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Magnavox Odyssey


Odyssey image

The Magnavox Odyssey, introduced in 1972, was the first commercially produced home video game system. It is based on hard-wired logic implemented using discrete transistors and diodes. Odyssey game circuit cards contain different wiring patterns that change the behavior of the hardwired logic inside the Odyssey.

Since the Odyssey's hardware is only capable of relatively simple tasks, Magnavox included many accessories with the system to increase the number of games that can be implemented in a device that is capable of little more than displaying a few blocks on a TV screen and detecting collisions between them. Television overlays, pictured below, were included with the system, as well as dials for keeping score, a football field, play money, and cards for use with the various games.

Odyssey overlay

Additional Odyssey Images



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