Masahiro Sakurai, director of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, recently released a video discussing what he considers to be the “most incredible year for the game industry” – 1986. This year marked the beginning of several major franchises that are still beloved by gamers today. From The Legend of Zelda to Dragon Quest, Metroid, Castlevania, and Kid Icarus, 1986 laid the foundation for many iconic series that have stood the test of time.
Sakurai also points out how 1986 saw significant advancements in gaming technology. New technologies provided a “big capacity boost” and both hardware and software made “truly remarkable progress”. This era was pivotal in expanding the scope of games and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the medium. It was a time of innovation and creativity that paved the way for the modern gaming landscape.
In addition to the advancements in gaming, Sakurai also highlights the impact of other forms of entertainment on the industry. He mentions the Pixar short “Luxo Jr.”, which played a role in the dawn of computer graphics as a form of entertainment. This intersection of technology and storytelling was instrumental in shaping the future of gaming and creating immersive worlds for players to explore.
As Sakurai rattles off a long list of games released in 1986, it’s clear that this was a prolific year for the industry. From classics like Super Mario Bros. to more niche titles like Kid Icarus, the diversity of games released in that year is staggering. The variety of genres and gameplay experiences offered in 1986 laid the groundwork for the diverse range of games available to players today.
If Sakurai’s discussion of 1986 has sparked your interest in retro gaming, there are plenty of ways to explore the classics. Nintendo’s Switch Online service offers a library of NES and Famicom games that allow players to experience the magic of gaming history. Whether you’re revisiting an old favorite or discovering a hidden gem, retro gaming offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the roots of the industry and the creativity that flourished in 1986.
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