Atari and the Business of Video Games: Crash Course Games

The video explores the history of video games, focusing on Nolan Bushnell's pivotal role in founding Atari and revolutionizing the industry. It covers the creation of iconic games like Pong and Breakout, Atari's challenges with competition and distribution, and the introduction of home gaming consoles with the Atari 2600. The video highlights Atari's influence on the gaming industry and its legacy, despite the company's later decline.

Before the 1970s, who primarily had access to video games?

• The general public

• High school students

• University students and academics

• Professional gamers

What was Nolan Bushnell's first commercial game?

• Breakout

• Pong

• Space Invaders

• Computer Space

What was the original name considered for Atari?

• Pixel

• PlayCo

• Syzygy

• GameTech

What was a major reason for the success of Pong?

• Exclusive distribution

• Advanced graphics

• Simple and engaging gameplay

• Celebrity endorsements

Why did Atari face competition soon after Pong's release?

• They had limited distribution

• They had poor marketing

• They failed to apply for patents

• They priced their games too high

Who helped Steve Jobs create the game Breakout?

• Mark Zuckerberg

• Tim Cook

• Steve Wozniak

• Bill Gates

What was a significant innovation of the Atari 2600?

• Built-in games

• Interchangeable game cartridges

• Virtual reality support

• Wireless controllers

What was the initial price of the Atari 2600?

• $299

• $399

• $199

• $99

Which movie featured the Atari 2600?

• The Matrix

• Jurassic Park

• Blade Runner

• Star Wars

What was a consequence of Atari's success in the 1970s?

• The decline of arcade games

• The rise of home gaming

• The end of video game development

• The dominance of handheld consoles