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Rare Computer Space Game Hits Auction Block
13 Aug
Summary
- The emerald Computer Space cabinet is part of a large retro tech auction.
- Computer Space is recognized as the first arcade video game.
- It was released in late 1971 and cost a quarter to play.
A rare, sparkling emerald Computer Space arcade cabinet is currently featured in a significant retro tech auction, concentrating on the Steve Jobs era and the computer revolution. Released in late 1971, Computer Space holds the distinction of being the world's first arcade video game. Designed by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney, it was based on the 1962 game Spacewar!.
Originally distributed by Nutting Associates, the single-player version of Computer Space paved the way for future games like Asteroids. The initial cabinet featured a unique design, a small screen, and four action buttons, costing $0.25 per game. A two-player iteration with joysticks followed in mid-1973, produced by Nutting without Bushnell or Dabney.
Computer Space also made notable appearances in popular culture, with a custom white cabinet seen in the 1973 film Soylent Green, marking a first for video games in Hollywood. A yellow version was also visible in the 1975 movie Jaws. Despite this exposure, Nutting Associates ceased operations in 1976, while Atari, founded by Bushnell and Dabney after their collaboration on Computer Space, continues to thrive.
