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History of video games/Platforms/Electro Tic-Tac-Toe

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  • The 1972 Electro Tic-Tac-Toe by Waco.
    The 1972 Electro Tic-Tac-Toe by Waco.

History[edit | edit source]

The Waco Electro Tic-Tac-Toe was released in 1972.[1][2] The Waco Electro Tic-Tac-Toe is perhaps among the first electric handheld systems and a possible influence to many other designs that would follow, though it's reliance on players for logic and scoring makes this status disputed.[3][1] Unfortunately, little more is known about the history of the Waco Electro Tic-Tac-Toe.

Technology[edit | edit source]

Button illumination came from lamps, with filters used to add color.[1] The system was simple, and gameplay only supported two players.[1] The Electro Tic-Tac-Toe is powered by two D size batteries.[4]

  • A small incandescent bulb used for Christmas tree lighting. In the early 1970's small bulbs like this served the role more efficient LED's would later serve, including in the Electro Tic-Tac-Toe.
    A small incandescent bulb used for Christmas tree lighting. In the early 1970's small bulbs like this served the role more efficient LED's would later serve, including in the Electro Tic-Tac-Toe.
  • Two D cell batteries, similar to those used in the Electro Tic-Tac-Toe. These large alkaline batteries were standardized and could commonly be found in stores. These batteries were not typically integral in devices, and could be changed on the fly, but this was because these batteries were one use only and not meant to be rechargeable. A match stick is included for scale.
    Two D cell batteries, similar to those used in the Electro Tic-Tac-Toe. These large alkaline batteries were standardized and could commonly be found in stores. These batteries were not typically integral in devices, and could be changed on the fly, but this was because these batteries were one use only and not meant to be rechargeable. A match stick is included for scale.

References[edit | edit source]

Wikipedia has related information at Waco (toymaker)

  1. ↑ a b c d "Waco Electro Tic-Tac-Toe - First Electronic Game Ever?". Retro Thing. Retrieved 15 November 2020.
  2. ↑ "Games". www.decodesystems.com. Retrieved 16 November 2020.
  3. ↑ "Evolution of handheld gaming devices. timeline". Timetoast. Retrieved 17 November 2020.
  4. ↑ "Waco Tic-Tac-Toe". www.handheldmuseum.com. Retrieved 15 November 2020.
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