In the 1980s, Japan emerged as a powerhouse in the video game industry. In the decades since, Japanese video game developers have continued to produce some of the world’s most popular and influential games. Here are Japanese video games that took over the world.
Super Mario Bros.
Arguably the most iconic video game character of all time, Super Mario first appeared in 1985’s Super Mario Bros. for the Nintendo Entertainment System. The game was an instant classic and has since been ported to nearly every Nintendo console. To date, Super Mario Bros. is the best-selling video game of all time, with over 40 million copies sold worldwide.
The gameplay is simple but addictive, and the colorful graphics and lively soundtrack are iconic. But what makes Super Mario Bros truly special is its ability to evoke a sense of childlike joy and wonder. Every time you boot up the game, you can’t help but smile as you embark on another adventure with Mario and his friends. Whether you’re five or fifty, Super Mario Bros is a timeless classic that always brings a smile to your face.
The Legend of Zelda
Another legendary franchise from Nintendo made its debut in 1986 with The Legend of Zelda for the Nintendo Entertainment System. The series has sold over 100 million copies worldwide, spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, and inspired a critically-acclaimed television series. One of Nintendo’s most well-known franchises, The Legend of Zelda, is frequently recognized as one of the best video game franchises of all time.
The game’s innovative gameplay, which combined action, adventure, and puzzle-solving, was unlike anything that had been seen before. Zelda also featured an impressive bind of characters and a tight plot. The game’s success spawned a series of sequels, spin-offs, and remakes that captivated fans for over three decades. In addition to its excellent gameplay, the Legend of Zelda series is renowned for its beautiful graphics, immersive worldbuilding, and heart-pounding boss battles. With each new release, the Legend of Zelda games continues to raise the bar for what video games can achieve. It is no wonder that the series has such a devoted following.
Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VII is a role-playing game that was originally released for the PlayStation in 1997. The game was developed by Square Enix (then known as Squaresoft) and became one of the best-selling games of all time, with over 11 million copies sold worldwide. Final Fantasy VII is widely regarded as one of the greatest RPGs ever made, and its impact can still be felt today – nearly 20 years after its original release.
One thing that makes Final Fantasy VII so exciting is its unique setting. The game is set in a high-tech and magical world, allowing players to explore a wide variety of different environments. From the bustling city of Midgar to the majestic mountains of the North Pole, there is always something new to see. The game’s characters are also very well-developed, and each one has their own distinct personality. The story is also very engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep players hooked. Overall, Final Fantasy VII is an excellent RPG that offers players a truly unique gaming experience.
Pokémon
Released in 1996 for the Game Boy, Pokémon is a monster-collecting RPG that has become one of the most well-known and beloved video game franchises of all time. With over 300 million copies sold worldwide, Pokémon is one of the best-selling video game series of all time. Over the years, players have watched their favorite Pokémon grow and evolve, and the series’ popularity shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just getting started, there’s something for everyone in the world of Pokémon!
Since the release of the first Pokémon games in 1996, the franchise has captured the imaginations of fans worldwide. Part of what makes Pokémon so special is the vast and detailed world that it creates. From the bustling metropolis of Lumiose City to the snow-capped mountains of Sinnoh, Pokémon presents players with a rich and fascinating world to explore. In addition, the series features a vast array of unique and intriguing creatures to catch and train. With over 800 species of Pokémon, each with unique abilities and personalities, there is always something new to discover. Finally, the competitive element of Pokémon is also a major draw for many fans. Whether it’s participating in local tournaments or taking on the Elite Four, players love testing their teams against others. These elements come together to make Pokémon one of the most beloved and exciting franchises in existence.
Street Fighter
First released in 1987, Street Fighter is a classic fighting game that spawned multiple sequels and spin-offs. With its simple controls and fast-paced gameplay, Street Fighter was an instant hit with gamers of all ages and became one of the most successful arcade games ever made. Today, millions of fans worldwide continue to enjoy Street Fighter and its memorable characters like Ryu, Chun Li, and Ken. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just getting started, there’s no denying that Street Fighter is one of the greatest video game franchises ever made.
One of the most enduring and popular video game franchises is “Street Fighter.” The first game in the series was released in 1987 and continues to be a mainstay in the gaming world. Among its many fans, “Street Fighter” is lauded for its well-balanced gameplay, exciting moves, and colorful characters. The game pits two fighters against each other in a one-on-one match. Each fighter has a unique set of moves and abilities, which adds to the game’s strategic element. In addition, the fighting takes place in various international locations, giving the game an added sense of excitement. With its combination of strategic gameplay and global setting, “Street Fighter” continues to be one of the most popular video game franchises.
These are just a few examples of Japanese video games that have taken over the world. For decades now, Japanese developers have been responsible for some of the most popular and influential games in existence. If you’re a fan of video games, chances are you’ve played (and enjoyed) at least one of these classics.