Retro video games were popularised in the 1970s, but as computers became increasingly commonplace, the games faded into oblivion.

However, recently, there’s been somewhat of a revival of the games. And it’s not forefronted by boomers, who might remember playing these games – in fact, it’s led by the younger Gen X, who appear to have developed a nostalgia for something they’ve never had.

Let’s take a look at the rise of retro video games and what it means!

A short history of retro video games

Retro video games, often defined as those from the 1970s through to the late 1990s, capture a significant era in the evolution of gaming.

This period marks the transition from simple, monochrome games to complex story-driven experiences – they thus set the foundation for the modern gaming industry.

The early 1970s introduced the world to video gaming with arcade hits like “Pong” (1972).

Created by Atari, this simple table-tennis simulation became wildly popular, inviting widespread interest in video games.

The success of “Pong” led to a proliferation of similar arcade games, spearheading a new form of entertainment and a burgeoning industry.

By the late 1970s, the focus shifted from arcades to home gaming systems.

The Atari 2600, launched in 1977, was pivotal, allowing people to play video games in their living rooms. It offered interchangeable cartridges, a novel concept that greatly expanded the variety of games available to consumers.

The 1980s were a golden age for video games, characterised by rapid technological advancements and an explosion of game genres.

Iconic games like “Super Mario Bros.” (1985) and “The Legend of Zelda” (1986) on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) had intricate worlds and narratives.

This era also saw the rise of competitive gaming and the development of gaming communities.

However, the video game industry faced significant challenges, such as the market crash of 1983, triggered by an oversaturation of low-quality games. This crash profoundly affected the American market, but it also led to the dominance of Japanese companies like Nintendo and Sega in the late 1980s and early 1990s. These companies introduced quality control measures that helped stabilise the market and restore consumer confidence.

The 1990s brought about a further evolution with the introduction of 16-bit and later 32-bit systems, such as the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and the Sony PlayStation. These platforms introduced more complex graphics and sound, deeper storytelling, and introduced CDs, which allowed for greater data storage than cartridges.

Since the invention of computers, retro video games have taken a backseat – so why are Gen Z now playing them again?

Why Gen Z is becoming obsessed with retro video games

Here are some of the main reasons why retro video games have enjoyed an uptick in popularity for the younger generation:

Social media

Social media has a lot to answer for. The Guardian notes that the hashtag “retrogamingvideos” has gained 6 billion views on TikTok.

Of course, anyone who knows social media knows that it snowballs – as soon as a few people start watching or creating content about something, millions of others do. So, it’s no surprise that retro gaming has turned into a trend.

They’re new

Retro video games are somewhat new to Gen Z.

Some games, like slot machines found in pubs, have evolved – nowadays they’re more commonly played in online casinos. However, other games, like PacMan, faded into oblivion at the end of the 90s.

Some Gen Z-ers are getting a kick out of trying something new, perhaps that they’ve heard about from their parents. It’s the combination of newness and nostalgia that’s making retro games have another moment.

Simplicity

In today’s society, life can be complicated. The American Psychological Association mentions that the younger generation is “completely overwhelmed by stress”.

One of the best ways to combat stress? Kick back with something simple. While many Gen Z-ers enjoy gaming, modern games themselves can be more complicated (and even induce more stress!) – but retro games are refreshingly simple and satisfying, with predictable outcomes.

Community

As retro games have developed more of a following, there seems to be a growing community around them. Events like the London Gaming Market connect this community – and the feeling of togetherness is something that younger people crave for (especially as the virtual world can make us all rather disconnected!).

Final thoughts

Retro games seem to have had a resurgence, largely thanks to social media along with their satisfying gameplay.

While many of today’s players weren’t around during the retro gaming heyday, they are still enjoying the simplicity and nostalgia of games like PacMan.

With retro gaming bars and events popping up all over the world, who knows what could be next for these simple, no-nonsense games? In an overcomplicated world, they could be the low-pressure pastime that we all need!