Yes... I remember the original Gain. It had a nice scent. I think today, most of the laundry detergents stink. They are way too overpowering, and smell like candy. Give me back the detergents that smell like Dash, Tide, Silverdust, Cheer and the like from years ago. I cannot even stand the smell of liquid Tide HE anymore. I always try new fabric softeners, and always go back to Downy April Fresh.
I think it was around 1971 or 72 that Gain debuted on the market. Drive came out at the same time too. I liked the smell of both of them, but I thought Drive smelled a little nicer.
We usually use FOCA and Gain with Baking Soda. Both are rather low perfumed.
I do remember that. Back then, you didn't have to request a sample, it was simply delivered to your home. We got a lot of detergent and softener samples that way.
My mom did not switch from Tide, but I do primarily use Gain today, usually the original and sometimes Island Breeze or whatever it's called if that's all they have. I started using it after a friend discovered it tested about as well as Tide with cleaning but cost several dollars less, and I have been happy with it. Also use their fabric softener on non towel loads.