World Video Game Hall of Fame Unveils 2025 Finalist Lineup
The World Video Game Hall of Fame, located in Rochester, New York, has announced its 2025 finalists. These games are some of the most influential and beloved in history, and they come from different times and types of games.
The Finalists: A Mix of Old and New
The 2025 finalists are a mix of old and new games that have had a big impact on gaming:
- Age of Empires: This series has been a popular PC game since 1997 because of its strategy gameplay set in history.
- Angry Birds: This mobile game became a big hit in 2009 and is now known all over the world.
- Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare: This first-person shooter game set new standards for storytelling and multiplayer gaming when it came out in 2007.
- Defender: This arcade game from 1981 is known for its challenging gameplay and how it influenced other games.
- Frogger: Another arcade hit from 1981, Frogger has become a well-known game that even appeared in popular TV shows.
- GoldenEye 007: This first-person shooter game for the Nintendo 64 was a big hit in 1997 because of its split-screen multiplayer.
- Golden Tee Golf: This arcade golf game has been popular in bars and arcades since 1989.
- Harvest Moon: This farming simulation game offered a peaceful alternative to action games when it came out in 1996.
- Mattel Football: This was the first big handheld electronic game, released in 1977, and it paved the way for portable gaming.
- NBA 2K: This sports game series has had a big influence on esports, especially with its professional leagues.
- Quake: This first-person shooter game changed 3D gaming and esports in the late 1990s.
- Tamagotchi: This digital pet that came out in 1996 bridged the gap between toys and video games.
How the Winners Are Chosen
Fans can vote for their favorite games until March 13. The top three games will be part of the selection committee’s ballot. The winners will be announced on May 8, 2025, and will join other iconic games in the Hall of Fame.
Celebrating Gaming History
The 2025 finalists represent different parts of gaming history, from early arcade games to modern mobile games. Each game has had a big impact on the gaming industry and has helped shape our shared gaming experience.
As we wait for the announcement of this year’s inductees, we can appreciate how these games have not only entertained us but also shaped the world of gaming.
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