Videogames: Introduction

 Video Games: Introduction

1) What were the first videogames like?

The earliest video games had simple controls and simple graphics. The Cathode Ray Tube Amusement Device (1947) simulated missile attacks on a screen. Tennis for Two (1958) showed a basic tennis match on an oscilloscope. One of the earliest computer games, Spacewar! (1962), had spaceships engaged in combat. Pong (1972), the first commercially successful arcade game, simulated table tennis with two paddles and a bouncing ball. Spacewar! served as the inspiration for the first arcade game, Computer Space (1971), but it was too difficult for players to understand. The gaming industry began with these games, which made use of early computers and oscilloscopes. Even though they were straightforward, they introduced important gameplay elements that later became part of today's sophisticated video games.

2) How have video games changed over time?

From basic, pixelated experiences to immersive, high-tech entertainment, video games have changed over time. Early games with simple mechanics and sparse graphics included Pong (1972) and Space Invaders (1978). Home consoles like the NES were introduced in the 1980s, bringing with them classic games like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda that prioritised adventure and platforming. With the release of Super Mario 64 and Final Fantasy VII, 3D gaming became popular in the 1990s. Online multiplayer games like World of Warcraft and Halo were first released in the 2000s. These days, games like Cyberpunk 2077 and The Last of Us feature AI-driven interactions, realistic graphics, and virtual reality. With esport, streaming, and interactive storytelling influencing the future, gaming has grown to be a global industry.

3) What do the most successful games have in common? Answer this in as much detail as you can. Think about audience pleasures - what do people like about playing video games?

The most popular video games have certain characteristics in common that keep players interested. The challenge in Dark Souls and the open-world freedom in Breath of the Wild are examples of how well-designed gameplay mechanics make controls rewarding and easy to use. Deep player connections are produced by games like The Last of Us that use emotional storytelling. Exploration is encouraged in immersive worlds with rich lore, such as Skyrim. Long-lasting communities are fostered by social interaction and multiplayer in League of Legends and Fortnite. Players are kept interested by progression systems like Elden Ring's customisation and RPG levelling. Games that are accessible and have a wide appeal are simple to learn but have depth. Last but not least, innovation keeps gaming interesting, as demonstrated by Half-Life: Alyx's VR mechanics. Games provide players with challenges, storytelling, social interaction, escapism, and creative freedom.

4) What criticisms have been made towards video games?

For a variety of reasons, video games have drawn criticism. Although research is still inconclusive, violence in video games such as Grand Theft Auto is accused of encouraging aggression. Infinite progression systems in World of Warcraft and Fortnite raise the possibility of addiction by causing players to neglect their obligations. FIFA Ultimate Team's loot boxes and microtransactions have come under fire for promoting gambling-like spending. Unrealistic depictions of women and a lack of diversity are examples of representation problems. Developers are forced to work excessive hours due to crunch culture, as demonstrated by the problematic launch of Cyberpunk 2077. In games like Call of Duty, harassment is encouraged by toxic online communities. Poor posture and eye strain are health issues. Last but not least, players become frustrated by game formulas that are repeated and storytelling that stagnates. Gaming is still developing and getting better in spite of these complaints.

1) At the time of the article, how many Fortnite players were there worldwide? (Bonus question - how many are there now? Try Googling it.)

Fortnite has more than 650 million registered users worldwide as of March 2025. The game had more than 250 million active players as of February 2025. Furthermore, on November 4, 2023, Fortnite reached a record-breaking 44.7 million concurrent players during the "OG Season" event.

2) Why is it so popular? What are the audience pleasures of the game?

Fortnite popularity can be attributed to its social components, captivating gameplay, and ease of use. It has cartoonish visuals that appeal to players of all ages, is free to play, and is accessible across several platforms. While the distinctive building mechanic adds strategy, the Battle Royale mode offers exhilarating survival gameplay. With voice chat, squad play, and in-game events like concerts and crossovers (Marvel, Star Wars), social interaction is a big lure. New seasons and frequent updates keep it interesting. Gamers take pleasure in personalisation, expressing themselves through skins and emotes. Its appeal is increased by streaming culture and competitive esports. Excitement, challenge, creativity, and escape are among the pleasures enjoyed by the audience. Fortnite's enduring success is guaranteed by its dynamic world, community-driven activities, and unpredictable gameplay. Do you want a more thorough examination of a particular feature?

3) Why might some people criticise Fortnite?

For a number of reasons, Fortnite has drawn criticism. Because of its addictive qualities, excessive play is encouraged, raising concerns about gaming addiction, particularly in young people. Some claim that the game's microtransactions exploit younger audiences by pressuring players to spend money on battle passes and skins. Voice chat can expose players to harassment, which is another problem with online toxicity. Despite the cartoonish nature of the game's violence, some are concerned about how it may affect young players. Players experience "fear of missing out" (FOMO) when updates occur frequently, which puts pressure on them to log in frequently. Additionally, privacy issues have surfaced, with Epic Games coming under fire for data collection. Competitive players are also irritated by frequent changes to the gameplay. Fortnite is still one of the most played games in the world in spite of these problems.

4) Copy and paste two comments from 'below the line' of the Guardian article - these are comments written by Guardian readers in response to the feature. Select one comment you agree with and one you disagree with and explain why.