Atari, founded by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney in 1972, introduced Pong to the public, marking a pivotal moment in gaming history. The game, which simulates a game of table tennis, was developed by Al Alcorn as a simple project, but its intuitive design and engaging gameplay quickly captivated audiences. Initially tested in a small bar in Sunnyvale, California, Pong garnered immediate popularity, leading to rapid deployments into arcade venues across the United States. Its combination of strategy, reflexes, and competition made it appealing to a wide demographic, from children to adults.

The graphics were rudimentary, consisting of simple white paddles and a dot representing a ball. However, the excitement generated by player interaction was groundbreaking. As players took turns hitting the ball back and forth, the arcade experience transformed from passive viewing to active participation. The sound effects, which included beeps and boops, further enhanced the immersive experience, creating an atmosphere that drew crowds. Pong's success demonstrated the commercial viability of video games.

This launch set the stage for the expansion of the video game industry throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, giving rise to a multitude of arcade games and home gaming systems. Atari's success with Pong inspired other companies to develop their games, leading to an explosion of creativity within the entertainment industry. The phenomenon of Pong spoke to a nascent cultural shift, as gaming turned into a social activity, fostering community engagement within arcades and among friends.