The Home Computer Hybrids
3 months ago
- #computer-games
- #atari
- #history
- Early computer game sales data was scarce, but Softalk's 1980 survey showed 22 of the top 30 Apple II programs were games, including CRPGs, adventures, and arcade action titles.
- By 1982, top-selling computer games like Zork and Temple of Apshai sold tens of thousands of copies, but video game hits like Atari's E.T. sold millions.
- Atari and Texas Instruments developed hybrid 'home computers' combining personal computer programmability with video game console ease-of-use.
- Atari's Home Computer System (HCS) featured advanced graphics and sound, with models like the Atari 400 and 800 competing against Apple II and TRS-80.
- Texas Instruments' TI-99/4, based on a failed 16-bit processor, was a market flop due to high price, poor design, and restrictive software policies.
- FCC regulations on RF noise initially impacted computer designs, but 1979 rule changes eased compliance, disadvantaging Atari's over-engineered HCS platform.