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Some people believe that the popularity of the personal computer can be credited to the popular "game machines" of the late 1970's and early 1980's. These "video arcade machines" were actually a form of personal computer. The "game cartridges" were software that was stored on a ROM (an integrated circuit memory device designed to store information) instead of a disk. Some of these early game machines allowed you to add a keyboard and perform some personal computer functions such as word processing.
Also popular around the same time were mass-marketed, relatively low cost personal computers designed for home use. These were generally connected to the family television for audio and video output. Color computer video monitors were also available.
While these personal computers were popular for a variety of applications ranging from education to business use, a large selection of game software was also available. Some of the games came on cartridges and some came on floppy disks.
Over the last two decades, computer gaming software grew from simple "shoot-em-up" games into today's realistic action-adventure games featuring 3-D animation, stereo soundtracks, characters that speak and actual video sequences featuring popular film and television stars. There are so many different types of games available that they are usually broken down into categories such as action, adventure, arcade, cards, lottery, driving, kids, puzzles, strategy, simulation and sports.
The interactivity of games can be enhanced by adding computer accessories such as flight sticks and yokes, steering wheels, and sensory devices such as "virtual reality" helmets and gloves which allow your body movements to control the game action.
Some games have merit other than sheer entertainment value. Game software has been credited with developing cognitive thinking, decision making, reaction time, coordination, strategy and other skills.
A form of software which can be compared to a game is "simulation" software. Transportation companies use simulation software to reduce accidents, pilots can practice using controls and indicators, and many situations can be tested and practiced on the computer in a game-like atmosphere in order to evaluate and plan actual "real life" situations.
Examples of popular games include Chessmaster, The Sims, Rollercoaster Tycoon, Doom, Myst, Hoyle Casino, Need For Speed and Microsoft Flight Simulator.
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