Video games have come a long way since their inception, and it’s hard to imagine life without them. But did you know that Nintendo’s first video game was released over 40 years ago? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history of Nintendo’s first video game, known as “Computer Space,” and explore how it paved the way for modern gaming.
What Was Computer Space?
Computer Space is often referred to as Nintendo’s first video game, but in reality, it was created by a third-party developer called Sharp Laboratories in 1978. The game was designed to be played on Sharp’s Z80 computer and featured simple graphics and basic gameplay mechanics.
One of the standout features of Computer Space was its use of color, which was quite revolutionary for the time. Most early video games were monochromatic, with only one or two colors used for graphics. Computer Space, on the other hand, utilized a wide range of colors to create a more visually appealing experience.
Another key aspect of Computer Space was its simplicity. The game consisted of just 16 levels and could be played by anyone, regardless of their skill level. This made it a popular choice for home computer systems, which were becoming increasingly common in households around the world at the time.
How Did Computer Space Pave the Way for Modern Gaming?
Despite its simplicity, Computer Space was a groundbreaking game that helped to establish Nintendo’s reputation as a leader in the video game industry. Sharp Laboratories had approached Nintendo with the idea of creating a new computer game and had asked the company to provide some technical support. This collaboration marked the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership between Nintendo and Sharp, one that would lead to the creation of many other popular games over the years.
One of the key ways in which Computer Space paved the way for modern gaming was through its use of color. As we mentioned earlier, most early video games were monochromatic, but Computer Space’s use of color helped to demonstrate that color could be an effective tool in creating a more engaging and visually appealing experience for players.
Another important aspect of Computer Space was its simplicity. With its 16 levels and easy-to-learn gameplay mechanics, the game was accessible to a wide range of players, including those who were new to gaming. This helped to establish Nintendo as a leader in the family gaming market and set the stage for future successes like Super Mario Bros.
The Impact of Computer Space on the Video Game Industry
Despite its limited success, Computer Space had a significant impact on the video game industry. It helped to demonstrate that video games could be a viable form of entertainment and paved the way for future successes in the gaming world.
One of the key ways in which Computer Space impacted the industry was through its use of color. As we mentioned earlier, most early video games were monochromatic, but Computer Space’s use of color helped to demonstrate that color could be an effective tool in creating a more engaging and visually appealing experience for players. This led to a greater emphasis on color in future games, which helped to make them more visually appealing to players and drive sales.
Another important impact of Computer Space was its simplicity. With its 16 levels and easy-to-learn gameplay mechanics, the game was accessible to a wide range of players, including those who were new to gaming. This helped to establish Nintendo as a leader in the family gaming market and set the stage for future successes like Super Mario Bros.
