1960s 

'Spacewar' (1962) 

Spacewar! - PDP-1

‘Spacewar’ is a game that’s a significant milestone in the history of video games. It was first created by Steve Russell and his team at MIT. The game featured two spaceships engaged in a dueling battle. While not a commercial game - it showcased the potential for interactive entertainment. All by using early computer systems. 

Interestingly enough the game was so ahead of its time - that it wasn’t just confined to computer labs. In 1962, it was installed on the PDP-1 computer at the Stanford University student pub. (SAIL - Standard Artificial Intelligence Laboratory). It was one of the first video games available for public play. Quickly becoming popular among the students there. 

'Marienbad' (1962)

Video Game History - Marienbad 

A Polish puzzle mainframe game. ‘Marienbad 'was created as an adaption of the logic game ‘Nim’. The game had it so that players opposed the computer using alternating rounds. Removing matches from a set, the last player to take a match loses. It was later found out that the game was technically considered unbeatable - since the computer (your opponent) always played the optimal moves ensuring its victory. 

‘Marienbad’ was created in 1962 by Witold Podgorski. Since the game didn’t spread far from its original location since there was no advertisement. The game fell into obscurity. With there being no pictures or surviving documents to recreate it. The game sadly became considered  lost. 

'Space Travel' (1969) 

Video Game History - Space Travel

Made in 1969 - ‘Space Travel’ was a text-based space flight simulation where players could control a spaceship. With them being able to fly through a pixelated representation of the Solar System. Players had the ability to  input commands such as ‘burn’ that allowed them to increase velocity of their ship, or ‘turn’ to change directions.

Being developed at Bell Labs. The game was created on a PDP-7 minicomputer as one of the earliest computer games that depicted a realistic model of the Solar System. With its development - it paved the way in computer science and software development.  Dennis Ritchie, a co-founder, went on to create the C programming language. Which had a profound impact on the gaming industry later on.

1970s

Pong (1972) 

Playing Pong The Arcade Game

‘Pong’ - A game that is often considered one of the earliest video games. With its simplicity being evident in its graphics. The game features two paddles and a ball, rendered with basic shapes. The creation of ‘Pong’ the game marked the start of the video game industry revolution. 

The game was developed by Atari with the designer being Allan Alcorn. The game had two modes; single and multiplayer, it ended up becoming a massive success. With it being a part of the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. due to its cultural impact. 

'Space Invaders' (1978) 

Game Archive - Playing Space Invaders

An iconic arcade game - it was introduced with the concept that waves of enemies would descend upon the player. Players could control a laser cannon at the bottom of the screen. Moving it horizontally so that they could defend against the alien invaders. Including  four shields all of which provided limited protection from enemy shots. These shields could be gradually destroyed by both the player or  aliens. 

Fun Fact: When ‘Space Invaders’ was first released in Arcades. It was so popular that it caused a shortage of 100-yen coins in Japan. Players were spending so much time and money that the government had to increase the production of 100-yen coins to meet the demand. 

'Asteroids' (1979) 

Old Classics - Asteroids Arcade Game

Among the classics; ‘Asteroids’ was created by Lyle Rains and Ed Logg. It was a game where the players could control a triangular spaceship within the confines of a wrap-around, two-dimensional screen. The screen would be filled with large and drifting asteroids. The player’s goal is to shoot and destroy these asteroids while also avoiding collisions with them. 

Did you know? In the original arcade version, there was a hidden Easter egg. The Easter egg allowed players to turn the game’s screen upside down! To activate it, you had to perform a specific series of actions. Such as shooting a flying saucer in a certain way. After that - the entire game world would flip. Letting players show off as it added an extra layer of challenge.

1980s 

'Super Mario Bros' (1985) 

Full Walkthrough NRS Gameplay [Nostalgia]

‘Super Mario Bros’ is one of the most influential and beloved video games of all time. Following the adventures of Mario, he is on a quest to save Princess Peach. Who is being held captive by the evil King of the Koopas, Bowser. He must jump through hoops and hurl through obstacles, with there being enemies and power-ups along the way. 

In the original ‘Super Mario Bros’ Mario’s iconic mustache and hat were not added for aesthetic - but for practical design choices. The limitations of the NES hardware made it challenging to create distinct facial features for the character. So the mustache and hat were included so that his face would be more visible and distinguishable from his nose and hair. 

