The 10 Most Influential Video Games of the 1990s
**The 10 Most Influential Video Games of the 1990s**
The 1990s was a pivotal decade for the video game industry. It was a time when technology advanced, graphics improved, and storytelling in games reached new heights. Here is a look at the ten most influential video games from that era, which left a lasting impact on the industry and culture.
1. **Super Mario 64 (1996)**
Considered one of the best video games of all time, “Super Mario 64” was a launch title for the Nintendo 64. It transformed the platformer genre by introducing a 3D environment and free-roaming gameplay. The game’s innovative design set a standard for 3D platformers and influenced countless titles that followed.
2. **The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)**
This game is often heralded as one of the greatest video games ever created. “Ocarina of Time” took the adventure and exploration elements from the Zelda series and elevated them with 3D graphics and an immersive world. Its lock-on targeting system became a staple in action-adventure games.
3. **Doom (1993)**
“Doom” was groundbreaking in the first-person shooter genre. It popularized immersive gameplay, fast-paced action, and networked multiplayer gaming. The game’s technical prowess and open architecture invited countless mods, fostering a community-driven approach to gaming.
4. **Final Fantasy VII (1997)**
As a landmark for the role-playing game genre, “Final Fantasy VII” captured the imagination of gamers with its epic story, memorable characters, and full-motion video cutscenes. It showed the potential of video games as a storytelling medium and helped popularize RPGs in the West.
5. **Pokémon Red and Blue (1996)**
These games launched a global phenomenon. With their emphasis on collecting, trading, and battling, Pokémon became a cultural staple. The games’ success paved the way for numerous sequels, spin-off games, and a multimedia empire.
6. **Resident Evil (1996)**
The term “survival horror” became synonymous with “Resident Evil.” Setting the standard for horror games, it combined action, puzzles, and a creepy atmosphere. Its success led to a franchise that continues to evolve and influence horror games today.
7. **Tomb Raider (1996)**
“Tomb Raider” introduced the world to Lara Croft, a character who became a gaming icon. The game blended action, exploration, and puzzle-solving in a 3D environment. Its success showcased the demand for strong female protagonists in gaming.
8. **StarCraft (1998)**
A real-time strategy game that defined competitive gaming, “StarCraft” is celebrated for its balance, depth, and engaging storyline. It became a staple in esports, particularly in South Korea, and influenced countless strategy games to come.
9. **Metal Gear Solid (1998)**
This game brought cinematic storytelling to the forefront, with voice acting, cutscenes, and stealth gameplay. “Metal Gear Solid” was praised for its innovative mechanics and complex narrative, showing gamers the potential for mature and thought-provoking video game stories.
10. **Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)**
While “Sonic” was released in the early ’90s, its influence carried through the decade. It played a crucial role in establishing Sega as a competitor to Nintendo. “Sonic’s” fast-paced gameplay and memorable character design helped diversify platforming games and set trends in visual aesthetics.
These ten games not only defined the 1990s but also laid the groundwork for developments in gaming that continue to shape the industry today.