Computers were first introduced to people’s homes in the early Eighties. Naturally, they also came with Vaoroi TV games. Although there were some early attempts at this gaming category (by companies Atari, Intellivision, Ramtek ) the real breakthrough in the quality of soccer video games was made when computers became accessible to common people, not only big companies. These home computers were strong enough for complex tasks, had acceptable graphics and sound capabilities, and were affordable enough that programming was not a luxury reserved for only the wealthy. Some of these talented developers began to make a difference in the history of computer gaming.
Andrew Spencer, a programmer and inventor of International Soccer, was able to create it in 1983. This game was very popular because of its graphics, better ball flight model, and nine levels for computer opponents. Early games had only two players. There are some historical perspectives that say this game is the most successful football game on an 8-bit machine.
Maybe nostalgia colored that assessment, or perhaps it was due to weak competition. Although there were many 8-bit-powered football games, only a few could be called good. The titles that are worth mentioning include Match Day (from 1985). (and the sequel in 1988. Gary Lineker’s Superstar Soccer from Gremlin Graphics; and 5 A Sides of Anirog (later changed to Anco as Anco was the name that is still sought after in the history, football games).
On the flip side, there was market full of junk titles. It wasn’t clear how publishing houses found the courage to expose them.
It was clear that 8 bit computers could not produce high-quality football games. Two C64 titles saved the day. Audiogenic published Emlyn Hughes International Soccer. These were two amazing games that approached the game in different ways. Microprose Soccer reimagined the top view (although it is graphically very similar with, many years old arcade game Tehkan world Cup). It had fast-paced action, colorful graphics, and neat options such as replays or different weather. Emlyn Hughes International Soccer used nearly the same graphics, but featured a wider range of movement and ways to pass and kicke the ball. It had different characteristics for each member of the team.
