the game’s play mechanics, including the addition of a ball bouncing around the screen, which became a hallmark of the game’s design.
In addition to his work on “Pong,” Alcorn also played a key role in the development of several other early arcade games, including “Gotcha” and “Tank.” His contributions to the video game industry have been widely recognized, and he was inducted into the Video Game Hall of Fame in 2004.
The Cultural Significance of Arcade Games in the 1970s
Arcade Gaming as a Social Phenomenon
In the 1970s, arcade gaming was not just a pastime, but a social phenomenon that brought people together. The arcade experience was unique, with people from all walks of life coming together to play games, socialize, and compete. The games were designed to be accessible to a wide audience, with simple controls and intuitive gameplay, making them easy to pick up and play. The games were also designed to be challenging, with high scores being the ultimate goal, creating a sense of competition among players. The popularity of arcade games was fueled by the rise of video game technology, which made it possible to create more complex and immersive gaming experiences. Additionally, the arcade was often located in shopping centers, movie theaters, and other popular destinations, making it easy for people to drop in and play during their free time.
The Influence of Arcade Games on Popular Culture
Arcade games of the 1970s not only revolutionized the gaming industry but also had a profound impact on popular culture. The games’ innovative gameplay, colorful graphics, and addictive sounds drew players in and kept them coming back for more. The cultural influence of these games can still be seen today in various forms of media, fashion, and technology.
One of the most significant ways arcade games influenced popular culture was through the creation of iconic characters and franchises. Games like Pac-Man and Space Invaders introduced characters that quickly became recognizable icons around the world. These characters were not only featured in subsequent games but also in cartoons, comics, and movies, further cementing their place in popular culture.
Another way arcade games impacted popular culture was through the introduction of new technologies and game mechanics. Games like Pong and Asteroids were among the first to use vector graphics, which allowed for more realistic and fluid animation. This technology later became a staple in many other forms of media, including television and movies.
The soundtracks of arcade games also had a significant impact on popular culture. The catchy and addictive tunes of games like Donkey Kong and Super Mario Bros. became iconic and are still recognized and beloved by many today. The influence of these soundtracks can be heard in many modern video games and other forms of media.
Furthermore, the social aspect of arcade games played a significant role in their cultural impact. Arcades were often gathering places for friends and family, and the games themselves encouraged social interaction and competition. This sense of community and friendly competition continues to be a vital part of gaming culture today.
In conclusion, the influence of arcade games on popular culture is undeniable. From the creation of iconic characters and franchises to the introduction of new technologies and game mechanics, these games have left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment and beyond. As gaming technology continues to evolve, the legacy of the arcade games of the 1970s remains an important part of gaming history and culture.
The Evolution of Video Games
In the 1970s, video games were in their infancy, and arcade games represented the first time that the general public had access to this new form of entertainment. The evolution of video games during this time was marked by several key developments, including the introduction of Pong, the rise of popular games like Space Invaders, and the development of more complex gameplay mechanics.
The Emergence of Pong
Pong, which was released in 1972, was the first commercially successful video game and marked the beginning of the arcade game era. Pong was a simple game that involved players controlling a paddle to hit a ball back and forth across the screen. While Pong was a basic game, it was a revolutionary concept at the time and captured the attention of the public.
The Rise of Space Invaders
In 1978, Space Invaders was released and quickly became one of the most popular arcade games of all time. Space Invaders was a science fiction-themed game that involved players controlling a cannon to shoot down aliens that were descending from the top of the screen. The game’s addictive gameplay and innovative use of sound and graphics helped to establish it as a classic of the genre.
The Development of Complex Gameplay Mechanics
As arcade games continued to evolve, developers began to introduce more complex gameplay mechanics. Games like Pac-Man, which was released in 1980, featured mazes and multiple levels of play, while Asteroids, which was released in 1979, featured 3D graphics and realistic sound effects. These advancements in gameplay helped to keep players engaged and made arcade games even more popular.
Overall, the evolution of video games during the 1970s was marked by several key developments that helped to establish the genre and make it a beloved part of popular culture. As arcade games continued to evolve, they would go on to influence the development of home consoles and other forms of entertainment, making the 1970s a crucial period in the history of video games.
The Future of Arcade Games: Where Did the 1970s Innovations Lead Us?
The Golden Age of Arcade Games
The 1970s were a pivotal time for the arcade game industry. It was during this decade that the first arcade games were created, and the industry experienced a significant growth spurt. Many of the most iconic arcade games of all time were released during this period, and the games of the 1970s set the stage for the future of arcade gaming.
One of the defining features of the arcade games of the 1970s was their simplicity. Early arcade games were designed to be easy to play and understand, with simple controls and straightforward objectives. This simplicity made arcade games accessible to a wide range of players, and helped to fuel their popularity.
