The Hall of Fame-type accolades are often viewed as a marketing tool to promote award shows and museums. However, it is also a way to give recognition to the most important games and creators in the industry. One such institution that stands out is the New York-based “museum of play” The Strong, known for its curated Hall of Fame. The Strong’s selections include a diverse range of video games, tabletop games, and toys, showcasing a unique perspective on what constitutes a significant contribution to the gaming world.
What sets The Strong’s Hall of Fame apart is its inclusion of unconventional picks such as “sand,” sidewalk chalk, the stick, and the cardboard box. While these may seem like odd choices, they are recognized for their role as playthings for children, highlighting the essence of pure creativity and imagination. Alongside these unconventional inductees, commercial products like Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, Wii Sports, and Tetris also find a place in the Hall of Fame, showcasing the diverse spectrum of gaming influences.
Influential Video Game Additions
This year’s video game additions to the Hall of Fame were selected from a list of finalists that included iconic titles such as Asteroids, Resident Evil, Myst, SimCity, and Ultima. Each of these games has left a lasting impact on the gaming industry and helped shape the future of video game development. From Myst’s groundbreaking world and early use of CD-ROMs to SimCity’s popularization of simulation and city-building games, these titles have cemented their place in gaming history.
Permanence in the Museum
The newly inducted video games will now be part of a permanent exhibition at The Strong’s physical museum in Rochester, NY. This honor solidifies their status as influential works in the gaming world and ensures that future generations can appreciate their contributions. With over 40 video games added to the Hall of Fame since its inception in 2015, The Strong continues to celebrate the diverse and impactful nature of video game culture.
Looking at the full list of potential inductees, it becomes clear that the Hall of Fame recognizes a wide array of gaming classics. Names like Doom, World of Warcraft, Oregon Trail, Tomb Raider, Colossal Cave Adventure, Minecraft, Bejeweled, King’s Quest, StarCraft, and Microsoft Solitaire showcase the breadth of influence in the gaming industry. Each of these titles has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of video games and will continue to be remembered for their contributions.
The Hall of Fame serves as a testament to the impact of video games on culture and society. By recognizing both unconventional and commercial titles, institutions like The Strong’s Hall of Fame highlight the diverse and ever-evolving nature of gaming. As new technologies and innovations continue to shape the industry, it is essential to celebrate the past and present achievements that have paved the way for future advancements. The recognition of influential games in the Hall of Fame ensures that their legacy will be preserved and appreciated for years to come.
Leave a Reply