The World Video Game Hall of Fame recently welcomed its 10th class of inductees, celebrating the lasting impact of games like Asteroids, Myst, Resident Evil, SimCity, and Ultima on both the video game industry and popular culture.
These iconic games, spanning across decades, have not only shaped technological advancements but have also broadened the demographic of gamers, captivating players of all ages and interests. The Hall of Fame recognizes electronic games from various platforms, including arcade, console, computer, handheld, and mobile.
Chosen by experts from a pool of 12 finalists, the Class of 2024 also included Elite, Guitar Hero, Metroid, Neopets, Tokimeki Memorial, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, and You Don’t Know Jack.
Atari’s Asteroids, which debuted in 1979, became a classic arcade hit before transitioning to home consoles, leaving a lasting legacy with its simple yet challenging gameplay. Similarly, Ultima, released in 1981, pioneered the computer role-playing genre, influencing games like Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy.
SimCity, introduced in 1989, appealed to players seeking intellectually stimulating gameplay, while Myst, released in 1993, captivated audiences with its immersive storytelling and innovative use of CD-ROM technology.
Finally, Resident Evil, launched in 1996, popularized the survival horror genre with its suspenseful gameplay and spawned a successful film franchise.
Nominations for the World Video Game Hall of Fame are open to the public, with an international selection advisory committee and online fans contributing to the final selection process.
