5 Classic 80s Computer Games That Still Hold Up Today
Are you feeling nostalgic for the good old days of simple yet thrilling computer games? Look no further than the 80s, where classic games were born. Even after all these years, some games have managed to stand the test of time and remain popular among audiences of all ages. Here, we present five classic 80s computer games that still hold up today.
1. Tetris
Tetris is a puzzle game that was originally designed and programmed by a Russian game developer in 1984. The objective of the game is to manipulate and rotate falling blocks to fit them together in a horizontal line without gaps. The game became an instant hit and is still a favorite among gamers today. The simplicity of Tetris, combined with its addictive gameplay and timeless design, continues to make it a classic favorite.
2. Pac-Man
Who doesn’t remember Pac-Man, the iconic game that debuted in 1980? The yellow circle known as Pac-Man was controlled by players who had to navigate through a maze while avoiding ghosts. The goal was to eat all the dots in the maze while avoiding the ghosts. Pac-Man has become a cultural phenomenon, with merchandise, TV shows, and even movies dedicated to the game. Despite being released over 40 years ago, it remains a classic and beloved game that still attracts new fans today.
3. Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong is an arcade game released by Nintendo in 1981. It was the first game to feature Mario, who was then known as Jumpman. The game featured a giant ape named Donkey Kong who had kidnapped Jumpman’s girlfriend, Pauline. The player controlled Jumpman, attempting to rescue Pauline while avoiding obstacles and barrels thrown by Donkey Kong. Donkey Kong was innovative at the time with its unique gameplay and storyline, and it remains a classic game that people continue to play today.
4. Oregon Trail
Oregon Trail was a game that had found its way into school curriculums in the 80s and 90s. Created in 1971 but re-released in 1985, this game simulates the experience of a family traveling from Missouri to Oregon in 1848. Along the way, players face realistic challenges, from river crossings to hunting for food. Players are allowed to choose their own route and make decisions that may result in success or failure. Oregon Trail became a landmark game that had educational value and gave players a realistic look into the difficulties of surviving life on the frontier.
5. Space Invaders
Space Invaders was released by Taito Corporation in 1978 and quickly became a worldwide hit. The game is a simple shooter game where players control a spacecraft that has to shoot down groups of invading aliens. The game has become infamous for being accused of causing a shortage of 100 yen coins in Japan due to its popularity. Even after all these years, Space Invaders still has a loyal following and has been re-released on multiple platforms.
Conclusion
These five classic 80s computer games have managed to stand the test of time, remaining popular and enjoyable even after several decades. The simplicity and nostalgic thrill of these games are what makes them so appealing to a new generation of gamers. The world of gaming may have evolved since the 80s, but the classic games have created lasting memories and a place in pop culture that cannot be replaced.