Photo credit: Evan Amos
You’ve seen the Homework First NES lock, now check out the first video game cartridge used by the Fairchild Channel F console. Originally launched in 1976, priced at $169.96 USD ($908 in 2023), the Fairchild Channel f was touted as a ‘Video Entertainment System’ and the first to use ROM cartridges instead of having games built-in.
The Fairchild Channel F came about when, Alpex Computer Corporation employees Wallace Kirschner and Lawrence Haskel developed a home video game prototype back in 1973 that consisted of a base unit centered on an Intel 8080 microprocessor and interchangeable circuit boards containing ROM chips that could be plugged into the base unit. Intel’s 8080 microprocessor was eventually replaced with Fairchild’s own F8 CPU and its complex keyboard controls adapted into a single control stick, while the ROM circuit boards were encased into plastic cartridges similar to 8-track tapes.
- Build an interactive, 1980s-style TV set displaying the classic Super Mario Bros. game & activate it with LEGO Mario figure (not included)
- Authentic details of the NES console are recreated in LEGO style, including a controller and an opening slot for the buildable Game Pak
- The TV has a handle-operated scrolling screen, Mario figure reacts to the on-screen enemies, obstacles and power-ups when placed on the top
