Black and white video game controllers for a console.

The Evolution of Gaming Consoles

Games have always been played in different ways. Whether it was on paper or a physical activity, players got joy out of it. With the introduction of the gaming console, people acquired all sorts of new ways to play games.

Keep reading to learn more about the evolution of gaming consoles.

magnavox Odyssey

The first video game console to ever exist was the Magnavox Odyssey in 1972. It was a home console that had the ability to be displayed on television. This differed from other methods of gaming at the time, as arcade gaming was prominent at the time. On the Magnavox Odyssey, game options were limited. Players could choose from ping-pong, hockey, and target shooting, which was already available in arcades prior to the console’s release. Although the bulky device wasn’t popular at the time, the features of it (such as removable game cartridges and multiplayer gaming) soon became a staple for future consoles.

Game Boy

Unlike the Magnavox Odyssey, the Game Boy was a handheld system. However, a Game Boy did have removable cartridges. Meaning that players could play different games such as “Super Mario Land” that came out on the devices launch in 1989. Other games such as The Legend of Zelda and the Kirby series debuted on the Game Boy. While a Game Boy could only display shades of gray, a Super Game Boy could show games in color. This only worked for specific games such as Donkey Kong, and it got other advancements along with the Game Boy’s aid. Although all games didn’t get these advancements, the Super Game Boy was still effective in streaming all games to a television.

PS5

Released in 2020, the PS5 is one of the best video game consoles. Players have the ability to play PS5 games via mobile devices by downloading PS Remote Play and using their controller. Users can even download games onto their console, as opposed to using a “cartridge” or the now updated CD. The console’s capabilities have expanded past just storing games, and can be used to insert movie CDs or download streaming apps such as Netflix or Spotify. Players can even voice chat and message through the online messaging system. Through this, they can also invite friends to a party to engage in multiplayer gaming.

Gaming consoles are always improving. It takes the trial and error of one for another to inspire others to make a better device. To give players quality and simple gameplay is their goal.

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