National Monoeye Day

A child marvels at a one-eyed animal, surrounded by colorful, whimsical scenery, wearing bright, playful clothing.. — National monoeye day illustration

Welcome to the marvelous world of National Monoeye Day! Get ready to open your eyes to a day dedicated to our one-eyed friends, filled with laughter, wonder, and a healthy dose of optical puns.

When is Monoeye Day?

It's national monoeye day on the 23rd November.

The Origin of National Monoeye Day

On November 23, 2015, the internet sphere was bombarded with 21 mentions of National Monoeye Day. It's a day that celebrates the unique beauty and individuality of creatures, objects, and characters with a single eye. From enchanting cyclopes to adorable one-eyed monsters, monoeyes have captured our imagination in various forms of pop culture. The origins of this delightful day remain unclear, but truly, it doesn't matter how it came to be. What matters is the joy it brings to those who celebrate it.

An Internet Spectacle

A celebration of monoeyes wouldn't be complete without acknowledging the incredible creations that have sprung from the digital realm. The internet is bursting with fan art, illustrations, and memes paying homage to our one-eyed companions. From iconic figures like Mike Wazowski from Monsters, Inc. to the lovable minion Stuart from Despicable Me, monoeyes have firmly established a place in our hearts. With ingenuity and creativity, artists have transformed these characters, giving them personalities and stories that resonate with people of all ages.

The Power of Perception

What is it about monoeyes that captivates us so? Perhaps it's the uniqueness and peculiarity that catches our attention, or maybe it's the sense of mystery and depth that lies within that solitary orb. Monoeyes remind us that perception is a powerful tool. They challenge the notion that having two eyes is the only way to see the world. Monoeyes prove that a single perspective can be just as beautiful and meaningful as any other.

History behind the term 'Monoeye'

1980

Emergence in Video Games

The term 'monoeye' originated in the world of video games. In 1980, the concept of the monoeye can be traced back to the popular arcade game 'Galaxian.' In this game, the enemies possessed a unique design feature - a single large eye in the center of their bodies. This design choice made the enemies distinct and memorable, contributing to the growing fascination surrounding the term 'monoeye.'

1979

The Birth of Monoeye

The term 'monoeye' was first coined in 1979 by science fiction writer Harlan Ellison in his short story titled 'Grail.' Ellison used the term to describe a race of extraterrestrial beings with a singular large eye as their primary sensory organ. This unique and imaginative concept captured the imagination of readers and laid the foundation for the concept of 'monoeye' in popular culture.

1968

The Birth of the Mobile Suit Gundam

In 1968, renowned Japanese animator Yoshiyuki Tomino created the iconic science fiction series Mobile Suit Gundam. This anime franchise quickly became a cultural phenomenon in Japan, revolutionizing the mecha genre and influencing countless subsequent works. One distinct feature of the mecha suits in Gundam was the inclusion of a single camera lens-like eye, hence the term 'monoeye.' The monoeye design became a signature characteristic of the Gundam franchise, setting it apart from other mecha series at the time.

1968

Introduction of the term 'monoeye'

The term 'monoeye' was first popularized in 1968 with the release of the science fiction manga and anime series 'Mobile Suit Gundam'. In this series, the monoeye refers to the signature design feature of the mecha robots, where they have a single, central eye. This design choice gave the robots a distinct and menacing appearance, and the term 'monoeye' quickly became associated with this unique visual element.

1979

Spread of the term in popular culture

Following the success of Mobile Suit Gundam, the term 'monoeye' started to spread beyond the Gundam franchise, becoming a common descriptor for any robot or character with a single, central eye. The concept of a monoeye became a popular design trope in mecha anime and video games, giving rise to numerous iconic characters and designs.

1981

Robotic Influence

In 1981, the concept of the monoeye gained further prominence through science fiction and animation, particularly with the introduction of mecha (giant robots) in anime series like 'Mobile Suit Gundam.' The robotic characters and their antagonistic counterparts often sported a single visible eye, signifying their mechanical nature and providing a futuristic aesthetic. As a result, 'monoeye' became increasingly associated with robotic and futuristic designs.

1980

Introduction in Anime and Manga

In the early 1980s, the term 'monoeye' gained popularity in the anime and manga industry. The iconic characters featuring a single eye, such as Char Aznable in the renowned Gundam series, showcased the visual impact and distinctiveness of the monoeye concept. This usage further solidified monoeye as a recognizable term within the world of Japanese animation and comics.

1979

Monoeye's Popularity Soars with the Release of Mobile Suit Gundam

The release of the original Mobile Suit Gundam series in 1979 further solidified the popularity of the monoeye design. The show's compelling narrative combined with its unique visual style captivated audiences, leading to a massive surge in fandom. The monoeye became an instantly recognizable symbol of the franchise, with various Gundam models and merchandise featuring the distinct cyclopean design. The success of Mobile Suit Gundam not only established the monoeye as a cultural phenomenon in Japan but also influenced future mecha designs in anime and video games.

