Simon (1978) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Simon is an electronic memory game that was released in in 1978. It was designed by Ralph Baer, Lenny Cope, and Howard J. Morrison. The game quickly became popular due to its simple yet addictive gameplay. Over the years, Simon has been re-released by various publishers such as Hasbro and Estrela, making it a classic in the world of electronic games.

Game Components of Simon

Four colored buttons: Blue, Yellow, Red, and Green

Unique tones: Each button plays a distinct note, inspired by the bugle

Light and Sound System: Buttons light up and produce sounds in a sequence

Microcontroller: Uses the Texas Instruments TMS 1000 microcontroller chip

Power Source: Four D batteries

Physical Dimensions: 3 in x 10 1/2 in (7.62 cm x 26.67 cm)

How To Setup Simon

To set up Simon, simply insert the four D batteries and turn it on. The game does not require any complex assembly, making it ready to play out of the box.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Sequence Repetition: The game generates a sequence of lights and sounds that the player must repeat.

Increasing Complexity: The sequence becomes longer and more complex as the game progresses.

Time Limit: Players must repeat the sequence within a given time limit.

Failure Consequence: Incorrect sequence or time limit expiration results in a game-over sound.

Objective: To repeat the sequence correctly and achieve the longest sequence possible.

Player Experience

Simon offers a engaging and challenging experience, testing players’ memory and reaction time. Players sit around the game, which often becomes the centerpiece of social gatherings, much like a crystal ball at a seance. The game’s attractive package, with its lights and sounds, makes it compelling and fun to play.

Pros

Social Aspect: Encourages multiplayer interaction and social engagement.

Portability: Despite initial models being large, later versions like *Pocket Simon* improved portability.

Challenging: Progressively longer sequences keep the game exciting and challenging.

Iconic Design: The circular shape and colored lights make it visually appealing.

Cons

Early Models Bulky: The original version was large and required four D batteries.

later Variants Mixed Reviews: Some variants, like *Simon Stix*, received criticism for lack of intuitiveness.

Battery Consumption: Early models consumed batteries quickly.

Personal Thoughts on Simon

Simon is a classic game that has stood the test of time, appealing to a wide range of ages. It is ideal for those who enjoy memory games and social interactions. The game’s simplicity in concept yet complexity in execution makes it both fun and challenging. If you’re looking for a game that combines social interaction with mental stimulation, Simon is an excellent choice. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking highly portable or battery-efficient games, at least in its original form.

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