1 / 6Press Start: The Complete History of Video Gaming From Mario to Minecraft
Complete Mario Minecraft: Press Start is an illustrated history of video gaming, tracing the medium from its early roots in 1958 to modern games. This updated 288-page English edition is aimed at readers who want a broad, visual survey rather than a guide focused on one franchise or platform.
At a glance
- Illustrated overview of video game history, from early roots to contemporary releases.
- Covers well-known franchises alongside independent games and broader industry milestones.
- The publisher describes this as a newly updated edition.
Reference price: £30.00
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionPros and cons
Pros
- A broad historical scope makes it suitable for readers interested in gaming across multiple eras and franchises.
- Illustrations and game artwork offer a visual complement to the historical overview.
- The 288-page length provides a substantial survey in a single volume.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Ilex Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 25 Sept. 2025 |
| Edition | 1st |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 288 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1840918853 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1840918854 |
| Dimensions | 19.05 x 3.05 x 25.65 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 1.2 kg |
What to know before buying
- The publisher describes coverage as extending from 1958 to the present, but the listing does not specify a final cutoff date for this edition.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers seeking a visual introduction to video game history across generations.
- Gaming fans interested in the evolution of games, franchises and the industry.
Less suited to
- Readers looking for a technical game-development manual or an in-depth history of only one game or platform.

Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
52% 52% - 4 stars
29% 29% - 3 stars
5% 5% - 2 stars
7% 7% - 1 star
7% 7%
Aggregate ratings lean towards the higher star categories, while a smaller share falls in the lower categories. With a limited rating sample and no written feedback supplied, this indicates varied overall reception but does not establish specific strengths, criticisms or reasons for ratings. Buyers should judge whether the broad, illustrated historical scope suits their interests.
Frequently asked questions
What does Press Start cover?
The listing describes an illustrated history of video games from early roots in 1958 through modern titles, including major franchises, independent games and industry milestones.
How long is this edition?
The listed print length is 288 pages.
Is this a technical guide to making games?
The supplied description presents it as a history of gaming, not a game-development manual.

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