Task 2

It seems that OXO, a virtual noughts and crosses game created by A.S. Douglas, could have been the first fun computer game but since it was created to demonstrate his thesis on human-computer interaction it doesn't seem like he was so serious about fun game play issues. This seemed to be the case for a while, as with the limited technology available I imagine it'd be difficult for people to truly start focusing on using these computers purely for enjoyment which is why technology is such an issue when considering the advancement of computer games.

So, (sneakily dismissing other influential but less cool games...) then came Pong, the first commercial videogame introduced the public. It is a great example of how a simple but enjoyable game mechanic can cause a game to be successful, memorable, and in this case, ground-breaking. Due to the success of Pong, console gaming began with the Atari VCS 6200, advancing with other machines such as the Commodore 64... my first ever gaming console... *wipes away tear*

I'd like to focus on Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto now, as in my eyes he was the man who really wanted to make an experience of games. He's said to have been influenced by childhood exploration and adventure which certainly comes across in his Legend of Zelda series and was realised in glorious 3D with Super Mario 64.

I think the first game I ever played was some variation of Frogger on the Commodore 64. I'd cry out in frustration as over and over again the innocent creature would become green squishy road kill due to my miscalculations. I think more important than that was the first game I was truly absorbed in, one that was a real adventure. That game was the Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, which I played on a donated and severely damaged SNES that only read cartridges whilst tilted at an odd angle. Still, what a game.

Most recently, I’ve been playing various PS2 games due to it being the console I brought to uni with me. Mainly Shadow of the Colossus and Guitar Hero with a helping of Metal Slug 4, all of which are great fun. Fun is one of the important reasons why I play games, but the sheer effort and skill that goes into to making a brilliant game is a wonderful thing to behold and experience. The fact that the best games offer such a unique escape from reality is something I find very inspiring and I think that’s one of the most important reasons I’m on this course.

Thanks for reading!