The Rise of Home Video Games in Europe

This chapter explores the early development of the home video game market in Europe, focusing on the unique cultural and economic challenges it faced, particularly in the UK and West Germany. It highlights key innovations, such as the introduction of 'Pong on a Chip,' and the pivotal role of emerging companies like Coleco and Video Master, who adapted to the growing demand for video games. Additionally, the chapter contextualizes the industry's expansion against broader historical and social dynamics, setting the stage for subsequent transformations in the market.

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TCW Podcast Episode 232 - All the Other Home Pongs

The home Pong market of the mid-1970s extended far beyond the big three—Atari, Coleco, and Magnavox. Numerous smaller companies entered the scene, not only in the United States but also across Europe and other parts of the world. As the home gaming industry rapidly evolved, many manufacturers introduced unique systems powered by integrated circuits. The market truly took off with the advent of “Pong-on-a-Chip” technology, which made it possible for virtually anyone to build a Pong console. Combined with affordable manufacturing in the Far East, this innovation drove costs down and helped the market reach new heights.

Rocko's Modern Life - Dracula: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ycpsJOtxx8

TCW 105 - The Big Voice of Magnavox: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/the-big-voice-of-magnavox/

TCW 106 - The Small Voice of Magnavox: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/the-small-voice-of-magnavox/

TCW 027 - The Magnavox Patent Lawsuits: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/the-magnavox-patent-lawsuits-friday-september-16-2016-1003-am/

TCW 051 - Sons of Pong: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/sons-of-pong/

Overkal: https://prehistoricgaming.com/en/overkal-history/

TCW 165 - Allied Leisure: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/allied-leisure/

Universal Research Laboratory (URL) Video Action Systems: https://www.pong-story.com/url.htm

Mike the TV 99.99.99: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zt2xW8nh864

Executive Games: https://www.pong-story.com/executivegames.htm

First Dimension: https://www.pong-story.com/firstdim.htm

Executive Games - Face Off: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB-pSaZ1e28