Video games have come a long way since the U.S. release in 1972 of the first home console—the Magnavox Odyssey. Only a few years later, with the release of the Atari 2600, video games became a fascination and obsession in the public eye: they were new, interactive, and at the cutting edge of technology. Games in the 70's and 80's, starting as mere blocky graphics and primitive 8-bit sound, have evolved dramatically in the last 40+ years to include realistic, immersive gameplay and Grammy award-winning cinematic soundtracks on par with operatic scores. 

In this Olio, we begin with the critical gaming system of the 1970s—the Atari—its competitors—and other arcade classics: Space Invaders. PacMan. Ride the wave of technological advancements from the 80's (Super Mario Bros.) Examine what the Golden Age leaves behind through the 90's and 00's, and discuss classics and characters that have lived on through generations. Zelda. Final Fantasy. Time permitting, we conclude by discussing the transformation brought by digital distribution, and the reinvention of indie games in the modern era (Untitled Goose Game).

Come with cartridges cleaned and a fresh pair of AA batteries in your Game Boy as we enjoy some retro classics and how they have inspired some current greats.