'Pac-Man' (1980) 

Old Classic - Pac-Man Arcade Game

With featured and colorful graphics - the game has a distinct design for Pac-Man and the Ghosts. Where the players control the circular character, the game is set in a maze filled with dots and four ghosts. Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde. The objective is to eat all of the dots while avoiding the ghosts. With “power pellets” being available. These power pellets allow Pac-Man to turn the tables - chasing down the ghosts and eating additional points in the process. 

The game’s creator, Toru Iwatani, was actually inspired to create ‘Pac-Man’ while eating pizza! Reportedly, he took a slice from the whole pizza and saw the character shape in the remaining pieces. With this moment of inspiration, that pizza became the central character of the game. So, yes readers. The iconic design for Pac-Man was influenced by a slice of Pizza.

'The Legend of Zelda' (1986) 

The Legend of Zelda Walkthrough

‘The Legend of Zelda’ is an action-adventure game series created by Japanese game designer Shigeru Miyamoto. Developed and published by Nintendo. In this game players control a character named Link (don’t be mistaken by the name). He embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Zelda from the enemy known as Ganon. Using the Master Sword and boomerang, he allows nothing to stop him from his goal. 

“It’s dangerous to go alone! Take this.” Is a famous line that is spoken by an old man at the beginning of the game. Giving Link his first sword. This line is still used today in jokes, online memes, and overall used as a throwback to the start of the Zelda series. 

1990s

'Sonic The Hedgehog' (1991) 

Sonic the Hedgehog Playthrough

‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ was notable for its impressive graphics at the time. Showcasing vibrant and colorful 16-bit graphics that took full advantage of the Sega Genesis hardware. It introduces players to Sonic. A blue hedgehog known for his speed. It encouraged players to race through levels. As well as collect rings, and defeat enemies along the way. 

The design of Sonic, including his red shoes, was inspired by the colors of the Sega logo. The red shoes were chosen to match the red in the Sega logo. With the blue body being chosen to represent the blue logo. His design has remained largely unchanged since his creation. Becoming an instantly recognizable character to gamers worldwide.

'Street Fighter II' (1991) 

Arcade Longplay [370] Street Fighter II 

In this game, each character had their unique set of animations, special moves, and distinctive visual design. While the impressive 2D graphics help convey the martial arts. It also featured detailed character sprites adding depth and personality to the game. With intense battles and fluid character movement, this game was loved by gamers all around. 

It was originally released in arcades with a “hidden” character named Akuma. Akuma was a secret boss character and was not initially playable. However - players could unlock and play Akuma through a series of specific button inputs and actions. With his presence adding a sense of mystery and excitement for players.

'Final Fantasy VII' (1997) 

Final Fantasy 7 (1997) FULL GAME

Developed by Square Enix, ‘Final Fantasy VII’ is a landmark role-playing game (RPG). In terms of graphics, it marked the series’ transition from 2D sprites to 3D environments and character models. The game featured pre-rendered backgrounds that were incredibly detailed. Combining backgrounds with 3D character models. 

The game is celebrated not only for its graphics. It is also celebrated for its engaging story. With memorable characters, innovative gameplay, and more - it became one of the most influential RPGs in gaming history. With one of the most notable aspects being the iconic character design of the protagonist, Cloud Strife, and the antagonist, Sephiroth 

2000s

'Halo: Combat Evolved (2001) 

Halo: Combat Evolved A Masterpiece?

The development of ‘Halo: Combat Evolved’ originally began as a real-time strategy game for the Macintosh platform. However, it went under significant transformation during its creation, going on to become the iconic first-person shooter we now know. Halo’s alien world, known as “Halo,” featured a diverse range of environments. From lush forests to sprawling alien installations. It was all brought to life with attention to detail and vibrant colors. 

The game’s protagonist, Master Chief, was originally intended to be more of a silent character. During development the team decided against this. Giving him a voice, adding more depth to the character. This also contributed to the game’s narrative significantly. Setting new standards for the sci-fi universe. 

'World of Warcraft' (2004) 

World of Warcraft 2004 - A Time Capsule

Known for its visually appealing art style, with a distinctive and visually appealing depth. The game had a charming stylized approach to the industry. The world of Azeroth was brought to life with diverse and expressive character design. It ranged from playable races and classes, each with its own unique animation. 

Blizzard’s decision to prioritize art style over photorealism allowed ‘World of Warcraft’ to age gracefully. Making it still visually appealing even years after its initial release. It became one of the most popular and influential MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) of its time with over 6 million subscribers.

'Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas' (2004) 

Playing GTA San Andreas on PS2

An iconic open-world action-adventure, ‘Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas’ was developed by Rockstar North. It’s set in a fictionalized California, offering players a vast world to explore. The game featured a mix of 3D models and textures, being advanced for its time. 

One of the most notable features of the game was its enormous map. It was not only larger than its predecessors, but it also featured diverse environments. This included cities, countryside, and even a desert. It was so expansive it allowed players to spend hours exploring and discovering hidden secrets. 

2010s 

'Dark Souls' (2011) 

Dark Souls Graphics Comparison

‘Dark Souls’ is a game that gained fame for its challenging gameplay, with dark and atmospheric worlds, and deep lore. The combat in ‘Dark Souls’ is deliberate and methodical. Players have to time their attacks, blocks, and dodges carefully. Enemies are tough and can punish mistakes. Making each encounter a test of skill. 

It’s also known for its minimalist storytelling. The game doesn’t present its narrative through cutscenes or extensive dialogue. Instead, players have to piece together the game’s lore. Using item descriptions, environmental details, and cryptic NPC interactions. This approach to storytelling added depth to the game world encouraging players to explore and discover its secrets. 

'The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt' (2015) 

The Witcher 3 Game Review

The third installment of the Witcher series, ‘The Witcher 3’ is widely regarded as one of the more famous RPGs. In a vast open world with stunning landscapes, players assume the role of Geralt of Rivia. A monster hunter known as a witcher. Players must embark on a quest to find his missing adopted daughter. With its deep storytelling and morally complex choices, the game provides players with a wide range of quests and activities. 

One fun fact is that the in-game Gwent card game became so popular that it spawned a standalone digital card game called “Swent: The Witcher Card Game.” This mini-game within the larger game became a hit in its own right. With a dedicated player base and even esports tournaments.

'Red Dead Redemption 2' (2018) 

Red Dead Redemption - The Complete Story Summary

In 2018 ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ was released. It is one of the most meticulously crafted open-world games, filled with numerous details. Players take on the role of Arthur Morgan, who is an outlaw and member of the Van der Linde gang. It combines elements of action, exploration, and narrative-driven gameplay. Allowing players to make choices that influence not just the story but also their reputation. 

In-game, character;s beards grow over time. Players can even trim and customize them. It’s a small yet remarkable detail. Showcasing the level of realism and immersion that Rockstar Games aimed to achieve in the game’s world. 

2020s

'The Last of Us Part II' 

The Unmistakable Humanity of The Last of Us: Part II

The game ‘The Last of Us Part II’ is known for its gripping narrative, complex characters, and intense gameplay. It explores themes of love, loss, and the consequences of someone's actions. In a world taken over by fungal infection, players travel through beautifully detailed environments while facing challenging moral choices.

One interesting detail about the game is that the in-game guitar playing is remarkably authentic. The character Ellie can find and play various songs on her guitar through the game. To achieve this realism the developers had the game’s composer, Gustavo Santaolalla, actually record all of the guitar music heard through the game. It’s small but impactful in detail and adds an emotional depth to the gaming experience.

'Hades' (2020) 

Hades Full Gamplay Walkthrough

The action roguelike game, ‘Hades’ developed by Supergiant Games gained widespread acclaim. Not only for its engaging gameplay, but its compelling story and unique art style. In ‘Hades’ players play Zagreus, the son of Hades. Attempting to escape the Underworld, the game features fast-paced combat with a variety of weapons. With a unique progression system where each run through offers new challenges. 

It had a remarkably long and successful early access period before its official release. At the time, the developers at Supergiant Games listened to player feedback. Fine-tuning the game and adding substantial content updates. This iterative approach allowed the game to evolve and improve based on player input. Ultimately contributing to its critical and commercial success. 

'Resident Evil Village' (2021) 

Resident Evil Village Gameplay Walkthrough

The game follows Ethan Winters, searching for his kidnapped daughter in a mysterious European village. It combines elements of action and horror, offering a tense immersive experience with a mix of combat, exploration, and puzzles. It was released in 2021 as a survival horror game developed and published by Capcom as the eighth main installment of the series. 

It is known for the character Lady Dimitrescu. A tall vampire lady who quickly became an internet sensation. Her imposing height, elegant demeanor, and initial marketing buzz let to a plethora of memes and fan art. The developers acknowledged her popularity, embracing it as a part of the game’s promotion. Showing how a single character can captivate the gaming community and becoming a cultural phenomenon.

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