Baer is credited with creating the very first video game console. It was originally called the Brown Box but was later licensed and sold by Magnavox in 1972 as the Magnavox Odyssey. The success of the Odyssey paved the road for competition from other companies, such as Atari. Baer's invention led to arcade machines, Pong, and eventually the consoles and games we have today.
Beyond that, Baer also created the first light gun peripheral for consoles. He then also went on to create Simon, an electronic toy based off of the "Simon Says" game that children like to play.
Baer has been awarded numerous accolades over the years including the Developer's Choice "Pioneer" award at the Game Developers Conference in 2008. He was also awarded the National Medal of Technology by President George W. Bush in 2006. In 2010 he was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
Rest in peace, Ralph, and thank you.
