In the world of gaming, there’s a moment in history that should be remembered. In 1979, the Microvision was released. It was the first handheld console ever created. The Microvision was a groundbreaking invention that paved the way for the future of gaming. In this blog, we’ll dive into the history, games list, and ultimately, the legacy of the Microvision.
The Microvision was developed by the Milton Bradley Company, with hardware design by Jay Smith, the father of the first video game console, and software design by Smith Engineering. It was released in 1979, a time where the idea of a handheld console seemed impossible. The Microvision was a revolution for gaming and a sign of what was to come for the industry.
The Microvision was released with six game cartridges:
1. Blockbuster: A variation of Breakout, where you break blocks using a paddle.
2. Pinball: A pinball game where you use the console’s buttons to control the flippers.
3. Mindbuster: A game where you try to guess a code consisting of colored balls.
4. Connect Four: The classic game where players try to connect four tokens in a row.
5. Bowling: A game that simulates bowling using the console’s screen and buttons.
6. Star Trek: Phaser Strike: A Star-Trek inspired game that emulated shooting a phaser at Klingons.
Each of these games was a demonstration of what the Microvision could do. Pinball used the console’s buttons to replace the traditional mechanical flippers, and Bowling used the console’s screen to simulate the bowling alley. These games were not only unique but also fun to play.
The Microvision sold 1.5 million units before it was discontinued in 1982, making it a success for the Milton Bradley Company. However, the console was ahead of its time. It was expensive and had a short battery life. Additionally, it suffered from technical issues, such as screen burn-in. These factors ultimately contributed to the downfall of the Microvision.
Although the Microvision was not a commercial success, it was a significant milestone in gaming history. The concept of a handheld console was born with the Microvision, inspiring future devices like the Game Boy, Nintendo DS, and PlayStation Portable. The Microvision’s legacy is still felt in the present day and inspires new invention and creativity in the gaming industry.
The Microvision was a bold and innovative idea that etched itself into the history of gaming. Its six games may seem primitive by today’s standards, but they were the foundation of what we have today. The Microvision was a revolutionary creation that helped to shape the future of the gaming industry. We have much to thank the Microvision for, and it should always hold a special place in the hearts of retrogamers and gamers alike.