The above video is visual only and contains no dialogue. After watching the video and reading the transcript, please click the link below to view the quiz that follows this activity.

Transcript:

Video Game Generations

(0:00 - 0:03): Generation 1 games are characterized by arcade-style games built into a computer system. The first coin-operated video game is Spacewar!, but Pong is the first video game to have commercial success. Video game arcades house stand-up video game consoles featuring color graphics and improved gameplay.

(0:04 - 0:07): The console technology available for Generation 2 makes home video gaming a reality. Read-only memory (ROM) cartridges make it possible for single consoles to play a variety of games. Consumers only need to buy a different game cartridge, not a new game console, for each new release.

(0:08 - 0:11): Generation 3 begins with computer systems that can process more movement, better graphics, and sounds. Nintendo creates the Nintendo Entertainment System featuring 8-bit graphics and the Super Mario Brothers game. Nintendo also premieres the Gameboy, a handheld video gaming device.

(0:12 - 0:15): Generation 4 features even higher-powered computer systems. The Sega Genesis system is introduced with 16-bit graphics and the Sonic the Hedgehog character. New backward compatibility technology allows old games to be played on new systems.

(0:16 - 0:19): Inexpensive compact disc, read-only memory technology replaced ROM cartridges in Generation 5. Sony launches the PlayStation, featuring games for a more mature audience. Sony also licenses its source code to third-party providers, allowing other companies to develop games for their console.

(0:20 - 0:22): Digital video discs premiered in Generation 6, featuring faster computing and greater storage than CD-ROMs. Games begin to feature realistic 3D movement. The PlayStation 2 and Nintendo Game Cube are released. Microsoft creates the Xbox system and sells it at a loss to obtain market share.

(0:24 - 0:25): Multicore processors available in Generation 7 consoles allow players to connect to games with other players via the Internet. The Nintendo Wii uses motion-based controllers to help create a sense of immersion, and game-specific controllers begin to gain popularity.

(0:26 - 0:28): It’s difficult to imagine what new technology awaits us in Generation 8. It seems likely that the future will hold greater user interfaces and a deeper immersion through virtual reality and improved online content.

Select the Launch Quiz button to review what you have learned.