Video game pioneer Ralph Baer has passed away
Ralph Baer, developer of the first video game console and widely considered to be the father of video games, has passed at the age of 92, according to a report from Gamasutra. Baer developed the Brown Box, as well as a design that was eventually licensed to Magnavox and released to the public as the Magnavox Odyssey in 1972.
The Odyssey's presence inspired competitors like Atari, which created the 1972 arcade machine Pong after company founder Nolan Bushnell found inspiration in Magnavox's Table Tennis. Atari's success with Pong helped the company continue with arcade machines and further popularize home gaming consoles.
Baer's portfolio also includes development of the first lightgun game in 1967, and the electronic call-and-response Simon toy in 1979. Bear was named one of The National Medal of Technology and Innovation Laureates in 2004 and was recognized for his work with several other notable awards, including the GDC Pioneer Award in 2007.
[Image: PBS]
