It's hard to imagine that there was a time when Sony, Nintendo and Microsoft had no hand in the video game industry. But there was that era, it's true. Atari ruled the roost then. We've picked the 5 best early consoles from the 70's for you. And yes they apparently did care about video games back then and not just herbal refreshment sessions.

The Magnavox Odyssey
It was released in 1972 and will always be remembered as the first home gaming console. This console, also known as the 'Brown Box' was home to video games like the hobbyists. It featured an analog controller rather than a digital one. However, it lacked sound capability. It might not have been a big hit back then due to poor marketing, but it certainly was a start.

Atari Pong
This console released in 1973 was the first home Pong system. Atari certainly were pioneers as far as high tech custom integrated circuits in the consumer electronics industry is concerned. The Pong system was a hot seller, and Atari had to make 150,000 units to meet the increasing demand.

Magnavox Odyssey 100
The Odyssey 100 released in 1975 was an analog system that wasn't compatible with cartridges and featured two games, Tennis and Hockey. It was a very basic system and it was no match for the Pong systems. One major drawback of the system was that there was no on-screen scoring and the Tennis serves would switch automatically.

Magnavox Odyssey 200
This was released in 1975 too, however it was better than the Odyssey 100. That goes without saying though, or it wouldn't be called 200. It had the previous two games with an addition of Smash, also it featured on-screen scoring. Another new feature was that it Odyssey 200 could be played by two or four playes and this was a huge step forward.

Atari Super Pong
This system was launched in 1976. The Pong home systems were selling in millions, and it was inevitable that Atari would bring a newer version. What this provided those lucly peeps of the 70's is 4 different games to choose from for some fun and frolic. Atari did really well back then with its bright colours and sounds, which were a rarity.

I'm simply in love with these retro looking consoles. Another reason that makes me wish I belonged to the 70's era.

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