PersonHistory

Billy Mitchell

@billymitchell

Explore the timeline of Billy Mitchell, a prominent figure in the history of video gaming known for his achievements in arcade games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong. This timeline highlights the significant milestones and controversies throughout his career, from his early records in competitive gaming to his subsequent standings within the gaming community.

Born July 16, 1965
Known as Video Game Player
Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
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THU · 29 DEC 2022

Billy Mitchell Announces New Documentary Project

Billy Mitchell revealed plans for a new documentary focusing on his life, gaming achievements, and controversies. The project aims to offer his perspective on key events, countering narratives from past documentaries and media coverage. It sparked discussions on how media representations influence public perception.

SUN · 01 AUG 2021

Billy Mitchell Breaks New Donkey Kong Record

Billy Mitchell set a new personal high score in Donkey Kong, achieving a score of 1,092,300 points. This achievement demonstrated his continued prowess in classic arcade gaming even amidst controversies and legal battles regarding his previous records.

THU · 18 JUN 2020

Guinness World Records Reinstates Billy Mitchell's Scores

Guinness World Records announced the reinstatement of Billy Mitchell's Pac-Man and Donkey Kong high scores after a re-investigation into the legitimacy of the allegations against him. The decision was made on the grounds of newly reviewed evidence, though Twin Galaxies maintained its stance against him.

MON · 17 JUN 2019

Billy Mitchell Files Legal Challenge Against Twin Galaxies

Billy Mitchell launched a legal battle against Twin Galaxies, asserting that the removal of his Donkey Kong scores was unwarranted. Mitchell argued that the evidence of foul play was insufficient and that his scores should be reinstated. The case further fueled debate over fair play in competitive gaming.

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THU · 12 APR 2018

Twin Galaxies Removes Billy Mitchell's Scores

Following an investigation, Twin Galaxies stripped Billy Mitchell of all his records and banned him from submitting scores after it was determined that he used emulation for his Donkey Kong records. This controversy cast a shadow over his gaming legacy and polarized opinions within the gaming community.

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FRI · 18 SEP 2015

Billy Mitchell Inducted into International Video Game Hall of Fame

Billy Mitchell was inducted into the International Video Game Hall of Fame (IVGHOF) for his contributions to the world of classic arcade gaming. The ceremony took place during the 2015 ICON trading card event in Ottumwa, Iowa, paralleling the Twin Galaxies International Scoreboard's efforts to preserve gaming history.

WED · 14 JUL 2010

Steve Wiebe Reclaims Donkey Kong World Record

Steve Wiebe surpassed Billy Mitchell's high score in Donkey Kong with a score of 1,064,500 points. This was part of an ongoing rivalry, intensifying the competition between the two players. Wiebe's record was verified by Twin Galaxies, rekindling public interest in arcade game competitions.

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FRI · 17 AUG 2007

King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters Release

The documentary film 'The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters' was released. Directed by Seth Gordon, the film follows the rivalry between Billy Mitchell and Steve Wiebe as they compete for the high score in Donkey Kong, with Billy Mitchell portrayed as the longtime record holder and antagonist. The film brought renewed attention to competitive gaming and Mitchell's gaming career.

WED · 24 AUG 2005

Gaming Industry Awards Twin Galaxies Goodwill Ambassador Award

Billy Mitchell received the inaugural Twin Galaxies Goodwill Ambassador Award at the Classic Gaming Expo held in the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. This award was meant to recognize individuals who significantly contribute to the positive image of video games and support the gaming community.

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SAT · 03 JUL 1982

First Perfect Pac-Man Game

Billy Mitchell became the first person to achieve a perfect score of 3,333,360 points on the arcade game Pac-Man. This accomplishment required completing 256 levels without a single miss and consuming every dot, blue ghost, and piece of fruit without losing a life. Mitchell's feat elevated him to fame in the arcade gaming world.

That's every defining moment so far. New events are added only when the reporting warrants it.

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