The Bottom Line
PONG! Multiplayer, a variant of the "world's first video game", is a Firefox add-on which lets you play this golden oldie right in your browser window. You can play both 1 or 2 player modes as well online multiplayer games with people all around the world by using your keyboard and/or mouse to control your paddle.
Pros
- The gameplay and rules are very similar to the original PONG! game.
- You are able to simultaneously have 2 players on the same computer utilizing the mouse and keyboard.
- The game's appearance is easily customizable.
- Multiplayer mode allows you to play and chat with a large number of people from all over the world.
- The game's controls are very easy to learn and to use.
Cons
- You may have to modify port settings on your router or firewall to access multiplayer mode.
- The default menu colors can make it very tough to see some of the drop-down options.
- At times there are not many people participating in multiplayer mode.
Description
- PONG! Multiplayer lets you play a spin-off of the game PONG! in a Firefox pop-up window.
- The rules as well as the gameplay are very similar to the original version.
- 1 Player mode allows you to control the game with either your mouse, keyboard, or a combination of the two.
- 2 Player mode (on the same computer) is possible by Player 1 using the mouse/keyboard and Player 2 using just the keyboard.
- Online multiplayer mode allows you to play with other opponents on the Internet.
- The add-on contains a full-featured chat client, utilizing a multiplayer lobby as well as in-game chat between two opponents.
- The game interface is highly customizable, allowing you to build your own RGB color schemes.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) causes your computer opponent to raise or lower its skill based on the current game situation.
- The Friends feature allows you to maintain a list of nicknames and the IP addresses associated with them.
- Sound effects can be toggled on and off via the Settings screen. Keyboard shortcuts are included to pause the current game.
Guide Review - PONG! Multiplayer
Created by Ralph H. Baer, the man who many say invented video games, PONG! was the first true console game that found its way into the world's homes and onto its television sets. When it comes to gaming, sometimes the simplest things can be the most enjoyable. When it comes to PONG!, this was the case decades ago and still stands true today. The PONG! Multiplayer add-on brings this vintage gem to your Firefox browser and carries with it a modern touch by adding features such as a chat client and a online multiplayer mode. In my opinion, the default color schemes are pretty rough on the eyes but fear not as the customization settings are plenty. For fans of video games, new and old alike, this is a great extension to your browser.
