" I never, ever, saw the evil Steve Jobs. He was always the most well-mannered and respectful guy I knew. And we got to be pretty good friends. He didn’t suffer fools gladly. I guess he didn’t think I was a fool. "
- Nolan Bushnell

In this quote, Nolan Bushnell describes his interactions with Steve Jobs, highlighting how Jobs was always respectful and well-mannered towards him despite their significant professional differences. Bushnell notes that although Jobs could be harsh to others who he perceived as unprofessional or incompetent, their relationship was characterized by mutual respect and friendship.

Bushnell’s statement delves into the complexities of human relationships in a high-pressure business environment. It suggests that even individuals with reputations for being demanding or unpleasant can maintain respectful and meaningful connections when they find common ground or mutual respect. This quote also hints at the importance of professionalism and competence in building and maintaining such relationships, as Bushnell implies that Jobs perceived him as capable and not lacking in intellect or skill. Furthermore, it highlights how personal perceptions and experiences can shape our understanding of public figures, offering a nuanced view of someone often depicted solely through their professional achievements.

Nolan Bushnell is the founder of Atari and inventor of Pong, one of the earliest arcade games. He has been instrumental in shaping the early days of the video game industry and continues to be an influential figure in technology and entrepreneurship. His insights into working with Steve Jobs provide a unique perspective on both individuals' professional lives and their impact on each other’s careers.