First voice-controlled videogame

Unveiled at Nintendo’s 1997 Space World show in Tokyo, Hey You, Pikachu! (Japanese name Pikachu Genki Dechu) cast an almighty spell upon event attendees on 21–23 November. The Nintendo 64 game developed by Ambrella allowed players to talk to their beloved Pikachu, asking him to perform simple tasks such as collecting apples and playing with beach balls. The game was released in Japan on 12 December 1998, then in the USA on 6 November 2000.

Although the technology was limited at the time, this game really did have its audience transfixed. Sales were rather weak, arguably owing to the expense of buying the game plus microphone – a step too far for most cost-conscious parents.