National Videogame Day

Group of diverse friends gaming together in a cozy living room, wearing comfortable clothes and surrounded by game consoles and snacks.. — National videogame day illustration

Get your game face on and prepare for an epic celebration because it's National Videogame Day! This is the day when gamers from all walks of life come together to honor the pixelated worlds that have captured our hearts and imaginations. Whether you're a button mashing fanatic or a casual player, today is all about embracing the virtual adventures that have become a staple of modern entertainment. So grab your consoles, charge up your controllers, and get ready to level up on this epic day of gaming glory!

When is Videogame Day?

It's national videogame day on the 8th July.

A Brief History of National Videogame Day

National Videogame Day has its roots in the remarkable rise of video games as a global phenomenon. Ever since the early days of Pong, gamers have been hooked on the immersive and interactive experiences that these digital creations provide. Over the years, video games have evolved from simple pixels to stunning graphics and intricate storylines that rival Hollywood blockbusters. It didn't take long for a dedicated day to be established to celebrate the artistry and ingenuity that goes into creating these virtual worlds.

On July 8th, 2019, National Videogame Day transcended from being simply celebrated by gamers to becoming an official day of recognition. With 486 online mentions, it was clear that gamers around the world were eager to show their love for this beloved form of entertainment. On this day, the internet was ablaze with discussions, debates, and nostalgic memories shared by gaming enthusiasts old and new. From retro classics to cutting-edge simulations, National Videogame Day is a time to honor the groundbreaking creativity that continues to shape the gaming industry.

History behind the term 'Videogame'

1940

The Birth of Video Games

In 1940, the term 'videogame' was not yet coined, but the foundation for this revolutionary form of entertainment was laid. It all began with the invention of the Cathode Ray Tube Amusement Device (CRAGD), created by Thomas T. Goldsmith Jr. and Estle Ray Mann. This device used an analog computer to simulate the firing of missiles at targets on the screen. Although it was not a commercial success, it marked the birth of video games.

1952

Creating a New Term

The term 'videogame' was officially coined in 1952 by scientist and engineer, Willy Higinbotham. He created a groundbreaking interactive display known as Tennis for Two, which was played on an oscilloscope screen. Higinbotham referred to this invention as a 'videogame' as it combined elements of both video and gameplay, setting the stage for the term to enter popular lexicon.

1962

The Dawn of Digital Gaming

In 1962, a notable milestone was achieved when MIT student Steve Russell created the game Spacewar!. This computer-based game featured two spaceships engaging in a gravity-driven battle. It was one of the earliest digital games and became a source of inspiration for many future game developers. Spacewar! helped pave the way for the digital gaming revolution that was to come.

1972

The Rise of Atari and Pong

The year 1972 witnessed the debut of the iconic gaming company, Atari, and the release of their first commercial video game, Pong. Developed by Nolan Bushnell and Al Alcorn, Pong was a simple yet addictive tennis simulation game. This tremendous success paved the way for the golden age of arcade gaming, establishing video games as a mainstream form of entertainment.

1980

The Birth of Console Gaming

In 1980, an important milestone in video game history was reached with the release of the Atari 2600, the first widely successful home console. This groundbreaking gaming system popularized the concept of playing video games in living rooms. It introduced titles like Space Invaders and Pac-Man, which became cultural phenomena and solidified video games as a significant part of popular culture.

1994

The Power of PlayStation

The introduction of Sony's PlayStation in 1994 marked a turning point in the industry. It revolutionized gaming with its powerful hardware, immersive graphics, and CD-based games. The release of iconic titles like Crash Bandicoot and Metal Gear Solid helped position the PlayStation as a dominant force. The success of the PlayStation not only propelled Sony to gaming stardom but also solidified video games as a mainstream form of entertainment.

Did you know?

Did you know that the first video game ever created was called 'Tennis for Two' and was developed in 1958 by physicist William Higinbotham? This simple yet revolutionary game paved the way for the digital entertainment we know and love today!