Video games have come a long way since the introduction of the first console, Magnavox Odyssey, in 1972. As technology has advanced, so has the quality and popularity of video games, leading to some becoming household names. In pop culture, there have been countless video games that have shaped the way we think, feel, and consume media. These games have influenced movies, TV shows, music, fashion, and much more. Here are some of the most influential video games in pop culture.
1. Super Mario Bros.
When it comes to video game franchises, few have been as successful or as influential as Super Mario Bros. This game was released in 1985 by Nintendo and is still popular to this day. The game follows Mario, a plumber, on his quest to save Princess Toadstool from the evil Bowser. The game’s simple mechanics, colorful graphics, and catchy music made it a hit with players of all ages. Super Mario Bros. has inspired countless sequels, spin-offs, merchandise, and even a movie.
2. Doom
Doom was released in 1993, and it quickly became a massive hit. This game was a first-person shooter that allowed players to fight off hordes of demons from Hell with an arsenal of weapons. Doom was praised for its graphics, sound design, and fast-paced gameplay. The game was controversial for its violence and satanic imagery, but it still managed to influence pop culture with its first-person shooter mechanics. Doom spawned many sequels, spin-offs, and even a feature film.
3. The Legend of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda was released in 1986 and is another iconic franchise from Nintendo. The game is an action-adventure game that follows the hero, Link, on his quest to rescue Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Ganon. The game’s open-world gameplay, puzzles, and music have made it a fan favorite. The Legend of Zelda has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and a TV series.
4. Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid was released in 1998 and quickly became a classic. The game is a stealth-action game that follows Solid Snake on his mission to save the world from a nuclear threat. The game was praised for its cinematic storytelling, voice acting, and graphics. Metal Gear Solid has influenced many games in the stealth-action genre and has spawned many sequels and spin-offs.
5. Minecraft
Minecraft was released in 2011 and revolutionized the sandbox genre. The game is a survival game that lets players create, explore, and discover in a procedurally generated world. The game’s simple mechanics and infinite possibilities have made it a hit with players of all ages. Minecraft has influenced many games in the sandbox genre and has spawned many spin-offs, merchandise, and even a feature film.
6. Grand Theft Auto V
Grand Theft Auto V was released in 2013 and quickly became a worldwide phenomenon. The game is an open-world action game that follows three characters on their quest to make a name for themselves in Los Santos. The game’s graphics, storytelling, and open-world mechanics have made it a fan favorite. Grand Theft Auto V has influenced many open-world games and has spawned many spin-offs, merchandise, and even a feature film.
In conclusion, these six video games have influenced pop culture in countless ways. Their stories, graphics, music, and mechanics have inspired movies, TV shows, music, fashion, and much more. These games have become classics and will continue to influence pop culture for years to come.
