Games · 1977
1977: The Dawn of the Home Computer Revolution
In 1977, interactive entertainment transformed as Atari launched the VCS home console and the microcomputer trinity arrived. From living room televisions to university mainframes, pixelated play captured the public imagination like never before.
- September 1977 | Home Console
Atari VCS
Atari launches its iconic cartridge-based home video game console, bringing arcade action into living rooms across America.
- June 1977 | Microcomputer
Apple II
Steve Wozniak’s color-capable microcomputer launches, establishing a powerful platform for early video game creators.
- 1977 | Arcade | Cinematronics
Space Wars
Cinematronics debuts the first commercial vector-graphics arcade game, delivering crisp, precise monochrome dogfights in deep space.
- August 1977 | Microcomputer
TRS-80 Model I
Radio Shack releases an affordable computer system that sparks a massive wave of home programming and amateur game distribution.
- October 1977 | Microcomputer
Commodore PET 2001
Featuring an all-in-one case with a built-in monitor, Commodore's accessible computer introduces thousands of households to digital play.
- September 1977 | Atari VCS
Combat
Bundled with the Atari VCS, this legendary two-player tank and biplane shooter becomes a foundational classic of home gaming.
- 1977 | PDP-10 Mainframe
Zork
MIT students begin writing a groundbreaking text adventure that expands on Colossal Cave, introducing the Great Underground Empire.
- 1977 | Arcade | Exidy
Circus
Players use a physical springboard to launch clowns into the air and pop rows of balloons in Exidy's smash arcade hit.
Enjoyed your trip back in time?