The Best Arcade Games of 1985
1. Super Mario Bros.
Released by Nintendo, Super Mario Bros. is arguably the most influential arcade game of 1985. It introduced players to Mario, the Italian plumber, and his quest to rescue Princess Toadstool from Bowser. The game revolutionized platformers with its engaging level design, tight controls, and memorable music. The game’s success established Mario as a flagship character for Nintendo and set new standards for the platforming genre.
2. Ghosts 'n Goblins
Capcom’s Ghosts 'n Goblins is a classic example of a challenging arcade game. Players control Sir Arthur, a knight who must battle through hordes of undead creatures to rescue his princess. The game is known for its high difficulty, requiring players to memorize patterns and perfect their timing. Its iconic graphics and haunting soundtrack made it a memorable experience for players.
3. Gauntlet
Gauntlet, developed by Atari Games, offered a unique cooperative multiplayer experience. Players could choose from four characters: Warrior, Valkyrie, Wizard, and Elf, each with distinct abilities. The game featured dungeon exploration, treasure hunting, and monster battling. Its cooperative play style and extensive mazes were innovative for its time and contributed to its popularity.
4. Bubble Bobble
Taito’s Bubble Bobble is a charming and addictive game that introduced players to Bub and Bob, two bubble-blowing dinosaurs. The objective is to trap enemies in bubbles and then pop them to clear the screen. The game’s colorful graphics, catchy music, and cooperative gameplay made it a hit among players of all ages. Its design also included over 100 levels, providing a substantial challenge.
5. Track & Field
Konami’s Track & Field is an arcade sports game that captured the excitement of athletic competitions. Players use rapid button presses to compete in events like the 100m dash, long jump, and javelin throw. Its simple yet engaging gameplay mechanics made it a favorite among competitive gamers. The game’s arcade cabinet also featured a physical button-mashing control panel, adding to the immersive experience.
6. 1942
1942, developed by Capcom, is a top-down shooter set during World War II. Players control a fighter plane and must shoot down enemy aircraft while avoiding their attacks. The game’s innovative "loop-the-loop" maneuver allowed players to dodge incoming fire, and its fast-paced action made it a staple in arcade gaming. Its success led to several sequels and spin-offs.
7. Karate Champ
Karate Champ, developed by Data East, was one of the earliest fighting games that introduced competitive martial arts combat. Players could engage in one-on-one matches using a variety of karate moves and techniques. Its simple controls and strategic gameplay set the stage for future fighting games and contributed to the genre’s development.
8. Amidar
Amidar, created by Konami, is a maze game that involves controlling a character to fill in sections of the screen while avoiding enemies. The game’s unique grid-based gameplay and colorful graphics made it stand out in the arcade scene. Its blend of strategy and action provided a fresh take on the maze genre.
9. Commando
Released by Capcom, Commando is a top-down run-and-gun game where players control a soldier on a mission to rescue hostages and defeat enemy forces. The game’s straightforward controls and intense action sequences kept players engaged. Its success helped popularize the run-and-gun genre and inspired many subsequent games.
10. Section Z
Section Z, developed by Capcom, is a side-scrolling shooter set in a futuristic world. Players navigate through a series of levels, battling enemies and bosses. The game’s unique level design, power-ups, and multi-directional shooting mechanics made it stand out from other shooters of its time.
11. Moon Patrol
Moon Patrol, created by Irem, is a side-scrolling shooter where players control a moon rover navigating through alien terrain. The game combines elements of shooting and jumping, with a variety of obstacles and enemies. Its innovative gameplay and graphics made it a popular choice among arcade enthusiasts.
12. Xevious
Xevious, developed by Namco, is a vertically scrolling shooter known for its detailed graphics and strategic gameplay. Players control a spacecraft and must destroy ground and air targets while avoiding enemy fire. The game’s complex level design and atmospheric sound effects contributed to its lasting appeal.
13. Hyper Sports
Hyper Sports, developed by Konami, is a sports arcade game that features a variety of athletic events, including swimming, skeet shooting, and gymnastics. Players use a combination of rapid button presses and timing to excel in each event. The game’s engaging multiplayer mode and diverse events made it a favorite among arcade-goers.
14. The Goonies
Based on the popular film of the same name, The Goonies arcade game allows players to control the characters from the movie as they search for treasure and solve puzzles. The game’s platforming elements and cooperative gameplay made it an enjoyable experience for fans of the film and arcade enthusiasts alike.
15. The Tower of Druaga
The Tower of Druaga, developed by Namco, is an action RPG where players explore a tower filled with monsters and traps. The game’s intricate level design, hidden secrets, and strategic combat set it apart from other games of the era. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent RPGs and action games.
In conclusion, the arcade games of 1985 represented a diverse range of genres and gameplay styles. From platformers and shooters to sports games and RPGs, these titles showcased the creativity and innovation of the time. Many of these games have had a lasting impact on the gaming industry, influencing future titles and shaping the arcade experience. Whether through their groundbreaking mechanics, memorable characters, or challenging gameplay, the best arcade games of 1985 continue to be celebrated by gamers and industry professionals alike.
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