Summary
- Release Year: 1973
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Shooter, Strategy
- Platforms: PLATO
Empire (1973): The Dawn of Networked Multiplayer Gaming
In the annals of video game history, certain titles stand out as true pioneers, blazing trails that would shape the future of the industry. Empire (1973), an unassuming game created for the PLATO system, holds a special place among these groundbreaking titles. It is widely considered to be the first networked multiplayer arena shooter-style game, and possibly even the first networked multiplayer action game.
A Revolutionary Concept
Prior to Empire, multiplayer gaming was largely confined to local area networks (LANs) or hotseat play, where multiple players took turns using the same computer. Empire broke new ground by allowing players to compete against each other over a wide area network (WAN), connecting via telephone lines. This was a major technical achievement at the time, as networking technology was still in its infancy.
Gameplay and Innovation
Empire’s gameplay was simple yet addictive. Players controlled spaceships that could move around a two-dimensional arena, firing lasers at each other. The first player to reach a certain number of kills won the round.
Despite its simplicity, Empire introduced several innovative features that would become staples of the multiplayer shooter genre. These included:
- Real-time combat: Players could engage in real-time battles with each other, with their actions having an immediate impact on the game world.
- Player customization: Players could customize their spaceships with different weapons and upgrades.
- Team play: Players could form teams and work together to defeat their opponents.
Historical Significance
Empire’s significance cannot be overstated. It was one of the first games to demonstrate the potential of networked multiplayer gaming, and it laid the foundation for the hugely popular shooter genre that we know today.
Empire also had a significant impact on the development of the PLATO system itself. The game’s popularity helped to drive the adoption of PLATO in schools and universities, and it played a role in the development of PLATO’s networking capabilities.
Legacy and Impact
Empire’s legacy can be seen in countless multiplayer shooters that have come after it. Games such as Doom, Quake, and Call of Duty all owe a debt to Empire’s pioneering spirit.
The game’s influence can also be seen in the broader gaming industry. Empire helped to popularize the concept of online gaming, and it paved the way for the development of massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) and other online multiplayer experiences.
Conclusion
Empire (1973) may not be as well-known as some of the other classic video games of its era, but its impact on the industry is undeniable. It was a true pioneer in the field of networked multiplayer gaming, and it helped to shape the future of the shooter genre. Empire is a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring appeal of multiplayer gaming.
Review Score
9/10
