GoldenEye 007, Quake, Tamagotchi, and Defender Enter the World Video Game Hall of Fame
The World Video Game Hall of Fame has announced its 2025 inductees, recognizing titles that have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. This year's honorees are Defender, GoldenEye 007, Quake, and Tamagotchi, each representing a unique facet of video game history and influence.
These games were chosen from a shortlist of 12 finalists, which also included noteworthy titles like Age of Empires, Angry Birds, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Frogger, Golden Tee, Harvest Moon, Mattel Football, and NBA 2K. The selection criteria focused on the games' icon status, longevity, geographical reach, and influence on the video game industry and popular culture.
Defender: A Pioneer of Complexity
Released in 1981, Defender redefined arcade gaming with its intense gameplay and challenging control scheme. Jeremy Saucier, assistant vice president for interpretation and electronic games, emphasized that Defender "raised the level of competition in arcades" and "separated dedicated players from more casual ones." The game proved that players were willing to embrace complex and difficult experiences, paving the way for future titles.
Tamagotchi: Nurturing Virtual Pets
Tamagotchi, launched in 1996, sparked the pet simulation genre, blending toys and video games. Kristy Hisert, collections manager, highlighted its unique appeal: "It provided players with feelings of connection, caring, and customization, a respite from competition and fighting games." Its influence can be seen in subsequent pet simulation games across consoles, websites, and smart devices.
GoldenEye 007: Revolutionizing Console Shooters
Based on the 1995 James Bond film, GoldenEye 007 set a new standard for first-person shooters on consoles. Its four-person multiplayer mode was particularly influential, shaping multiplayer games that followed. According to Andrew Borman, director of digital preservation, it remains "one of the best multiplayer experiences ever produced on a Nintendo system."
Quake: A Legacy in Code
Id Software's Quake, released in 1996, revolutionized the industry with its 3D engine and online multiplayer capabilities. Lindsey Kurano, electronic games curator, noted that parts of Quake's code "continues to be present in modern games, decades after release." Its impact on online gaming, modding communities, and esports is undeniable.
The World Video Game Hall of Fame, located inside The Strong National Museum of Play, continues to honor games that have shaped the industry and resonated with players worldwide. These inductees represent a diverse range of genres and platforms, highlighting the enduring power of video games.
What are your thoughts on the 2025 inductees? Which other games deserve a place in the World Video Game Hall of Fame? Share your opinions in the comments below!
