Buzz
By the late 1970s, video games had evolved to feature enhanced sound and visuals, though they remained relatively simple. To achieve popularity, developers focused on creating engaging and enjoyable gameplay, a strategy that has allowed many classic arcade games to remain beloved even as their technology has become obsolete. I’ve included links where available, so you can experience these timeless games firsthand.
10. Asteroids
Released in 1979 by Atari, Asteroids quickly became a cultural phenomenon and one of the most iconic games of the 1980s. Its popularity was so overwhelming that arcade operators often needed larger coin boxes to accommodate the flood of coins from eager players. Following its success, Atari launched a sequel in 1980 called Asteroids Deluxe.
In the game, players maneuver a triangular spacecraft through an asteroid field, aiming to dodge and destroy asteroids to score points. Occasionally, alien spacecraft appear, presenting a greater challenge than the asteroids. Defeating these aliens rewards bonus points. [Play Here]
9. Phoenix
Developed by Armstar Electronics and released by Centuri in 1980, Phoenix gained acclaim for its vibrant full-color graphics, a groundbreaking feature at the time. One of its standout elements is the inclusion of an early “boss” battle, where players face off against the formidable “mothership,” as depicted in the image above.
Phoenix, like many arcade games of its time, is set in outer space. Players control a spacecraft that can only move horizontally, tasked with destroying bird-like enemy ships while evading their attacks. After battling through multiple waves, players encounter the challenging “mothership,” which offers substantial rewards for its destruction. [Play Here]
8. Galaga
Developed and released by Namco in 1981, Galaga achieved remarkable success, leading to five sequels over the years. The most recent installment, “Galaga Legions,” debuted on Xbox Live Arcade in 2011.
In Galaga, players aim to eliminate insect-like aliens while dodging enemy fire and collisions. The aliens move in formation, attacking the player if not quickly destroyed. Enemy ranks are indicated by color, with green aliens being the most dangerous and blue aliens the least threatening. [Play Here]
7. Q*Bert
Released in 1982 by Gottlieb, Q*Bert is a platformer that garnered acclaim in arcades and from critics for its innovative gameplay, vibrant graphics, and memorable protagonist. Its popularity led to sequels and widespread merchandising, including appearances on lunchboxes, toys, and an animated TV series.
The goal of Q*Bert is to illuminate every tile on a pyramid by landing on each one. Players can only move diagonally and must avoid hazards like falling red balls. Falling off the pyramid costs a life, and the character famously emits a comical, swear-like sound upon death. [Play Here]
6. Frogger
Frogger debuted in arcades in 1981, developed by Konami and licensed by Sega. Initially titled “Highway Crossing Frog,” the name was simplified to Frogger to better reflect the game’s essence. Its global success has cemented its place in pop culture, with appearances in TV shows and even song lyrics.
The goal of Frogger is to guide frogs safely to their homes. Players must navigate busy roads to avoid cars and cross rivers without falling into the water. Bonus opportunities await skilled players. Successfully returning five frogs advances the player to the next level. [Play Here]
5. Mario Bros.
Released globally by Nintendo in 1983, Mario Bros. saw modest success in Japan and mixed reviews from critics. Despite this, it laid the groundwork for Nintendo’s future hits. The game introduced Luigi and several iconic enemies, while Mario was depicted as a plumber for the first time, exploring a world of giant pipes.
Players take control of Mario or Luigi as they explore New York’s sewers, investigating the sudden appearance of mysterious creatures. The goal is to eliminate all enemies in each stage. Gameplay revolves around running and jumping, requiring players to flip enemies by jumping on them and then kicking them to defeat them.
4. Space Invaders
Released by Taito in Japan in 1978, Space Invaders is a pioneering title in modern gaming, establishing the space shooter genre. Its success led to a temporary shortage of 100-yen coins in Japan and earned Taito over $500 million in its first three years. The iconic pixelated alien has become a universal symbol of video gaming.
Players control a turret, moving it horizontally at the screen’s bottom to shoot at descending aliens. The objective is to eliminate five rows of eleven aliens that move side-to-side while advancing downward. Each defeated alien earns points, and as more aliens are destroyed, their movement and the game’s music accelerate. Clearing a wave spawns a tougher one, creating an endless loop of increasing difficulty. [Play Here]
3. Pong
Pong, a tennis-themed sports game, is one of the earliest arcade video games and the first to achieve widespread popularity. Released by Atari in 1972, its success inspired numerous companies to create similar games, sparking the growth of the video game industry. Without Pong, iconic titles like Space Invaders and Pac-Man might never have existed.
The gameplay of Pong is straightforward. Players control a paddle, moving it vertically on the left side of the screen to compete against either a computer or another player. The objective is to hit a ball back and forth, scoring points when the opponent fails to return it. [Play Here]
2. Pac-Man
Pac-Man, developed by Namco and released in Japan in 1980, has maintained immense popularity since its debut, becoming a symbol of video gaming itself. The character is a cultural icon of the 1980s, appearing on lunchboxes and in animated TV shows. At a time when space shooters dominated arcades, Pac-Man introduced a new genre and remains the highest-grossing video game of all time.
The goal of Pac-Man is to eat all the “pac-dots” in a maze, advancing to the next stage once all dots are consumed. Players must avoid four ghost enemies; contact with a ghost costs a life. Eating a larger “power pellet” turns the ghosts blue and slows them, allowing Pac-Man to eat them for bonus points. [Play Here]
1. Donkey Kong
Released by Nintendo in 1981, Donkey Kong initially struggled in Japan but became a massive hit in North America, solidifying its place as one of the most influential games ever. It is credited as the first game to use “cut-scenes” to tell a story, and its success helped Nintendo dominate the gaming industry in the 1980s and early 1990s.
Players take on the role of “Jumpman,” tasked with saving a young woman from a ferocious ape. To succeed, they must navigate through levels filled with girders and ladders while dodging barrels and other obstacles. Upon reaching the top and touching the captive, the game progresses to the next stage. After completing three stages, players face Donkey Kong in a final showdown to rescue the woman. [Play Here]
