Magnavox Odyssey was the world's first video game system (1972). It allowed playing "Ball and Paddle" games such as ping-pong, table tennis, volleyball, and others (my favorite at the time was “Simon says” or as it was called in the Israeli version “Shimon AMAR”).

 

The package contained transparent plastic overlays that were “pasted” over the TV set, in order to provide a colorful graphic interface.

 

The console didnÂ’t support any sound effects, although its developer Ralph Baer later on create the infamous Simon, which successfully translated an annoying electronic noise, into a successful gameplay.

 

Magnavox made about $20 million selling the console itself, and about 80 million dollars in licensing fees and royalties (including $700,000 settlement from Atari in the first ever video game lawsuit).

 

Odyssey software emulator can be found here

 

More Odyssey info