Business Wars Sponsored: When Small Businesses Think Big - Atari & Red Bull (Dell Podference) | 1
May 5, 2020
Discover how Atari revolutionized gaming with its iconic creation, Pong, turning the company into a powerhouse in the arcade scene. Meanwhile, learn about Dietrich Mateschitz’s rocky journey from concept to creation as he faced rejections for his energy drink. Eventually, clever marketing helped Red Bull soar in popularity, embodying the thrill of nightlife and extreme sports. Their stories underline the power of innovation and perseverance in the competitive worlds of gaming and beverages.
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Pong's Early Success
- Atari's Pong, a novel video game, kept breaking down at Andy Capp's Tavern.
- However, the coin box overflowed with quarters, revealing Pong's unexpected success.
Pong's Creation
- Nolan Bushnell motivated Al Alcorn to create Pong with a fake General Electric contract.
- Despite initial doubts, Pong's simple design became a hit, surprising Bushnell and his co-founder Ted Dabney.
Atari's Dilemma and Growth
- Atari faced a dilemma: Pong was a hit, but they were contracted with Bally for a driving game.
- After Bally's rejection, Atari decided to manufacture Pong themselves, leading to rapid growth and expansion.