The Truth Behind 7 Popular Video Game Misconceptions

Many of us have fond memories from the ‘80s and ‘90s when video games became an integral part of our daily lives. Yet, for all the fondness we hold, it’s astonishing how many misconceptions have survived the test of time. Let’s delve into seven popular myths that have earned their space in gaming folklore, according to Mental Floss.

1. Pong Was Not the First Video Game

When discussing the origins of video games, the title Pong often comes to mind as the seminal starting point. However, historians and tech enthusiasts would argue that there were precursors, such as William Higinbotham’s Tennis for Two in 1958. Understanding its journey through trials and tribulations reveals the intricacy of this myth.

2. E.T. and the 1983 Video Game Crash

The game often blamed for causing the notorious 1983 video game crash is E.T. But a deeper analysis suggests multiple factors at play, including oversaturated markets and declining game quality. Was it a historic collapse or a transition phase overshadowed by a poorly executed game?

3. To Blow, or Not to Blow, on NES Cartridges

Did you ever find yourself blowing on your Nintendo games hoping for a magical fix? Although it was a common remedy in households, Nintendo notably advised against this. The reality was more about connectivity than magical solutions, proving that sometimes the simplest explanation holds true.

4. The Monkey Behind Donkey Kong

One delightful misconception involves the name Donkey Kong being mistranslated from Monkey Kong. Directly from the creator Shigeru Miyamoto, we learn it was a purposeful choice meant to describe the stubborn character of the titular ape.

5. The Elusive Nude Lara Croft

Among the more audacious video game legends is the supposed existence of a code to see Lara Croft sans clothing in Tomb Raider. The creators turned frustration into humor by wisely addressing the rumor in the game sequel, providing players with memorable tongue-in-cheek moments.

6. Bigfoot in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Gaming communities love a good Easter egg hunt, and the hunt for Bigfoot in San Andreas epitomizes this excitement. Decades later, players still chase the myth despite official confirmations of its nonexistence.

7. Video Games and Violence: Fact or Fiction?

Finally, the long-standing debate about video games instigating violence is dispelled by extensive research and expert opinions. With tangible data and comparative international insights, the argument lacks substantial grounding, emphasizing larger socio-political factors instead.

Reflect on these myths, as they paint a fascinating picture of the culture and community that video gaming has fostered over decades, evolving from arcade beginnings to a powerhouse of modern entertainment. The legacy of these misconceptions adds a layer of charm and humor to the ever-maturing gaming world.