GoldenEye 007, Quake, Tamagotchi, and Defender Enter the World Video Game Hall of Fame
The World Video Game Hall of Fame at The Strong National Museum of Play has officially announced its 2025 inductees: Defender, GoldenEye 007, Quake, and Tamagotchi. These iconic games have earned their place among the legends for their significant impact on popular culture and the video game industry itself. The announcement, made May 8, 2025, celebrates the legacy of these entertainment forms.
The selection process wasn't easy, these four emerged from a list of finalists that included other giants like Age of Empires, Angry Birds, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Frogger, Golden Tee, Harvest Moon, Mattel Football, and NBA 2K, highlighting the rich history and diverse landscape of video games.
Defender, released in 1981 by Williams Electronics, pushed the boundaries of arcade gaming. Jeremy Saucier notes that, Defender’s punishing gameplay raised the bar, differentiating casual players from the dedicated ones. His insight further reveals that, by challenging conventional wisdom, the game paved the way for richer possibilities in game design.
GoldenEye 007, a 1997 masterpiece from Rare and Nintendo for the Nintendo 64, redefined console first-person shooters. Andrew Borman emphasizes its status as the premier example of a first-person shooter to succeed on a console and acknowledges the title as one of the best multiplayer experiences ever produced on a Nintendo system. GoldenEye 007's influence is undeniable, shaping the landscape of console FPS games for years to come.
Tamagotchi, launched in 1996, captured the hearts of millions with its innovative blend of toy and video game. Kristy Hisert describes it as offering a distinct form of play, fostering feelings of connection, caring, and customization, she further acknowledges its legacy can be seen in popular pet simulation games throughout the years. A generation bonded over these digital pets, learning responsibility and experiencing digital companionship.
Quake, Id Software's groundbreaking 1996 release, revolutionized the gaming world with its 3-D engine and multiplayer mode. Lindsey Kurano points out that Quake’s code is a literal legacy given its influence in online games has shaped the landscape of esports. Quake's impact extends far beyond its initial release, influencing countless games and shaping the competitive gaming scene. Quake's code continues to be present in modern games, decades after release.
These four games join a prestigious collection of 49 titles inducted since 2015, representing the pinnacle of video game achievement. The inductees are permanently displayed at The Strong National Museum of Play's World Video Game Hall of Fame rotunda, within the ESL Digital Worlds exhibit.
The influence of Defender, GoldenEye 007, Tamagotchi, and Quake extends beyond mere entertainment; they have shaped the industry, influenced popular culture, and left an enduring legacy for generations to come. What are your memories of these games? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!