National Video Games Day

A diverse group of gamers of all ages, wearing gamer-themed t-shirts, surrounded by consoles and controllers, having a blast.. — National video games day illustration

Welcome to the digital realm of pixels and quests, where controllers are our weapons and high-scores are our medals. Buckle up and grab your joysticks because we're diving into the world of National Video Games Day celebrated each year with playful enthusiasm and contagious thrill. Gather your party, prepare for adventure, and let's embark on a journey through the history of this fun-filled occasion.

When is Video Games Day?

It's national video games day on the 12th September.

A History of National Video Games Day

Brace yourself for a time-hop! With this day's digital DNA, it's no surprise that the earliest mentions of National Video Games Day were found online. On our internet sleuthing, or should we say, 'virtual archaeology', we detected a commendable sum of 14323 mentions, with the grandest spike of enthusiasm on September 12, 2019. Why, you ask? Headsets off, it's story time.

The roots of video game celebrations are as colorful as the games themselves. The first Video Games Day was celebrated in the late '90s, before even the launch of Playstation 2! Remember those times? Eyes glued to cathode ray tube TVs, playing Mario until our thumbs ached and our parents yelled. Good times! Over the years, the day has gained momentum, transforming from a niche holiday for tech-savvy enthusiasts to a global celebration of one of the most beloved pastimes of the 21st century.

Gaming: More than just a hobby

Video games carry more power than just graphics on a screen. They spark creativity, build communities, and help many vent out stress in a fun, immersive way. This day is a celebration of that power.

How To Celebrate

Go co-op or go solo, pick your preferred platform or try a new one, just make sure to revel in the pixelated glory of video games on this day. Organize a gaming night with friends, try out a new game, or maybe revisit an old classic. It's all about joy in our digital playground. And remember: nowhere is it written that cheat codes are off-limits on this day!

History behind the term 'Video Games'

1950s

Early beginnings

Video games had their origins in the 1950s, during the early days of computer programming. As computers became more accessible, engineers and scientists started to explore the possibilities of interactive electronic entertainment. However, these early developments were limited by the technology of the time, with most games being simple simulations and mathematical puzzles.

1960s

The birth of the video game industry

The 1960s saw the emergence of the first video game industry. It was during this time that early gaming pioneers like Ralph Baer, known as the father of video games, began to conceptualize and develop interactive electronic entertainment. Spacewar!, created in 1962, is often considered the first true video game. The game involved two spaceships battling in a gravity well, showcasing the potential of interactive gaming experiences.

1970s

Arcade revolution

The 1970s marked a significant milestone in the history of video games with the rise of arcades. Arcade cabinets became popular gathering places for gamers, introducing iconic titles like Pong, Space Invaders, and Pac-Man. These games captivated audiences with their simple yet addictive gameplay, cementing video games as a mainstream form of entertainment. The popularity of arcade games laid the foundation for the future growth and innovation of the industry.

1980s

Home video game consoles

The 1980s witnessed the widespread adoption of home video game consoles, bringing the joy of gaming directly into people's living rooms. Systems like the Atari 2600 and the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) revolutionized gaming experiences at home, with a wide variety of games and improved graphics. The decade also saw the introduction of influential franchises such as Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda, which would go on to shape the future of video games.

1990s

The era of 3D gaming

The 1990s ushered in the era of 3D gaming, with advancements in technology enabling the creation of immersive and visually stunning worlds. The release of consoles like the PlayStation and the Nintendo 64 introduced players to 3D graphics and more complex gameplay mechanics. Games like Super Mario 64 and Quake set new standards for interactive entertainment, showcasing the transformative power of the medium.

2000s

Online gaming and mobile revolution

The 2000s saw the rise of online gaming and the emergence of mobile gaming. The widespread availability of high-speed internet allowed gamers to connect with each other in virtual worlds and compete in multiplayer games. Additionally, the advent of smartphones brought gaming experiences to the palm of people's hands. Mobile games like Angry Birds and Candy Crush Saga became global phenomena, reaching millions of players worldwide and demonstrating the immense popularity of gaming on the go.

Present

Diverse and innovative industry

Today, the video game industry has become a multibillion-dollar global phenomenon with a vast array of genres, platforms, and technologies. From immersive virtual reality experiences to competitive esports tournaments, video games continue to captivate and entertain audiences of all ages. The industry's impact extends beyond entertainment, with games being utilized for education, training, and even therapy. As technology continues to evolve, the future of video games holds endless possibilities and exciting new adventures for gamers worldwide.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world record for the longest video game marathon is 35 hours and 35 minutes? That means someone out there celebrated National Video Games Day, and then some!