99% Invisible cover image

The Worst Video Game Ever

99% Invisible

00:00

The Atari Legend Unearthed

This chapter explores the infamous story of Atari's E.T. video game, which was so poorly received that unsold cartridges were allegedly buried in the New Mexico desert. Listeners are taken on a vivid journey as a crowd gathers for the excavation, revealing 1,178 cartridges and prompting reflections on the rise and fall of Atari. The narrative also dives into the intense development process of the game amidst unrealistic deadlines and corporate hubris, capturing the cultural significance of this gaming phenomenon.

Transcript
Play full episode

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app