Things to do | Posted 02 Sep 2021
Retro Arcade Games to Play Today
Gaming has taken off in the past decade, with endless options out there to suit every age and preference. But whether you’re a social gamer, into puzzles, sports games, roleplay, or strategy, there’s one thing most video game fans can agree on: retro arcade games will never go out of style.
Retro arcade games include the first-ever video games released in the 70s and 80s. They’re simple, fun, and nostalgic. These iconic games also offer a challenge to younger players meeting them for the first time.
The first commercial video game
The video game revolution started in the early 1970s when the first commercially available arcade games came out. What was the first-ever arcade game? Computer Space came out in 1971, the work of Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney, who would go on to found Atari together in 1972.Computer Space is a simple combat game by today’s standards, but it was revolutionary in its time. The player controls a rocket, moving from side to side to battle flying saucers and avoid losing lives.Coding the game into a computer presented problems, so Bushnell and Dabney had the idea to create specific hardware that would let the game work with no complications. Computer Space was put into a curved fibreglass cabinet for an extra-futuristic appearance, and there it was – the first-ever arcade game!The 70s gaming revolution
More now-iconic video games were released throughout the 70s, including Pong and Space Invaders. Pong came from Atari and is one of the most famous retro arcade games today. While Space Invaders, released in 1978 by Japanese Tomohiro Nishikado, was another instant hit.In 1975, Atari brought out a version of their game to play at home. So Pong was the first home video game, and, naturally, it was a massive success around the world.The 80s gaming boom
Video games are an icon of the 1980s, with neon-lit arcades and home consoles representing the decade to this day. The 80s brought us Pac-Man, Ms Pac-Man, and Tetris. Nintendo also jumped on the video game boom, introducing their famous mascot Mario in Donkey Kong in 1981, before releasing Mario Bros in 1983.The 80s are often considered the golden age of arcade video games, thanks to rapid growth in the industry during the period. Games evolved from black and white into colour, with classics like Frogger and Centipede making the most of new, bright palettes.During the decade, video gaming became an essential part of popular culture. Arcades flew up around the world, and home consoles became the must-have toy for kids and teenagers.The best retro arcade games today
Many of the arcade games introduced in the 70s, 80s, and 90s lack appeal today. But plenty of the classics are just as much fun now as when they were first released. What’s the appeal of arcade games when modern technology has brought us so far? Whether you love retro games for their nostalgia or enjoy the simple, colourful challenge, a step back in time is fun for all ages.
Pac-Man (1980)
One of the most iconic 80s arcade games, Pac-Man is an addictive maze game where players control a simple circular character, the Pac-Man! Pac-Man must navigate the maze eating pellets for points. But watch out for the colourful ghosts, Binky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde. If one of these infamous characters catches Pac-Man, he loses a life. Run out of lives, and it’s game over.Pac-Man kicked off the maze chase game genre and was followed by many similarly exciting versions. It also attracted a diverse fanbase thanks to its non-violence and remains one of the best retro games to play today.Space Invaders (1978)
Did Space Invaders kick off the golden age of gaming? Maybe! It’s one of the earliest 2D shooting games and inspired many more in the years after its release.
This best-selling game has players aiming to destroy waves of aliens with a laser beam, moving their spaceship left to right to hit their moving target. The more aliens are shot, the faster they attack, making it harder to beat them and keep the game going – bonus points for hitting the mystery ship, which flies across the top of the screen.
Donkey Kong (1981)
Donkey Kong gave Mario his first appearance in the gaming world and pioneered the platform-style gaming genre. Players control Mario as he climbs ladders to new platforms, avoiding obstacles along the way. Reach the top and save the damsel Pauline from Donkey Kong!
At the time of its release, Donkey Kong was the most complex arcade game on the market. Players could run, climb, and jump to avoid obstacles in multiple stages. Its colourful imagery and fun characters add to the game’s timeless appeal.
Play retro arcade games today!
Are you wondering where to play retro games today? Without arcades on every corner, finding these classic consoles can be challenging. But when you choose an NYX hotel for your stay in London, Milan, Prague, Madrid, or another of our exciting destinations, you can find retro arcade games right there in our lobby. Our free retro arcade games are just one of the things that set NYX hotels apart.
Take NYX London Holborn, which is ideally located in the heart of the English capital. Just ten minutes walk from the British Museum and 15 minutes to Soho, the NYX hotel in London boasts luxurious rooms and suites, a glamorous dining experience, on-site spa and leisure facilities, and – of course – free retro gaming in the lobby.
