Back in the day, the Nintendo Game & Watch (said as “Game and Watch”) series was the ultimate portable gaming device. It was small enough to fit in your pocket, but packed a punch with its entertaining and addictive games. “Ball” (also known as “Juggle”, or “Toss-up”, depending on the publisher) released on 28th April 1980, was the first, and one of the most popular games in the series for good reason. It featured one character; a cool little juggling gentleman (that would later be known as “Mr. Game & Watch”), and a Ball (actually, a number of them).
Get Ready to Bounce: A Look at the Gameplay of “Ball”
In “Ball”, players take on the role of the juggler (Mr Game & Watch) character who must keep a ball in the air by bouncing it on a platform. It sounds simple, but trust us, it’s harder than it looks! The game features various obstacles such as bombs and birds, that make it increasingly challenging as you progress.
A Legacy that Lives On: The Impact of “Ball” and Game & Watch
It’s hard to overstate the impact that the Game & Watch series, and “Ball” specifically, had on the world of portable gaming. Designed by Gunpei Yokoi; it was the first ever game to be produced for Nintendo’s Game & Watch series, and a forerunner for the Game Boy (also designed by Yokoi) and other handheld devices that followed. Many of the gameplay mechanics and design elements of “Ball” continued in to the Game Boy, and also undeniably can be seen in modern mobile games today.
Fun Facts and Trivia: Did you know?
- The Game and Watch series sold over 43 million units worldwide.
- “Ball” was one of the most popular games for the “Game & Watch”.
- The game’s designer, Gunpei Yokoi, also designed the hugely popular Game Boy.
In Conclusion
“Ball” is a retro gaming classic that still holds up today. It’s a must-play for any retro gaming fan and a reminder of the impact that the Game & Watch series had on the handheld gaming industry. If you’re looking for a 1980’s style fun, a nostalgic and authentic gaming experience; as the first Game & Watch game, “Ball” is the perfect choice. Don’t forget to check out our other articles on Game & Watch games (coming soon), and of course many of the retro games it inspired.
