Evolution of Adult-Oriented Video Games: From Pong to Today's EROGE
The question of what the first video game made specifically for adults was intriguing and sparked my interest, leading me to undertake a thorough investigation. This article will explore the history of adult-oriented video games, ranging from early generic titles to more explicit ones, including EROGEs (Ebiso RPGs).
Generic Games Marketed for Adults
With the advent of video games, the line between family-friendly entertainment and adult-oriented content became more blurred. While the pioneers like Computer Space and Tennis for Two were more research-oriented, it wasn't long before games started targeting a more mature audience. One of the earliest examples of this shift was Night Driver by Atari, released in 1976. This game simulated night driving, offering a more realistic and challenging experience, and was marketed as a step up from the simple and repetitive games of that era.
Death Race by Exidy was another game that made waves due to its violent themes. Released in 1978, Death Race allowed players to drive over stick figures, leading to debates about its appropriateness. The game's controversial nature highlighted the growing tension between gaming and mainstream society.
Custer's Revenge by Mystique pushed the boundaries further in 1981. The game featured a controversial title and box art, with a naked woman tied to a cactus, and a depiction of Native Americans. The game's release stirred up significant controversy and, as a result, it has since become an iconic piece of video game history.
Early Pornographic Video Games
The 1980s saw the birth of adult-oriented video games, often purely as written adventures or simple visual novels due to technological limitations. One of the earliest examples is Softporn Adventure by Sierra On-Line, released in 1981. It featured text-based erotic content and was later refashioned as Leisure Suit Larry in the Land of the Lounge Lizards.
X-Man for the Atari 2600 emerged in the same decade, featuring pixelated nudity and explicit sexual content. These games, though simple by today's standards, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of adult video games.
EROGEs: Modern Adult Video Games
As technology advanced, the ability to create more sophisticated and visually engaging adult video games increased significantly. By the 1990s, CD-ROM technology allowed for more advanced graphics and sound, ushering in the era of eroge (Ebiso RPG, also known as visual novels). These games typically feature interactive narratives and complex gameplay mechanics, often with romantic themes.
Some notable examples of eroge include Honey Select, Summer Time Saga, House Party, and Fap CEO. While these titles are deeply rooted in the adult video game market, they are not universally advertised or marketed in mainstream gaming circles due to their sensitive nature. In many cases, players discover such content through dedicated pornographic game websites or among their peers.
It is essential to recognize that adult video games cater to a specific audience. These games should only be played by consenting adults and are not suitable for all audiences.
In conclusion, the chronological journey of adult video games is a testament to the evolution of technology and societal norms. From simple text-based adventures to modern eroge, the genre has grown significantly. However, with this growth comes the responsibility to ensure that these games remain accessible only to their intended audience.