These electronic games, prominent in the late 1970s and early 1980s, generate images using lines and points on a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, differing from raster graphics which utilize pixels. Instead of a fixed grid, an electron beam directly traces the outlines of shapes and objects. A popular example is Asteroids, which used illuminated lines to depict spacecraft and asteroids.
Their unique visual appearance offered a distinct advantage over contemporary raster-based systems, providing a cleaner, sharper image, particularly noticeable in high-contrast scenes. The technology allowed for greater scalability and detail without the processing power required by raster graphics, contributing to smoother animations and a perception of greater speed. This era holds historical significance, demonstrating an innovative approach to visual presentation in early interactive entertainment.