1985

Monoeye's Influence Spreads to the World of Video Games

As the Gundam franchise gained international recognition, the monoeye design began to influence the world of video games. In 1985, iconic game designer Hironobu Sakaguchi and developer Square released 'Thexder,' an influential side-scrolling shooter game for the personal computer. Thexder featured a robot protagonist with a striking resemblance to Gundam mecha, complete with a prominent monoeye. The game's success popularized the monoeye design in the gaming community, paving the way for its inclusion in numerous future video game titles across multiple genres.

1990s

Expanding to Other Media

During the 1990s, the term 'monoeye' expanded beyond the realm of video games and anime. It began to be used in various other media forms, including manga, comic books, and even toy designs. The versatility and recognizability of the monoeye concept allowed it to transcend boundaries and find appeal in multiple artistic outlets.

1983

Monoeye's influence on science fiction

The popularity of monoeye designs extended beyond the realm of anime and video games, making its way into the broader science fiction genre. The distinct and menacing appearance of monoeye robots and aliens started to influence the design of creatures and robots in movies, TV shows, and other forms of media. The concept of a monoeye came to be associated with advanced technology, otherworldly beings, or futuristic civilizations.

1998

Emergence in Video Games

With the advancement of technology and the rise of video games, the monoeye concept found its way into interactive media. In 1998, the popular game 'Metal Gear Solid' introduced Psycho Mantis, a primary antagonist with a single glowing eye. This memorable boss battle intensified the association of monoeye with menacing or supernatural characters in the gaming industry.

2007

Spread in Internet Culture

As internet communities flourished, the concept of monoeye transcended traditional mediums and seeped into internet culture. Digital artists and fan communities embraced monoeye characters, creating fan art, memes, and avatars. The visual impact and symbolic nature of the monoeye gained traction, making it a recognizable symbol within online communities.

1997

Continued presence in popular culture

Even today, the term 'monoeye' remains a well-established cultural reference, particularly within the realms of anime, manga, and video games. It has become synonymous with futuristic and robotic designs, capturing the imagination of fans and inspiring countless new iterations of monoeye characters. The concept has also found its way into various merchandise and fan art, further cementing its place within pop culture.

2000s

Popularity in Internet Culture

With the rise of internet culture, the term 'monoeye' gained considerable popularity among enthusiasts and fans of video games, anime, and science fiction. Online communities dedicated to discussing and appreciating monoeye designs began to emerge. Devoted fans created fan art, cosplays, and even designed their own monoeye-inspired characters. Social media platforms and specialized forums further contributed to the spread and celebration of the term across the internet.

1994

Monoeye Inspires the Aesthetics of Xenogears

One of the most significant instances of the monoeye's impact on video games occurred in 1994 with the release of 'Xenogears' for the PlayStation console. Developed by Tetsuya Takahashi and his team at SquareSoft, 'Xenogears' featured mecha designs heavily influenced by Gundam and other anime series. The game's protagonist, Fei Fong Wong, piloted a mecha called Weltall, which prominently showcased the monoeye design. 'Xenogears' garnered critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling and visual style, solidifying the monoeye as an enduring symbol of mecha-inspired video games.

Early 2000s

Monoeye's Everlasting Presence in Pop Culture

In the early 2000s, the monoeye design continued to thrive in popular culture. It became a recognizable staple of various anime, manga, and video game franchises, inspiring a new generation of creators. The monoeye's distinct aesthetic has since permeated diverse media, including live-action films, toy collectibles, and even fashion. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the original Gundam series and its iconic monoeye design, which has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the realm of popular culture.

Present

Continued Popularity and Adaptation

Monoeye remains a prominent term in popular culture today. It continues to be widely used in discussions about anime, manga, video games, and digital art. The evocative nature of the monoeye concept continues to resonate, representing uniqueness, mystery, and otherworldly qualities. As new forms of media emerge, it is likely that the monoeye concept will adapt and find new avenues for creative expression.

Present Day

Influence in Design and Art

Today, the term 'monoeye' continues to have a profound impact on various forms of art and design. It has become a recognized and evocative visual symbol that represents futuristic, mechanical, and often villainous elements. Monoeye designs frequently appear in video games, animations, movies, and other creative works, captivating audiences with their unique and striking aesthetic. The term has become ingrained in popular culture and serves as a testament to the enduring influence of video games and science fiction on contemporary art and design.

Did you know?

Did you know that one of the most famous monoeyes in history is the great Cyclops from Greek mythology? It is said that these gigantic creatures would forge thunderbolts for Zeus, the king of gods. Talk about a one-eyed powerhouse!