Pong became the first commercially successful arcade video game in 1972.
Atari created Pong as a simple electronic simulation of table tennis. Engineer Allan Alcorn built the prototype as a training exercise, but Atari co-founder Nolan Bushnell recognized its potential and ordered a commercial version. The cabinet used two rotary controls, allowing players to move vertical paddles and hit a square ball across the screen.
Atari placed an early Pong machine at Andy Capp’s Tavern in Sunnyvale, California. The game attracted so many players that its coin box soon overflowed, providing a clear sign of strong public demand. Atari then manufactured and distributed arcade cabinets widely.
Pong was not the first video game or the first arcade video game. Earlier examples included Spacewar! and Computer Space. Its importance was that its straightforward controls, competitive two-player format, and reliable arcade hardware made video games commercially viable on a large scale. Atari later released home versions, helping establish the home video-game market.