In 1977, Atari released the Atari 2600, the console that brought arcade gaming into living rooms and forever changed entertainment. In this episode, we trace Nolan Bushnell’s path from engineering student and arcade tinkerer to founding Atari, exploring how his team turned a simple idea into the most influential home console of its time. We discuss how Project Stella came to life through microprocessor innovation, Warner’s risky investment, and the launch that made cartridge-based gaming a household staple. Our conversation covers Atari’s explosive rise, the arrival of Space Invaders and Pac-Man, and the lessons that shaped the entire industry. Join us as we plug in, power up, and relive the golden age of the Atari 2600 on today’s trip down Memory Card Lane.
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A Trip Down Memory Card Lane