The Data Drop releases one interactive visual essay every week, and the latest is a collection of startup sounds from 1977 to the present, covering everything from the Apple II to the Vision Pro.

First impressions are important. That’s true both in people and video game consoles. The first time you boot up a new gaming system can be a magical moment when done right. There’s always a built-in ...

Console startup sounds are supposed to be iconic. Memorable. Maybe even comforting. But let’s be honest—some of them were straight-up annoying. Whether it was the audio equivalent of a jump scare or a ...