The Magnavox Odyssey is recognized as the first home video game console, released in 1972. It allowed players to enjoy simple games on their television screens using cartridges. The console featured basic graphics, primarily consisting of dots and lines, and required players to overlay plastic screens on their TVs for enhanced visuals. The Odyssey came with a variety of games, including sports and board games, and used a unique system of analog controllers. Despite its limited technology, it laid the groundwork for future gaming systems and sparked interest in home entertainment, paving the way for the video game industry.