History of Laserdisc Technology
Laserdisc technology was first developed in the 1960s, with early experiments using laser beams to read data stored on spinning disks. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the technology became more practical and affordable, leading to its widespread adoption in various industries, including entertainment. In the world of video games, laserdisc technology was initially used for educational and training simulations, as well as interactive movie experiences.
Michael Jackson’s Thriller: A Pioneering Laserdisc Video Game
In 1987, Sony Computer Entertainment released “Michael Jackson’s Thriller,” a laserdisc-based video game that revolutionized the way people played interactive games. The game was based on the popular music video for Jackson’s song of the same name, and featured a series of challenges and mini-games that players could complete to progress through the story. One of the key features of “Michael Jackson’s Thriller” was its use of laserdisc technology to create an immersive and interactive experience.
The game used multiple laserdiscs to store different parts of the experience, including backgrounds, animations, and sound effects. This allowed for seamless transitions between scenes and created a sense of continuity that was not possible with other forms of media. Another groundbreaking aspect of “Michael Jackson’s Thriller” was its use of motion control technology.
Players could use their bodies to move their on-screen avatar, making the game feel more natural and immersive. This feature was particularly successful among children and teenagers, who enjoyed the novelty of being able to physically interact with a video game.
Impact of “Michael Jackson’s Thriller” on the Video Game Industry
The success of “Michael Jackson’s Thriller” had a significant impact on the video game industry, inspiring other developers to explore the possibilities of laserdisc technology and motion control. One of the most notable examples was “Star Fox,” released in 1989 by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System.
Like “Michael Jackson’s Thriller,” “Star Fox” used multiple laserdiscs to create a seamless, immersive experience, and featured innovative use of motion control to make the game feel more dynamic. Another developer that was inspired by “Michael Jackson’s Thriller” was LucasArts, which created the popular adventure game series “Star Wars.” In 1992, LucasArts released “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” a laserdisc-based game that allowed players to explore the world of Star Wars and complete missions in a variety of environments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Michael Jackson’s Thriller” was a pioneering laserdisc video game that paved the way for future interactive entertainment experiences. Its use of laserdisc technology and motion control inspired other developers to explore new possibilities in gaming, leading to the creation of innovative and immersive games like “Star Fox” and “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
