Magnavox Odyssey (1972) - Explain the game play

[Jeff-20]

Has anyone here owned a Magnavox Odyssey (the first version, not the O2)?

I need to know the play mechanics for the "SIMON" and "HAUNTED HOUSE" games. I've found a few websites, but most only provide cart/overlay pics. No screenshots.

I would like a brief description of how these two games are played. A link to a screenshot would be wonderful!

[tom]

Well, here's goes:

(My Odyssey is boxed up in the attic, so this is from memory):

Simon Says:
3 players.
One player reads out the cards.
2 players in competition with a 'Player Control Unit' each.

Player 1 reads: Simon says: find your elbow (on the boy or girl)

The other two players must reach the elbow with their on-screen square (ball).
Whoever land on 'elbow' first, gets a point.

[tom]

Haunted House I will have to look up, can't remember (I think it's more or less the same, 1 player reads out the cards, 2 players must find the treasure).

Here's the best Odyssey link:
http://www.pong-story.com/odyssey.htm


Here's my collection:
http://videogamecollectors.com/gallery/album128

[Jeff-20]

Re: Simon
Does the computer determine who reaches the position first? I know the players must keep score, but if one is made to decide who was first, wouldn't that be difficult?

Re: Haunted House
Are there any obstacles or barriers to finding the items within the house? I'm still a little confused on that one. No website seems to offer any information on the actual games and gameplay.

[Jeff-20]

BTW, you have an awesome collection! I didn't know so many items existed. Especially, the carry case! I hope you remember playing haunted house, because the emulator is confusing without the overlay and cards.

[tom]

Hi thanks,
No the Odyssey does not compute who reaches the position first. You shout (usually the third person is the scorekeeper, a lot of Odyssey games need 3 or more players).