Download E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Free: A Look Back at One of the Worst Video Games of All Time

The 1982 Christmas season was supposed to be a time of joy and celebration for gamers, but instead, it turned out to be a disaster with the release of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial video game. Based on the beloved film of the same name, this Atari 2600 game is often cited as one of the worst video games of all time and one of the biggest commercial failures in video game history.

The story behind the game's creation is just as fascinating as its poor reception. Howard Scott Warshaw, the game's designer, was given just five weeks to develop the game after negotiations for the rights ended in late July 1982. With an unrealistic expectation from Atari that sales would match the international box-office success of the film, Warshaw aimed to create an innovative adaptation.

Unfortunately, the final product did not meet expectations. The gameplay is clunky and confusing, with players having to guide E.T. through various screens to collect three pieces of an interplanetary telephone that will allow him to contact his home planet. The game's objective is simplistic, and the graphics are subpar for the time.

Despite its poor reception, the game remains a fascinating piece of video game history. It serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks involved in developing games based on popular films, especially when there is pressure to meet unrealistic sales expectations.

Today, fans of retro gaming can download E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial free and experience for themselves why this game is often considered one of the worst video games of all time. While it may not be a nostalgic trip worth taking, it's an interesting look at how video games have evolved over the years and a reminder to always prioritize quality over commercial success.

Download E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial free