What was Sega originally called?
Sega is a well-known name in the world of gaming, but did you know that it wasn’t always known by that name? Let’s take a step back in time and explore how Sega got its start, and what it was originally called.
Early Years of Sega
Sega has its roots in 1940, when it was founded as Standard Games, a coin-operated game company in Hawaii. The company’s early focus was on providing games for American servicemen stationed on military bases. During World War II, Sega provided recreational activities for soldiers to relieve stress and boredom. Despite the challenges faced by the company during this time, Sega continued to operate, laying the foundation for its future success.
Changes in Name and Business Structure
In 1951, Sega relocated to Tokyo, Japan, and rebranded itself as Service Games of Japan. This change reflected the company’s growing presence in the Japanese market. For the next few decades, Sega continued to produce amusement machines, such as electro-mechanical games (EMGs) and analog arcade games.
1970s and 80s: The Beginning of Video Games
In the 1970s, Sega began to focus more on video games. Its first arcade video game was Periscope (1966), and it continued to produce classic arcade games like Crush Roller (1981) and Black Belt (1987). During this time, Sega also introduced its own arcade hardware, such as the Zilog Z80 microprocessor and the Sega 812 arcade system board.
The Birth of a New Era
The 1980s mark a significant turning point in Sega’s history. This is when the company introduced the SG-1000, its first home console, which was released in 1983. This console was the predecessor to the Master System and the Game Gear, which were also major successes for Sega. As the company continued to innovate and expand its offerings, the name Sega became synonymous with gaming.
The 1990s: Sonic and Global Recognition
The 1990s saw Sega catapult to global fame with the introduction of Sonic the Hedgehog, released in 1991. This iconic blue blur catapulted Sega to international prominence, and the character quickly became a household name. The success of Sonic sparked a new era for the company, and it further solidified Sega’s place in the gaming industry.
Today: Sega Sammy and Beyond
Today, Sega Sammy Holdings, the parent company of Sega, is a multinational media and entertainment conglomerate, with a diverse portfolio that includes video games, sports, and amusement operations. The company’s video game division continues to innovate and release new titles, leveraging its rich history and knowledge to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving gaming landscape.
In Conclusion
What was Sega originally called? The answer is Standard Games, a name that reflects the company’s early focus on providing games and recreational activities for the armed forces. From humble beginnings to global recognition, Sega has come a long way, and its story continues to inspire and captivate gamers around the world.