Classic 80s Gaming Franchises That Are Still Around Today

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Classic 80s Gaming Franchises That Are Still Around Today

Highlights

  • Mario emerged in ’81 & charmed gamers worldwide, securing his place in gaming history with his iconic design and mass appeal.
  • The
    Wolfenstein
    series revitalized by Machine Games, bringing back the franchise’s best aspects for a new audience to enjoy.
  • The Legend of Zelda
    franchise’s longevity is a testament to Nintendo’s innovation, constantly delivering new experiences for fans to enjoy.

As a long-time gamer who’s spent countless hours immersed in these digital worlds, I can confidently say that the gaming industry has been nothing short of revolutionary. Time and again, developers have proven their courage to innovate and push boundaries, giving us fans something truly extraordinary with each new release.

The 1980s marked the conclusion of the Cold War and the collapse of the Berlin Wall, but it was also the period when some of the most influential video game franchises were born, a fact that could be almost equally significant, given an appropriate perspective.

During that decade, we saw a variety of video games starring characters like an Italian plumber swinging a hammer, or a martial arts master hurling fireballs. Many of the era’s most memorable gaming personalities emerged from these games. Furthermore, several successful and widely recognized gaming series were born during this period, ensuring their longevity and ongoing relevance in today’s gaming landscape.

8 Mario

Debuted In 1981

Throughout their history, video games have faced numerous debates and challenges. However, despite these obstacles, the iconic character, Mario, managed to navigate them all and became a cherished presence in households worldwide.

As a devoted gamer, I can’t help but appreciate the enduring charm of Nintendo’s iconic character, Mario. His adorable and straightforward design, coupled with the captivating universe he calls home, has an undeniable universal appeal. It’s no wonder that since his debut in “Donkey Kong”, Mario has managed to carve out a niche in every genre, medium, and corner of the globe, solidifying his status as one of the most recognizable figures in pop culture worldwide.

7 Wolfenstein

Debuted In 1981

2014 marked the release of Wolfenstein: The New Order, giving the impression of a grand comeback for a series that had been relatively quiet. However, it was more of a nostalgic feeling than a genuine one, as the series had been consistently releasing games since its debut prior to this point.

In the sequel, titled “The New Colossus,” the narrative is absolutely mind-blowing, filled with shocking scenes that will leave your jaw dropped. The latest installment of Wolfenstein, developed by Machine Games, seems like they’ve delved into the franchise’s rich past to incorporate some of its most compelling elements into the game we recognize today.

6 The Legend Of Zelda

Debuted In 1986

It’s exceptional that The Legend of Zelda series has endured for so long without producing numerous flops, even though opinions on each game can differ greatly among fans. For every ten enthusiasts who cherish games like Ocarina of Time, there are an equal number of ardent supporters for titles such as Skyward Sword.

As someone who grew up playing Nintendo games, I can attest to the fact that their longevity is nothing short of amazing. The continuous evolution of their franchises, demonstrated by each new game release, showcases Nintendo’s fearlessness in trying out fresh ideas and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming. For instance, the revolutionary Z-targeting feature in “Ocarina of Time” forever changed how we navigate and interact within a 3D environment, while the unique art style of “Wind Waker” transported us to an entirely new world that was both visually stunning and immersive. As a gamer, I eagerly anticipate what innovative and exciting experiences Nintendo will bring next.

5 Dragon Quest

Debuted In 1986

The Dragon Quest series, originating from the 80s, is another groundbreaking franchise that has left a lasting impact on the gaming world. Notable figures in the gaming industry were behind its creation, including Akira Toriyama, the mastermind behind Dragon Ball, who served as the character designer for this successful venture right from the beginning.

Each installment in the Dragon Quest series is brimming with endearingly designed creatures such as Slimes and Dracky, all residing in a world that’s captivating enough to explore. Moreover, this world is enriched by a variety of additional content, such as manga and anime, making it even more immersive.

4 Street Fighter

Debuted In 1987

Back in the ’90s, “Street Fighter 2” was among the pioneers and one of the finest fighting games, causing quite a stir in arcades. Its legendary lineup of characters, each with unique playstyles and special abilities, has remained popular over time. Recently, this classic game has made an appearance in its sixth significant edition.

As a dedicated fan, I often find myself reminiscing about the roots of our beloved fighting game universe, and let me tell you, it all began with Street Fighter back in ’87. It was this very first installment that laid the groundwork for the iconic rivalry between Ryu and Ken, shaping their unforgettable move sets, such as the awe-inspiring Hadouken blasts and the powerful Shoryuuken uppercuts.

3 Final Fantasy

Debuted In 1987

To date, a total of 16 primary “Final Fantasy” series games have been available for players to explore extensively. Additionally, numerous spin-offs have been launched concurrently on various gaming platforms throughout history. Few franchises in any medium boast an expanse as vast as that of “Final Fantasy.”

Across tactical games, Soulslikes, films, and mobile platforms, the Final Fantasy franchise has consistently shone brightly in the spotlight. It’s a series that doesn’t hesitate to guide fans through time travel and various dimensions, offering glimpses of past games while keeping an eye firmly on what’s ahead.

2 Madden

Debuted In 1988

Over the past three decades, Madden has consistently been a significant player within the sports video game industry. While every new release doesn’t surpass its predecessor in terms of quality, developers have continuously introduced and eliminated features to ensure that each version offers something unique compared to the previous one, even if it doesn’t necessarily signify an overall improvement.

Despite some changes, one consistent aspect in the series has been the progressive improvement in visual quality, often featuring new animations and a strong focus on achieving photo-realism. In other words, Madden NFL consistently demonstrates its commitment to delivering an authentic football experience when it comes to graphics.

1 Prince Of Persia

Debuted In 1989

Recently, “The Lost Crown” and “The Rogue” have sparked renewed interest in the “Prince of Persia” series, indicating that it’s currently experiencing a resurgence. However, the journey for this franchise hasn’t been entirely smooth, given its rich history marked by multiple re-releases, reinventions, and fresh interpretations.

Throughout its various highs and lows, certain elements of the franchise have remained constant. For instance, the daring aerial stunts performed by the main character, known as the Prince, along with his unique powers to control or reverse time. As gaming technology has improved graphically over time, the series has only become more awe-inspiring.

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2024-08-04 07:05