Book Review: Console Wars

Earlier this year I began to renew my interest in video games, the culture surrounding them, and the all of the work that goes into their creation. One of the books that I heard about while listening to a gaming-related podcast was Console Wars by Blake J. Harris. And so, as I have a habit of doing, I immediately pulled out my phone, opened the Amazon app, and ordered a paperback copy of the book.

I started reading Console Wars soon after it arrived, but as this is a busy time of year for me, it took me a while to finish. But let me tell you, it was completely worth it. Throughout the book, Mr. Harris tells the story of the video game console battles of the early 90s, from multiple sides. It’s the story of the underdog, Sega, taking on the biggest name in consoles at that time, Nintendo.

Probably my favorite thing about the book was the great storyline that made me feel like I was living in that time period, watching events occur in near-real time. I’ve heard friends and coworkers, slightly older than me, talking about the days of the Sega Genesis with nostalgia. Or, perhaps they were a Nintendo family, and they were talking about the Genesis with disdain. And after reading this book, I finally get it (both sides)!

I don’t want to spoil too much that happens in the book, and there are many better reviews than mine that you can find online. However, I strongly recommend checking it out if you have the time, especially if you’re into technology and/or video games!