What's Happening?
The Video Game History Foundation (VGHF) has announced the acquisition and online publication of the complete archive of Computer Entertainer, a pioneering video game magazine from the early 1980s. Founded by Marylou Badeaux and Celeste Dolan in 1982, Computer Entertainer was notable for surviving the video game industry crash of 1983 and providing coverage during the formative years of the Nintendo Entertainment System's launch in North America. The magazine featured early reviews of iconic NES games such as Metroid, The Legend of Zelda, and Super Mario Bros. VGHF founder Frank Cifaldi emphasized the importance of this archive in offering insights into the industry's rebirth during the mid-1980s, a period he refers to as the 'dark ages' of home console gaming in the U.S.
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Why It's Important?
The digital archive of Computer Entertainer provides a valuable resource for historians, researchers, and enthusiasts interested in the evolution of the video game industry. By preserving and making accessible the content from a critical period in gaming history, the VGHF offers insights into the cultural and economic factors that shaped the industry. This initiative not only aids in understanding the past but also supports the preservation of gaming history as a public utility. The archive's availability may influence future studies and discussions about the industry's development and its impact on entertainment and technology.
What's Next?
The VGHF plans to continue expanding its digital archive, which already includes over 3,000 out-of-print video game magazines and hundreds of trade publications. This expansion will likely involve acquiring more rare materials and providing further insights into the gaming industry's history. Researchers and enthusiasts can expect more comprehensive access to historical content, potentially leading to new discoveries and analyses. The foundation's efforts may also inspire similar initiatives in other sectors of entertainment and media.
Beyond the Headlines
The preservation of Computer Entertainer highlights the importance of archiving media that documents cultural phenomena. As digital media continues to evolve, the role of archives in maintaining historical records becomes increasingly significant. This initiative underscores the ethical responsibility to preserve media that reflects societal changes and technological advancements, ensuring that future generations have access to these cultural artifacts.
