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| Games Invade Computers
At the same time, the introduction of the personal computer meant that more complex games could be played as well. A huge library of games existed for computers like the Apple II. It was easy for any programmer, with almost no money, to develop games for computers, as opposed to the expensive manufacturing process of the video game console. In the 1980s, just about every successful video arcade game was translated to a game for the personal computer. Some of these games were legitimate versions made by their original creators, and others were imitations. In addition, new games sprung up for the personal computer. Because no hardware had to be built to make the games available, it cost less to develop a game for a computer. The only things you needed to actually manufacture were the floppy disks and any printed materials. This meant that games with a smaller potential audience could be produced. When modems and bulletin board systems became popular in the late 1980s, you could even make a game and distribute it for free. Eventually the CD-ROM drive gave game developers the chance to create games with a multimedia flare. The game "Myst" set the standard for CD-ROM adventure games that is still followed today. This game has hundreds of detailed still images. Today's CD-ROM adventure games feature even more detailed images, along with soundtracks and complex interfaces. In the mid-1990s, "Phantasmagoria" used seven CD-ROMs to create an intense environment. In addition to volume, computers also allowed developers to experiment with new techniques. Games like "Doom" started the "first-person 3D shooter" genre. By the mid-1990s, just about every action game on the market fit into this category. | |