In a time when smartphones were mere science fiction, Milton Bradley brought us the Microvision -the first commercially successful handheld video game system that forever changed the gaming landscape.
In the year 1979, as disco reigned supreme and the world danced to the beat of bell-bottoms, Milton Bradley dared to dream big. The Microvision, priced at a remarkable $49.95 (equivalent to around $170 today), graced the market as the first handheld gaming device to captivate the hearts of gamers worldwide. With its introduction, a gaming revolution was unleashed upon the world.
The "Big" Screen Experience
Imagine a mesmerizing 2-inch monochrome LCD screen that boasted an astounding resolution of 16 pixels. While modern gamers may raise an eyebrow at such humble visuals, back in the day, those 16 glorious pixels provided a gateway to captivating adventures and unparalleled fun.
Button Mash with Style
Who needs ergonomics when you can have a keypad that rivals a scientific calculator? Whether you were squishing blocks or zapping aliens, the Microvision's buttons offered a gaming experience that could rival playing "Twister" with your fingers.
Swapping Cartridges, Real Life Tetris Style
Before cloud gaming and digital downloads, the Microvision revolutionized the gaming industry with its swappable cartridges. Picture this: you're in study hall frantically shuffling through cartridges while desperately trying not to drop them. Good times, my friend. Good times.
One Game Wonder? Not Exactly
While it's true that the Microvision's library of games could fit in your average fanny pack, it did have its shining moments. With titles like "Block Buster," "Alien Raiders," and "Super Block Buster," the Microvision offered a spectrum of captivating gameplay that would make modern gamers appreciate their extensive libraries even more.
The Legacy Lives On
Although the Microvision eventually faded into gaming obscurity, its legacy lives on. This petite pioneer paved the way for handheld gaming and set the stage for the portable games we love today. So let's give a nod to the Microvision for daring to be small, yet mighty!