The second generation, or 2nd gen from here on out, of video game consoles marked a significant leap forward in the history of gaming. From the late 1970s to the mid-1980s, this period introduced more advanced hardware, such as the microprocessor, better graphics, and more complex gameplay than the first generation. It was a time of innovation and growth that laid the foundation for the modern gaming industry.
The 2nd gen saw the emergence of several key players in the video game market such as Atari, Mattel, Coleco, and General Consumer Electronics. Notable consoles from this era include the Atari 2600, Intellivision, ColecoVision, and the Vectrex. These systems brought a variety of games into homes and introduced features that are still fundamental in gaming today.
Technological Advancements
One of the hallmarks of the 2nd gen was the use of microprocessors, which allowed for more sophisticated games and improved performance. The 8-bit microprocessor technology used in most of the 2nd gen machines enabled developers to create games with better graphics, more colors, and richer sound. Cartridges became the standard medium for games, allowing players to switch between different titles easily.
The term “8-bit era” is commonly used to describe the 2nd and 3rd generations of video game consoles in a broad sense, mainly because many of the popular systems from these periods, including the Atari 2600, used 8-bit architecture for their game cartridges and overall system design.
However, it’s important to clarify that this terminology can sometimes be misleading, as not all systems strictly follow the 8-bit architecture. Here’s a more accurate classification of some notable systems:
- Atari 2600 (1977): Used a MOS Technology 6507 8-bit microprocessor.
- Intellivision (1980): Used a General Instrument CP1610 16-bit microprocessor.
- ColecoVision (1982): Used a Zilog Z80 8-bit microprocessor.
- Vectrex (1982): Used a Motorola 6809 8-bit microprocessor.
So, while the “8-bit era” is a handy label, it’s more accurate to refer to it as the second generation of video game consoles, acknowledging the diversity of the hardware used.
Iconic Games and Genres
This era saw the creation of many iconic games that became household names. Titles like “Space Invaders,” “Pac-Man,” “Pitfall!,” and “Asteroids” captivated players with their engaging gameplay and innovative mechanics. The 2nd gen also laid the groundwork for various genres, including platformers, shooters, and adventure games, which continue to thrive today.
Space Invaders was developed by Tomohiro Nishikado and released by Taito in April 1978. It was one of the earliest fixed shooter games and is often credited with starting the golden age of arcade video games. The game involves players controlling a laser cannon to defeat waves of descending aliens. It was a massive commercial success, grossing over $3.8 billion by 1982.
Asteroids was developed by Larry Kaplan and Eugene Jarvis and released by Atari in 1979. It is a space-themed shooter game where players control a spaceship to destroy asteroids and flying saucers. The game was notable for its vector graphics and became one of the most popular arcade games of its time.
Pac-Man, originally called Puck Man in Japan, was developed by Toru Iwatani and released by Namco in May 1980. The game features a maze chase format where players control Pac-Man to eat dots while avoiding ghosts. It became a cultural phenomenon, leading to numerous sequels, merchandise, and even a hit single called “Pac-Man Fever.”
Pitfall! was developed by David Crane and released by Activision in 1982. It is one of the earliest platform games, it follows the adventures of Pitfall Harry as he navigates jungle-themed levels to collect treasures. The game was a major hit and helped establish the platform genre.
These games not only defined their generation but also laid the groundwork for many future titles in the gaming industry.
Market Dynamics and Challenges
The 2nd gen experienced rapid growth and popularity, but it also faced challenges. The industry saw an influx of low-quality games, leading to a saturated market. This period of oversaturation culminated in the video game crash of 1983, when the market experienced a significant downturn. Despite this setback, the second generation’s legacy endured, and lessons learned from this era helped shape the future of gaming.
It introduced technological advancements, iconic games, and new genres that set the stage for future generations. Despite the challenges and the crash of 1983, the era’s contributions to the gaming industry are undeniable, making it a crucial chapter in the history of video games.
2nd gen video games left an imprint on the industry as it established the foundation for many gaming standards, such as the use of game cartridges and the importance of third-party developers. The era’s innovations and beloved titles continue to influence modern game design and development today. The lessons learned from the 2nd gen carried forward to the next generation, the 3rd generation of video games.
In the next article, we will dive deeper into each of the 2nd gen video game consoles and their games that helped define them.