alternatehistory.com
Atari VCS
Pictured: The original six-switch Atari VCS model.
On September 11, 1977, Atari released their microprocessor-based home arcade, the Atari Video Computer System (VCS for short). Taking cues from Fairchild's Channel F, the system popularized the usage of ROM cartridges, effectively killing off the Pong clone market. The home arcade was packed in with the tank-fighting game Combat, which was one of the launch titles alongside Air-Sea Battle, Basic Math, Blackjack, Indy 500, Star Ship, Street Racer, Surround, and Video Olympics. It had a moderately successful launch, but later titles released for the system helped drive sales much higher.
Meanwhile, it had been a long year for Jerry Lawson. The Channel F was off to an early success, but eventually had to be taken off the market due to its inability to compete with Atari and their VCS. It was about time for him to look for a new job. At first, he thought 'if you can't beat 'em, join 'em', and started looking for positions at Atari. But then he shook his head and realized that Atari wasn't the only firm out there. It would be a risky gamble, he thought, but RCA just might need his assistance in preparing for the ROM cartridge era of gaming. His decision was made, and he was ready to set off.
Pictured: The original six-switch Atari VCS model.
On September 11, 1977, Atari released their microprocessor-based home arcade, the Atari Video Computer System (VCS for short). Taking cues from Fairchild's Channel F, the system popularized the usage of ROM cartridges, effectively killing off the Pong clone market. The home arcade was packed in with the tank-fighting game Combat, which was one of the launch titles alongside Air-Sea Battle, Basic Math, Blackjack, Indy 500, Star Ship, Street Racer, Surround, and Video Olympics. It had a moderately successful launch, but later titles released for the system helped drive sales much higher.
Meanwhile, it had been a long year for Jerry Lawson. The Channel F was off to an early success, but eventually had to be taken off the market due to its inability to compete with Atari and their VCS. It was about time for him to look for a new job. At first, he thought 'if you can't beat 'em, join 'em', and started looking for positions at Atari. But then he shook his head and realized that Atari wasn't the only firm out there. It would be a risky gamble, he thought, but RCA just might need his assistance in preparing for the ROM cartridge era of gaming. His decision was made, and he was ready to set off.
- StomperYoshi
- Word Count: 220