Another key aspect of the arcade games of the 1970s was their focus on competition. Many of the most popular arcade games of the time were designed to be played by multiple players, and often featured leaderboards or other mechanisms for tracking high scores. This competitive element was a major draw for players, and helped to foster a sense of community around the games.
In addition to their simplicity and competitive focus, the arcade games of the 1970s were also known for their innovative use of technology. Early arcade games used cutting-edge technology for their time, such as black-and-white screens and simple graphics, but they were still able to create immersive and engaging gaming experiences.
Overall, the arcade games of the 1970s were a crucial part of the development of the video game industry. They set the stage for the future of arcade gaming, and many of the most iconic games of all time were created during this period. Today, these games remain popular with retro gaming enthusiasts, and continue to be enjoyed by players around the world.
The Evolution of Gaming Consoles
The 1970s saw the emergence of arcade games that captured the hearts and minds of gamers around the world. These games were not only a source of entertainment but also laid the foundation for the evolution of gaming consoles. In this section, we will explore how the innovations of the 1970s paved the way for the evolution of gaming consoles.
One of the significant innovations of the 1970s was the introduction of the first home video game console, the Magnavox Odyssey. This console was released in 1972 and allowed players to enjoy games like tennis, hockey, and football in the comfort of their own homes. The Odyssey was not the first home console, but it was the first to achieve widespread success and paved the way for future consoles.
The success of the Odyssey inspired other companies to enter the home console market. Companies like Atari and ColecoVision released their consoles in the late 1970s and early 1980s, which were also based on the technology used in arcade games. These consoles featured graphics and sound that were comparable to the arcade games of the time, and they allowed players to enjoy their favorite arcade games in the comfort of their own homes.
The popularity of home consoles also led to the development of new games that were specifically designed for home play. These games often featured unique gameplay mechanics and storylines that were not found in arcade games. The home console market continued to grow in the 1980s and 1990s, with the release of consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Sega Genesis. These consoles introduced new genres and styles of gameplay, and they helped to establish the video game industry as a major player in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, the evolution of gaming consoles can be traced back to the innovations of the 1970s. The introduction of the first home console and the popularity of arcade games in the 1970s laid the foundation for the development of future consoles. These consoles allowed players to enjoy their favorite arcade games in the comfort of their own homes and helped to establish the video game industry as a major player in the entertainment industry.
The Emergence of Home Computers
The 1970s saw a significant shift in the gaming industry with the emergence of home computers. These computers, such as the Apple II and Commodore PET, offered gamers the ability to play video games in the comfort of their own homes.
One of the earliest home computers, the Apple II, was released in 1977 and quickly gained popularity due to its affordability and ease of use. The Apple II had the ability to play simple games like Space Invaders and Pong, but it wasn’t until the release of the Commodore 64 in 1982 that home computers became a viable platform for gaming.
The Commodore 64 was one of the most popular home computers of the 1980s and had a range of games available for it, including arcade ports like Pac-Man and Galaga. These home computers allowed for the development of more complex games, and they paved the way for the rise of the personal computer as a gaming platform.
As home computers became more advanced, they also became more affordable, leading to an explosion of game development in the 1990s. Many of the game developers who had previously worked on arcade games began creating games for home computers, and this led to a new era of gaming that is still going strong today.
Overall, the emergence of home computers in the 1970s had a significant impact on the gaming industry and helped to pave the way for the modern gaming industry we know today.
FAQs
1. What were the most popular arcade games in the 1970s?
Answer:
The 1970s were a golden age for arcade games, and some of the most popular games of that era include classics like Space Invaders, Asteroids, and Pac-Man. These games were groundbreaking in their time and helped to establish the video game industry as a whole.
2. How did the technology of arcade games evolve in the 1970s?
In the 1970s, arcade games underwent a significant evolution in terms of technology. Early arcade games were simple and relied on simple graphics and sound effects, but as the decade progressed, games became more complex and featured better graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics. Some of the most technologically advanced games of the era included titles like Missile Command and Galaxian.
3. What were some of the influential arcade games of the 1970s?
Many of the arcade games that were released in the 1970s went on to become influential classics that are still played today. Games like Space Invaders and Pac-Man set the standard for arcade game design and gameplay, and their influence can still be seen in modern video games. Other influential games from the era include Defender, Dig Dug, and Tempest.
4. What was the impact of arcade games on popular culture in the 1970s?
Arcade games had a significant impact on popular culture in the 1970s. They helped to popularize video games as a form of entertainment, and they became a fixture in many arcades and other public spaces. Arcade games also inspired a wave of imitators and innovations, leading to the development of new genres and styles of video games. In addition, arcade games became a part of the cultural fabric of the time, with many people fondly remembering the games they played in the arcades as a child.