Book Review of Nick Montfort and Ian Bogost (2009). Racing the Beam: The Atari Video Computer System. Cambridge; London: The MIT Press. – Digital Culture & Education

In Montfort and Bogost’s case study platform studies also suggest a useful approach to media histories. Their work on the Atari VCS focuses on the role of creative individuals in the process of game development for the platform, and the book earmarks several important moments in videogame history. These moments are traced back to the particular groups and individuals involved, and the authors discussion is supported by interviews with the parties involved. Each chapter unfolds and examines a specific material programming challenge and how it was overcome by creative programming.– Thomas Apperley, Digital Culture & Education