The Ultimate History of Video Games: Volume 2 takes readers on a thrilling journey through the explosive growth of the video game industry in the twenty-first century. Written by Steven L. Kent, a renowned expert in video game history, this book provides a captivating behind-the-scenes look at the war for industry power.
From humble beginnings with games like Pong and the Nintendo Entertainment System, the industry has grown into a massive global market worth 0 billion. In this book, Kent explores how the biggest players in the industry are willing to bet millions, even hundreds of millions, to create blockbuster games that captivate audiences around the world.
Volume 2 of The Ultimate History of Video Games focuses on gaming’s entrance into the twenty-first century. Kent grippingly narrates the fierce competition between gaming giants like Nintendo, Sega, Sony, and Microsoft as they battle for dominance in the global market.
In the 1990s, the home console boom transformed hobby companies like Nintendo and Sega into Hollywood-studio-sized business titans. However, by the end of the decade, they faced new and more powerful competitors. Behind closed doors, engineers and executives planned the next evolution of home consoles with enormous budgets and secrecy.
Discover how the PlayStation 2, Nintendo GameCube, and Sega Dreamcast all made different bets on what gamers would want, and how Bill Gates shocked the world with the announcement of a console to beat them all. You’ll delve into the intense rivalries between teams at Microsoft, the iconic clashes between SEGA and Nintendo, and Nintendo’s ingenious use of technology to regain their position at the top of the industry.
With fascinating anecdotes and in-depth research, Kent explores the cutthroat environment at Microsoft, the confrontation between the head of Sega of America and the creator of Sonic the Hedgehog, and the strategies that put Nintendo back on top. In addition, he examines the origins of iconic franchises like Grand Theft Auto, Halo, Call of Duty, and Guitar Hero that have defined gaming in the new millennium.
Featuring a compelling narrative and comprehensive coverage, The Ultimate History of Video Games: Volume 2 is a must-read for gamers, history buffs, and anyone who wants to gain insights into the evolution of the video game industry.
Key Technical Specifications:
- Blockbuster game development costs in the millions of dollars
- 0 billion market worldwide
- Home console boom in the 90s
- Nintendo, Sega, Sony, and Microsoft competing for global market
- Development of PlayStation 2, Nintendo GameCube, and Sega Dreamcast
- Bill Gates announcing development of a new console
- Microsoft’s significant investment in console development
- The competitive environment at Microsoft
- Rival teams creating console systems
- Controversial interaction between Sega of America and the creator of Sonic the Hedgehog
- Nintendo’s use of “lateral thinking with withered technology”
- Exploration of popular gaming franchises like Grand Theft Auto, Halo, Call of Duty, and Guitar Hero
The Ultimate History of Video Games: Volume 2 – Comparative Analysis
The Ultimate History of Video Games: Volume 2 offers a captivating journey into the behind-the-scenes world of the gaming industry and its explosive growth in the twenty-first century. Let’s delve into its competitive advantages, disadvantages, and identify its target audience by comparing it with similar products in the category.
Competitive Advantages:
This book sets itself apart by providing a comprehensive account of the video game industry’s evolution into the new millennium. Steven L. Kent’s extensive research and personal experience in the industry make this book a treasure trove of insider knowledge, making it an invaluable resource for both avid gamers and industry enthusiasts.
The author’s engaging writing style and attention to detail ensure that readers are fully immersed in the history he presents. The book beautifully depicts the cutthroat environment at Microsoft, the clash between rival teams, and the bold decisions that shaped the gaming landscape. These captivating narratives elevate the reading experience and keep readers hooked throughout the book.
Competitive Disadvantages:
While comprehensive, The Ultimate History of Video Games: Volume 2 might not dive as deeply into the specific details of certain consoles or games compared to other specialized books in the industry. It sacrifices some technical depth in favor of providing a broader overview of the industry’s major players and pivotal moments.
The book also assumes a certain level of familiarity with the gaming industry and its history. While this is perfect for enthusiasts who want to expand their knowledge, it might not be the ideal starting point for someone completely new to the world of video games.
Intended Audience:
The Ultimate History of Video Games: Volume 2 is intended for gamers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts who want to delve deeper into the history and evolution of video games. It caters to readers who already possess a certain level of familiarity with gaming and seek a comprehensive account of the industry’s major milestones and its power players.
Overall, The Ultimate History of Video Games: Volume 2 shines as a captivating and well-researched book that provides a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of the gaming industry’s evolution. It is a must-read for anyone wanting to explore the behind-the-scenes action that shaped the video game landscape in the twenty-first century.
Original case and manuals in new condition.